georgia tourist cities

15 Amazing and Unique Places to Visit in Georgia

Wondering what to see in Georgia and where to go in this beautiful country in the Caucasus?  After spending almost one year here (and returning for more visits), I made a list of the 15 best and most beautiful places to visit in Georgia.

Georgia , a land of rock and stone, medieval fortresses and monasteries, green hills, majestic mountains, deep caves, and rocky beaches. A country where culture and history lovers will have the feeling they’ve been transported to the past while walking through the villages and towns.

Outdoor lovers will be amazed by the stunning landscapes of the mountains and every traveler will experience the incredible hospitality of the people and will be treated to a feast of delicious food  and  wine  (and the additional hangover). 

I spent almost one year in Georgia and I’m grateful that I had the chance to discover so many beautiful regions and unique places. 

3 Fantastic Itineraries to see the best of Georgia

It was hard to make a selection of the most beautiful places to visit in Georgia as there are so many of them, but here are the top 15 places and the best cities to visit in Georgia, the country!

Tip: See my  Georgia Travel Page  for a complete overview of all my travel guides and blog posts about Georgia!

Discover Georgia’s Highlights or go on a unique Georgia Trekking Adventure to Tusheti , Racha , Vardzia , Katskhi and Chiatura on one of my Georgia Adventure Tours !

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

Plan your trip to Georgia

• 19 important things to know before traveling to Georgia
• 15 Best Places to visit in Georgia
• 3 Fantastic Georgia Travel Itineraries
• Tours & Experiences: Adventure Tours in Georgia – Georgia City Tours
• Rent a car in Georgia
• Travel insurance for Georgia
• Book your stay in Georgia

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The best places to visit in Georgia

Tbilisi is the capital city and one of the best cities in Georgia to visit! Tbilisi lies on the banks of the Mtkvari (also known as the Kura) river and is surrounded by hills and mountains.

It has been the capital of Georgia since the 6th century and its diverse architecture reflects its long and complicated history.

One of the best ways to appreciate this unique place is to wander its streets, especially in the colorful Old Town.

During your walk in the city you’ll come across over-renovated and hyper-modern buildings but you’ll also find yourself in a warren of backstreets surrounded by ramshackle buildings that are beautiful in their own unique way.

Make sure you walk (or take the cable car) to the Narikala Fortress where you can enjoy the stunning panorama over the city.

Top Things to do in Tbilisi:

• Visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral
• Go for a stroll in the old town of Tbilisi
• Take the cable car to Narikala Fortress and meet Kartlis Deda, “mother of Georgia”
• Enjoy the delicious Georgian food in one of the many traditional restaurants
• Visit the  Chronicle of Georgia, Tbilisi’s hidden gem

Recommended Tbilisi City Tours

There are many lovely guided walking tours you can take in Tbilisi to learn more about the history of the city while visiting its main points of interest.

Here’s a guided walking tour I highly recommend:

How to get to Tbilisi:

Just like all the roads in Europe lead to Rome, all the roads in Georgia lead to Tbilisi! You can easily get there by plane (the main airport of Georgia is located in this city), by train, by bus, by mini-bus and by hitchhiking !

Read more about traveling by public transportation in Georgia and Tbilisi here .

Where to stay in Tbilisi :

You can pay as much or as little as you want to stay in Tbilisi. You can find a bed in a hostel starting from €7 (10 GEL) per night or you can spend a few nights in a lovely guesthouse for only €12 per night. 

• Bude Hostel
• Tiflisi Hostel
• Boutique Fantaisie
• Luxury inn in Old Tbilisi
• Citadel Narikala Hotel in Old Tbilisi
• Stamba Hotel

Top Things to Do in Tbilisi – The Travel Guide to Georgia’s Capital City

2. Mtskheta

Mtskheta is the religious capital, the spiritual heart, and therefore the most important city of Georgia. It used to be the capital city before King Gorgasali changed his base to Tbilisi.

It’s also one of the oldest cities in Georgia, where 4000-year-old traces of human settlements were found. Mtskheta is home to three of Georgia’s most important churches: Svetitskhoveli (try to say this 3x in a row…), Jvari and Samtavro Monastery.

Saint Nino lived in this city. She’s known as the Enlightener of Georgia, is one of the most important saints in this country (many girls are named after her). She’s the woman who preached Christianity in Georgia and the reason why this religion was adopted as the state religion in the year 330.

Important Note : if you want to enter the churches, dress appropriately! Men aren’t allowed to wear shorts or hats while women have to wear a long skirt and cover their hair with a scarf.

Places to visit in Mtskheta:

• Jvari Monastery
• Svetitskhoveli Cathedral
• Shio-Mgvime Monastery
• Old Mtskheta
• Bebristsikhe Fortress

Guided tours to Mtskheta:

Mtskheta is definitely worth visiting with a knowledgeable guide while visiting the most ancient and holy places of Georgia!

I highly recommend going on a guided (half-) day tour from Tbilisi to Mtskheta you’ll get a thorough tour and background info of all the important monasteries and churches.

How to get to Mtskheta:

If you prefer to visit Mtskheta independently, it’s a 30-minute drive from Tbilisi. You can easily hitchhike there from the Tbilisi Mall (take minibus nr. 50 to get there) or take a minibus (mashrutka) all the way to Mtskheta for only 1 GEL. Here’s a very detailed guide on how to go from Tbilisi to Mtskheta .

Vardzia is a spectacular cave monastery near Aspindza in southern Georgia. It looks like one of the movie sets of Lord of the Rings, although it wasn’t the home of dwarves but of many monks.

This underground monastery was built in the 12th Century, under the reign of King Tamar, the first woman that was ever crowned as a king (not a queen!) in Georgian history. It used to be completely hidden until a severe earthquake exposed and destroyed the cave monastery. 

Things to do in Vardzia:

Read my Travel Guide to Vardzia for a complete overview of how to visit all the highlights of Vardzia.

Guided Tours to Vardzia:

It’s a bit of a journey to get to Vardzia independently. Taking a tour to Vardzia , maybe combined with a visit to Akhaltsikhe and Borjomi, might give you a more enjoyable experience and you’ll learn a lot about the cultural and historical background of these wonderful places!

How to get to Vardzia:

You can take a mashrutka from Akhaltsikhe to Vardzia. The ride takes one hour, it costs 7 GEL and they operate 3 times a day.

The first mashrutka leaves at 10.30 am, the last one from Akhaltsikhe to Vardzia leaves at 1.20 pm. The last mashrutka is at 3 pm from Vardzia to Akhaltsikhe where you can still catch another one to Tbilisi (if you want to return the same day).

You can also take a taxi to Vardzia but that will cost you at least 50 GEL (unless you’re with a group, then you can share the costs and stop along the way at the Khertvisi Fortress).

The Complete Guide to Vardzia, Georgia’s ancient cave monastery.

4. Uplistsikhe

Uplistsikhe is located in eastern Georgia, about 100 km from Tbilisi. It literally means “Lord’s Fortress” and it’s an abandoned rock-hewn town that is more than 3000 years old. 

It was founded around 1000 BC and was continuously inhabited until the 13th century AD. At one point Uplistsikhe even had 20000 inhabitants!

The cave city covers an area of almost 40.000 m2 and used to have a pharmacy, a bakery, an amphitheater and even a prison. All the structures are connected by tunnels.

On top of the whole complex is a church that was built in the 9th century. This colorful building sticks out against the gray and sober caves.

tours to Uplistsikhe:

You can opt for taking a day tour from Tbilisi to Uplistsikhe, combined with a visit to Mtskheta (see above) and Gori (I used to live there!).

There are many day tours to Uplistikhe from Tbilisi offered by local travel companies . I highly recommend the following:

How to get to Uplistsikhe:

The cheapest way to get from Tbilisi to Uplistsikhe is by taking a shared taxi (5GEL) or a mashrutka (3GEL) from Didube station to Gori. There you can take another mashrutka to the nearby village Kvakhvreli for 1 GEL. You can also negotiate with the driver and he’ll take you to Uplistsikhe for 1 extra GEL.

If you’re with a group, you can share a taxi that will cost you around 20 GEL. Entrance fee for Uplistsikhe: 15 GEL.

Visit the best places in Georgia with these 3 Georgia itineraries!

5. Katskhi Pillar

Georgia doesn’t only have unique places on the ground or in the mountains, but also in the air. Take the Katskhi Pillar, for example, a 40-meter high limestone monolith that is also known as “the Pillar of Life”.

Around the 4th century, this rock became a place of seclusion for the ‘Stylites’, a religious group who had a “slight” obsession with sitting on top of narrow pillars to come closer to God. How they got up on the Katskhi Pillar and were able to build a church on top of there is still a big mystery!

It was only in 1945 that the first researchers were able to climb it. Oh, and the most extraordinary thing: a monk has been living on top of that remote pillar for 20 years!

Day tour to Katskhi Pillar

You can go on a day tour from Tbilisi to Katskhi Pillar , combined with a visit to Chiatura (see below).

Here’s the day tour I recommend:

How to get to the Katskhi Pillar:

From Tbilisi to the Katskhi Pillar: take a mashrutka from Didube Station to Chiatura. The earliest leaves at 8 am and after that nearly every hour. The ride takes about 3 hours and costs 6 GEL.

In Chiatura take a taxi to the Katskhi Pillar, which shouldn’t cost much as it’s only 20 km away or you can hitchhike like I did.

From Kutaisi to Katskhi Pillar : take a mashrutka from Kutaisi bus station to Chiatura. It costs 6 GEL and the journey lasts an hour and a half. Once in Chiatura, you can hitchhike or take a taxi to the Katskhi Pillar.

Katskhi Pillar, the most incredible cliff church in the world!

6. Chiatura

Another point of interest in Georgia is Chiatura, a small town nestled between steep valleys and deep gorges.

Chiatura was founded in the late 1800s as a mining colony. In 1954 the Stalinist government installed a system of cable cars, also referred to as a “rope road” to get the workers more quickly to the mines, instead of them walking to the sites on the steep cliffs.

Every corner of the town was connected with the mines through these cable cars and Chiatura became known as “the cable car city”.

Most of these cable cars have rusted away but there are still some of these “air tramways” functioning today as a form of (free) public transportation.

It’s truly an amazing (and a little frightening) experience to step into these rusty flying cabins that are known as the “death-defying metal coffins”. Chiatura is a strange and charming city where you can still feel the ghost of the Soviet Empire.

Day tour to Chiatura & Katskhi Pillar:

Combine a visit to Chiatura with the Katskhi Pillar (see above) on this guided day tour from Tbilisi :

How to get to Chiatura:

From Tbilisi to Chiatura : take a mashrutka from Didube Station to Chiatura. The earliest leaves at 8 am and after that nearly every hour. The ride takes about 3 hours and costs 6 GEL.

From Kutaisi to Chiatura : take a mashrutka from the Kutaisi bus station (near McDonald’s) to Chiatura. It costs 6 GEL and the journey lasts 1,5 hours.

Where to stay in Chiatura:

When I first visited Chiatura in 2017, there was one guesthouse. Nowadays you can find about 10!

Here are my recommendations:

• Butichi Guesthouse
• Hotel in Chiatura
• Family Hotel

Visiting the ghosts of the past in Chiatura.

Batumi is a modern city on the coast of the Black Sea. It’s the second biggest city in Georgia and honestly, it doesn’t really feel like you’re in Georgia. One moment you can hear the church bells ringing, and the next you hear the muezzin’s call to prayer coming from the mosques (Batumi is right near the border with Turkey).

The architecture is a combination of European and Asian styles, often mixed with fairy-tale-like towers, statues and buildings created by some hallucinating architects. This is especially visible at night when the majority of the building is lit up and bathing in the colors of the rainbow.

Batumi is a ‘glamorous’ city, designed to attract tourists and gamblers to play in one of its many casinos. You love it or you hate it but I absolutely enjoyed living there for three months when there were barely any tourists around.

How to get to Batumi:

You can get from Tbilisi to Batumi by mashrutka, which also stops in Kutaisi. It takes about 4,5 hours and costs 15 GEL. Shared taxis or buses are also possible but will cost you at least double the price.

I would suggest you take the train from Tbilisi to Batumi , which is very comfortable and cheap (18 GEL). The journey lasts about 5 hours and will take you along some beautiful landscapes.

Where to stay in Batumi:

• Homestay Seaside by Manuchar
• Hostel in Batumi
• Orbi City Sea View
• The Admiral Hotel
• Best Western Premier Batumi
• Beach Resort in Batumi New Orbi

Top Things to do in Batumi – The Complete City Guide to Georgia’s Las Vegas

8. Ushguli & other villages in Svaneti

Located in northwestern Georgia and locked in the heart of the Caucasus mountains lies the historic province of Svaneti . The only way to get there is by driving from Zugdidi to Mestia along steep windy roads looking over beautiful gorges, wild rivers, and majestic mountains.

Svaneti consists of several small villages, built on the slopes of the snow-covered mountains and surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of alpine meadows.

Walking around in these picturesque villages that are dominated by tower houses, gives you the feeling that you’re thrown back into the European Middle Ages.

One village truly mesmerized me: Ushguli. This village is part of one of the highest inhabited settlements in Europe, at about 2200m above sea level.

It is very remote, the only road to get there is very rough and bumpy but oh so beautiful! The inhabitants live a remote and unique life. They ride on horses through the cobblestone streets while pigs, dogs, cows and goats walk next to them on the little paths. It feels like time stood still there!

Unfortunately, it’s also the most touristic village in the area (Mestia not included) but there are plenty of other villages in the area that not many tourists visit.

Tours to Svaneti

Svaneti is a beautiful region with a very unique history. It could be interesting to travel there on a guided tour.

On this 4-day tour , you travel into the Caucasian Mountains to visit Svaneti, Mestia, Hatsvali and Ushguli. You’ll visit a typical Svan house and get a taste of the local unique cuisine and folkloric music.

You can also go on a 4-day guided trekking tour to Svaneti ! You will be hiking along the beautiful trails to the Chalaadi Glacier, the Shkhara Glacier, and the Ushba waterfalls while also visiting Mestia and Ushguli where you get to learn more about the Svan history and culture, and maybe even participate in Georgian folk dances.

How to get from Tbilisi to Mestia:

Mestia is the central village of Svaneti.

You can go from Tbilisi to Zugdidi by train and you can opt for the night train (8 hours) or day train (5,5 hours) – check the schedule here . Tickets cost between 16 and 21GEL.

You can also take a mashrutka from Tbilisi to Zugdidi, which departs every day from “Vagzali” bus station (in front of Tbilisi Central building). Look for the platform with the sign ‘Mestia’. The bus departs at 7 AM, tickets cost 30 GEL and the journey will take about 9 hours.

From Zugdidi to Mestia : catch a mashrutka at the Zugdidi train station (look for the sign Mestia). They leave every time the bus is full, a ticket costs 20 GEL and the ride takes between 3 – 4 hours.

How to get From Mestia to Ushguli:

You’ve got three options to get to Ushguli: 1) Hitchhike like I did. I was told that it was nearly impossible to hitchhike there but I got very lucky that day and caught a ride within 2 minutes!

2) Walk from Mestia to Ushguli. This hike takes about 3 to 4 days and you’ll walk along the majestic valleys and meadows of the Caucasus. More about this hike here .

3) Take a shared taxi. The drivers know that this is your only way to go to Ushguli and back so they’ll easily charge USD $100. Your best option is to share the taxi with other people.

Where to stay in Mestia and Ushguli:

You’ll have plenty of space to camp in Svaneti and it’s definitely worthwhile! You can also find many guesthouses in Mestia starting from $20/night for 2 people.

• Travel Inn House Mestia
• Eka’s Guesthouse
• Nino Ratiani’s Guesthouse
• Hotel Elite-House Mestia
• Hotel Old House Mestia
• Beko’s Garden Inn

Ushguli has also facilities to accommodate guests if you’d like to spend the night in this little village. Here are my top 3 recommendations for homestays and guesthouses in Ushguli:

• Nizharadze’s Tower
• Old Tower Ushguli

21 Top Things to do in Svaneti, the Wild Heart of the Caucasus

9. Omalo & other villages in Tusheti

Tusheti is one of the most beautiful and fascinating regions of Georgia. It’s located in northeast Georgia, on the northern slopes of the Great Caucasus Mountains.

There is only one road that goes to the area over the treacherous 2900m Abano Pass. It’s a beautiful mountain pass but it’s also considered one of the most dangerous roads in the world.

You need a 4×4 vehicle and nerves of steel to cross the pass but it is definitely worth it! The road to Tusheti is only open for 5 months (late May to early October).

The inhabitants, the Tushs or Tushetians, nowadays only go up there during summer to graze their cattle, organize traditional festivals, provide accommodation and tours for tourists and reconnect with their roots.  In winter they live in the lowland villages of Alvani and Akhmeta in Kakheti.

Tours to Tusheti

As Tusheti is so remote and hard to access, I’d highly recommend taking a tour there unless you have your own vehicle and are an experienced off-road driver.

I highly recommend my own Adventure Tours in Georgia as both tours have Tusheti on the itinerary!

How to get from Tbilisi to Tusheti

It’s quite hard to get to Tusheti by public transport. Even if you’re renting a car , you have to be very cautious as it’s a very dangerous road!

Take a mashrutka from Tbilisi to Alvani. Get off in the towns of Zemo-Alvani or Kvemo-Alvani. From there you will find Delica’s (4×4 Mitsubishi mini-van) going to Omalo. It costs around 40/50 GEL per person (around $20) one way and the Delica leaves once it’s full.

The ride takes at least 5 hours so make sure to arrive in the morning in Alvani. The cars mostly leave from the central crossroads which is impossible to miss.

Another possibility is to book a private transfer from Tbilisi to Tusheti . More info & prices here .

How to visit Tusheti, one of Georgia’s most remote regions

10. Sighnaghi

Georgia has its share of big cities and tourist attractions but what’s really special about the country are the small towns. Sighnaghi is one of them.

Some of the best food & wine in Georgia, beautiful tiny streets and houses with colorful wooden balconies, breathtaking views over the Alazani valley, the smell coming from the bakeries, a variety of fancy castles and small family-owned wine cellars and vineyards.

Day trips to Sighnaghi :

Sighnaghi is known for having some of the best wine producers in Georgia. Going on a day tour from Tbilisi to Sighnaghi will not only allow you to see the highlights of this beautiful town but you’ll also get to taste some of the best wines in Georgia (and you’ll arrive safely back in Tbilisi afterward):

How to get to Sighnaghi:

It’s quite easy to get to Sighnaghi from Tbilisi by public transport. Take the minibus to Sighnaghi at the Samgori Metro Station in Tbilisi. The ride takes about 1 hour 45 minutes and it costs 6 GEL.

Where to stay in Sighnaghi:

There are many lovely guesthouses in Sighnaghi . You can already find a room for $15/night for 2 people. If you travel by yourself, you can find a bed in a dorm for $8/night:

• Zandarashvili Guest House
• Nana’s Guest House
• Boutique Hotel BelleVue
• Villa Royal
• Lost Ridge Inn, Brewery & Ranch

11. Shatili Khevsureti 

Shatili Khevsureti is a mysterious medieval fortress village, surrounded by huge green mountains. Be sure that the diversity of the scenery will amaze any traveler and inspire incurable travel lust in everyone. 

Modern life hasn’t penetrated this region in Georgia yet. Locals put all of their efforts into pleasing their guests, assuring that they are always comfortable and happy.

During important feasts, the local people put on their folk costumes and go to the church where ancient pagan traditions, mixed with Christian beliefs, are still being practiced.

Hiking Tour to Shatili

Shatili is a destination for outdoor and hiking lovers! As it’s not so easy to get there and navigate the trails by yourself, I’d recommend going on a hiking tour with a professional guide.

On my 14-day Best of Georgia Trekking Adventure , you’ll visit the highlights of the Khevsureti region (including Shatili) and Tusheti (see above). You’ll go on off-the-beaten-path hikes in both regions. It’s a tour that gets highly rated!

How to get to Shatili:

Shatili is about 140 km north of Tbilisi. Because of the snow, the road is only accessible from May to October.

Since you have to cross the Datvijvari pass, I highly recommend taking a minibus from Didube Metro station (it costs about $15), or renting a 4X4 car with an experienced local driver , because the road is unpaved and dangerous.

Where to stay in Shatili:

There are currently just a couple of guesthouses in Shatili. Check their availability here . There are also plenty of camping areas close to the river.

Juta is the most peaceful and green place in Georgia and one of the most popular climbing and trekking areas among professional climbers. There are also many equally pleasant walks to be done around the village.

Day Tour to Juta

The easiest way to reach Juta is by going on a guided day tour from Tbilisi or Kazbegi . Here are two tours I recommend:

From Tbilisi to Juta:

From Kazbegi to Juta:

How to get to Juta:

There are no buses going directly from Tbilisi to Juta.

You can take a minibus from Didube Station in Tbilisi to Stepantsminda for only 10 GEL ($4 – $5). The journey takes around 3 hours. Once you’re in Stepantsminda you can rent a Delica or any other 4×4 car to reach Juta, which is 24 km away. This will cost around 80 GEL.

Where to stay in Juta:

Whether you’re looking for a nice camping spot or a beautiful wooden guest house to stay at, Juta will suit all your needs. Check their prices and availability here .

13. Kazbegi (Stepandsminda)

Kazbegi is really an amazing travel spot for every taste and budget. From luxury lovers to hitchhikers, everyone can find something here to his or her liking.

There are plenty of walks through the amazing valleys and one will lead you to the Gergeti Trinity Church, located at an altitude of 2170m.

On the way from Tbilisi to Kazbegi, along the Military Highway, you’ll pass the Ananuri Castle, the Jinvaly water reservoir, the Sto Head sculptures and the Russia-Georgia friendship monument.

How to get to Kazbegi:

You can take a minibus from Didube Station in Tbilisi to Stepantsminda for only 10 GEL ($4 – $5). The journey takes around 3 hours.

You can also go on a day tour from Tbilisi to Kazbegi and visit all the main sights in one day:

Where to stay in Kazbegi

You can put up your tent facing the stunningly beautiful Mount Kazbek (5047 m) and enjoy nature’s grand surroundings. If this is not your thing, there are plenty of guesthouses where you can book a room for 2 people starting from €20/night.

Here are my recommendations for Kazbegi:

• Anano Guesthouse (prices starting from €8 p.p.)
• Giorgi’s Guesthouse (starting from €18 p.p.)
• Wooden Hotel Kazbegi (starting from €30 p.p.)

14. Martvili Canyon

Martvili is located in the Samegrelo region in the western part of Georgia, about 280km from Tbilisi. Despite its remote location, it’s one of the more popular places to visit in Georgia.

The Martvili Canyon is a little oasis of emerald green mossy trees, 70-meters high rock walls, cascading waterfalls and turquoise-blue natural pools.

The Canyon used to serve as the bathing place for the Dadiani Family, Georgian nobles who used to rule over Samegrelo.

You can take a boat ride down the 300-meter long river through the canyon (for USD $15 per person) or follow the 700-meter long walking path leading to limestone bridges and viewing decks where you can see the waterfalls up close.

Martvili Canyon is a National Park of Protected Area so you can only visit it during opening hours (from 10 am until 6 pm). The entrance fee is 17,5 Gel (around USD $6).

You can also book the following day trip from Tbilisi, Kutaisi or Batumi to the Martvili Canyon:

How to get to Martvili Canyon from Tbilisi:

Minibusses leave every day from Tbilisi Didube bus station to Martvili (20 GEL).

Where to stay in Martvili:

Here are my 2 top recommendations for Martvili:

• Novel House
• Karma Hostel

15. The Tea Route in Guria

Guria is one of the least-visited regions of Georgia, famous for its rich culture and natural wonders, including mineral waters, alpine meadows, green forests, and sandy beaches.

Here you can feel the real vibes of rural Georgia, catch a glimpse of the sun setting on the Black Sea, enjoy magnificent views, pick berries and mushrooms in the forest, and cuddle up by the campfire, wake to the faint hint of the early morning sunlight and enjoy the sweet sounds of nature.

Guria is also known for its tea fields . Plump wild blueberries hang like treasure in Guria’s mountains from July until September.

Oceans of wild blueberry bushes blanket the slopes. Each spring, families from mountainous villages across Western Georgia head into the forests and hillsides to pluck the young leaves of these bushes, as generations before them.

They hand roll the leaves to make wild blueberry leaf tea, a delicious tea that tastes like black tea with notes of blueberry.

If you decide to visit Guria, I highly recommend following its newly introduced Tea Route ! I also recommend reading t h i s in-depth travel guide to Guria .

Book a Tea tour in Guria

I highly recommend booking the guided day tour to Guria to follow the Tea Route and learn about the interesting history and tea culture in Georgia:

How to get to Guria

The best place to get to Guria is Ozurgeti, the main municipality of the region.

There’s a train from Tbilisi to Ozurgeti, which departs in the early morning (check the train schedule here ). It takes about 9 hours to get to Ozurgeti as it’s an old slow train (but worth the journey and experience!) Tickets cost between 10 to 35 GEL and can be bought online or at the station.

You can also take a marshrutka (minivan) from every major town and city in Georgia to Ozurget. From Tbilisi, the journey takes around 6 hours.

Where to stay in Guria:

You can find many nice guesthouses in the region of Guria. Here are some I recommend:

• Menabde Winery
• Dumbo Eco Parc

A Guide to Georgian Tea – From Past to Present

Are there any places you would add to this list? Are you having plans to travel to Georgia? Let me know in the comments!

Related Posts:

How to visit Tusheti National Park in 2024, Georgia’s most beautiful and remote region

Georgia Itinerary – 3 Great Travel Itineraries to see the best of Georgia (country) in 2024

The Complete Svaneti Georgia Travel Guide – 21 Things to do in the Wild Heart of the Caucasus Mountains

How to get to the Chronicles of Georgia in Tbilisi

The Complete Georgia Travel Guide: 19 Useful Things you should know for backpacking in Georgia in 2024

10 Beautiful Historical Places in Georgia (country)

More georgia travel resources.

• Guide to Tbilisi , Georgia’s capital city
• Visit the 15 most beautiful and unique places in Georgia
• Plan your trip with these 3 awesome Georgia travel itineraries
• Discover the Chronicle of Georgia , Tbilisi’s hidden gem
• Guide to Batumi, Georgia’s most quirky beach city
• Hiking in Georgia: 7 beautiful off-the-beaten path hikes
• Visiting ghosts of the past in Chiatura, the cable car city of Georgia
• Visit Katskhi Pillar , the most incredible cliff church in the world
• Travel Guide to Vardzia , the ancient cave city of Georgia
• Visit Svaneti , the wild heart of Georgia
• Visit Tusheti , Georgia’s most remote region
• Visit these 10 beautiful historical places in Georgia
• Everything you need to know about skiing in Georgia
• 10 Georgian dishes you absolutely have to try
• Georgia, motherland of wine
• From Past to Present, a guide to Georgian Tea

92 thoughts on “15 Amazing and Unique Places to Visit in Georgia”

Hi Dear, We are planning our visit in the upcoming month of October ( end of October around 25th Oct) and will be there for a week. Can you tell us the must-cover places and also what would be weather out there? I and my husband are visiting and we would love to see the village, nature, its culture, wine history etc

Hi Pooja, if you have a week, I would highly recommend visiting Svaneti as it will be beautiful in autumn. It’s hard to predict the weather but definitely bring warm clothes for the evenings. For wine history, you should visit Telavi and Sighnaghi in the Kakheti region.

Thanks, Cynthia, We were thinking of covering Kazbegi and Juta in the mountain region instead of Svaneti, what do you suggest among the two?

If you want to go to a less-visited mountainous area, then Juta will be nice. Svaneti is stunning with its tower houses and the mountains there are also very beautiful but more touristy.

Hi this is an excellent post…I’m planning to visit Georgia around Middle of March for around 6 to 7 days..Could you please suggest a good itinerary…would love to have a village stay n visit some important places..thank you

Hi Santosh, I’m happy to refer you to my Georgia Itinerary Post . Check out the backpacker’s route and cultural route for itinerary inspiration. Hope this helps!

I am visiting Georgia for 4 days in first week of May.

Could you please let me know what are the places I can cover. (mostly by public transport)

Also if you can share me a map with all the public transport route. That would be appreciated.

Hi Souvik, this itinerary might help you: https://www.journalofnomads.com/georgia-itinerary/

Hello Cynthia,

I would like to ask you for help. Me and my partner are planning to visit Georgia by july 2023 for 10 days, may you please recommend us some towns or cities to visit that include historical places, bridges, natural, restaurants and shopping places. Thank You for your help

Hello Mariam,

Please see my Georgia Itinerary as this guide will give you lots of ideas and recommendations on what to do in Georgia for 10 days! If anything isn’t clear, let me know 🙂 Best wishes, Cynthia

Hi dear we are visiting Georgia in December month end. Do you have any recommendation of city to spend on? We have 7 nights.

What would you mainly like to see and do? Are you more interested in big cities, small towns or nature? Depending on your preferences, I can give you recommendations 🙂

nice article…is it possible to visit all these places during December? or any places to avoid during this month?

Thank you! Not all these places are accessible during December, like Tusheti and certain villages in Svaneti, due to snowfall.

Hi, I am planning to visit georgia in the month of noenjoyvember for 7 to 9 days with wife and 2 daughters (5 yrs and 8 month old).We are looking for calm short vaccation,so we would like to stay at places were we can enjoy the nature peacefully.can you suggest some places, thank you.

Hi Ajmal, have a look at this post: https://www.journalofnomads.com/georgia-travel-itinerary/ It includes 3 itineraries with places that you’ll enjoy! On the top of my head, I’d suggest Kazbegi and Sighnaghi.

Thanks a lot This post is really helpful Was planning to put a schedule for the last few days & find it difficult But your review make the life easy

Happy to hear this Aalaa!!

Hii I am also planning to travel georgia in the month of July. Will I be able to see Ice and I have only 4 days and places are more. What best I can do in this short span visit. Can you suggest.

Hi Ruchika, to answer your question, it depends on what you’d like to see/do. I’m not sure if you’re still going to be able to see ice and snow as it probably will all have melted by July. Would you like to go to the mountains, do you want to see historic places and/or cities,…? Let me know and I can give you suggestions 🙂

Just tripped over this and I love the info. Well done! I’m a “young” active 65 year old looking to start traveling alone to places more intriguing than Paris or Rome( which I love ,but…)

Tbilisi is a great and safe city to visit by yourself Sourab! 🙂

Hi Cynthia, Thanks for this list!! My husband and I are planning to spend 6 weeks in Georgia this summer, and we’re looking for a home-base that will provide a balance of culture and nature. Preferably a historic town or village, with restaurants within walking distance, where we can work from home and which will be a good base for weekend hiking adventures. We love good food, (we REALLY love Georgian wine), and we love hard hikes in high altitude. There are so many interesting places in Georgia, we are having a hard time narrowing our search. We’d appreciate your recommendation!

Hi Aubrey, I’m happy to hear this post was useful! What I would recommend in your situation is to spend 2 weeks in a different region. F.eg. 2 weeks in Sighnaghi (you’ll love it there as a wine lover ;)), 2 weeks in Kazbegi and 2 weeks in Mestia (Svaneti). I’d highly recommend Omalo in Tusheti for the hiking opportunities but I assume you need internet for your work? There should be a decent enough wifi connection in the 3 towns I recommended (except if you’re an online teacher, then I’d recommend Tbilisi, Kutaisi and Batumi to have fast internet :)). I hope this helps? Let me know if you’d have more questions!

THANK YOU Cynthia!! XOXO Aubrey

Great article! Traveling is awesome in Georgia! I lived in Batumi for several months and visited Tbilisi often, too. Only 5 hours by train, super easy! 🙂 It seems like – long-term – these are two most popular cities to live, or would you recommend another city where it is fun to stay for a few months? thanks a lot!

Hi Lana, glad to hear you enjoyed my article! I think that Tbilisi and Batumi are probably the most fun cities to live for expats who like social activities and events. It really depends on what you’re looking for of course. Sighnaghi is beautiful and, as I’m an outdoor lover, I wouldn’t mind living for a while in f.eg. Mestia (Svaneti) as I’d be so close to the mountains!:)

We have visited Georgia last year and rented a 4×4 Toyota 4Runner at GSS Car Rental. It’s a local company and they have a lot of other 4×4 SUV’s available for rent. I can recommend GSS as they have a really good service…

Thank you for your suggestion Viktor!

Just want to say thanks, this website Inspired my travels to Georgia last year. I used these details base from my travels and went to 10 of the 15 places recommended (they were amazing). Some prices had gone up slightly but most of the information was still relevant. Not many websites have practical details on how to get around and expected prices to pay which was useful. thanks 🙂

Hi Kim, I’m so happy to hear this! I’m very glad that my website inspired your travels and super happy you had a great time there!

thanks for this topic

You’re welcome 🙂

Hello! Great blog post – Very informative. What is the weather in Georgia (mainly Tbilisi) like in April? I have read different accounts online, but since you live there, I thought you’d have a very localized perspective. Thank you!!

Hi Mikhail, we currently don’t live in Georgia anymore but we’ll return there this April 😀 There will still be snow in the mountains in April but the weather should be nice in Tbilisi. Some showers, soft temperatures around 15 degrees Celcius,… Of course we’re not weathermen and lately, the climate has been very unusual so we can’t predict how the weather will be this year 😉

I had never been to Georgia. But after reading this article I would love to go and visit destinations you have mentioned above.

Hi John, this is really great to hear! Georgia is a destination we definitely recommend as we had a fantastic time there visiting all these beautiful and unique places!

Hey, great post! Just one correction. Tbilisi was established in the 5th century but there wasn’t a Georgia to be capital of. It’s been a capital of Georgia since 12th century (1122). It would be great if you corrected that. And one question, how is the weather for visiting in early May?

Hi, can I ask for the source of this info please? From the resources I found is that Tbilisi was the capital of Iberia (present-day eastern Georgia) at the beginning of the 6th century, so according to my sources, this info is correct 🙂

The weather in early May is nice, it will still be chilly in the mountains but it will be nice and soft in Tbilisi, Batumi,…

How is March 15-30 , in terms of travelling to Georgia? Will it be very cold and will most places be inaccessible?

It will still be cold in Georgia in March but most places should be accessible, with the exception of Tusheti and maybe Racha.

Hi! we are traveling to Poti, Georgia to visit family. We want to stop in Tbilisi as well. Are there any cities that you would recommend visiting in between Poti and Tbilisi?

Depending on how much time you have, you could visit Kutaisi, Chatura, the Katskhi Pillar, Borjomi and Mtskheta.

Wishing you a great trip!

The list is amazing and awesome, It is just wonderful getting knowledge about these beautiful places and will definitely add it in my bucket list. All these places and pictures look amazing!

Thank you 🙂 Georgia is definitely worthy of your bucket list 😉

A chic country with amazing nature and very hospitable people. Food, wine, music … Thanks for your story. Very beautiful photos.

Hi Tori, glad to hear you enjoyed my photos and article. And yes, Georgia is such a great country. We’re going to return soon!

Hi Cynthia & niko Amazing post with Detials , going through your post I am confused where to go, I need your suggestion, I want to stay in nature (green fields ) and star gaze at night, where do you suggest.? I am planning to go on November for maximum 7 days

Hi Wahdawi, thank you! I’m glad to hear you enjoy this post!

If you want nature, go to Kazbegi or Svaneti. The road towards these places will still be accessible in November and you’ll see plenty of green fields and stars there! Enjoy your trip!!

I also enjoyed myself while I was visiting this kind of places.

Happy to hear Marckel!

addendum to Susie & Katie last query– we are now actually wondering if yo could advise us on our dream itinerary, with the intent of knowing if it is realistic for us to think we can drive a 4WD and not do marshrutki (of course we know that some smaller roads will be closed if there are blizzards and/or avalanches) Day 1: Arrive Tblisi Day 2 & 3: in Tblisi Day 4: Drive to Vardzia cave city Day 6: drive to Kutaisa Day 7: to Ushguli Day 9: to Kazbegi Day 13: to Tblisi, seeing Mtskheta en route Day 14:Tblisi Day 15: day trip Davit Gareja Day 17: home from Tblisi

Hi Susie & Katie, it might be possible that the road from Mestia to Ushguli won’t be accessible during December and January. You’ll be able to drive to Mestia and ask around in the town if the road to Ushguli is open. Same counts for Kazbegi. Just take your time to drive there as it might be very slippery and dangerous on the windy roads. If you’re not sure about the road conditions, ask the locals. They’ll be able to tell you whether it’s safe or not to go.

Wishing you happy and safe travels in Georgia! It will be beautiful and magical in winter!

hello! we are planing a trip to Georgia this December/January and we are finding your website very interesting indeed! We have one question– we take a lot of trips and love to rent a car to have the freedom to come and go as we please. We think this will be fine on the big main roads in Georgia with a 4-WD . However we would like to know if you can tell us about the smaller roads and a 4WD. For example, we would like to spend a few days in Tblisi then rent a car and go to Vardzia cave monastery. It looks like the road would be find for 4WD to Akhaltsihe but from there to Vardzia? We see there is a marshrutka f or that last leg but that would mean getting there intme for that or spending another day. So in short, can you say anything about driving on Georgia roads in winter with a 4WD? Thanks, Susie & Katie

Hi Susie & Katie,

You’ll be fine driving on most roads in Georgia during the winter. The main thing you’ll have to watch out for are the other drivers 😉 :D. The Georgians can drive a bit crazy on the roads (they love speeding and overtaking in the most impossible places) but it should be fine for you to drive. If you’re planning on going into the mountains, just make sure you have snow tires and be careful for slippery roads. Wishing you a great trip!!

I’m getting prepared for running the marathon in Erbil in October. On the way there I’ll need to train. Where do you recommend to run in Georgia? My idea for my 20 km training was Batumi. What do you think?

Hi Diana, I’m not familiar with the marathon in Erbil so I’m not sure on which terrain you have to run there. But the boulevard in Batumi is definitely a nice place for running! Niko often went for a morning run when we were living there so I’d say you’ll enjoy your training there. Wishing you all the best with the marathon!!

Really very nice !

Thank you Hussain! 🙂

Name of the river in Tbilisi is MTKVARI not kura !!!!

Hi Natia, as you can read, I’ve mentioned that the river in Tbilisi is called Mtkvari and that it’s also known as the Kura river.

KURA it is in russian language and thats why I said so Mtkvari it is in Georgian language. thanks for your reply and attention.

Tbilisi is one of the best places to visit in Georgia middle in the country nice place, I have been there the food is very much delicious and you will find new and unique recipes I might advice do try if you love food.

Yes, we totally agree with you Kanika! The food in Georgia and Tbilisi is finger-licking-delicious!! Tbilisi is also a really fun city to explore! It sounds like you had a great time there :)!

What a fabulous list, just thinking about the landscape and the food of Georgia wants me to go back!

Thank you Sarah! Yes, those are definitely two great reasons to return to Georgia! Ever since our stay there, we always look out for a Georgian restaurant, haha!

There’s a Korean program called “Wizard of Nowhere” that sent six celebrities to Georgia to meet the people while trying their homemade wine and cheese. Watching that show is what eventually led me to your site. Maybe someday I’ll be able to visit these beautiful places.

Hi Jenny, I never heard about this Korean program but I suppose it must be very entertaining to watch! 😀 I hope you get the chance to visit Georgia one day as it’s an absolutely beautiful destination!! We’ll return one day, that’s for sure!

I am surprised you did not put info on Prometheus Cave – I thought it is gorgeous ;)…

Hi Rati, we also visited the Prometheus Cave and it’s indeed very beautiful! We’ve seen similar caves like this one in other countries and this list is about the unique places that you can only find in Georgia 🙂 But you’re right, the Prometheus Cave is also worth a visit!

We had a project in Social Studies about Asia, and my assigned country happens to be Georgia, it was a total help and made me more interested with this country! Thanks a lot 🙂

Hi Jenel, oh, that’s really cool! When are you going to Georgia and what is your project about?

Sorry to interrupt you . But Georgia is thought to be Europe or else the gate between Europe and Asia it;s not Asia <3

I love mtskheta and I find it very beautiful, especially because of the cuisine.

Hi Denis, Mtskheta is indeed a very special place! What was your favorite dish there? Any recommendations for other travelers where they can enjoy the local cuisine in Mtskheta?

Hey guys ! Thank you for sharing these amazing tips . It definitely made our research easier and provided us with some sort of confidence in pulling this through. Just about to plan a little 5 day escapade to Georgia 😍… its not long but we’re hoping to enjoy the scenery, green sights , some good long hikes and in general nature with a splash of monuments and hystorical sights on the way . My Bf and I are planning to rent a 4×4 and drive through . Maybe get a guesthouse for a bit of comfort at some point but otherwise car attached 😁. I saw u had an itinerary you were planning to post a link for .. any chance you can share that ? Thanks again and happy safe travels ahead of you !

Hi Carmen, it’s great to hear from you and I’m very happy to hear you enjoyed this article! Traveling in Georgia by car is a fun way to explore the country but be careful, not for the windy roads but for the other drivers 😉 Here’s the link to the itineraries, you’ll be able to pick out the places you want to see in those 5 days you’re there: https://www.journalofnomads.com/travel-itineraries-georgia/ Have a beautiful trip and don’t hesitate to contact me if you have more questions!

Very nice article. Come back to see Racha! Should be the 16th if not before on the list 🙂

Thank you Teo and yes, we’d love to go back to Georgia! There are still so many amazing places we have to visit there!

Awesome post. Can’t wait now to explore this beautiful place. I will definitely like to plan a trip this vacation so that even my family can enjoy it.Keep sharing such useful posts.

Thank you Monica! I’m currently working on several travel itineraries for Georgia which I’ll publish in the coming week. Georgia is a wonderful country and there are so many things to see and do there! I’m sure you’ll enjoy it as much as Niko and I did 🙂 Happy travels!!

Good to see Indian Replying and reading articles.

I think you’ve got just about everything covered here. I can’t think of any place to add! Maybe hiking in Lagodekhi? Or something about wine harvest…

Thanks, great to hear that 🙂 Oh yes, Lagodekhi looks very beautiful! We’ll visit that area in the coming month before leaving Georgia. Maybe we’ll call this article ’16 amazing places’ 😉

Great article. We’ve been meaning to return to Georgia and you’ve just given us 11 new reasons why. 😉

Thanks Tim! Haha, glad to hear that. Did you already book your trip? 😉

Really wonderful article! Thank you all for loving and appreciating my country. In rhe beginning of this article , there was mentioned that in Georgia there are many beautiful and amazing places and it’s true! I would add to this list “Prometheus Cave” which is located in Imereti Region, near Tzkaltubo. Also in Samegrelo Region you must visit lake “Tobavarchkhili”. And of course Tusheti Region! Tusheti is the Eastern Caucasus, at 900 – 4 800 meters above sea leveland it is one of the biggest and high altitude parks on the territory of Europe. This is the places which suddenly came in my mind. But believe me there are also many wonderful places to visit. Best wishes 😉

Thank you Tamar! <3 There are so many wonderful places in Georgia that it was hard to make a selection for a post and not write a book 😉 Thank you for your recommendations Tamar! We heard about Tusheti but haven't made it there yet. We hope to visit the area before leaving Georgia!!

Really awesome practical info and great pics! Can’t wait to get back to Georgia and see more of the country!

Thank you Megan! When did you visit Georgia? Did you go to any of the places that are mentioned in the post?

Super useful stuff. Will definitely try to visit all of these once we’re back in Georgia. Thanks a lot!

Thanks guys! Are you planning on returning to Georgia soon? I’m sure you’ll love Chiatura (watch out with the chacha this time 😉 )!

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The 9 best places to visit in Georgia for karaoke, Porsches and hikes

Apr 6, 2022 • 6 min read

Georgia offers a kaleidoscope of historical landmarks and natural treasures © Andriy Blokhin / Shutterstock

As a former battleground during the Civil War and cradle for the Civil Rights Movement, it's hard to separate Georgia from its loaded past. 

But look closer and you'll see a kaleidoscope of historical landmarks, contemporary communities and natural treasures skirting the cityscapes; each offering a variety of experiences for a range of travelers. 

Here’s our list of the best places to visit in Georgia. 

Go shopping in Helen 

The town of Helen is brimming with revelry during the fall Oktoberfest, but it can turn into a shopper’s paradise during the holiday season. Kitschy at first glance, gift shops and strings of lights illuminate the streets of this faux Germantown situated along the Chattahoochee and about two hours from Atlanta. 

The tinny clink of bells on shop doors signal the hurried movement of shoppers while the clacking in the woodshop keeps time for them as a countdown to Christmas. 

Here, visitors can purchase apparel, toys, or decadent treats from the fudge shops that fill the air with the cloying scent of vanilla, cream, and chocolate at once. 

A life-size gingerbread man and technicolor light display make this town a festive spot to snap holiday photos and warm up to a steaming bowl of goulash or spätzle after. 

Embrace eco-friendly life at Serenbe 

Ground yourself with an escape to Serenbe , a collection of sustainable neighborhoods in the rural hamlets on the outskirts of Atlanta . Dirt paths, quaint cottages and penned pastures abound along its winding farmsteads. The settlement’s layout and building features minimize environmental impact. 

The scent of sodden earth, the bleating of livestock or the succulence of locally-grown produce will detox the mind and reinvigorate the body. 

From outdoor goat yoga to farmer's markets, art galleries to healing centers, Serenbe's eco-friendly establishments make way to reconnect with oneself and strengthen a connection to one's surrounding spaces.

Don’t miss dinner at the Farmhouse , where hearty risottos, Georgia fowl and signature bourbon pecan pie are favorites. In the summer months, visitors can roll up their sleeves for flower arrangement workshops or blueberry picking. 

Enjoy the nightlife in Poncey Highlands

Rooftop bars, underground karaoke and alternative strip clubs find a unique home in Atlanta’s Highlands. This vibrant neighborhood plays host to Clermont Lounge , Atlanta’s oldest and most offbeat adult entertainment venue, flaunting an entirely female ownership, quirky dancers, live music, an enviable rooftop bar and indiscriminate patronage. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrity visitors. 

For those looking to take a more active role in the entertainment, look no further than karaoke in the basement of Dark Horse Tavern . A live metal band provides vocalists with accompaniments.  

But it’s not all adult fun. Grab some grub in the mess hall of Ponce City Market and then head to the roof for vintage games and a brilliant panorama of the Atlanta skyline. The whole family can enjoy post-dinner amusement amidst the carnival atmosphere at Skyline Park .

Top 7 state parks in Georgia  

Get a dose of wealthy history on Jekyll Island 

Join the ranks of the richest American families in history who comprised one-sixth of the world’s wealth — from J.P. Morgan to Joseph Pulitzer and John D. Rockefeller.

The Jekyll Island Club Resort is luxuriously furnished with Victorian decor while offering modern comforts and activities to make for a memorable stay. The beachside bungalow once hosted the likes of the Vanderbilts, who came down to Jekyll Island for a respite from city life in the North. 

Along the isolated coasts of Georgia’s barrier island, they enjoyed hunting, fishing and golfing. Here, an exclusive group of them, identified only by first name, drafted the beginning of the nation’s federal bank, the Federal Reserve.

Today, visitors can enjoy modern room amenities and ample activities, such as boating, art classes, biking and guided horse-drawn carriage rides. 

History buffs will particularly enjoy walking the lavishly draped halls and sun-bathed terraces where the movers and shakers of the 19th and early 20th centuries once stood. 

Escape to Georgia’s rolling hills at Chateau Elan 

The plush, pillowy villas of Chateau Elan in Braselton beckon to couples seeking a secluded, sensuous experience. The sweeping views of the European-style resort against Georgia's undulating hills (just an hour from Atlanta) transport one to the French countryside.

Enjoy a sumptuous brunch at the Versailles restaurant in the hotel's lofty atrium. Take part in a hands-on culinary class during the day, or indulge in the syrupy sweetness of Georgia's local, hand-picked muscadine grapes.

For ultimate relaxation, unravel in the mist of the spa's eucalyptus steam room or melt away stress with a candlelit couple's massage. End the night with a guided stargazing session away from city lights. 

The14 best free things to do in Georgia  

Rev your engines at the Porsche Experience Center

Adrenaline junkies put the pedal to the medal at the Porsche Experience Center – one of three locations in the USA. The 1.6-mile racing track emulates the countryside and gives drivers the thrill of hugging sinuous roads at high speeds – if they dare.

For the less ambitious, an indoor Simulator Lab offers virtual access to drive a myriad of tracks and Porsche models around the world. 

And if the cars weren't exhilarating enough, the elevated Restaurant 356 provides a bird's-eye perspective of the track as well as uninterrupted views of commercial jets taking off and landing at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.  

The restaurant's locally-sourced seasonal menu includes tasty seafood and pasta dishes.

Stroll the cobblestone streets of Savannah

Savannah stoops seep with charm – from cobblestone squares to horse-drawn carriages. Take a stroll through the arboretum at Forsyth Park , with its collection of Spanish-moss swathed trees, fountains and scattered sidewalk musicians. 

To soak up architecture, tour the historic district, particularly the Hamilton-Turner Inn , one of the first buildings in Savannah to be completely equipped with electricity. From there, traverse Jones Street still paved in the original colonial-era red brick. 

At twilight, promenade the riverwalk or take a river cruise to explore the waterways surrounding this coastal city that has so much of America’s history to tell.

Savannah vs. Charleston: which Southern gem to visit 

Go for a hike at Providence Canyon 

The vermillion ridges of Providence Canyon carved by erosion from poor farming practices in the 1800s attract visitors every year.  Less than an hour from Columbus, this 1003-acre state park has miles of trails to check out. 

The wondrously colorful red, pink, purple and orange layers of soil make it one of the most picturesque destinations in the region. 

Visitors can hike the canyon itself, but your feet will get wet from the water table below that permeates the canyon base. Looking to stay dry? A rim trail traces the outer edge of the canyon.

Backcountry overnight stays are available.  

You might also like: Georgia’s 10 best hikes Top things to do in Macon, Georgia Top 7 beaches in Georgia  

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28 Top Things to Do in Georgia

From historical sites to hot dogs, the Peach State offers something for every type of traveler.

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Wherever your Georgia vacation takes you, you'll find incredible scenery.

Situated smack-dab in the middle of the South, Georgia boasts plenty in the way of Southern charm. But beyond its mouthwatering comfort food and warm hospitality, the Peach State offers visitors tons of attractions to explore. Spend a trip to this Southern gem visiting a recreated Bavarian village, traversing historic battlefields and sampling some of the tastiest hot dogs you can imagine. Read on to discover the top things to do in Georgia.

Centennial Olympic Park

Once host to the 1996 Summer Olympics, Centennial Olympic Park is an iconic destination in downtown Atlanta. Travelers will find playgrounds, tons of green space, Fountain of Rings Plaza, and numerous statues and commemorative markers across the park's 22 acres. Recent visitors said the area is clean and great for kids, adding that there are plenty of places to sit down and even have a picnic. Centennial Olympic Park is also conveniently located among a slew of other attractions within a half-mile, so when you've finished exploring the grounds, head to the popular museums in the Attraction District plaza or check out the College Football Hall of Fame and the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel .

Address: 265 Park Ave. W NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

See more of Atlanta:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels

Callaway Resort & Gardens

Courtesy of Callaway Resort & Gardens

No matter the time of year, there's something to see at Callaway Gardens. Located about 40 miles north of Columbus in Pine Mountain, this roughly 2,500-acre destination features gardens, trails for hiking and biking, a large lake, the visitor-favorite butterfly center and more.

During the winter, the gardens draw locals and travelers alike to view the annual Fantasy in Lights display, explore a holiday village, shop for snacks at the Christmas Market and enjoy photo-ops with Santa, among other festive activities. Spring brings vibrant azalea blooms amid the Spring Flower Fest, while summer offers days at Robin Lake Beach, fireworks displays, zip lining, fragrant magnolias and a hot air balloon festival for Labor Day. With fall comes colorful foliage, blooming chrysanthemums and the Steeplechase horse races. Guests can stay right on the property in the main lodge, a cottage or an upscale villa in the woods, though some past visitors cautioned the lodge and cottages need an update.

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

Andersonville National Historic Site

History buffs won't want to miss the Andersonville National Historic Site. Situated about 60 miles east of Columbus in Andersonville, the site is home to the most well-known Civil War prison camp. Travelers can listen to an hourlong self-guided audio tour while driving through the property or explore parts of the nearly 27-acre site on foot. While there, take a walk through Andersonville National Cemetery, a final resting place for U.S. soldiers who died in combat dating back to 1864. Reviewers also recommend the National Prisoner of War Museum and say hiring a guide can be helpful if you want to learn more. Nearby lodging options include Best Western and Hampton Inn outposts in the small town of Americus; a wider variety of accommodations can be found in Columbus.

Address: 496 Cemetery Road, Andersonville, GA 31711

Explore the village of Helen

If you're seeking a Georgia getaway with lots of charm, look no further than the replica Bavarian village of Helen. In addition to its cobblestone streets and quaint shops, Helen offers plenty of spots to explore. Sip wine at Habersham Vineyards & Winery (one of the oldest and largest wineries in the state), hike through Unicoi State Park & Lodge, float along the Chattahoochee River and savor German food at local restaurants.

The town also hosts Oktoberfest every year in September and October. Weekdays during the festival tend to be more family-friendly, while weekends play host to college students and tour groups; Sundays offer free admission for everyone. Be sure to book your accommodations – which range from cozy cabins to quaint inns to chain hotels – early, as they do fill up. The luxurious Valhalla Resort Hotel and riverside Loreley Resort are two traveler favorites.

Staying in this tiny alpine town will also give you time to explore the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway, a 40-mile loop full of beautiful mountain views that starts just northwest of Helen and winds through the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Helen, Georgia

National Center for Civil and Human Rights

Courtesy of The National Center for Civil and Human Rights

Atlanta's 42,000-square-foot National Center for Civil and Human Rights is conveniently located across from Centennial Olympic Park, in the same plaza as the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola. This museum promises a deep dive into the U.S. civil rights movement and an overview of other human rights struggles worldwide, making it one of the most informative and impactful things to do in Georgia.

The museum is grounded in the history of Atlanta – the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. and home base of two vital civil rights organizations – and its civil rights gallery explores African Americans' fight for racial equality across the nation. Interactive exhibits on the entrance level and upper level allow you to participate in a simulated lunch counter sit-in, watch King's "I Have a Dream" speech and hear oral histories from the Freedom Riders on a reconstructed bus that was firebombed in 1961. The upper level also houses a gallery designed to walk visitors through various human rights campaigns and activists, while the lower level is dedicated to displaying King's personal artifacts and papers.

Visitors marvel at the multimedia experience of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, where news reels and other primary sources bring history to life, and recommend spending around two hours there. Travelers caution, however, that some content – indicated by signage in certain exhibits – may not be appropriate for young children.

Address: 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30313

Stone Mountain Park

At more than 3,200 acres, Stone Mountain Park , the most-visited attraction in Georgia, offers fun for visitors of all ages, including adventure courses, the world's longest-running laser show, a 5-mile railroad excursion, two golf courses and a Swiss cable car that takes travelers to the top of the mountain. The park is particularly known for its massive Confederate Memorial Carving, a 3-acre sculpture of three Civil War figures from the South that measures larger than Mount Rushmore. Amid calls for the monument to be removed, the park board has approved the creation of an on-site museum exhibit, set for completion around 2025, to provide context about the history of the world's largest Confederate monument and its ties to the Ku Klux Klan.

Visitors say they love the park's picturesque hikes and Historic Square, a collection of original 19th-century buildings, but warned there are separate fees for entering the park and enjoying its various attractions. You will have multiple choices for lodging in or near the park, including Stone Mountain Inn, the Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort or a campground, but since Stone Mountain Park is less than 20 miles northeast of Atlanta, you can also opt to stay in the city and drive to the attraction.

Address: 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain, GA 30083

Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is yet another gem nestled across from Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta. With more than 11 million gallons of water, this aquarium is the largest in the Western Hemisphere and home to more than 100,000 aquatic animals, including penguins, whale sharks, manta rays and more. Travelers can even get up close and personal with beluga whales during a training session or suit up to swim with sharks. The aquarium has seven permanent galleries and a 4D theater that plays films about the ocean's magnificent creatures.

Previous visitors raved about this attraction and advised reserving your place at its various shows when you arrive and allowing plenty of time for parking. The aquarium requires you to buy your tickets online in advance. To save some coin, purchase an Atlanta CityPASS and get admission to five city attractions for one set price. Additionally, several hotels offer packages that include tickets to the aquarium, including Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park, Hilton Atlanta , the Atlanta Marriott Marquis and the Hyatt Regency Atlanta .

Address: 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

View & Book Tickets

Stroll through Savannah

It's no surprise that Savannah, one of the oldest U.S. cities – and perhaps one of the most haunted – is a traveler favorite on any trip to Georgia. This quaint Southern destination is guaranteed to charm visitors with the ubiquitous landmarks and cobblestone streets of its renowned Historic District, complete with 22 park squares including the lively 30-acre Forsyth Park .

While you explore museums and restored 18th-century homes on a walking tour , you can learn about Savannah's antebellum past at North America's oldest continuous Black church or head 15 miles east of downtown to the Fort Pulaski National Monument on Cockspur Island, a former stop along the Underground Railroad. Amid absorbing all this history, take advantage of mouthwatering restaurants like Sisters of the New South, amble through the open-air City Market , stop by the Victorian-era Bonaventure Cemetery and complete your visit to Savannah with a ghost tour .

Consider staying at Andaz Savannah in bustling Ellis Square or The Cotton Sail Hotel Savannah, Tapestry Collection by Hilton , a former cotton warehouse from the 1800s. For a spookier experience, book a room at The Marshall House , a reportedly haunted inn that once housed a Civil War hospital. Past visitors appreciated the property's haunted atmosphere without finding it too creepy to enjoy, with some swearing the lights occasionally turn on and off on their own.

See more of Savannah:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels

World of Coca-Cola

Courtesy of Coca-Cola

Learn the history behind one of the world's most beloved drinks at World of Coca-Cola in downtown Atlanta. Inside, you'll see the Coca-Cola bottling process and the vault where the secret drink recipe is stored. You can also taste Coca-Cola beverages from around the world – a perpetual visitor favorite – and buy soda-themed souvenirs in the gift shop. The museum recommends visitors purchase tickets in advance; the cost of admission increases slightly at the gate. Noteworthy hotels less than half a mile of this attraction, which is located right next to the Georgia Aquarium and Centennial Olympic Park, include the Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown and the Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown .

Address: 121 Baker St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

Sip vino in north Georgia's wine country

Did you know that Georgia has its own wine region? The northern part of the Peach State is home to acclaimed wineries like Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery, which sates visitors' appetites for more than just wine with its on-site cafe and Sunday brunch buffet, and Tiger Mountain Vineyards, known for varietals like malbec, cabernet franc and viognier. Many venues – such as Cane Creek Vineyards every Friday – even host live music performances showcasing local artists.

After a wine tour that includes sipping and savoring the wines of northern Georgia, which tend to be on the sweeter side, settle into your cozy abode at Glen-Ella Springs Inn & Restaurant, located at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or at Château Élan Winery & Resort , which features a spa, golf and tennis clubs, and other amenities. Visitors describe the latter as a "hidden treasure" with top-notch food and lodging.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

Visit MLK's birthplace and childhood home at Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park in downtown Atlanta. During your visit this free park, you can see the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church – the location of King's baptism, ordainment and funeral – as well as the Martin Luther King, Jr. "I Have a Dream" World Peace Rose Garden. To secure a free ranger-led tour of King's Birth Home, you'll need to arrive early in the day to sign up at the Visitor Center, which features informative exhibits, and be prepared to wait several hours. According to previous visitors, the park offers a tranquil and moving atmosphere, especially in its rose garden and by the Eternal Flame and Reflecting Pool, where the crypts of King and his wife, Coretta Scott King, are located.

The best options for accommodations close to this historical park, by far one of the most poignant things to do in Georgia, are in central Atlanta. Consider bedding down at Sugar Magnolia Bed & Breakfast or the Home2 Suites by Hilton Atlanta Downtown.

Address: 450 Auburn Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30312

Jekyll Island

Within the Golden Isles on the coast of Georgia lies Jekyll Island, a serene state park that's home to sea turtles, historic ruins and some of Georgia's best beaches . Driftwood Beach is a particular draw for visitors to the island, as the beach's namesake driftwood accentuates its romantic atmosphere and makes it one of the top things to do in Georgia. These gnarled tree trunks and branches create a one-of-a-kind backdrop for a picnic, a stroll along the sand or stargazing – not to mention a perfect playground for kids. The best time to go is at low tide.

Beyond Driftwood Beach you may want to stop by the Georgia Sea Turtle Center to see rehabilitation in action or choose from activities such as golfing, biking, kayaking, horseback riding, fishing and much more. History enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in the 240-acre grounds of the former Jekyll Island Club, now a National Historic Landmark District. You can start with Mosaic, a museum in the historic stables that takes patrons through the island's cultural and natural history, including its Native American and African American roots.

A parking pass is required to access Jekyll Island by vehicle. To wind down after a busy day touring, shopping and dining, choose from an array of accommodation options such as the family-friendly Jekyll Island Club Resort in the Historic District.

Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Atlanta

Margaret Mitchell House

Courtesy of Atlanta History Center

Take a look inside the life of the acclaimed author of the 1936 classic "Gone With the Wind" at the Margaret Mitchell House . Located in Midtown Atlanta, this Tudor Revival mansion – which is one of several Atlanta History Center attractions – is home to the small apartment where Margaret Mitchell wrote the Pulitzer Prize-winning book. The author nicknamed her first-floor abode "The Dump," but the building is now a museum featuring various exhibits about Mitchell and her famous novel. The property is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Guided tours take guests through the complex history surrounding "Gone With the Wind," including its inaccurate depictions of slavery and the Civil War. Visitors praise the Margaret Mitchell House's tour guides, saying they're both well informed and entertaining. Nearby hotels include the Hyatt Centric Midtown Atlanta and the Homewood Suites by Hilton Atlanta Midtown, GA.

Note: The Margaret Mitchell House was closed for renovations at the time of publication. It is expected to reopen in 2024.

Address: 979 Crescent Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30309

Eat hot dogs at The Varsity

While vacationing in Atlanta, don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a delicious hot dog and an order of onion rings at The Varsity. This family-owned local institution opened in 1928 and is considered the world's largest drive-in restaurant. Be sure to come prepared, as before you order you'll need to know the right lingo – like "Heavy Weight" (a hot dog with extra chili), "Walk a Dog" (a hot dog to go) and "Naked Dog" (a plain hot dog). Throw in a signature Varsity Orange drink, and you're all set. While there are now six Varsity locations, including two at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, head to the original restaurant on North Avenue for the authentic experience. Past visitors said this is an absolute must when in Atlanta, for both the onion rings and the nostalgia.

Address: 61 N. Ave., Atlanta, GA 30308.

Read: What to Eat in Atlanta

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Six Flags Over Georgia

Courtesy of Six Flags Over Georgia

Georgia has its share of amusement parks, but Six Flags Over Georgia may top the list. Situated about 10 miles west of Atlanta, this Six Flags location features a variety of rides with themes based on DC Comics characters like Batman and Catwoman. Patrons who want to get their blood pumping should hop on The Great American Scream Machine, a classic wooden roller coaster built in 1973, or The Riddler Mindbender, a steel roller coaster with three exhilarating loops. Six Flags Over Georgia also has a water park with a wave pool and waterslides for the warmer months, plus attractions that are suitable for young kids.

While you can purchase tickets at the gate, you'll save money and time by buying them online ahead of time. Reviewers rave about the rides but warn that lines can be long. Hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta West/Lithia Springs, the Hampton Inn & Suites ATL-Six Flags and the Comfort Inn Douglasville may offer packages with discounted park tickets.

Address: 275 Riverside Parkway SW, Austell, GA 30168

Read: The Best Family Vacations in the USA

St. Simons Island

Another Golden Isles offering, St. Simons Island is the largest of Georgia's barrier islands. This classic Southern landscape, lined with moss-draped live oak trees, also boasts quaint shops, untouched beaches, top-notch fishing, multiple golf courses and an array of other outdoor adventures, so it's easy to see why it's one of the top things to do in Georgia. At Fort Frederica National Monument, archaeological remnants of a British colony tell the story of its defense against Spain, while the St. Simons Island Lighthouse Museum details more island history. Visitors also recommend wandering the grounds and cemetery at Christ Church, Frederica – one of the oldest churches in Georgia – which is even more beautiful in spring when the azaleas bloom.

Choose The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort for a luxurious stay or the Grey Owl Inn for a charming bed-and-breakfast experience, among many other hotel options on St. Simons Island.

Read: The Best Beaches in the U.S.

Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

Journey about 20 miles northwest of Atlanta to visit Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park, a nearly 3,000-acre preserved Civil War battleground from 1864. The park has around 20 miles of trails with monuments, historical markers and cannon emplacements, as well as a fantastic view of the Atlanta skyline from atop Kennesaw Mountain. Check out the on-site museum to peruse artifacts and exhibits related to the Battle of Kennesaw. Visitors say this park, which is open from dawn to dusk daily for a per-vehicle fee, makes for a great place to hike. For an easier trek, take the shuttle bus to the top of the mountain and then hike back down. Hotel options in the nearby city of Marietta include the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Atlanta–Marietta or the Hampton Inn and Suites Atlanta/Marietta, both less than 10 miles from the park.

Address: 900 Kennesaw Mountain Drive, Kennesaw, GA 30152

Midtown Atlanta's Arts District

Courtesy of the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau

The best place to immerse yourself in Atlanta's art and culture offerings is in Midtown's Arts District, home to an array of attractions. The Atlanta Botanical Garden , for one, is a sprawling 30-acre site next to Piedmont Park that houses permanent artwork, various exhibitions, and weekly shows and classes alongside its indoor and outdoor plant collections. Kids will love the musical and storytelling performances of the Shows for Seedlings program on Fridays.

After traversing the Atlanta Botanical Garden, art lovers can check out the High Museum of Art less than a mile away. With more than 17,000 works of art ranging from classic to contemporary and events such as Friday jazz nights, the High Museum of Art promises to engage your inner creativity. Other great ways to experience the Arts District include performances at the landmark Fox Theatre and Atlanta Symphony Hall or visits to the Center for Puppetry Arts and the Bremen Jewish Heritage Museum.

Cloudland Canyon State Park

Get out and discover Georgia's great outdoors at one of its many state parks. The scenic Cloudland Canyon State Park, which sits on the western side of Lookout Mountain in the northwest part of the state, is a prime spot to hike to the bottom of the gorge and take in magnificent waterfall and canyon views. Families may want to try out a game of disc golf in the park. For overnight stays, Cloudland Canyon offers cottages, campsites and even yurts for a glamping experience. Recent visitors praise the 64 miles of well-maintained hiking trails and recommend arriving early or coming on a weekday; parking, which costs a small fee, can fill up quickly. You'll find the park about 25 miles southwest of Chattanooga, Tennessee , and 120 miles northwest of Atlanta.

Address: 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Road, Rising Fawn, GA 30738

Get artsy at Howard Finster's Paradise Garden

Courtesy of Paradise Garden Foundation

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, visit Howard Finster's Paradise Garden in Summerville, a town in northwest Georgia that sits less than 20 miles east of the Alabama-Georgia border. This quirky attraction – which features a kitschy display of sculptures, paintings and curious objects developed by its namesake, folk artist Howard Finster – is considered one of the state's top art attractions. Finster, one of the most well-known and prolific self-taught artists of the 20th century, created nearly 47,000 pieces of art in addition to the 2.5-acre Paradise Garden. Travelers describe it as fascinating, inspiring and best enjoyed with comfortable shoes. If you'd like to take the experience to the next level, book a stay at the on-site Airbnb cottage or plan your visit around the annual Finster Fest.

Address: 200 N. Lewis St., Summerville, GA 30747

Roosevelt's Little White House State Historic Site

Courtesy of Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites

Located in Warm Springs, the Little White House was built by former President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1932, as he sought a cure for his polio in the town's spring waters. This house has been preserved alongside a museum filled with the late president's memorabilia, including his 1938 Ford convertible, his stagecoach and the unfinished portrait he was posing for when he suffered a deadly stroke. Much of this attraction is self-guided, but visitors say the staff stationed around the site to answer questions are exceptionally knowledgeable. After exploring the historic property, check out the shops and eateries lining Main Street in Warm Springs before bedding down at the Aiden by Best Western at Warm Springs Hotel and Event Center.

Address: 401 Little White House Road, Warm Springs, GA 31830

View the highly regarded Cyclorama

Cycloramas – large paintings used for a kind of three-dimensional visual storytelling – were a popular form of immersive entertainment in the 1800s. Atlanta's Cyclorama constitutes a more than 130-year-old hand-painted rendering of the 1864 Battle of Atlanta that is longer than a football field and stands almost 50 feet tall. Created in 1886, it is one of only two cycloramas in the U.S. – the other can be found in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania – and has been on display in Atlanta for 130 years.

In addition to the painting, the Atlanta History Center's "Cyclorama: The Big Picture" exhibit showcases a short film alongside related artifacts and technology to examine the untold stories of the painting and the ways Civil War imagery has shaped our perspectives. Past visitors loved seeing the massive painting, describing the piece as astounding. Entry to this exhibit is included in Atlanta History Center admission.

Address: 130 W. Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta, GA 30305

Providence Canyon State Park

Known as Georgia's "Little Grand Canyon," Providence Canyon State Park is colored by pink, orange, red and purple soil. Giant gullies caused by 19th-century farming practices also further the canyon's photogenic appeal today. Popular for both hiking and camping, the park has nine campsites and more than 10 miles of trails, including the 2.5-mile Canyon Loop Trail.

The most popular of the nine canyons are Nos. 4 and 5. Providence Canyon comes alive in July and August when its plumleaf azaleas (a species that only grows in this region) are in full bloom. Keep in mind, though, that the park's daytime temperatures often climb into the 90s in the summer months and make the canyon floor very hot. Daily parking costs a small fee. Providence Canyon State Park is located about 40 miles south of Columbus on the western side of Georgia.

Address: 8930 Canyon Road, Lumpkin, GA 31815

See: The Best Places for National Park Camping

Historic Oakland Cemetery

As Atlanta's oldest public park, the historic Oakland Cemetery is where many of the city's most prominent residents – including author Margaret Mitchell, golfer Bobby Jones and Bishop Wesley John Gaines, who founded Morris Brown College – are laid to rest. The cemetery consists of several distinct areas, including the Jewish Flat, the African American Grounds and the burial grounds for roughly 7,000 Confederate soldiers. Around a mile from downtown, Oakland Cemetery spans 48 acres and also houses gardens with sculptures and majestic oak trees and magnolias. Past visitors highly recommend a visit, noting the interesting tombstones and vast history.

Address: 248 Oakland Ave. SE, Atlanta, GA 30312

Rock City Gardens

Courtesy of Rock City, Inc.

Atop Lookout Mountain in northwest Georgia you'll find the natural wonders of Rock City Gardens , a one-of-a-kind attraction just 6 miles from downtown Chattanooga. The 4,100-foot Enchanted Trail spotlights ancient rock formations, breathtaking panoramic views, a cascading waterfall and the famous Swing-A-Long Bridge. Visitors will enjoy the valley views from Lover's Leap, where you can dine on the mountain and try to spot seven states with binoculars, or the nursery rhyme dioramas at Mother Goose Village inside Fairyland Caverns.

In addition to more than 400 native plant species, the gardens also feature several art installations inspired by the trail's natural beauty. Rock City charms travelers year-round with music weekends in the summer, the autumn Rocktoberfest, the Enchanted Garden of Lights for the winter holidays and a spring flower festival, among other events. Recent visitors recommend going to Rock City early so you can take your time and your pictures without too much of a crowd.

Address: 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750

Cumberland Island

Perhaps best known as the island where John F. Kennedy Jr. wed Carolyn Bessette in a secret ceremony, Cumberland Island boasts more than 17 miles of white sand beaches off the southeastern coast of mainland Georgia. This destination is accessible only by ferry, which departs from the small mainland town of St. Marys, and reservations are recommended. Cumberland Island offers a range of things to do, from tours of the former Carnegie family home and other mansion ruins to outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, swimming, fishing and stargazing.

Visitors suggest biking as one of the best ways to explore the island, as much of the northern half is too far to reach by foot. You can bring your own bike or rent one from the Camden Bicycle Center in St. Marys after calling 24 hours in advance to check availability. Note that bringing a bike on the ferry costs extra, and space is limited so it's best to reserve your spot. If you'd like to stay overnight on the island, you can choose between a campsite and a room at the historic Greyfield Inn, with its antique furnishings and candlelit dinners.

See: The Top Beach Camping Spots in the U.S.

Lake Lanier

As one of Georgia's most popular lakes – and the largest one available in the state – Lake Lanier has 76 recreational areas and spans almost 700 miles of shoreline. The lake, located about 50 miles northeast of Atlanta, boasts shores that are home to Don Carter State Park, a more than 1,300-acre state park with beautiful hiking trails, well-maintained campsites and an array of water-related activities, according to previous visitors. Plus, the lake is where you'll find Lanier Islands, a lakefront resort complex that features a water park, a spa and even snow tubing during the winter months.

For lodging amid all this lakefront leisure, stay in one of the resort's upscale guest rooms at Legacy Lodge or Legacy Villas. If you'd rather get the full outdoor experience while visiting one of the top things to do in Georgia, take advantage of the area's abundant campsites or hang out at Lanier Islands' Margaritaville RV Resort, which offers both cabins and sites for recreational vehicles.

See: Top Lake Vacations in the U.S.

Strike it rich at Dahlonega

Courtesy of Georgia Department of Natural Resources

The town of Dahlonega sits on what once were the largest gold deposits east of the Mississippi River. In fact, the site was so rich in the valuable metal it caused a gold rush in the early 1800s, bringing 15,000 miners to the area. In present-day Dahlonega, you can tour a gold mine, pan for gold in the area's creeks and rivers, and visit the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site, which displays artifacts such as rare coins and a hydraulic cannon used for mining. While the museum may be small, most previous visitors appreciated the informative displays and suggest watching the short film. For accommodations, consider the Dahlonega Resort and Vineyard, a relaxation-focused property with a wine garden and a spa, or the Hall House Hotel, which dates back to 1881.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Georgia
• The Top Things to Do in Blue Ridge, Georgia
• The Top Things to Do in Augusta, Georgia
• The Top Romantic Getaways in Georgia
• The Top Water Parks in Georgia

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , Southeast Vacations , Georgia Vacations

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10 Best Cities in Georgia

Written by Bryan Dearsley Apr 7, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The eighth largest US state by population, Georgia has a wide array of cities worth visiting for those who enjoy urban travel experiences. From large metropolitan centers with world-class infrastructures to small municipal centers that serve sparsely populated counties, Georgia's more than 575 cities together house 60 percent of the state's total population.

While it's likely not possible to get them all on your Georgia travel itinerary , there are many that are worth the effort of a visit. Which ones you choose to visit depends entirely upon your personal preferences and travel habits.

For example, those interested in learning more about civil rights and US politics will want to visit Atlanta, as the state capital is home to a number of important tourist attractions related to Martin Luther King Jr., as well as former President Jimmy Carter.

Sports fans are spoiled for choice, with Georgia's cities boasting superb sports facilities and stadiums. Music and theater fans are also well served, with state-of-the-art venues and historic opera houses alike regularly hosting the best-known national and international stars and Broadway shows.

To help you discover new and exciting urban travel destinations in the USA, be sure to read through our list of the best cities in Georgia.

1. Atlanta: The City of Trees

2. savannah: hostess city of the south, 3. athens: the classic city, 4. awesome alpharetta, 5. marvelous marietta, 8. macon: the heart of georgia, 9. columbus: the fountain city, 10. augusta: georgia's garden city, map of cities in georgia.

Like most US cities, Atlanta has a number of nicknames that seem to perfectly reflect the state capital's most significant characteristics. Recently adopted nicknames include "Hotlanta," a nod to its rising importance as a place to have fun, and "Empire City of the South," for its increasing importance as a city where business gets done.

But perhaps the most accurate nickname is "The City of Trees." Atlanta's impressive tree canopy has been a defining characteristic of the city since its foundation in 1847. It was initially referred to as the "City in a Forest," and today, some 50 percent of the city is covered by trees, one of the largest densities of tree canopies anywhere in the world.

Little surprise, then, that Atlanta's parks and green spaces are plentiful – and shady. The biggest, Westside Park , consists of 280 acres crisscrossed by walking and biking trails, as well as water features such as the Bellwood Quarry Reservoir. The city's second largest, Chastain Park , is in the posh Buckhead neighborhood, covering an area of 268 acres. It's fun to wander or even enjoy a horseback ride here.

Other fun attractions and things to do in Atlanta include seeing exotic marine life at the Georgia Aquarium, exploring the World of Coca Cola, and wandering through the Atlanta Botanical Garden, to name but a few.

It's for good reason that the beautiful city of Savannah is known as the "Hostess City of the South." Located at the top of the state, a short distance from the Atlantic Ocean and South Carolina, Savannah's legendary hospitality, found everywhere from its eateries to its attractions, is just one of the many reasons visitors flock here year-round.

And the city's just so pretty, especially around its well-preserved historic district. Stretching south for blocks from the Savannah River are repurposed old cotton warehouses now serving as luxury hotels, such as the chic River Street Inn ; elegant historic mansions and townhomes; majestic churches; and those iconic city squares and parks with their monuments and lush, moss-covered vegetation.

It's an especially nice city to explore on foot. Ample affordable covered parking is available in the downtown core, just steps from the main attractions . And the city's easy-to-follow grid layout means you can't really get lost, no matter how much you let yourself be led by curiosity.

A great way to get your bearings is to hop aboard one of the fun horse-pulled carriages for a tour of the historic district. Alternatively, the city's excellent Hop-on Hop-off Trolley Tours will help provide a useful overview of the places you want to walk to and visit later on.

It's for good reason that Athens, Georgia, is known as "The Classic City." It was named after the capital of Greece, and the intention when it was founded in 1805 was to create a city that would become the state's center of learning. It has indeed become that.

Evidence of the city's role as home of the University of Georgia is everywhere in Athens, from stunning historic architecture to world-class cultural amenities, and from the bustling downtown district to the youthful exuberance of the students that quite literally seem to be everywhere. And that's a good thing, lending an energetic vibe to the city that spills over to its entertainment and creative life.

Like many of the best cities in Georgia, Athens is immensely walkable. Park yourself (and your car) at a great neighborhood bed and breakfast or hotel, and you can easily get to most of the city's top things to see and do .

The university, too, is immensely walkable, with numerous paved trails around campus, as well as a number of great nature trails. It's also quite possible to walk from the original university buildings on the edge of downtown Athens to the best shopping and dining experiences on offer.

Named after a fictional native girl from an old song, the city of Alpharetta on the northern outskirts of Atlanta is frequently ranked not only one of the best places to live in Georgia, but in the whole of the USA. In addition to offering residents a top-quality lifestyle, it also holds a great deal of appeal for visitors, too.

Alpharetta is a great and easy day trip destination from Atlanta. Just a 30-minute drive from Georgia's capital, it's also perfectly positioned for those wanting to head a little farther north into the North Georgia Mountains, with journey times to Ellijay, the "Apple Capital of Georgia" and Blue Ridge being just 60- and 90-minutes away, respectively. Both are well worth a visit, too.

Downtown Alpharetta is the place to explore. Here, you'll find everything from pleasant green spaces and arboretums to art galleries, boutique shops, and plenty of reputable restaurants. For more ideas of fun things to do in Alpharetta, pop into the Downtown Alpharetta Welcome Center for tips and a handy walking tour map.

Founded in 1834, Marietta is another satellite city of Atlanta that's well worth visiting. Plenty of the city's original structures managed to survive the ravishes of the Civil War, and today form a charming backdrop to a visit.

Highlights include exploring the downtown core, where you'll find a number of attractions worth visiting. Topping your list should be the Marietta Museum of History , housed in an old cotton warehouse from the 1840s. You'll learn more about the city's founding through interesting exhibits and displays of artifacts.

Another must-visit here is the Gone with the Wind Museum . Located in historic Brumby Hall, a former home built in 1851, its fascinating collection includes memorabilia and information relating to both the film and the bestselling book. You'll also want to pop into the city's old railway station, which now houses a welcome center.

Only an hour northeast of Atlanta, the city of Suwanee is frequently lauded as one of the best places to live, work, and play in the USA. Its location at the foothills of the Georgia Mountains, which ultimately become the Appalachian Mountains , in the northern most part of the state, makes it an ideal destination for those wanting to get a flavor of country living yet with an urban twist.

Fall is an especially nice time to visit. One of the best places to witness this spectacle is George Pierce Park . Covering just over 300 acres, this popular green space features over 3.5 miles of trails, some of it paved and mobile-friendly. Bring a picnic or make use of the park's barbecue grills.

Another lovely walk can be enjoyed by following the Suwanee Greenway Trail. This four-mile-long trail winds its way through a protected wetlands area and a forest and offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. Town Center Park is also worth a visit, and is a 10-acre tract with a mile-long, tree-lined walking trail.

Set on the northern banks of the Chattahoochee River between Atlanta and Alpharetta, Roswell is Georgia's ninth largest city and features one of the state's largest historic districts. The city's riverside setting makes it extremely photo-worthy, with much of the nine mile stretch of the Chattahoochee accessible to the public.

In addition to walking the riverside trails and Riverwalk, adventurous outdoor fans will want to try their hand on the water. In addition to kayaks and rafting, the gentler pursuit of tubing, where you simply let the current take you down river, is also popular. The 127-acre Nantahala Outdoor Center is where most of these adventures begin and is also a good spot for nature lovers to explore.

Other fun things to do in Roswell include ziplining, hiking the Vickery Creek trail to the old Roswell mills and covered bridge, as well as a scenic waterfall.

Nicknamed "The Heart of Georgia," as much for its central location as for its warm, friendly populace, the city of Macon is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in the South. Also known as "Brick City" for its many well-preserved red-brick buildings, Macon was established in 1823 and offers plenty of excuses for travelers to linger awhile.

Downtown Macon is a great place to begin exploring this vibrant city . Highlights include taking a self-guided sightseeing tour of the business district, with its fine old commercial buildings, many now housing elegant boutiques and galleries displaying the creative talents of local artisans. Wander a little further afield, and you'll come across many fine old homes, including the famous Big House on Vineville Avenue, famous for being the former home of the Allman Brothers band.

The city's also famous for its more than 350,000 Yoshino cherry trees. Macon is enveloped in a sea of color each spring, when these beautiful trees are in bloom, culminating in the popular International Cherry Blossom Festival, which draws large crowds each and every year to celebrate the arrival of warmer weather.

If you've got the stamina and the time, consider using Macon as the jumping-off point for the 200-mile trek along the Ocmulgee River Water Trail. A good walk can also be accomplished around the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park . Set around a series of ancient burial mounds, the park features exhibits relating to the more than 17,000 years the Macon area is known to have been inhabited.

Columbus is another important city in Georgia that boasts an idyllic river setting. In this case, though, it's a 15-mile stretch of paved pathways that form the superb Chattahoochee Riverwalk, all of it easy to walk and scenic.

Along the way, you'll pass many old warehouses, mills, and former utilities buildings, some of them, like City Mills , given new life as hotels. Another, set in a former factory, is now the Banks Food Hall. Uptown Columbus, the city's downtown heart, is also accessible from the Riverwalk and is fun to explore.

Outdoor enthusiasts are also well catered to along the Riverwalk. Not only can the trail be biked its entire length, it also provides access at various points to the Chattahoochee River, one of Georgia's most popular white water rafting and kayaking destinations. A good source of fun is RushSouth Whitewater Park, which offers a variety of river action options to suit all abilities. Nearby, one of the state's longest ziplines actually crosses the river and deposits riders in South Carolina.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Columbus, GA

The third largest city in Georgia, Augusta's position at the head of the navigable portion of the Savannah River ensured it was of great importance as a port and industrial center. It was the opening of the Augusta Canal in 1845 that cemented the city's position and, more than 150 years later, the canal has become one of the city's most important attractions.

Located a short distance from the city's downtown core, the Augusta Canal Discovery Center brings this history alive with its period buildings and machinery, as well as interesting displays showing the canal's impact. A highlight of a visit is the chance to enjoy a cruise along a portion of the canal.

The Augusta Riverwalk is another must-visit attraction. Located along the downtown stretch of the Savannah River, the Riverwalk is a magnet for visitors and locals alike, with playgrounds, picnic areas, and an amphitheater being a big draw for families and couples seeking a romantic weekend getaway in Georgia.

Augusta is, of course, also home to The Masters. Held at Augusta National, this premier golf event attracts many thousands of sports enthusiasts to Augusta each April.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Augusta, GA

More on Georgia

Georgia Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Georgia travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Is Georgia on your mind? Then this is your sign to start planning a trip to the Peach State!

There’s so much to see in this southern state, so we’ve put together a guide with all the Georgia visitor information you could need. From historic sites to vibrant cities to beaches to breathtaking mountain views, Georgia has a little something for everyone.

The state of Georgia is separated into several different regions, each with its own unique personality.

Up north, you’ll find Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, a gorgeous area offering tons of great opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other fun outdoor activities. Honestly, it’s home to some of the best trails in the world !

At the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, you can explore the gorgeous river valley via raft, canoe, or kayak even if you’re a beginner paddler.

Northern Georgia is also home to Atlanta, one of the most populous cities in the United States and a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about U.S. history. From Oakland Cemetery to Martin Luther King, Jr. Historic Park, the city and surrounding area are full of historic sites that shed some light on the state’s storied past.

Central Georgia offers plenty of southern charm as well as lots of opportunities to get outside.

The Presidential Pathways region in western Georgia is home to five gorgeous Georgia state parks, including the popular Stone Mountain Park.

The region was also a favorite of two U.S. presidents. President Jimmy Carter grew up in the town of Plains, GA (now home to the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site) and Franklin D. Roosevelt even built his “Little White House” in Warm Springs.

Once you take a dip in the lake at Pine Mountain, you’ll definitely see why these great men loved the area so much.

To the east you’ll find the Classic South region, a charming area on the Atlantic coast. Take a swim in gorgeous Lake Oconee or visit Augusta National Golf Club, home of the famous Masters Tournament.

Looking to explore Georgia even further?

Head down to the southern part of the state for gorgeous beaches, cute small towns, and more.

In Scenic Southwest Georgia, you’ll find plenty of quaint southern towns, lush vineyards, and lakeside retreats to explore.

To the east, you’ll find Coastal Georgia, a region known for its gorgeous beaches and islands.

The waterfront city of Savannah is a favorite of many travelers for its old-world charm, vibrant arts scene, and many delicious restaurants.

Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island, once retreats for America’s elite, now offer anyone the chance to relax in style.

Additionally, the more laid-back Tybee Island is also perfect for families looking to chill out in the sand.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Georgia, a must-visit destination when traveling in America .

Note: This ultimate Georgia guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Georgia Map

Use this Georgia tourism map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Atlanta Travel Guide

Looking for an Atlanta visitor’s guide ? These posts can help!

Eco-Friendly Atlanta: Green Places To Go, Stay & Eat

Exploring Black History In Atlanta’s Often Overlooked Sweet Auburn Neighborhood

Delicious Discoveries: Exploring Atlanta Through Sunday Brunch

Savannah Travel Guide

Looking for a Savannah visitor’s guide ? These posts can help!

22 Things To Do In Savannah For An Amazing Trip

Falling In Love In (And With) Savannah, Georgia

Is Savannah The USA’s Most European City? The To-Go Beer Says “Yes”!

Best Georgia Tours

Explore local culture with a Georgia tour guide through these unique excursions:

• Savannah Riverboat Dinner Cruise
• Savannah’s Historic & Secret East Side Walking Food Tour
• Savannah Bonaventure Cemetery Journey
• Atlanta Black History & Civil Rights Tour
• Ponce City Market Food, History and Street Art Tour in Atlanta
• Tybee Island Paddleboard Tour and Yoga
• Bartram Trail Hike + Wine Tasting Tour from Clayton

Renting A Car In Georgia

Need a rental car for your Georgia trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Public Transportation In Georgia

Getting around Georgia by train, bus, or ferry?

Omio is a must! You can use this tool for all of your public transportation needs when traveling around Georgia.

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount.

They even offer flight and car deals!

Georgia Hotels

Click here to browse the best Georgia travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local properties:

Georgia Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Georgia tour. When visiting Georgia — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Georgia travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Georgia Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Georgia .

Q: What is the best month to visit Georgia?

The spring and fall seasons are generally considered the best time to visit Georgia. The weather throughout the state is fairly mild during this time, making it the perfect time to explore.

Summers in Georgia can get excruciatingly hot and humid, particularly in areas like Savannah and Atlanta, but you’ll find cooler summer temperatures in the mountains.

Beach destinations like Tybee Island also tend to get extra crowded from Memorial Day through Labor Day, so you may want to consider a visit in late spring or early fall for a quieter, more relaxed vacation.

Q: What should I know before going to Georgia?

There are a few things to know about Georgia before you visit.

If you’re planning on dining out a lot in Georgia, be prepared for big portions. Georgians are very generous when it comes to food and you may be presented with more than your stomach can handle.

Southern food is also fairly heavy, so don’t plan a multi-mile hike after a big lunch of shrimp and grits. Once you taste one of these delicious dishes, though, you’ll absolutely get the hype.

Speaking of food and drinks, sweet tea is the default iced tea option in Georgia. If you want unsweetened iced tea, be sure to let your server know.

There’s usually no need to rent a car if you’re visiting Atlanta. The city has a robust public transportation system featuring a subway, buses, and street cars. This is also the best way to avoid the notorious Atlanta traffic and get to all your desired destinations on time.

And if all else fails, rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are ubiquitous in this big city, so there are plenty of ways to get around.

You’ll also run into lots of classic southern accents throughout the state of Georgia. As it is anywhere else in the world, it’s extremely rude to make fun of the local accent.

Don’t imitate it and if you can’t understand what someone said, just ask them to repeat themselves. A little kindness and respect goes a long way wherever you are in the world.

Q: How much money do you need for a trip to Georgia?

Your budget for a trip to Georgia will depend on your itinerary, but the average traveler spends around $128 USD per day in Georgia on transportation, accommodations, food, activities, and other travel expenses.

You’ll tend to spend more in cities like Atlanta and Savannah and a bit less in rural destinations like the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Q: How many days do you need in Georgia?

For a full Georgia road trip, you’ll probably want to plan for at least one week away.

A seven-day trip will give you enough time to spend a few days exploring the city of Atlanta, nearby destinations like Callaway Gardens and Macon, Savannah, and the Golden Isles of St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island.

Q: What are the best things to do in Georgia?

You’ll find many of Georgia’s top attractions in Atlanta and the surrounding area. Atlanta is home to major museums like the High Museum of Art , the Fernback Museum of Natural History , the Center for Puppetry Arts , and the World of Coca-Cola .

The city is also a major hub of civil rights history .

At the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Park , you’ll find the iconic civil rights leader’s childhood home and gravesite as well as the Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. King once served as pastor.

You can also visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights , a museum dedicated to civil and human rights struggles around the world, in Downtown Atlanta.

For a more laid-back southern vibe, visit Savannah, a coastal city that blends the state’s historic charm with a vibrant art scene.

The city’s smaller size makes it perfect to explore on foot or via a classic trolley tour.

Savannah is home to plenty of historic sites including Bonaventure Cemetery (the setting for Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil ), the Juliette Gordon Lowe Birthplace (home of the founder of the Girl Scouts), the First African Baptist Church (the oldest Black church in America), and the Telfair Academy (the oldest public art museum in America).

One of the best things to do in Savannah is to stroll through the many parks and squares in the Historic District featuring gorgeous fountains and Spanish Moss trees. While you’re there, stop into some of the galleries displaying works from local Savannah artists.

There are also plenty of ways to enjoy active outdoor adventures throughout the state of Georgia.

The iconic Appalachian Trail runs through the northwestern part of the state and you can enjoy the Blue Ridge Mountains at Chattahoochee National Forest . The forest features tons of trails perfect for all levels of hikers and has both campgrounds and cabins available for those who want to stay the night.

Water sports fans should make a point to visit Callaway Gardens , home to Robin Lake , a major destination for waterskiing and wakeboarding.

Not ready to get out on the lake?

Stroll through the gorgeous gardens featuring hundreds of gorgeous blooms.

And of course, you can’t miss Georgia’s beaches. Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island offer picturesque views that have attracted beachgoers from across the country for decades.

Q: Where is Georgia?

Georgia is located in the Southeastern region of the United States .

It shares borders with Tennessee and North Carolina (north), South Carolina (northeast), the Atlantic Ocean (southeast), Florida (south), and Alabama (west).

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Georgia?

Credit cards — mainly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Georgia. That being said, it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Georgia?

Yes, you can drink the tap water in Georgia.

Q: What is the local currency in Georgia?

The local currency in Georgia is the US Dollar (USD).

What would you add to this Georgia travel guide?

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The 25 Best Places to Visit in Georgia (State)

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

[Updated May 14, 2023]

Drawing more than 50 million visitors each year and listed fourth on Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel 2022,” Atlanta GA is one of the most visited cities in the USA. 

But in our experience, many of the people who visit Atlanta are unaware of the remarkable array of fun  things to do in North Georgia and coastal Georgia.

As someone who grew up in North Georgia (and has never lived more than 30 miles from the Atlanta hospital in which I was born), I’ve explored virtually every corner of my native state. 

Many of the best attractions in Georgia are located less than two hours by car from Downtown Atlanta. But there are also some cool places to go in Georgia that are a bit further afield. 

From the Blue Ridge Mountains in the north and natural wonders like the Okefenokee Swamp in the south to the coastal marshlands of the Golden Isles, the state of Georgia offers an endless array of outdoor activities.

There are hundreds of  small towns in Georgia, and most of them have interesting histories, rich local cultures, and lots of natural beauty to share.  

Visitors can try traditional Appalachian food or low country fare, visit local  breweries  and wineries , explore local hiking trails and waterfalls, or take a haunted ghost tour.

Read on for our in-depth guide to the 25 best places to visit in Georgia, including all our favorite mountain towns, historic sites , natural attractions, state parks, museums, and more. 

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

Best Places to Visit In Georgia Guide

• Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
• Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park
• National Center for Civil and Human Rights
• Oakland Cemetery 
• Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Stone Mountain Park
• Blue Ridge GA
• Dahlonega GA
• Tallulah Gorge
• Amicalola Falls
• Brasstown Bald
• Lookout Mountain
• Cloudland Canyon 
• Etowah Indian Mounds
• Lake Lanier
• Cumberland Island
• Golden Isles of Georgia
• Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
• Providence Canyon State Outdoor Recreation Area
• Savannah GA
• Warm Springs GA

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in Georgia

Best Places to Visit in Atlanta

1. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

1978 Island Ford Pkwy, Sandy Springs GA  • 678-538-1273

Official Website

The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is one of the most picturesque places to go in Georgia.

This national park somehow seems even more beautiful given its location in north metro Atlanta.

City-dwellers and Atlanta visitors alike can grab a fishing pole and head down to the river, where catching species like trout, bass, and catfish is fairly easy if you know the local hotspots. 

Surrounding the popular river, GA Wildflowers provide splashes of color as the seasons change, from azaleas in spring to ironwood when the fall colors start to pop.

With 48 miles of river to explore, the possibilities for outdoor recreation are endless here. The river is open to kayaking , canoeing, and rafting, but nothing beats a lazy afternoon river tubing down the Chattahoochee!

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

2. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park

450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta GA  • 404-331-5190

The Martin Luther King Jr . National Historic Park is one of the best places to visit in Atlanta due to its historical significance in Georgia’s Civil Rights movement.

Visitors can immerse themselves in history by exploring the birth home of MLK Jr., Ebenezer Baptist Church (where Reverend King served as co-pastor), and other historical monuments that honor the efforts that were made for equality.

One of the more popular Atlanta tourist attractions, the King Center is home to the Civil Rights leader’s final resting place.

It also showcases the considerable efforts made by Mrs. Coretta Scott King to preserve his legacy and continue his mission after her husband’s death.

The National Park also features tours of Dr. King’s birth home, as well as a chance to see the D.R.E.A.M Gallery. 

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

3. National Center for Civil and Human Rights

100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta GA  • 678-999-8990

Opened in 2014, the National Center for Civil and Human Rights is one of the newer tourist attractions in Georgia.

The state of Georgia has been home to important Civil Rights leaders such as MLK, John Lewis, Joseph E. Lowery, Maynard Jackson, and Andrew Young.

The museum ‘s focus is on connecting the Civil Rights progress that was made in the past to challenges that are still being faced today. The goal is to continue the change that was started generations ago.

There are a multitude of informative and educational exhibits to explore, including “ Spark of Conviction: The Global Human Rights Movement.” 

If you plan to visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, they strongly recommend purchasing tickets in advance. You can also experience an immersive virtual tour via their website.

READ MORE:  The 25 Best Day Trips From Atlanta GA

4. Oakland Cemetery 

248 Oakland Ave SE, Atlanta GA  • 404-688-2107

With its excellent array of tours and seasonal events , historic Oakland Cemetery (which dates back to 1850) is regarded as one of the most unique Atlanta attractions.

One of the area’s oldest parks, and the final resting place for many of the city’s esteemed citizens, the cemetery  features 48 acres of well-maintained gardens and architecture.

On September 25, 2022, they’ll be hosting “ Tunes From The Tombs ,”  a music festival  to raise funds for the preservation of the cemetery.

There will also be a Pumpkin Patch and “Spirit of Oakland Halloween Tours” in October. 

Entry and self-guided tours are free, but guided tours usually cost $12 for Adults, and $6 for Seniors and Children ages 6 to 17. Tours for Historic Oakland Foundation members and kids ages 5 and under are free. 

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Haunted Houses in Georgia to Visit

5. Atlanta Botanical Garden

1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta GA • 404-876-5859

Located next to Piedmont Park, one of the most popular Georgia attractions, the Atlanta Botanical Garden was created in 1976 to “develop plant collections for the purposes of display, education, conservation, research and enjoyment.”

The 30-acre garden has grown considerably over the 45 years since I first visited, adding the Fuqua Conservatory in 1989, the Children’s Garden in 1999, and the Fuqua Orchid Center in 2002.

But their biggest project was the Green Expansion Plan of 2010, which doubled the size of the Garden and added new facilities, including a 2-level visitor center and the 600-foot-long Kendeda Canopy Walk through the urban forest .

Every summer they unveil blockbuster exhibitions such as “TREEmendous TREEhouses ,” “Chihuly in the Garden,” etc. The 2023 summer exhibit is “Trolls: Save the Humans,” featuring massive sculptures by Thomas Dambo

Our favorite time of year to visit the ABG is at Christmas , when their annual Garden Lights, Holiday Nights celebration lights up the Garden with over a million brilliant LED Christmas lights.

READ MORE: 25 Beautiful Birds of Georgia

6. Stone Mountain Park

1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain GA • 770-498-5690

The 3,200+ acre Stone Mountain Park (not to be confused with Stone Mountain State Park in NC) is the #1 most visited tourist attraction in Georgia, drawing around 4 million visitors a year. 

It’s the largest granite dome east of the Mississippi River, rising around 750 feet above the surrounding landscape. And the park offers loads of fun activities that have drawn local families ever since I was a boy back in the 1970s!

Old school Stone Mountain attractions include Memorial Hall, the Historic Square, Summit Skyride, the Farmyard, the Stone Mountain Scenic Railroad , and the ever-popular Lasershow Spectacular (which is getting an overhaul in 2023). 

Newer park features include Sky Hike (the nation’s largest treetop adventure course), Dinosaur Explore, Dinotorium, the Camp Highland Outpost, Geyser Towers, and a mini-golf course.

The mountain’s hand-chiseled figures of Confederate leaders from the Civil War are more controversial than ever. But the annual Stone Mountain Christmas is a more inclusive celebration that everyone can enjoy. 

READ MORE: The 15 Best Christmas Towns in Georgia to Visit

Best Places to Visit in North Georgia

7. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr, Kennesaw GA  • 770-427-4686

One of the best places to visit in GA for hikers and history buffs alike, the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park encompasses more than 3,000 acres in the Appalachian foothills. 

The park is best-known as home to one of the most important   Civil War battlefields in Georgia , but it’s also home to some of the most popular  hiking trails in North Georgia .

The Visitor Resource Center offers many options of Kennesaw Mountain activities, most of which are free of charge.

There are museum tours, ranger presentations, living history events (cooking demonstrations, artillery fire, infantry volleys, etc), and picnicking on the battlegrounds. There are also  horseback riding tours available (for a fee).

Kids who visit the park can become a Kennesaw Mountain Junior Ranger by completing activities outlined in the Junior Ranger booklet, making this one of our favorite fun places to go in Georgia with kids. 

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Scary Escape Rooms in Georgia

8. Athens GA

300 N. Thomas St., Athens GA  • 706-357-4430

As the birthplace of bands ranging from The B-52s and R.E.M. to Widespread Panic and the Elephant 6 Collective, Athens is one of the best places to visit in North Georgia.

Home to the University of Georgia Bulldogs (currently ranked #2 in the nation), Athens is dominated by football games and tailgating during the season.  

There are countless restaurants and bars in the college town where you can grab a bite to eat, drink local craft brews , and watch the big game. You can also visit the Georgia Museum of Art or one of Downtown Athens’ art  galleries . 

Located j ust over an hour east of Atlanta, Athens has also outdoor recreation options to explore, such as walking the Oconee River Greenway or biking the famous Firefly Trail.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Breweries in Georgia

9. Blue Ridge GA

152 Orvin Lance Dr, Suite A, Blue Ridge GA  • 706-632-5680

Once best known as a sleepy railroad town, Blue Ridge has evolved over the last 10-15 years into one of the most charming small towns we’ve ever visited.

Ranked as one of the “ South’s Best Mountain Towns ”  by Southern Living  in 2021, Blue Ridge also makes our list of one of the must see places in Georgia.

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway offers visitors wonderful tours into the heart of Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains .  Downtown Blue Ridge features lots of excellent restaurants , boutiques, and cultural attractions.

Outside, visitors can explore the stunning scenery at Long Creek Falls , the Swinging Bridge on the Toccoa River , and  Lake Blue Ridge .

You can also cast a line in the many creeks and rivers of the “Trout Fishing Capital of Georgia,” or simply enjoy a relaxing afternoon in your  Blue Ridge Cabin Rental .

READ MORE:  The 25 Best Things to Do in Blue Ridge, GA

10. Dahlonega GA

13 South Park Street, Dahlonega GA  • 706-864-3711

Located in the Heart of Georgia’s wine country, Dahlonega was the site of the first U.S. Gold Rush . But its endless array of modern attractions and activities are what make this one of our favorite places to visit in GA. 

This romantic North Georgia town is arguably among the most beautiful places in Georgia to visit, with its extensive list of wineries and vineyards offering award-winning Georgia wines and picture-worthy views.

There are also some great historical sites to visit, such as the Dahlonega Gold Museum , the Consolidated and Crisson Gold Mines (which also offer gem mining for kids), and the 1884 Lumpkin County Jail & Museum.

Outside, visitors can explore the lush  Chattahoochee National Forest , kayak the Etowah or Chestatee Rivers, or take a day hike on the Appalachian Trail .

This is also one of our favorites places to celebrate Christmas in GA. The Old Fashioned Christmas in Dahlonega includes a parade, Festival of Trees, lighting of the Historic Square, and free photos with Santa. 

READ MORE:  The 20 Best Things to Do in Dahlonega GA & Lumpkin County

11. Helen GA

726 Bruckenstrasse, Helen GA  • 800-858-8027

Helen GA is easily one of the most fun places to visit in Georgia with kids, offering a taste of the Bavarian Alps in a town surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains .

The small town is best known as the home of Oktoberfest, one of the most popular fall festivals in Georgia and the largest Oktoberfest celebration outside of Germany. The town is also packed with German restaurants .

Arts and culture also rank high in Helen, with places like the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia and the Helen Arts & Heritage Center for visitors to tour. The town is also packed with German restaurants .

Kids will enjoy ziplining in North Georgia over the Chattahoochee River or Lake Unicoi, riding the Georgia Mountain Coaster, or visiting the delightful Lavender Lamb Farm. 

In December, check out Christmas in Helen GA , which was rated the “Top Christmas Town in America” by MSN.com and one of  Southern Living ‘s Best Christmas Towns in Georgia and the USA. 

READ MORE:  The 25 Best Things to Do in Helen GA

12. Tallulah Gorge

338 Jane Hurt Yarn Road, Tallulah Falls GA  • 706-754-7981

Official Website  

One of the most popular state parks in Georgia , Tallulah Gorge State Park encompasses approximately 3,000 acres of land, with a Visitor Center, hiking trails, and waterfalls to explore. 

The gorge  is almost 2 miles long and 1,000 feet deep, with dramatic cliffs and stunning overlooks that make it one of the most striking places to see in Georgia.

The park offers lodging at the Pioneer Campgrounds for tents, trailers, and RVs, as well as shelters for rent.

Mountain bikers and cyclists can join the Muddy Spokes Club and test their limits on the designated bike trails, while climbers can challenge themselves as part of the Canyon Climbers Club.

Note that if you want to hike to the waterfalls in the gorge, the park does require a permit. Visitors can also enjoy activities like fishing, geocaching, swimming , picnicking, and rock climbing at Tallulah Gorge. 

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Campgrounds in North Georgia

13. Amicalola Falls

418 Amicalola Falls State Park Road, Dawsonville GA  • 706-265-8888

Official Website 

One of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern US, the 729-foot-tall Amicalola Falls is the highlight of Amicalola Falls State Park, with breathtaking views all around.

This North Georgia state park is one of the best places to go in Georgia for nature lovers, with activities like archery, hiking, ziplining , GPS scavenger hunts, and more.

Guided hikes are also available for your trek up to the falls, as well as Animal Meet & Greets to learn more about the wildlife that inhabits this area of the Blue Ridge Mountains .

Park visitors have numerous accommodations options to choose from, including glamping sites, North Georgia cabin rentals , camping, and the popular  Amicalola State Park Lodge . 

READ MORE:  The 25 Best Easy Hiking Trails to Waterfalls in Georgia

14. Brasstown Bald

2941 Hwy. 180 Spur, Hiawassee GA  • 706-896-2556

The tallest mountain in the state at 4,784 feet, Brasstown Bald is arguably the best place to visit in Georgia for views of the Blue Ridge Mountains range .

On a clear day, you can see 4 states (including  North Carolina , South Carolina, and Tennessee ).

The Brasstown Bald Visitors Center is located at the top, with a cloud observation deck for visitors to take in jaw-dropping views from one of the most must-see places in Georgia.

To get there, visitors have two options: You can take a shuttle to the top for a small fee, or follow the paved hiking trail trail that starts from the parking lot and heads 0.55 miles up a steep to the summit.

The Visitor Center is also home to an excellent museum featuring interactive nature exhibits . But the excellent view is the star of the show, especially when the colors of Fall in Georgia begin to peak. 

READ MORE:  Fall in the Mountains of North Georgia: 25 Places to See Fall Colors

15. Lookout Mountain

1214 Lula Lake Road, Lookout Mountain GA  • 706-820-1586

Located in northwest GA on the border with Tennessee, Lookout Mountain is home to some of Georgia’s most extraordinary rock formations and breathtaking mountain scenery.

The most popular Lookout Mountain attractions include  Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park , Ruby Falls,   Lulu Lake Land Trust , and the famous Rock City, with its enchanted fairy/ gnome gardens.

This is one of the most fun places in Georgia to visit with kids, who can cross the swinging bridge and pass through the gigantic rocks to take in the stunning scenic views.

During the holiday season, this area is one of the best North Georgia Christmas Events,  Rock City’s “Enchanted Garden of Lights.”

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

16. Cloudland Canyon

122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn GA • 706-657-4050

Cloudland Canyon State Park is one of the largest in Georgia, with 3,538 acres of lush forest, 1,000-foot-deep canyons, sandstone cliffs, and dynamic scenic views that will take your breath away.

I’ve been there with my family many times over the last 35 years, hiking many of the park’s 64 miles of hiking trails . The 1-mile Overlook trail, the 2-mile Waterfalls Trail, and the 4.8-mile West Rim Loop Trail are my personal favorites. 

Other fun activities at Cloudland Canyon include 30 miles of biking trails (bike rentals are available), 16 miles of horseback riding trails, a fishing pond, and an 18-hole disc golf course.

If you want to make a weekend of it, the park offers 16 rental cabins , 10 yurts, 72 tent & RV campsites, 30 walk-In campsites, 13 backcountry campsites, and 4 pioneer campsites.

For private events with larger numbers of people, there’s also a group shelter that seats 175 and a group lodge that sleeps up to 40 people.

READ MORE: The 15 Best North Georgia State Parks & Historic Sites

17. Etowah Indian Mounds

813 Indian Mound Rd SE, Cartersville GA • 770-387-3747

Indigenous tribes such as the Muscogee Creek and Cherokee people once thrived in Georgia. There are a half-dozen intact Indian mounds in Georgia that help visitors learn more about this aspect of our state history. 

One of the best preserved sites is the  Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site in Cartersville GA , which is one of the largest of its kind in North America. 

The 54-acre site includes six earthen mounds, the plaza, borrow pits, reconstructed buildings, and a lovely nature trail along the Etowah River (which is lined with wildflowers in spring and summer).

There’s also an onsite museum with a scale model of the original village and hundreds of artifacts that were found during 20th century archaeological excavations of the mounds.

Many of these ancient artifacts are being repatriated to the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, to be replaced by artifacts that were excavated from non-burial contexts and modern art pieces created by tribal members. 

READ MORE: 6 Incredible Indian Mounds in Georgia to Visit

18. Lake Lanier

1050 Buford Dam Rd, Buford GA • 770-945-9531

Officially known as Lake Syndey Lanier (though locals never call it that), this 38,000-acre reservoir ranks among the largest and most popular lakes in Georgia . 

Nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains, Lake Lanier’s 690 miles of shoreline are home to 76 recreational areas, including 40 Corps of Engineers-operated parks and campgrounds , 10 marinas, and myriad picnic shelters.

It’s also home to Lake Lanier Islands (which rebranded as the Lanier Islands Resort after being taken over by Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Development in 2018), one of the most popular resorts in Georgia. 

Recreation opportunities on Lake Lanier are endless, but include camping, boating, fishing, hiking, kayaking, picnicking, swimming, skiing , and more. 

The lake is considered one of the most haunted places in Georgia, perhaps due to the fact that the largely African-American town of Oscarville (the site of a horrific 1912 lynching ) is buried beneath it. 

READ MORE: The 10 Best Lake Houses in Georgia to Rent

Best Places to Visit in South Georgia

19. Cumberland Island

113 St. Marys St W, St. Marys GA  • 912-882-4452

Located off the coast of St. Marys GA, Cumberland Island is Georgia’s largest island. Its 9,800 acres of designated wilderness is full of marshes, maritime forest , beaches, and (most famously) wild horses.

2022 marks the 50th Anniversary of the Cumberland Island National Seashore, with commemorative events taking place on October 1st.

Cumberland Island visitors can explore the area’s various hiking trails , take guided tours, relax on the beach, go kayaking, or go fishing on- or offshore.

You can also spend the night stargazing by reserving your very own camping spot right on Cumberland Island. Just remember the protected area’s strict Leave No Trace policy!

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Kayaking Rivers in Georgia

20. Golden Isles of Georgia

529 Beachview Drive, St. Simons Island GA  • 912-638-9014

Located right off the coast, the Golden Isles of Georgia are comprised of 4 islands— St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Jekyll Island, and Little St. Simons Island— which connect to the mainland city of Brunswick.

These unspoiled, historic beaches stretch on for miles, and are surrounded by marshlands filled with an impressive array of Georgia birds . 

Visitors to the islands’ small towns can stroll through museums and art galleries, tee off on one of the golf courses, enjoy a relaxing day at the spa, or explore the islands’ hiking trails .

Each island offers a multitude of accommodation options, with everything from charming historic inns and B&Bs to beachfront rental cabins . 

READ MORE: The 15 Coolest Covered Bridges in Georgia

21. Macon GA

450 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Macon GA  • 478-743-1074

Nicknamed the place “Where Soul Lives,” Macon GA is a place full of history, celebrating both African-American and Native American culture and their impact on the town.

Nature lovers can find their bliss outdoors at the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park , hiking in Amerson River Park, on the water at Lake Tobesofkee, or by pitching a tent at one of their many campsites.

Downtown Macon has lots of shops and restaurants to stop by, as well as a plethora of local art galleries and museums to peruse.

There’s also a great music scene, which brought us artists such as Otis Redding and the Allman Brothers. 

Macon’s bustling nightlife scene includes live music at the Macon City Auditorium and the Hargray Capitol Theatre, and grabbing a drink at the Hummingbird Stage & Taproom.

READ MORE: 40 Facts About the History of the Banjo (From Africa to Appalachia)

22. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

4155 Suwannee Canal Road, Folkston GA  • 912-496-7836

One of the most mysterious places to visit in Georgia, the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is a world-renowned conservation site that’s popular for canoe and kayaking trips, birdwatching , and wildlife watching.

The Okefenokee Swamp is home to many endangered species, as well as a dense concentration of alligators.

So this refuge is protected by the RAMSAR Convention as a Wetland of International Importance, and is well on its way to being recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Visit this unique place in Georgia for fishing, canoeing, boat tours, and the family-friendly Swamp Movie Days. The refuge’s hiking trails are conveniently marked, with difficulty levels ranging from kid-friendly to strenuous.

You can also reserve a in an overnight shelter or for canoe camping right in the swamp’s dense interior.

READ MORE:  Non-Venomous vs Venomous Snakes In Georgia (Identification Guide)

23. Providence Canyon State Park

8930 Canyon Rd., Lumpkin GA  • 229-838-6202

Known as “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon,” Providence Canyon was formed due to erosion caused by local farming practices in the 1800s.

The breathtaking canyon can be viewed from the rim at the top or via  hiking trails  that lead deep in the canyon.

Visitors can also stop by the parl museum to learn more about its history, or bring a picnic 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 park.

The views of the canyon are best in early summer, when local wildflowers such as the rare Plumleaf Azalea are in bloom.

READ MORE:  10 Best Apps for Hikers and Backpackers

24. Savannah GA

101 E. Bay Street, Savannah GA  • 912-644-6400

Savannah is world-renowned as one of the most beautiful places in Georgia to visit. With Spanish moss cascading off the trees , a long line of sandy beaches, and historical architecture, it’s like no other town in the state.

The beaches of Tybee Island are just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah, making for an easy day trip. Visitors can also explore the island’s museum, dine at the Crab Shack, or take a sunset cruise.

Downtown Savannah attractions include the Savannah City Market, River Street, the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, local art galleries, and historic graveyards.

For dinner, chow down on some Southern fried chicken at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room before heading in for the night. If you’re feeling brave, t ry staying the night in one of Savannah’s haunted hotels. 

READ MORE:  The 10 Most Haunted Places in Georgia to Visit

25. Warm Springs GA

1 Broad Street, Warm Springs GA  • 706-655-3322

Made famous by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in the mid-20th century, Warm Springs GA is a tranquil place of Southern hospitality and comfort.

The town is best-known for its naturally heated, healing waters, but there’s much more to the area.

On Main Street, visitors can check out local shops and restaurants : We recommend grabbing dinner at the world-famous Bulloch House.

For history buffs, there are museums focused on FDR’s life in Georgia, including the Little White House, one of the less crowded Historic Sites in Georgia .

Want to test the warm waters? Make a trip to the famous  Warm Springs to see for yourself why FDR loved them (and the town) so much! – by Molly Frazier and Bret Love; lead image via Canva

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!

Molly Frazier

50 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Georgia

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: September 27, 2020  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Georgia is the largest state in America east of the Mississippi.

Known as the Peach State, it was founded in 1732 with even larger state lines.

True to its size, Georgia is full of notable and fun vacation spots worth checking out.

To help you pick the best of them, we’ve put together a travel guide of locations you may want to visit during your trip.

Here are our picks for the best things to do and places to visit in Georgia.

Table of Contents

1. Savannah Historic District

LouieLea / Shutterstock

The Savannah Historic District isn’t just known in Georgia.

It’s also the United States’ biggest urban historic district, maintaining relatively accurate dimensions to the original city of Savannah as it was in the times of the Civil War.

Over 20 city squares packed with tourist attractions in the form of park spaces, historical structures, and fun visitor draws make for a great time.

Savannah is Georgia’s oldest city and was its first capital.

Established in 1733, it is now the third biggest metropolitan location in the state and boasts some of the most interesting and one-of-a-kind city designs, especially along the south of the country.

A vast majority of its uniqueness can be attributed to James Oglethorpe, the founder of the colony of Georgia.

His ideas were largely focused on civic equity and virtue, as was common during the era of Enlightenment.

This is why the design is divided into wards of four trust lots and forty residential lots that circle public squares.

Perhaps somewhat ironically, the ward design was useful for military purposes, allowing for militia unit organization and easy gathering spots.

Of all the squares built back then, 22 remain now.

The Savannah Historic District is an official National Historic Landmark District and spans 1,300 acres.

Its mix of buildings in Gothic, Greek Revival, and Georgian style, decorated with live oak trees, make it a delightful visit any day.

Address:  301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401, United States

2. Georgia Aquarium

f11photo / Shutterstock

The biggest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere would naturally be one of the best things to do in Georgia – and it’s also the world’s second-largest.

That’s why the Georgia Aquarium makes for a fun trip for the whole family that you won’t be able to replicate elsewhere.

It boasts exhibits that require a total of ten million gallons of water!

The aquarium was opened in 2005 and offers a glimpse into the daily lives of many different kinds of marine animals, ranging from bottlenose dolphins to whale sharks and from beluga whales to sea otters.

There are even African penguins, loved by all for their cuteness, and manta rays that have wingspans of thirteen feet!

Tropical fish displays showcase South Pacific Ocean marine life while the North American fish tank lets you walk beneath the great fish you may recognize from across the country.

Don’t forget to head over to the dolphin stadium, which hosts dolphin shows for about half an hour.

They’re the highlight of any visit to the aquarium and are widely considered the world’s greatest.

If you have a SCUBA certification, you can even scuba dive or snorkel with the fish here!

Address:  225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

3. National Center for Civil and Human Rights

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The National Center for Civil and Human Rights is one of the places to see if you’re looking for a powerful and impactful trip in Georgia.

As its name suggests, it is a dedication to the worldwide battle for equal human rights as well as America’s own civil rights movement.

Dynamic exhibits deliver this important message in a strong, tactful, and interesting manner.

At the Civil Rights Movement gallery, you’ll learn more about the 1950s and 1960s’ struggle for civil equality, with audio and visual that bring this era to life.

Exhibits talk about those who helped overcome Jim Crow laws and more.

Meanwhile, the Freedom Riders exhibit talks about the bus of the 1950s, with a film and oral history within that delivers additional information.

A particularly harrowing exhibit is the Lunch Counter, which lets you sit at a replica counter while looking at angry expressions and hearing tormenting voices of those who threatened people of color wanting to eat at public lunch counters.

Other displays of note are the Voice to the Voiceless exhibit dedicated to the life and work of Martin Luther King Jr. and the Human Rights Movement gallery which expands its focus on global efforts for human rights fights by the LGBT+ community and people of color.

Finally, the Spark of Conviction exhibit, being one of the center’s most controversial, is about repressive dictators accompanied by examples of events occurring in the world today.

All in all, the center’s goal of bringing light to civil and human rights issues is one that many people on all sides of the political spectrum can appreciate.

Address:  100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

4. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

JayL / Shutterstock

The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is a huge 750,000-acre expanse of some of the top panoramas of natural green in Georgia.

It’s a much-loved place for tourists, especially in the summer, and its delightful rush of trees and other fauna makes it both relaxing and exciting.

There is no shortage of options for what to do in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

You can go for a hike, have a picnic, or go on a camping trip.

There are also lakes, rivers, and waterfalls that allow for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing!

There’s no doubt that this severe gem of northern Georgia is not one to be missed, especially if you’re a nature enthusiast.

Address:  Suches, GA 30572, United States

Have more time? Why not check some of the fun things to do in Helen, GA ?

5. Pin Point Heritage Museum

Pin Point Heritage Museum

When the Civil War ended, a small group of former slaves, now free, set up a home for themselves in Georgia, divided into thin property roads.

This eventually gave the location its name: Pin Point.

The vibrant people who founded the community were descendants of West African slaves, bringing traditions and customs along with them to this bright little neighborhood.

Culinary creations, different languages, and more mixed together creating a culture called the Gullah-Geechee, which made use of a Creole English dialect.

It is this culture that made up Pin Point.

A factory in Pin Point called the A.S. Varn & Son Oyster and Crab Factory served as the main source of work for the community of Pin Point up until its eventual closure in the year 1985.

That factory was then turned into the Pin Point Heritage Museum , one of the must-do Georgia attractions for history buffs.

The Pin Point Heritage Museum tells its guests about the Gullah-Geechee culture, how oysters were canned locally, including the processes of catching, packaging, distributing, and beyond.

Generations of people who are connected to the factory have their testimonies here for you to hear, and you’ll learn the story of the community that made up Pin Point.

Guides are all direct descendants from that community and have lots of information to share!

Address:  9924 Pin Point Ave, Savannah, GA 31406, United States

6. Cumberland Island

Bob Pool / Shutterstock

Cumberland Island is Georgia’s biggest barrier island that stands uninhabited, making it one of the most interesting places to go.

It’s relatively small, measuring 17.5 miles in length and encompassing about 36,415 acres, though almost 17,000 of those acres are tidal creeks, mudflats, and marshes.

The moment you step onto your ferry at St. Mary’s, your adventure has already started.

You’ll get to see all kinds of amazing views of Georgia on your way.

Once you get back onto land, it’s time to have some fun!

Examine diverse habitats, tour with park rangers, rent a bike, or go hiking to explore!

With a rich and colorful history, Cumberland Island shows off old maritime forests, 17 miles of beach, lots of tourist locations, and wild horses loping across the land.

It was first lived in by settlers of Native America, eventually becoming a plantation, then a retreat for a wealthy family, and finally what it is now.

As a national seashore, Cumberland Island is recognized as a wilderness through congressional designation.

7. Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

The Jimmy Carter National Historic Site is located in southwest Georgia in an area called Plains.

It’s an homage to President Jimmy Carter himself, consisting of the Carter family home, the childhood home of President Carter, and the farm his family had in his boyhood.

Within the grounds of the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site, you can also find the Plains High School and Plains Train Depot.

Altogether, the different areas of interest on the location make it the best way to get a glimpse into the past of the President and even better understand the worldview and perspectives that shaped his thoughts and future decisions.

It’s undoubtedly among the top 10 historic locations in Georgia!

Address:  300 N Bond St, Plains, GA 31780, United States

8. Callaway Gardens

Hania Bisat / Shutterstock

Callaway Gardens is a resort that sits in Georgia’s Pine Mountains.

Its grounds encompass 14,000 acres of foothills of the Appalachian, with the resort itself located within 2,500 acres of lush greenery from woodlands, forests, and lakes.

The reason Callaway Gardens is one of the best accommodation spots in Georgia is that it offers four different accommodation kinds, each one maintaining a balance of suitable amenities and exposure to nature and the great outdoors.

But of course, Callaway Gardens isn’t just on this list for its value as accommodation alone!

The grounds are home to a wide range of recreational tourist areas, such as the TreeTop Adventure Course, the Day Butterfly Center, and the Callaway Discovery Center, which are all worthy places to visit.

There are daily bird shows, more than a dozen lakes for fishing or boating, tennis courts, and cycling and walking trails.

If you love the great outdoors, it’s worth a trip!

Address:  17800 US Hwy 27, Pine Mountain, GA 31822, United States

9. David J. Sencer CDC Museum

Jim Gathany / Public domain

The David J. Sencer CDC Museum was opened in 1996, the year after the film Outbreak hit cinemas and America began biting their nails over the thought of a potentially lethal, quick-spreading virus.

It revolved around a team of dedicated Center for Disease Control agents.

Despite the film’s fictional story, few can deny that the public’s newfound interest in the CDC made the museum’s opening in Georgia convenient in terms of timing.

The David J. Sencer CDC Museum was established as a part of celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the CDC.

It hosts a wide range of interesting and surprisingly detailed displays and multimedia that discuss public health management in a fun way.

You’ll be surprised by the organized chaos of technology, science, and humanity that goes into the work the CDC does.

Exhibits at the museum are varied.

Some speak of America’s successful fight against malaria, or of the new epidemic of obesity that the CDC is now working on overcoming.

Others talk of the steps in emergency preparedness or the methods needed to create safe water for the entire country.

A few dive down to the nitty-gritty of difficult topics, like the way chemicals in the environment can affect the human body, or how HIV testing or food labeling are all important factors in public health.

You’ll find no fictional displays at the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, but that’s part of what makes this one of the most fascinating Georgia destinations.

Everything within is real, and the implications of that can be pretty astounding!

Address:  1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30329, United States

10. Tallulah Gorge State Park

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The Tallulah Gorge State Park is one of the most scenic places in Georgia.

It spans 2,689 acres of land around the two-mile-long, thousand-feet deep Tallulah Gorge, created by the Tallulah River’s flow over thousands of years.

There are a total of six waterfalls that bring the river level down 5000 feet, marking one of the state park’s most loved features.

For those looking for still fun but less exciting experiences, the state park offers hiking trails with beautiful vistas along the gorge rim.

With a permit, you can hike along the floor of the canyon, too.

There is also a suspension bridge 80 feet in the air above the gorge base that is heart-racing to walk on!

Finally, for a little more history, head to the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center for information on the ecosystem, background, and terrain of this fragile environment.

Address:  338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573, United States

11. Andersonville National Historic Site

Jeffrey M. Frank / Shutterstock

The Andersonville National Historic Site is south of Atlanta, Georgia, and as far as vacation spots go, it’s among the most educational.

It’s a spot designed to teach you about the Civil War era and the American South at the time.

Be warned, though – its sights are meant to be brutally honest about the horrors, suffering, and haunting endeavors endured by those affected most by the conflict.

Onsite, you’ll also find the Prisoner of War Museum, which is built in an actual former military prison.

Over 45,000 prisoners were held here in the last 14 months of the war, and almost a third of them passed away due to a wide variety of reasons.

You’ll also get to see the cemetery, which houses 13,714 bodies, including those of 921 unknown soldiers of the Union.

If you need a breather from the harrowing information, step into the lovely green spaces for a break.

Address:  760 POW Rd, Andersonville, GA 31711, United States

12. High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art boasts a proud title of being one of southeastern America’s most important and influential museums, so it’s something you simply must visit when you’re in Georgia!

Over 15,000 different works call this place their home, and the collection is divided into seven themes of focus: American art, African art, European art, folk and self-taught art, decorative art and design, photography, and modern and contemporary art.

Numerous luminaries, including Pissarro, Monet, and Bellini, have their works displayed at the High Museum of Art.

Southern artists are also supported here, with artwork collected by many self-taught local talents.

The art dates back to the Renaissance all the way to now, though the majority seems to be 19th Century French art.

The High Museum of Art was built as part of the Woodruff Arts Center, expanding since its inception to include three more buildings to contain its large collection.

It also boasts a huge sculpture in bronze, gifted by the government of France.

Events are hosted periodically, such as art talks, programs for children, cinema screenings, and even jazz concerts.

That might be why visiting here is certainly one of the most fun things to do in Georgia!

Address:  1280 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

13. Arabia Mountain

Carter Beck / Shutterstock

Arabia Mountain is one of the most spectacular and one-of-a-kind things to see in the state of Georgia.

It is a granite monadnock dating back to ancient times, meaning it is an exposed, isolated, completed exposed rock.

It rises 954 feet from sea level, and a hike to the peak of the crater-dotted monolith rewards you with gorgeous panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Arabia Mountain is a National Heritage Area, which is a very special honor.

Only 49 places in America have this title, which essentially means Congress recognizes them for a significant contribution to the history of the country.

Very few other places even come near to its level of importance to the country, so if you’re in Georgia, you absolutely must stop by to see it!

The entire Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area is fascinating to see because, on the surface, it looks barren.

But the landscape has its own ecosystem – adapted flora and fauna, with little bits rare vegetation dotting the expanse.

For a more historical-over-natural look at the region, go to the Flat Rock Archives to learn about those who have lived here for millennia.

Or, for something else, go to the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, a Trappist monk-built structure, for an unorthodox look into their lives.

14. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

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Martin Luther King Jr. was born in Atlanta, Georgia – so it makes sense that the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site is in that same city!

In fact, the site includes Reverend King’s childhood home and the building of the church where he was a pastor, Ebenezer Baptist Church.

Other historic structures are peppered throughout.

The visitor center, which is worth a trip if you’re not too sure where to go or where to begin on your adventures, includes a museum about Reverend King’s work and the Civil rights Movement.

It includes a special exhibit that is more local to Georgia: the tale of the Atlanta Fire Department’s desegregation.

You can also take a trip to Freedom Hall, which is open daily with the visitor center and church.

If you’re heading over this weekend, why not go on a self-guided tour?

Address:  450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, United States

15. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge spans 401,880 acres.

It was first set up in 1937 and has since become one of the more popular points of interest in the state of Georgia.

It is nothing short of beautiful, functioning as a migration refuge for wildlife, a safe breeding ground, and a habitat for threatened or endangered species.

The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge houses more than 600 species of plants, and 353,981 acres of its wide-ranging expanse is a National Wilderness Area.

It also has one of the world’s biggest freshwater ecosystems still intact, so it is a Wetland of International Importance, as designated by the RAMSAR Convention.

One of the most loved sites in the fun environment of the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is the Okefenokee Swamp.

The swamp is very much known for its amphibian population, which serves as a bioindicator for the wellbeing of the habitat.

The headwaters of the Suwannee and St. Mary’s Rivers, they are peaceful, lush, and teeming with life – though they also supposedly are home to more than 10,000 crocodiles, so take from that what you will!

On the whole, the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is a wonderful spot for exploration and the appreciation of nature.

Boardwalks, trails, and observation towers let you take in the environment, which is suited for fishing, boating, and even hunting.

Address:  2700 North, Suwannee Canal Road, Folkston, GA 31537, United States

16. Roosevelt’s Little White House

In 1921, Franklin Delano Roosevelt contracted polio.

Very few things were able to help relieve his pain, but hot water was one of them.

This might be why he headed up to Warm Springs, Georgia, which boasts 88-degree hot springs that are all-natural.

Roosevelt’s love of the location led him to purchase an old, broken down rehabilitation center and grounds in the area.

He built a Georgia Pine home in the springs, with six rooms, and would come here regularly when he was Governor of New York.

As President, he visited it a total of 16 times, using it as a little retreat.

He passed away here in 1945.

President Roosevelt likely never realized that this home would eventually become one of the local places of interest.

At the Little White House , it’s one of the best ways to learn more about the late President’s life.

Address:  401 Little White House Rd, Warm Springs, GA 31830, United States

17. Etowah Indian Mounds

The Etowah Indian Mounds were constructed over a long period of time, beginning more than a thousand years ago.

They consist of six plateaus, creating an unintended deposit of historical treasures in the sediment, ranging from artifacts to cultural information on traditional activities.

There are even bodies found, sometimes.

The mounds are believed to be the work of Mississippians, who left long ago, with nothing but the Etowah Indian Mounds remaining of their existence.

Most fascinatingly, only 10% of this site has been explored at all, so who knows what more will be unearthed in time?

So far, there’s already a lot of information that has been uncovered.

Archeologists have found traditional clothing, weapons, domestic items, and tools among the mounds.

Check out fun but data-packed exhibits on things that have been found and learn more about native life while at this educational location.

Don’t forget to take a peek at the 125-pound stone effigies on display.

As far as activities go, visiting the Etowah Indian Mounds is one of the coolest things to do while you’re in Georgia!

Address:  813 Indian Mound Rd SE, Cartersville, GA 30120, United States

18. Jekyll Island

Jon Bilous / Shutterstock

Jekyll Island is one of Georgia’s famous Golden Isles – the rest of which are discussed as other places to visit later on in this article.

The island was purchased by East Coast millionaires and is often referred to as Millionaires Island.

In 1947, the Jekyll Island Club – the collective owners of the island – sold the island back to Georgia for them to use as a state park.

This is why now, Jekyll Island is a hotspot for site seeing, golfing, camping, hiking, and beaches.

It’s picturesque, relaxing, and beautiful – a wonderful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the world!

19. Museum of Aviation

Museum of Aviation

The Museum of Aviation is one of the best tourist spots for aircraft enthusiasts and machinery buffs alike.

Four hangers are spotted throughout this museum in Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, and the collection is still expanding regularly!

The museum has individual exhibits that showcase different themes, ranging from the Tuskegee Airmen to the Flying Tigers and from D-Day to the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame.

Different planes, such as an SR-71, a B-52 bomber, a C-130 used during the infamous rescue operation on Iran, and a locally built B-29, are also available to peruse.

When you’re done looking through the fun showcases, you can stop by the Museum of Aviation gift shop, cafe, or even its designated picnic spot!

Address:  1942 Heritage Blvd, Robins AFB, GA 31098, United States

20. Panther Creek Falls

kurdistan / Shutterstock

There is little double that Panther Creek Falls is one of the most beautiful places in Georgia.

Located in the southern region of the Smoky Mountains within Gifford Pinchot National Forest on the Cohutta Mountains of Georgia, this waterfall is a hidden gem for sightseeing, relaxation, hiking, and exploration.

It’s a 5.8-mile trek along Panther Creek Trail in order to view a series of wide tiered waterfalls that flow seamlessly into a lovely pool of crystal clear water below.

The falls’ base is level and sandy, which is why many people opt to camp here, lulled to sleep by the rushing water.

Address: 3995 Old Historic 441, Turnerville, GA 30523, United States

21. College Football Hall of Fame

The College Football Hall of Fame in Atlanta, Georgia is among the few tourist attractions that cater specifically to fans of this sport.

It’s a great place for the whole family, even with its own play zone for kids.

Among the activities, you can enjoy at this fun Georgia museum are the Touchstone Tunnel, full of touchstones that you can examine, and The Quad, which boasts helmets from more than 700 different college football teams.

There is also a football field replica spanning 45 yards where you can kick the old pigskin yourself.

More informational exhibits include service academy football, the Hall Of Fame, and a trophy display.

Address:  250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

22. Doll’s Head Trail

Ian&Ellie / flickr

Doll’s Head Trail is a short hiking path that cuts through Georgia’s Constitution Lakes Park, which is an urban nature preserve located in the area of a former brick factory.

The trail is an art project by Joel Slaton, a Georgia carpenter, who used doll parts and other recycled materials found in this factory area to create pieces that decorate the trail.

Exploring this collection is one of the top things to do in Georgia.

It’s a testament to the very best human creativity, with all items being found within the park and reused in this manner.

Bottle artwork, doll heads, old bricks, collages, truck parts, and more make up the things to see on this site!

Address:  3445 Almand Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30316, United States

23. Ocmulgee National Monument

The Ocmulgee National Monument in Macon, Georgia is North America’s only known spiral mound.

Rising 20 feet into the air, it was built by natives who used it 12,000 years ago.

It’s one of the most fascinating, one-of-a-kind places to see in Georgia!

The earthen mounds are a wonder to behold, and the Ceremonial Lodge teaches you about the early inhabitants of this location, as well as some Civil War events that took place here much later.

Now, you can visit the monument any day, free of charge.

There are 6 miles of trails to explore and hike through in the vicinity of the mound itself.

There is also a museum that houses historical artifacts and information relating to the mound, with 2000 artifacts and an interesting short movie screening to go with it.

Address: 1207 Emery Highway, Macon, GA 31217, United States

24. Babyland General Hospital: Cabbage Patch Kids

If you’re thinking of what to do in Georgia that is fun but a little weird, you can’t go wrong with Babyland General Hospital: Cabbage Patch Kids .

This is a place where Cabbage Patch Kids are “born”, but likely not in the way you think – and it’s free to enter!

A little background, here: Cabbage Patch Kids, popular decades ago, involved the act of “adopting” the dolls yourself.

Kids would sign papers to adopt them and receive certification for owning the toys and would even have to show ID in the “adoption” process!

That’s what this so-called hospital is all about.

It’s a fantasy world where staff dress as nurses and guide you along, acting like it’s a real-life hospital.

When you enter, you’ll already feel like you’re not in Georgia anymore.

It’s a surreal experience!

You’ll “learn” how crystals on a fiberglass tree “fertilize” cabbages to create Cabbage Patch Kids while staring at this Magic Birthing Tree.

An actress wearing scrubs will explain that the mother cabbage is dilating at a certain point in your tour, and at 10 cm of dilation, the lights dim and you watch the Cabbage Patch Kid get “born”, with all the seriousness and medical procedure that this entails!

It’s strange but certainly an experience you can’t get anywhere else.

Address:  300 NOK Dr, Cleveland, GA 30528, United States

25. Providence Canyon State Park

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

Providence Canyon State Park in southwest Georgia is named after the “Little Grand Canyon” Providence Canyon right in the middle of it.

The Canyon is a must-see because of its fascinating story – it’s not natural.

Poor farming practices in the 19th century caused soil erosion that led to the 150-foot plunge we see today.

A hike around the side of Providence Canyon rewards you with breathtaking panoramas.

The beautiful colors of the walls of the canyon, the flowers that bloom in certain months, and its value as a rock climbing site make this among the most beautiful and intriguing Georgia attractions.

Address:  8930 Canyon Rd, Lumpkin, GA 31815, United States

26. Tybee Island Light Station and Museum

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Tybee Island is one of Georgia’s barrier islands, and it houses the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum .

This lighthouse is one of only seven that have survived since their creation in Colonial times.

Resting on the Savannah River entrance, it replaced a previous lighthouse that was destroyed in a hurricane.

Right now, the current light station can be dated to 1871.

It has 178 steps to climb all the way up to the peak for a gorgeous vista of the coast of Georgia.

Other than that, you can head to the museum, which was built within a military outpost formerly known as Fort Screven.

There is also a keepers cottage that offers a look into the life of those who maintained these lighthouses.

All in all, this is one of the state’s places to go that you should add to your list.

Address:  30 Meddin Dr, Tybee Island, GA 31328, United States

27. Georgia Guidestones

The Brownfowl collection / Shutterstock

The Georgia Guidestones were built by the Elberton Granite Finishing Company, commissioned by R. C. Christian, who had lots of money and a demand that no one reveal the identity of him or the group he worked with.

Construction was completed in 1980 and plans were destroyed upon their completion, as contractually agreed upon.

The Guidestones are nothing short of strange, which is probably why they’re one of Georgia’s famous places.

Then guidelines are engraved on the stones that speak of re-establishing society and the planet, written in eight languages.

The stones are also arranged as an accurate astronomical calendar, and at noon, the sun’s glare reveals the date of the current day, engraved inside the structure.

There is also talk of a time capsule buried beneath it, four ancient language names etched into the top, and lots of controversy about how accurate these stones are and who could have set them up.

It’s fun to speculate about why the stones were created and who wanted them made, and it’s a mystery that may never be solved!

Address:  1031 Guide Stones Road, Elberton, GA 30635, United States

28. Oakland Cemetery

Rob Hainer / Shutterstock

Oakland Cemetery is the oldest of Atlanta, Georgia’s cemeteries.

It’s also one of the largest continuous expanses of greenery in the urban environment, to begin with.

Originally named Atlanta Cemetery, Oakland Cemetery began its life with just six acres of land in 1850.

It was renamed in 1872 after the trees surrounding it – and it is, now, 48 acres in size.

A number of notable people call this part of Georgia their final resting place.

Six state governors, Civil War soldiers, industry captains, Great Locomotive Chase employees, Civil Rights pioneers, 25 Atlanta mayors, the Morris Brown College founder, and even the author of Gone With The Wind all lie here.

If you’re seeking places to visit with a mix of creepiness, somber atmosphere, and historical value, Oakland Cemetery may be one of your best bets.

Address:  248 Oakland Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30312, United States

29. Brasstown Bald

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Georgia, Brasstown Bald is a good option and one you should have on your travel guide.

It’s Georgia’s highest point, reaching a whopping 4,784 feet above sea level at its top.

A huge observation center at its peak dominates the area, looking down on other sites close to it.

Brasstown Bald was once the home of the Cherokee tribe, and it’s easy to see why it was referred to as “Green Place” by them.

The bald is nothing short of beautiful and offers some of the best views you can find in Georgia, so it’s great fun being rewarded for your upward journey with those panoramas!

The visitor’s center at Brasstown Bald has taxidermied local wildlife, too, if you’re interested in learning more about regional fauna.

Address: Georgia Spur 180, Blairsville, GA 30512, United States

30. Appalachian Trail

Kelly vanDellen / Shutterstock

The Appalachian Trail stretches from Georgia to Maine.

If you were to hike it completely, it would take you up to 7 months to complete your journey.

But Springer Mountain in Georgia is as good a place as any to get some sightseeing action without spending months on the trail!

The hike to and from Springer Mountain is only a total of 2 miles, but it can be slightly challenging thanks to the rockiness of the terrain on your way there.

Still, you’ll be rewarded for your efforts with views of pretty places as far as the eye can see.

Spring and autumn are the most opportune times to get the most glorious views!

Address:  Hiawassee, GA 30546, United States

31. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Atlanta

Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is one of a kind when it comes to tourist attractions in the state of Georgia.

It’s an intricate, grand Hindu temple and is actually the largest of its kind constructed out of India!

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir has a rather interesting construction, with 34,000 stone pieces carved by hand brought over, from India.

These stones, consisting of Indian pink sandstone, Italian Carrara marble, and Turkish limestone, are arranged in a way similar to a huge puzzle.

The temple was opened in 2007 after over a million hours of manpower and hard work collectively – and that’s just the donated manpower!

The intricacy and care that went into designing and etching reliefs, designs, and statues into the stone are certainly not unnoticed.

Five pinnacles, 340 columns, 116 archways, and 86 decorative ceilings add to the jaw-dropping awe of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir.

It sits on over 30 acres of land and rises 75 feet into the air.

This particular BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is located in Lilburn, Georgia, where it is the tallest local structure.

It is open for worship purposes, but also for architectural, historical, or cultural appreciation.

Don’t forget to be respectful in the midst of your fun!

Address:  460 Rockbridge Rd NW, Lilburn, GA 30047, United States

32. Center for Puppetry Arts

Michael Gordon / Shutterstock

Looking for the most fun things to do in Georgia?

The Center for Puppetry Arts is an amazing option in Atlanta!

It’s the home of the world’s biggest collection and exhibition of artifacts relating to the late, great Jim Henson himself.

If you’ve been living under a rock, he was the amazing talent behind puppeteering in The Dark Crystal, The Muppets, Labyrinth, and Sesame Street.

But it’s not just Henson who gets a spotlight at the Center for Puppetry Arts.

The Global Collection is also a big selling point, showcasing historical forms of puppetry from countries like Vietnam.

Broadway theater puppets and stop-motion puppets used in modern Hollywood are also on display at this Georgia museum.

Before you end your day at the Center for Puppetry Arts, why not learn how to make puppets, watch a film, or even attend a ball event, hosted seasonally?

There’s no shortage of exciting features at this family-friendly museum in Atlanta!

Address:  1404 Spring St NW, Atlanta, GA 30309, United States

33. Rock City

Rock City can be found in Northern Georgia, right on Lookout Mountain.

It’s one of the state’s many things to see.

It began as an all-natural wonder and was, over time, slowly turned into a fine example of American kitsch.

It was in the 1900s when Garner Carter thought of building a Lookout Mountain community, which he named Fairyland as a tribute to his wife and her love of European folklore.

It is decorated in an almost childlike manner, with strange and wacky dioramas of fairytales on walls of caves, garden gnomes peeking out from narrow tunnels, fancy and fun black lights, and the world’s first – and very oddly designed – mini-golf course.

Rock City is an assault to the senses, but it’s also charming in its lack of proper design.

The activities are certainly a hoot if you don’t mind their unorthodox nature.

There are birdwatching tours, a corn maze, and light shows to enjoy, all near enough to each other to be easy to get to.

Address:  1400 Patten Rd, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750, United States

34. Atlanta

We’d be unable to talk about Georgia without talking about one of its cities to visit, the capital: Atlanta, one of the top travel destinations .

Taking a trip here is a must-do because it’s the central hub of Georgia and speaks to its wider culture and elegance.

A mix of cosmopolitan modernism and historical value makes it a delightful place, any time of the year.

There’s no shortage of points of interest in Atlanta.

It’s a good idea to begin at the Atlanta History Center, but from there you have the Six Flags White Water waterpark, the Margaret Mitchell House, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, and numerous locations already on this list.

If you’re choosing a city that’s quintessential modern Georgia, Atlanta is the right place.

If you’re going to spend more time here, check out some of the best things to do in Atlanta !

35. The Big House

Jud McCranie / flickr

If you’re a fan of older music, you’ll probably have heard of the Allman Brothers Band.

During their four-decade career, they went through their fair share of controversy and near-breakups due to internal conflict.

Through all their ups and downs – and great hits like Midnight Rider and Ramblin’ Man – you’ll get to view them all at The Big House , the Allman Brothers Band’s personal museum in Macon, Georgia.

The museum calls a multi-story estate its home, first rented by a wife of a member of the band in 1970.

Eventually, the whole band used it as their social center and creative hub.

The band members all moved in, adding a luxurious lounge area and a jam room, among many other great spots throughout the house.

Infighting and substance abuse eventually led to Macon’s dislike of the band, leading to the eviction of remaining band members.

It was, eventually, repurchased and made into a celebratory museum that commemorates the band’s activities.

It’s a rather unorthodox attraction, as far as Georgia is concerned!

Address:  2321 Vineville Ave, Macon, GA 31204, United States

36. World of Coca-Cola

Richard Smart / Shutterstock

Virtually no one on the planet hasn’t heard of Coca-Cola, and that’s what makes the World of Coca-Cola one of Georgia’s most unique and fascinating places.

Located in Atlanta, Georgia, each ticket into the wonderful and fun world of the center comes with a free can of Coke for you to drink as you wait for your tour to begin.

The first stop on your tour here is a theater, where you’ll get to watch a short film about one of the world’s most popular sodas.

Then, you’ll be brought to the main lobby, where you are free to view the exhibitions on display.

Among them are artifacts and information relating to the drink’s history and “accidental” creation, the Coca-Cola Polar Bear mascot, the secret formula vault, and even art made by or inspired by the famous cola.

Finally, conclude your trip with a bunch of free samples of Coca-Cola products, including many that are typically exclusive to other parts of the world!

Address:  121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, United States

37. Cathedral of St John the Baptist

If you’re going site seeing and are a fan of Catholic history, you may enjoy Georgia’s take on the Cathedral of St John the Baptist .

It’s Savannah’s Roman Catholic Diocese’s mother church, so it’s pretty significant to visit if you seek stuff to do.

Savannah originally prohibited Roman Catholic settlers due to fears of their possible loyalty to Spain, but after the Revolution, they were allowed in slowly.

Catholics from Haiti, escaping slave rebellions, were among the first Catholics to settle here.

More people of the faith gathering in Savannah led to the Cathedral of St John the Baptist being constructed from 1873 to 1896.

A fire almost destroyed it two years later, but from 1900 to 1912, it was refurbished, and much of it has remained unchanged since then.

Beautiful Station of the Cross carvings of Bavarian wood, astonishing stained glass windows, and a well-designed facade make it a stunning attraction!

Address:  222 E Harris St, Savannah, GA 31401, United States

Looking for some more thrill to add to your Georgia vacation? Here are some of the things to do in Savannah, GA  & some of the best things to do in Augusta, GA !

38. Howard Finster’s Paradise Gardens

J. Stephen Conn / flickr

Howard Finster grew up in a thirteen-person family.

He dropped out of school after sixth grade, became a born-again Christian at 13, and was a preacher by the age of 16.

Supposedly, he experienced a spiritual revelation for the first time at just three years old, claiming that his sister, then passed away, came down from heaven to tell him that he would be “a man of visions”.

This may or may not be what eventually led Howard, in the 1940s, to start working on a new way to preach his faith to the world: through art projects.

It was in 1961 in Summerville, Georgia that Howard began working on garden-art, which he referred to as the Plant Farm Museum.

Built from discarded and recycled materials, Howard claimed it was a showcase of mankind’s intentions.

It wasn’t long before this humble Georgia project took on a life of its own, spawning new buildings such as the Hubcap Tower, the Machine Gun Nest, the Bible House, the Mirror House, and the rather impressive Folk Art Chapel that reaches five stories!

Soon enough, the garden was named as one of the places to visit in the country by Esquire magazine, which called it A Garden of Paradise .

The rest, as they say, is history!

Address:  200 N Lewis St, Summerville, GA 30747, United States

39. Stone Mountain

Brett Barnhill / Shutterstock

Stone Mountain makes for one of the best of the Georgia destinations because of the many things that it is.

It’s packed with beautiful areas for picnics, a location for laser light shows, and of course, a lakeside mountain and park perfect for hiking, viewing rare plants, and more.

Of course, one also can’t forget the fact that it’s an aerial tramway and a railroad in addition to all the other hats it wears.

Yet, though all of these activities are undoubtedly fantastic, one of the main reasons that Stone Mountain flourishes as a tourist hotspot is because of the bas-relief that is carved into it.

That relief is a Confederate States of America memorial, admittedly in quite an unlikely place.

White supremacists were the originators behind the memorial, but after first attempts to create it were abandoned, a “toned-down” version without KKK member depictions was worked on, leading to the image we know now.

Stone Mountain has stood, 825 feet tall, for about 300 million or so years, its granite surface ever-present on the Georgia portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

It was here that, during the beginning of European movement into the area, the Creek Confederation would meet with Cherokees.

Then, in the 1830s, granite began being quarried here, with the results used to build US Treasury vaults, US Capitol steps, and Panama Canal locks.

There’s no doubting the beauty of the geological formation that is Stone Mountain, and despite its darker history, it’s well worth a trip for its awe-inspiring stature.

40. Booth Western Art Museum

Booth Western Art Museum

The Booth Western Art Museum is one of the lesser-known tourist places of Georgia, but still one of the top museums in the state.

It’s home to America’s biggest Wester art exhibition and focuses on exploring American West expansion, including the life of cowboys and the world of the early frontier.

At the Booth Western Art Museum, expect to see paintings, murals, photographs, and status from some of America’s most influential artists.

You can also see other fun exhibits, like Presidential letters, a gallery for children, and a stagecoach.

Address:  501 N Museum Dr, Cartersville, GA 30120, United States

41. Fort Pulaski National Monument

JASON TENCH / Shutterstock

Fort Pulaski National Monument is one of Georgia’s historically important tourist attractions: the place of a Union victory during the Civil War.

It was the first time that war combat ever involved rifled cannons, leading to the destruction of previously impenetrable fortresses of brick and stone.

The Union army fought long and hard against Fort Pulaski, located on Georgia’s Cockspur Island.

From two and a half miles away, they decimated the fortification.

This led to the rifled cannon soon becoming the world’s most accurate gun.

Now, the fort remains preserved well.

You’ll be able to walk on its parapets, ramparts, and grounds, as well as visit its museum.

Address:  US-80, Savannah, GA 31410, United States

42. CNN Center

Few haven’t heard of CNN, a news-based media company founded in 1980.

The fact that its headquarters are in Georgia in the CNN Center means that it’s a visit not to miss while you’re in the state!

A tour of the center lasts 50 minutes and takes you on a behind-the-scenes journey.

You’ll learn about live show production and broadcasts, and VIP tour takers get to see even more of the CNN newsrooms – and a chance to meet a news anchor!

A trip to the CNN Center is one of the best things to do in Georgia, and it’s a great way to get a fun and educational look into the world behind the camera.

It’s a good idea to book in advance so you’re guaranteed a spot!

Address:  190 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303, United States

43. Golden Isles

The Golden Isles are a chain of barrier islands located along southern Georgia’s coast.

There are four of them, with each one offering something unorthodox and different.

They’re largely considered hidden gems, named as a whole for their golden beaches.

Figuring out which places to see are worth your itinerary, or which isles are most suited?

St. Simons Island has boutiques, coastal cuisine, and watersports.

Little St. Simons Island is packed with outdoor excitement.

Sea Island is perfect for those seeking opulence and luxury.

And, of course, there’s Jekyll Island, already discussed in a previous number!

But when it comes down to it, why choose between them?

If you have a longer stay than just this weekend, it’s more than worth a trip to each of the Golden Isles!

Address:  529 Beachview Dr, St Simons, GA 31522, United States

44. National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center

Wayne Hsieh / flickr

The National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center is located in Columbus , suitably outside of Fort Benning, Georgia’s infantry training center.

The museum speaks of American infantrymen, dating back to the Revolution of America all the way to more current events, like the United States’ Middle East involvement.

The National Infantry Museum & Soldier Center focuses on uplifting and showcasing the values of the country’s infantry, emphasizing honor, courage, respect, loyalty, and more.

Multimedia displays, artifacts from across history, and a special Holocaust exhibit make this a great option for what to do when you’re looking for activities in Georgia.

There’s also a 3D Theater with themed movies, a combat simulator, a gift shop, and a restaurant and bar.

Address:  1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, GA 31903, United States

45. Eye of God

Serge Skiba / Shutterstock

The Eye of God is one of the many natural Georgia attractions.

It is a part of the famous Chattooga River and is located in section three of the river, in a place called The Narrows.

In the last rapid of that area, you’ll see multiple boulders above the water, situated a little downriver from a bottle-necked river stretch, forming a big “hole” in the middle.

Staring at it will remind you that some of the best, most impressive Georgia attractions are all-natural!

This whole is called a pothole and is formed as a result of stones, debris, pebbles, and water carving into the bedrock beneath.

It’s unclear how deep the Eye of God is because of how much debris, including full tree trunks, are in it now.

It’s quite wide but is a danger to swimmers due to the whirlpool effect created by the pothole.

During floods, this is amplified, and you can really see things getting pulled into its unmerciful grasp.

It’s tough and even dangerous to sail past it, though those in the know are aware of the safest way to do so, even if they don’t have a very fun time doing it!

Address: Chattahoochee National Forest, Clayton, GA 30525, United States

46. National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

wyliepoon / flickr

The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force celebrates the American Armed Force heavy bomber squad known as the Eighth Air Force Division.

It was set up in World War II but still exists now, active in its base in Louisiana .

This Georgia museum’s purpose is to showcase the courage, patriotism, and skill demonstrated by the members of the division.

They’ve played a significant role in numerous wars, including the Vietnam War, the Korean War, and Operation Desert Storm.

Of course, its biggest contribution was in World War II, where its strategic bombings moved America closer to victory.

With video presentations, personal stories, a Cold War exhibit, weapons, aircraft, uniforms, and more, the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force is one of the must-see places of interest in Georgia for history-lovers and aviation enthusiasts alike.

Don’t forget to head out to the garden, which has remembrance plaques for crews and aircraft that fell valiantly in the war.

Address:  175 Bourne Ave, Pooler, GA 31322, United States

47. Old Car City

Looking for some fun and cool places?

Old Car City is one of Georgia’s most unique locations.

From its entrance, you can see why the place has been named a photographer’s paradise.

Old Car City is a junkyard covering 32 acres of land.

Vintage cars and automobiles are scattered about, coated in moss and other fauna, sometimes with trees growing through them.

Oddly, it looks more like a forest now than anything else.

The land was bought by the Lewis family in 1931 and was used as a general store.

It eventually became a used car parts dealership, and the family began to collect a lot of cars.

The trees growing surrounding the compound slowly but surely began to infiltrate the junkyard, blending nature and machine in one.

That is when Dan Lewis decided to turn the business into a tourist location.

Old Car City is not a hotspot for photographers of all levels of expertise.

More than 4,000 vehicles call it their final home and it’s one of the planet’s biggest automobile junkyards!

Most cars here date back to the 20th century, with classics haphazardly strewn about.

Trails attempt to make some sense of them all, guiding you through them in an order that teaches you about automobile history.

Address:  3098 US-411, White, GA 30184, United State

48. Dungeness Ruins

With modern-day hostility rising towards the wealth and privilege of the top 1%, the Dungeness Ruins in Cumberland Island, Georgia are a surprisingly topical location among the state’s places to visit.

It was the 19th-century winter getaway home of Thomas Carnegie, the brother of Andrew Carnegie, who purchased 90% of the island with his wife.

With this land, Carnegie built a 59-room mansion on the southern coastal shores of Georgia.

The St. Anne style was, at the time, beautiful to behold, but it was eventually abandoned and left to rot into the ruins that it has become now.

Illness led to the scrapping of plans for the mansion to be a home during the winter when Carnegie fell ill.

He planned to move into the house as a retirement home but passed away before renovation could be completed.

Eventually, the huge estate was, in fact, completed, and Carnegie’s wife and their whopping nine children did move in.

Squash courts, an indoor pool, a golf course, and enough residences for 200 servants ensured the family lived in nothing but the lap of luxury.

Three other estates were eventually built on the island for the children of Carnegie, but with the Great Depression in the 1930s, the houses had to be abandoned.

The decaying Dungeness finally met its full end in 1959, when a fire left nothing behind but ruins.

You can still go there now and see remnants of the pool house, main building, gardens, and more – a whisper of the opulence that once was.

Address: Cumberland Island, St Marys, GA 31558, United States

49. Colonial Park Cemetery

William Silver / Shutterstock

Whether you’re a history-lover thinking about where to visit or a ghost hunting enthusiast wondering about the best spooky spots, Savannah’s Colonial Park Cemetery is for you.

Its history is equal parts deep and dark.

It’s considered the city’s most haunted location and has a fair bit of richness to its background.

The cemetery was built in 1750 and is the final resting place of many of the first people to settle in this part of Georgia.

This includes 700 victims of 1820’s yellow fever epidemic; the correct number of people who died of the plague in Savannah is said to be 666 but changed to 700 in order to avoid controversy.

From 1740 t0 1877, the cemetery also doubled as a location for dueling.

The Civil War left Savannah largely untouched, so the city was gifted to Abraham Lincoln in 1864 as a Christmas present from Sherman.

It is said that Union soldiers had their share of “fun” by changing certain marks on Colonial graves, with legends stating that they changed dates on stones, dug up soldiers’ bodies, and more.

You can see some headstones claiming their occupants lived four hundred or even five hundred years!

Address:  200 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401, United States

50. Krog Street Tunnel

The Krog Street Tunnel might sound like a typical urban tunnel covered in graffiti, but this Georgia gem is far from ordinary.

The underpass, built in Atlanta in 1912, connected two neighborhoods together.

Inadvertently, this led to residents from both neighborhoods coming together here to add their art to the walls, resulting in what is now a street tunnel with almost no remaining unpainted space at all.

Since the 1960s – and even to this present day – the tradition of graffiti added pops of color and the avant-garde to the Krog Street Tunnel.

A mix of murals, tags, and flyers cover pillars and walls, with images and vibrancy that overlaps into a kaleidoscope of chaos and, surprisingly, brilliance.

A mix of philosophical, political, cultural, and even romantic influences are clearly seen throughout these bright walls.

The art at Krog Street Tunnel is often covered up or expanded by newer artists.

Locals to this part of Georgia think of the tunnel with pride – a symbol of community art and exchange.

Though the sights are far from the traditional cascading glory of a park or river, there’s no doubt that this tunnel might be, to many, one of the state’s most beautiful places.

Address:  1 Krog St NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Georgia

Being one of the most beautiful states in the US, Georgia is simply brimming with fun options for what to see and do.

There’s no end to its tourist hotspots, no matter which part of the state you’re in.

When seeking out the best of them, don’t be afraid to dip your toes into the niche, unusual, or even dark.

You’ll find that Georgia has much more to offer than just parks, estates, and museums!

• 13 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Georgia You Should Visit

With momentous sites like Jarrell Plantation and Pickett's Mill Battlefield,  Georgia  is an incredible state, loved for its architecture and beautiful cities. It was established in 1732 and was the last of 13 British colonies before gaining independence and becoming a vibrant state in America. Since its inception, this state has had interesting historic moments, including the founding of Georgia's largest city, Atlanta, first known as Terminus in 1837. It preserves its history while housing various towns and hubs like Washington and Darien, representing the country's cultural heritage and history.

Through the charms of old houses like the Victorian-style Old City Hall in Brunswick, White mansions in Washington, natural wonders in  Tallulah Falls , and various breathtaking sceneries, you can experience the unique and fascinating features each Georgia town offers. Take a spin through 13 beautiful towns in Georgia that should be on your list of getaway destinations. 

Ranked by Explore Georgia as one of the best small Mountain Towns in North Georgia, Blue Ridge is a 1300 populated town in Fannin County, Georgia. With several picnic areas and campgrounds spanning over 750,000 acres of forest land along with 850 miles of recreational trails, the city has the Chattahoochee National Forest, which offers adventurous opportunities such as fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping to visitors. 

You also have the opportunity of taking a four-hour 26-mile ride on the historic Blue Ridge railway from the Blue Ridge depot along the Toccoa River, giving you a perfect view of the landscape and allowing you a trip to the sister towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. History lovers can explore its local art galleries in the Historic Fannin County Courthouse Art Center and Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association, or wine lovers can en route toward Blue Ridge's Breweries, wineries, and Orchards to take part in their wine-tasting sessions. 

Brunswick has a long history and exhibits this with its historic sites, including the Historic Brunswick Courthouse, Old Town Brunswick Historic District, and the Historic Ritz Theatre. This historic port city has a similar grid to Savannah's but stands out for its inspiring cuisine in its downtown, parks like Ballard Park, amusement centers, cruises, and tours. 

Want to know what a perfect day in Brunswick would feel like? Have a memorable dinner experience on the Emerald Princess II casino cruise ship, a fun trip to the largest arcades in the Southeast – Pinball Palace or spend a swell time watching shrimp boats or partaking in park festivals in the Mary Ross Waterfront Park. If you're lucky, you'll also be able to attend the many other occasional festivals and events in the town, including the PorchFest, Brunswick Rockin' Stewbilee, and Mayfair. 

First explored in the 16th Century by Spanish settlers, St. Mary is home to over 18,000 people. Settled along the coast of Georgia in Camden County, just a ferry away from Cumberland Island National Seashore, the town gives you a Southern Charm for a perfect weekend getaway with its historic and fun structures. The  St. Marys  Submarine Museum and Waterfront Park have a fantastic appeal for a thrilling adventure. 

If you have the urge to go on an island escape, hop on a ferry to the Cumberland Island Seashore Museum and enjoy recreational activities such as biking, kayaking, camping, and more. You can also discover St. Mary's history in the downtown historic district housing various old buildings like the First Presbyterian Church, telling the town's exciting past. 

Blairsville

One of Georgia's finest Mountain Towns, Blairsville is tucked in the Chattahoochee National Forest and the Blue Ridge Mountains . This small town exhibits the beauty of nature and cultural heritage in its beautiful scenery, with much focus on landmarks like Brasstown Bald, the highest mountain in Georgia, the Appalachian Trail, Helton Creek Falls and Vogel State Park. It also reserves its history in the Track Rock Archaeological Area, where visitors can learn about the town's fascinating past. Blairsville also has Lakes Nottely, Lake Winfield Scott and Trahlyta within its ambits, all offering an array of water activities such as fishing and boating. You may engage in other recreational activities like picnicking and hiking through the many Blairsville hiking trails, including Meeks Park and the Appalachian Trail.

Tallulah Falls

You could call this tiny town a Natural treasure as it has been a tourist destination since the 1880s, with a collection of six waterfalls, including the Hurricane Falls, flowing down through Tallulah Gorge, with a suspension bridge stretched across the waters to have a clearer view and feel. The small, unique town was named after the falls and is located in the Northeast corner of the Georgia Mountains, home to about 200 people. However, numerous travelers worldwide often visit this place to experience its natural wonders. The Tallulah Gorge also grants various attractions and activities besides the water, such as a hiking forested event, an educational trip to the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center, and events such as the Saturday Night Bluegrass Jam and Whitewater Boating Weekends.

Darien  takes you back in time to 1736 when it was founded as a Scottish Highlanders settlement, with its incredible, historic, and serene scenery. Being the second oldest town in the state, there's much to discover here at its attractive buildings, including the Fort King George, built in 1731, the Butler Plantation and rice fields, the First Presbyterian Church of Darien and Darien City Hall. You can also find trails for recreational activities in the Trailhead Center and cultural artifacts at the Old Jail Art Center and Museum and Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation. Explore the water areas of this town on the Altamaha Coastal tours, Captain Gabby Charters, or walk through the Darien River Waterfront Park and Docks, reveling in the town's natural offerings. 

From top-notch Italian dining at the Ristorante da Maria or Company Supply and wildlife experience at River Bend Wildlife Management Area and Knight's Wildlife Studio to excellent performing arts at Theatre Dublin and a historic tour at Martin Luther King, Jr. Monument Park, Dublin packs a load of fun for visitors. The town is in Laurens County, central Georgia, home to beautiful areas, local eateries like Deona's Italian Grill and Tumpie House, and shops at Dublin International Market. Take a relaxing tour through the Dublin-Laurens Museums or the First African Baptist Church to learn a little about its history. Experience the wonder of nature and wildlife by bird watching, boating or fishing at its wildlife centers, including Beaver Dam and River Bend Wildlife Management Area. You may also take a Horse Riding tour on Frank's Farm.

In Gilmer County is the fascinating Apple Capital of Georgia, Ellijay, which also doubles as a mountain town. Ellijay is a lot of things but is best known for its most unique attribute- apples with various apple-picking areas, including B.J. Reece Orchards, Hillcrest Orchards and Farms, R & A Orchards and Red Apple Barn. While picking apples is enough fun, you can do other exciting things in this town, such as exploring Carter's lake on a pontoon boat, wine tasting at Cartecay Wine and Craft, or hiking on the Southern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail. The town also has an annual apple festival and occasional events on the square downtown featuring carnivals, antique sales, and live music. Word in the streets is there's always a fascinating event to attend in Ellijay, like the Ellijay Farmers & Artisans Market and Food Truck Tuesdays.

Populating about 15,000, Lilburn houses the largest Hindu temple in the Southeast, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. The town exudes cultural appeal in its unique environments and features great attractions like the Lilburn City Park, Lions Club Park, Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary, and Mountain Park. Its main street gives a modern atmosphere with a touch of history, lamp posts, tree-lined sidewalks, and historical buildings. Take a tour exploring the town's amazing locations; you can also visit the Harmony Grove soccer complex if you're a sports enthusiast or learn the town's history through the Yellow River Post Office and more. Take advantage of a taste of Lilburn's cuisines in its local restaurants and breweries like Blackbird Farms Brewery, Oyster Barn Grill and Bar, and Agavero Cantina. 

Modeled as a Bavarian Alpine village with traditional German architecture, cobblestones, and color scheme, Helen attracts many tourists. The town's revamp extended to street names, changing it to reflect typical German streets. It looks unreal and artsy, forming a perfect Bavarian village look, with every building having a classical South German style. Visit the downtown shops and areas and shop beautiful items at the Glassblowing shop and Hofer's of Helen. Take an adventurous trip tubing with outfitters like Cool River Tubing or go Ziplining at Nacoochee Adventure. You can also observe the waterfalls at Anna Ruby Falls, a double waterfall that meets. Helen holds an annual Oktoberfest event from September through October and occasional events like the Helen to the Atlantic Balloon Race and Festival in summer, Christkindlmarkt during the Christmas holidays and Winterfest Art Tour in Winter. 

Thomasville

Being called Georgia's Rose City, America's main street and recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Thomasville is a popular historic destination with a great downtown, packed with museums and cultural trails like Thomasville Genealogical, History and Fine Arts Library and Power. The town's Rose garden displays over 1,500 flowers and holds the Rose Show and Festival to celebrate flowers every Spring. Thomasville also has various historic houses and museums depicting the town's past Victorian-era history. Visit places like the Pebble Hill Plantation, Jack Hadley Black History Museum, Lapham-Patterson House State, The Big Oak, and the Big Oak Cam, a tree over 327 years old. You may also taste fantastic wine at the Farmer's Daughter Vineyard, 1861 Distillery or Tvelo Brewing Company. Ensure you also take part in the town's tours, walk down cultural trails in the Cherokee Lake Park, and Hunt the Lost Quail in Downtown Thomasville and Thomasville Black Heritage Trail Tour.

Madison is Georgia's typical southern destination with a host of luxury dining options such as Town 220 and The Silver Moon, historical houses including Bonar Hall and Boxwood, along with Victorian architecture. Madison is a vibrant-spirited town with many museums to explore its rich history, including Heritage Hall, Morgan County African American Museum, and the Rogers House & Rose Cottage. Discover arts and antiques in Madison Markets, J&K Fleas AnTiques and the Creative Mark. There are many other things to do here, from exploring farms like Crafdal Farm Alpacas to taking tours and walking trails on the Madison Historic District Audio walking/ driving tour. This place is perfect for a family weekend getaway, and you can settle in at the James Madison Inn & Conference Center.

In Wilkes County, Georgia, with approximately 4,000 people, Washington Town is a base for natural attractions, historic sites, and beautiful landmarks. The town had a significant role in the Battle of Kettle Creek, which contributed to the liberation of Upper Georgia from British hold. The town's long history dates back to 1773, which honored George Washington, but now has been reshaped into a perfect destination for a long-term family stay and business growth over the years. Washington downtown is an excellent place for entertainment and culture in its various Art and antiques areas, including Boxwood Cottage Mercantile and On the Square Antiques & Gifts. You'll also find museums and sites such as the Robert Toombs House, Kettle Creek Battlefield, and Mary Wills Library, where you can explore the town's historical moments. Take a trip to the boutiques and specialty shops, including Pieces, Lakes, and Rivers, at Holliday Park and the Pope plantation.

Georgia is a charming delight for travelers who seek a weekend romantic getaway, family trip, or solo vacation through the beautiful towns in Georgia, including Thomasville and Washington. Georgia's towns are full of experiences, adventures, exploration, excellent cuisine, historical sites and culture that exceeds its beauty. From the elegant natural feel of the Tallulah Falls and Blue Ridge mountains to local and picturesque-themed atmospheres in Helen and Madison, Georgia has everything. Aside from numerous events and cheese and food festivals, you can also hike in the trail paths of  Blue Ridge , kayak at Blairsville, or take a tour through the many museums of Washington and Dublin. There are also numerous events and festivals held in different towns throughout the year, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. If you're still indecisive about your choice of one of the towns in Georgia for your next adventurous visit, you might want to go over the list again and find characteristics of each town that stand out to you. 

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Georgia on My Mind: Seven Must-Visit Cities in the Peach State

G eorgia is a state in the Southeast of the United States. Its history, culture, and natural beauty are diverse. The state is home to several beautiful cities that showcase its diversity, from bustling metropolises to sleepy coastal towns. The seven main cities in Georgia will be covered in length in this article, along with information on their distinct characteristics, population, and four to five must-do activities.

The Largest Cities in Georgia

Georgia’s capital city, Atlanta, is a vibrant place combining tradition, culture, and modernity. Atlanta is not only the biggest city in Georgia but also a significant economic and cultural center for the southeastern United States, with a population of roughly 490,270. Here are five exciting activities you can enjoy in Atlanta:

Take a trip to the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site National

An excursion to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site in Atlanta is highly recommended. Any visitor must visit the National Historic Site. This place honors the well-known civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and provides a profoundly moving experience. Visit the house where he was raised, the Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he gave sermons, and interact with the exhibits that detail his life and contributions.

Having fun at the Georgia Aquarium 

At the Georgia Aquarium, one of the biggest aquariums in the world, plunge into an enchanting underwater world. This fascinating attraction in downtown Atlanta features a wide variety of marine life, including majestic whale sharks, playful dolphins, and adorable beluga whales. Visitors of all ages can enjoy an immersive experience at the Georgia Aquarium, which features captivating shows and interactive exhibits.

The Atlanta Botanical Garden 

The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a haven for garden and nature lovers. This botanical haven, which covers more than 30 acres, is home to various plants and animals. Wander leisurely through the lovely gardens, which feature the magnificent Japanese Garden, the vivacious Tropical Rotunda, and the tranquil Orchid Center. Seasonal activities and fascinating exhibitions are also held at the Atlanta Botanical Garden annually.

The High Museum of Art

The High Museum of Art, an architectural masterpiece situated in Atlanta’s arts district, will delight art lovers. This top-notch museum presents an impressive artwork collection that includes traditional and modern pieces. Admire the works of art created by eminent artists, visit thought-provoking exhibitions, and participate in interactive installations. The High Museum of Art provides a fascinating journey through various art movements and styles.

Take a walk along the Atlanta BeltLine

The Atlanta BeltLine is a must-see location for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a distinctive urban experience. An innovative project has turned abandoned railroad tracks into a colorful, multi-use trail that links the city’s neighborhoods, parks, and art installations. Explore the various communities along the BeltLine while taking a stroll, renting a bike, or hopping on a scooter to enjoy the vibrant street art and lively atmosphere.

With a population of around 200,000, Augusta is a captivating city in Georgia located on the banks of the Savannah River. Augusta, known for its extensive history, breathtaking scenery, and prestigious golf tournament, provides various attractions and experiences. Here are five amazing activities you can do in Augusta:

Attend the Masters Competition 

One of the most prestigious events in professional golf, the Masters Tournament , is hosted in Augusta which enjoys international acclaim. This tournament, held yearly at the renowned Augusta National Golf Club, draws golf fans worldwide. It is an unforgettable experience to watch professional golfers compete while observing their skill and accuracy.

The Augusta Canal National Heritage Area

Take a scenic boat tour along the Augusta Canal, which is essential to developing the city’s industry. Traveling through picturesque landscapes and past historical sites, you’ll learn about its significance during the Industrial Revolution. Admire the canal’s engineering prowess while learning about Augusta’s history.

Take a look around the Morris Museum of Art

The Morris Museum of Art highlights Southern art and artists and will enthrall art lovers. The museum is home to an impressive collection of artwork that highlights the breadth and diversity of the local artistic community. The Morris Museum thoroughly tours Southern art, ranging from classic landscapes to cutting-edge works.

At the Augusta Museum of History, immerse yourself in history

At the Augusta Museum of History, travel back in time to discover the city’s intriguing past. In the museum, you can see artifacts, images, and interactive displays highlighting Augusta’s history. Visitors can learn about the events that shaped Augusta, from the city’s involvement in the Civil War to the early Native American settlements.

At Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, take in the scenery

The Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is a great place to unwind in the peace of nature. Over 1,100 acres of this vast nature reserve are available for outdoor activities. Enjoy kayaking on peaceful waterways, a leisurely hike along the park’s scenic trails, or birdwatching to spot different species. Alligators, turtles, and various bird species are among the diverse animals that call the park home.

With a population of around 199,000, Columbus, a thriving city in Georgia, is a hidden gem with a unique combination of historical significance, scenic beauty, and alluring attractions. Here are five exciting things to do in Columbus, from the army to exploring the wonders of space:

The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center

Fort Benning’s National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center is a magnificent memorial to courageous American men and women. Army. This massive museum offers immersive experiences, historical exhibits, and interactive exhibits that highlight the sacrifices made by American soldiers throughout history. Discover the rich history of the infantry and develop a profound appreciation for their service.

Columbus Riverwalk

Take a leisurely bike ride or walk along the 15-mile Columbus Riverwalk, which follows the lovely Chattahoochee River. Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, the river, and the surrounding vegetation. Outdoor activities like jogging, fishing, and picnicking are available along the Riverwalk. It’s the ideal location to unwind, get in touch with nature, and appreciate the peace and quiet of the surroundings.

The Coca-Cola Space Science Center

A trip to the Coca-Cola Space Science Center is essential for science and space enthusiasts. This cutting-edge facility offers fun and instructive exhibits, planetarium shows, and interactive activities that explore the wonders of science and space. Discover the history of space exploration, observe mock space missions, and interact with interactive exhibits that pique interest.

Test your skills on the Chattahoochee River Whitewater Course

The Chattahoochee River Whitewater Course will excite thrill seekers and outdoor adventurers. The Chattahoochee River’s rapids are thrilling to experience on this man-made course, one of the world’s longest urban whitewater rafting and kayaking routes. Whether you are a novice or an expert paddler, you can experience the thrill of rafting or kayaking through the thrilling and difficult whitewater sections.

Having fun at the Columbus Museum 

At the second-largest museum in Georgia, the Columbus Museum, immerse yourself in art, history, and science. The museum hosts various exhibitions highlighting various facets of science, history, and art. Discover fascinating exhibits that highlight local history, admire stunning art collections, and interact with educational interactives. Visitors of all ages and interests can enjoy a comprehensive experience at the Columbus Museum.

Savannah, which has a population of about 147,000, is a city that embodies Southern hospitality and timeless elegance. Savannah , which is renowned for its extensive history, architectural wonders, and charming squares, provides a wide range of enthralling experiences. Here are five incredible activities you can enjoy in Savannah:

Explore the Historic District

Take a trip down memory lane and get lost in Savannah’s Historic District’s allure. Explore the cobblestone streets while surrounded by beautifully preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings. Discover the city’s famous squares, including Madison Square and Chippewa Square, which feature historical statues and trees draped in moss. The Historic District is a visual delight and a veritable treasure trove of history.

Visit the St. John the Baptist Cathedral

Admire the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist’s magnificent architecture, which serves as a reminder of Savannah’s Catholic past. Admire the ornate decorations, stunning stained glass windows, and intricate design. In this sacred area, which bears witness to Savannah’s rich religious heritage and cultural significance, spend a moment in quiet reflection.

Go for a walk in Forsyth Park

Escape to Forsyth Park, a lush haven in the center of Savannah, to find peace. Relax on the verdant lawns, stroll along the walking paths, and take in the splendor of the park’s famous cast-iron fountain. Forsyth Park provides a tranquil retreat for residents and guests alike with its elegant landscaping, enticing flowers, and serene atmosphere.

Mercer Williams House Museum exploration

Visit the Mercer Williams House Museum to enter the enthralling “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” world. The renowned novel was set in this historic mansion, which boasts stunning architecture and an interesting past. Discover Savannah’s distinctive fusion of elegance and mystery as you tour the lavish interiors, discover the intriguing tales connected to the home and learn more.

Discover River Street 

Enjoy River Street’s energetic atmosphere, a hive of activity along the Savannah River. Take a leisurely walk down the cobblestone street, which is lined with quaint stores, eateries, and galleries housed in former cotton warehouses. Admire the magnificent river views, observe the passing ships, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. River Street is the ideal location for dining on delectable food, shopping for distinctive souvenirs, and taking in live entertainment.

Savannah’s history, architectural wonders, and Southern charm have all been preserved. Discover the Historic District’s charming streets, take in the splendor of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and find peace in the lovely Forsyth Park. Explore the Mercer Williams House Museum’s fascinating past while taking in River Street’s vibrant atmosphere. Savannah captivates visitors with its alluring combination of culture, natural beauty, and friendliness.

Athens, Georgia, a captivating city with a population of about 127,000, is well-known for its vibrant arts scene, thriving music culture, and its esteemed University of Georgia. Here are five alluring things to do in Athens, from wandering around the college campus to savoring the beauty of nature:

The University of Georgia tour 

Take a tour of the University of Georgia, one of the country’s oldest public universities. Explore the lovely campus, be in awe of the old buildings, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The Georgia Museum of Art, which has a sizable collection of artwork spanning numerous genres and eras, should not be missed. Visit the State Botanical Garden of Georgia as well to see a variety of gardens, including a native plant garden, a heritage garden, and a tropical conservatory.

The Georgia Museum of Natural History

The Georgia Museum of Natural History has information on Georgia’s extensive natural history. The museum has fascinating displays highlighting the state’s various ecosystems, ancient creatures, and indigenous cultures. Investigate exhibits of fossils, minerals, and artifacts to learn more about Georgia’s geological and cultural heritage. The museum provides a fascinating journey through time and nature.

Visit the Historic Morton Theatre to see a live performance

Visit the Historic Morton Theatre to experience Athens’ thriving performing arts scene fully. Since 1910, this storied African-American theater has played a crucial role in the neighborhood. Attend a live performance, such as a play, concert, comedy show, or other event. The Morton Theatre provides a distinctive and individualized environment to enjoy the breadth and diversity of performing arts.

Take a trip to the Georgia Theatre

At the renowned Georgia Theatre, take in Athens’ pulsating music scene. This iconic music venue has played host to many well-known musicians and bands, making it a live music hotspot. Attend a live performance, party all night long, or enjoy the buzzing atmosphere. The Georgia Theatre has contributed significantly to developing Athens’ music scene and is still a beloved hangout for music fans.

Discover the Georgia State Botanical Garden 

Escape to the tranquility of Georgia’s State Botanical Garden, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. This vast garden is more than 300 acres in size and has a variety of landscapes, such as flower gardens, woodlands, and meadows. Take a pleasant stroll along the beautiful trails, take in the seasonal blooms, and discover Georgia’s indigenous plants and animals. The garden also provides educational programs, guided tours, and special events throughout the year.

Athens is a city that values education, the arts, and the beauty of the natural world. Discover the University of Georgia campus, including the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and the Georgia Museum of Art. Learn about Georgia’s natural and cultural heritage at the Georgia Museum of Natural History. Immerse yourself in the thriving arts scene at the Georgia Theatre and the Historic Morton Theatre. Last but not least, visit the Georgia State Botanical Garden to find comfort in the splendor of nature. Visitors and locals alike are captivated by Athens’ seamless fusion of intellectual pursuits, artistic expressions, and serene natural settings.

The Georgian city of Macon, which has a population of about 97,000, is known for its fascinating history, thriving music scene, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Here are five fascinating things to do in Macon, from perusing museums to taking in the beauty of nature:

Check out the Tubman Museum

Visit the Tubman Museum to fully immerse in African Americans’ history, art, and culture. The exhibits, galleries, and educational programs offered by this outstanding institution highlight the contributions and accomplishments of African Americans . The Tubman Museum provides an extensive perspective on African American culture and heritage, ranging from art exhibitions to historical artifacts.

The Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical

The Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park is an archaeological site that protects the legacy of Native American civilizations. Take a trip back in time there. Explore the historic mounds, walk through the earth lodge that has been restored, and take a hike along the nature trails that wind through lovely woodlands. Discover the past and significance of the native cultures that once predominated in the area.

Attend a performance at Macon City Auditorium

Attending a live performance at the venerable Macon City Auditorium will allow you to immerse yourself in the city’s rich musical history. The Allman Brothers Band and James Brown, among other legendary performers and bands, have performed at this legendary location. The Macon City Auditorium presents a wide range of performances that appeal to a variety of musical tastes, from rock and blues to classical and contemporary music.

Visit the Big House’s Allman Brothers Band Museum

Visit the Big House museum to learn more about the Allman Brothers Band, a renowned Southern rock band . The museum, housed in the group’s former home, contains a vast collection of artifacts, musical instruments, and displays that highlight the band’s legacy. Discover the band members’ living spaces, see their belongings, and learn about the band’s impact on music.

Follow the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail for a stroll

Spend some time enjoying Macon’s natural splendor by strolling along the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail. This lovely paved trail winds along the Ocmulgee River, providing breathtaking views and chances to spot local wildlife. Experience Macon’s tranquil atmosphere, learn about historical landmarks, and take in the peaceful surroundings.

The city of Macon expertly combines the arts, culture, and the outdoors. Explore the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park to travel back in time, learn about African American culture at the Tubman Museum, and take in a live performance at the Macon City Auditorium. At the Big House Museum, learn about the Allman Brothers Band’s legacy, and take in the serenity of the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail. Macon offers a delightful fusion of cultural diversity and scenic beauty that makes for an unforgettable trip.

Roswell, which has a population of about 91,000, is a charming city in Georgia that is rich in history and surrounded by stunning scenery. Here are five fascinating things to do in Roswell, from touring historic districts to engaging in outdoor activities:

Take a look around Roswell’s historic district 

Discover Roswell’s colorful past by strolling through the city’s historic district. Wander through the quaint neighborhoods with antebellum homes that have been lovingly preserved, quaint businesses, and eateries. Take in the stunning architecture and the atmosphere of a bygone era. The Roswell Historic District provides a look into the city’s fascinating history.

Bulloch Hall visit

Enter Bulloch Hall, the house where Theodore Roosevelt’s mother grew up. Visitors can learn more about the history of the Bulloch family and their connections to the Roosevelts by visiting this historic house museum. Discover the beautifully preserved rooms, admire the antique furnishings, and be in awe of the magnificent architecture. Learn about the histories and legacies of the important people who lived at Bulloch Hall.

At the Chattahoochee Nature Center, take part in outdoor activities

The Chattahoochee Nature Center is a tranquil haven on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, take in the native wildlife in its natural habitats, and explore nature trails that wind through lush woodlands. The nature center also offers engaging displays and educational activities that shed light on regional ecosystems and conservation initiatives.

Visit the home of Archibald Smith Plantation

Visit the Archibald Smith Plantation Home, an antebellum mansion that provides a window into the way of life of the Southern aristocracy in the nineteenth century, and travel back in time. Discover the elegant parlor, dining room, and bedrooms among the beautifully preserved rooms. Explore the lovely gardens, which feature a variety of plant species and capture the allure of the time. Learn more about the antebellum era and how it affected Roswell’s history.

Visit the historic house museums of the Southern Trilogy

Visit the Southern Trilogy Historic House Museums to appreciate Roswell’s rich history and culture fully. The Smith Plantation, Barrington Hall, and Bulloch Hall are all part of this collection. Investigate each of these old houses to discover more about the history of Roswell. These museums offer a thorough understanding of Roswell’s history, from the agricultural heritage of the Smith Plantation to the magnificence of Barrington Hall and the significance of Bulloch Hall.

The city of Roswell provides the ideal fusion of historical significance and scenic beauty. Explore the Roswell Historic District on foot, learn about the significant Bulloch family at Bulloch Hall, and engage in outdoor activities at the Chattahoochee Nature Center. Visit the Archibald Smith Plantation Home to learn about antebellum living, and visit the Southern Trilogy Historic House Museums to learn more about the fascinating history of Roswell. Visitors are welcome to explore Roswell’s distinctive charm and its extensive cultural heritage.

The largest cities in Georgia provide a variety of experiences, from historical sites to thriving cultural communities. These cities have something to offer every visitor interested in history, the outdoors, or urban delights. Explore Georgia’s largest cities and immerse yourself in their distinctive cuisine and attractions.

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Georgia May Be Getting Its First National Park Soon — and It Has More Than Just Scenic Trails

Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Georgia’s aspiring national park.

Planning Your Visit

How to get there, best time to visit, best things to do in ocmulgee, must-see wildlife and natural features, best places to stay, best places to eat.

Visit Georgia

Taking its name from the word for “boiling waters,” Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in Georgia dates back more than 12,000 years and features Indigenous earthen mounds used for burials and ceremonies. Today, it's in talks to be designated a national park with expanded acreage.

“This was a capital city for the Creek Confederacy,” says Tracie Revis, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and director of advocacy for the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative (ONPPI). “The Federal Road, the trade road, below the Fall Line — everything cut through here, so this was the absolute capital of everything.”

The park holds special significance to the Muscogee (Creek) people like Revis, who lived here before being displaced to Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears. The capital of the tribal land is Okmulgee, a nod to the Georgia site. 

The Ocmulgee Mounds have been protected since 1936, when, under president Franklin Delano Roosevelt, 678 acres were designated under the Antiquities Act. It was also the site of the largest archaeological dig in American history, which unearthed artifacts from the early days of settlement, many of which are now on display inside the park’s museum. 

Should Congress approve the new designation, Ocmulgee Mounds will be the first national park in the United States to be co-managed by a removed tribe. Come see for yourself what makes this landscape so unique. 

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park currently covers 600-plus acres, but the ONPPI has acquired more land from the city of Macon and other groups. It’s estimated that in the future, it could reach more than 2,000 acres, including hunting land along the Ocmulgee River. Unlike many other national park installations, no fee is required to enter the park. 

Macon, Georgia, is about a two-hour drive south of Atlanta, off Highway I-75. Driving is the easiest way to get there, but if that’s not an option, there are alternatives. Greyhound, for example, has a bus route between the two cities. From the Macon bus station on 5th Street, you can take a taxi or ride-share service to Ocmulgee Mounds, which should take less than 10 minutes. 

The city of Macon has a humid subtropical climate, so temperatures vary based on the time of year. During the winter, averages hover around the 40s, and Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park sometimes gets snow. Summer can see highs that feel like 100 degrees with humidity, so it’s important to check the forecast before venturing out on a hike. 

Spring is the best time to go as the temperatures are comfortable, but you might encounter sudden storms and flooding. Be sure to check the conditions before you visit. Another great time to visit is during the annual Ocmulgee Indigenous Celebration , held every September with dances, crafts, and educational discussions. The Lantern Light Tours , held in March, add to the magic of visiting the site at night. 

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park has several trails, but what makes it so unique is the glimpse it offers into the Indigenous people who lived here thousands of years ago.

Go inside the Earth Lodge.

The Earth Lodge is a reconstruction of the council chamber that would have been a significant part of Mississippian culture, dating back to around 1015 A.D.

“[This] is where different tribal towns all along the river would come. They would meet here and decide if they were going to war or what they were going to do,” says Revis. “The ground floor here is the original.” 

Note that this space is not accessible, and the entrance is narrow, so taller visitors might need to crouch to enter. 

Tour the museum to see artifacts from the archaeological dig.

From 1933 to 1936, several agencies, including the Civilian Conservation Corps and Works Progress Administration, worked to unearth historic items from the site under the leadership of Dr. Arthur R. Kelly from the Smithsonian Institute. More than 2.5 million items were found, including bones, pottery, arrowheads, and jewelry. 

Many are now on display at the on-site museum, along with photos of the Muscogee (Creek) people. Revis even found her family’s photos inside. “[There’s] a massive photo of my aunt because [she] has always worked down in Georgia, telling our stories and culture and preserving all of that.” 

Climb to the top of the Great Temple Mound.

While climbing on these mounds is discouraged, there's an exception is this area, which has stairs that go above the land so you can take in views from above. The area includes the two tallest mounds within the park, created by Mississippian people around the 10th century C.E. using river clay. 

Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park sits along the river wetlands, and much of the plant and animal life reflects that. You might expect to spot a wide variety of creatures, including alligators, river otters, deer, and egrets. 

It's also home to the Ocmulgee shiner, a species of fish found only within the state. Fishing is allowed within the park, but just on the banks of the river, along with Walnut Creek and Clay Pond. 

Courtesy of Marriott

Hotel Forty Five, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel

There’s currently no lodging within the park, but downtown Macon is a short drive away. Hotel Forty Five is named for the angle at which the art deco building sits at its cross streets. Inside, the decor is like a love letter to Macon’s music history, with photos and artwork inspired by artists like Otis Redding. There’s also a coffee shop to start your day, as well as a restaurant and rooftop bar. 

The Woodward Hotel

The Woodward Hotel is inspired by writers and was named for the owner’s grandfather, a noted author and professor. There are Southern books in every room and suite, each designed in a different style, and the cocktail bar, Quill, is the perfect spot for a nightcap. We recommend The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter, a bourbon and black tea concoction named for Carson McCullers’ notable work. 

Macon Marriott City Center

The Macon Marriott City Center is closest to the Ocmulgee Mounds entrance, located on the opposite side of the river from downtown. It has all the amenities you’d expect from a convention center-type hotel, including an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant. Rooms are also pet-friendly, with a fee. 

Courtesy of Macon Bagels

Ocmulgee Mounds doesn’t yet have an on-site restaurant, but downtown Macon has an abundance of dining options.. 

Grab breakfast from Macon Bagels and take it with you to the park. The cafe offers bagels with all the spreads, plus coffee and sandwiches. If you’re not in a rush, H&H Soul Food is a Macon must. Before they were famous, The Allman Brothers Band came here to eat for free. You’ll have to pay, but you won’t mind doing so after trying the fried chicken biscuit. 

Nu-Way Weiners is right by the park entrance and has been a Macon classic for more than a century. It’s known for its chili dogs, burgers, and the classic chocolate malt. They also offer breakfast. Rookery is another essential stop, with its funky burgers inspired by the Peach State. 

'That's the Lord's chicken.' Trump visits Atlanta Chick-fil-A before fundraiser

The Chick-fil-A off of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in Atlanta is used to dealing with the morning rush as one of the busier franchises in the area. But this morning was a little different.“Get ready for some milkshakes,” former President Donald Trump told Chick-fil-A staff on Wednesday, surprising customers with a drop-in while on the way to a fundraising luncheon in the city.

The interaction, which quickly went viral across social media, showed Trump buying 30 milkshakes and “some chicken” for customers and supporters.

One moment at the fast-food restaurant has caught special attention among conservatives on X , formerly Twitter: Some banter between a Trump and a supporter. Pundits thought the woman, who is Black, was referencing her race as she encouraged the former president, “I don’t care what the media tells you, Mr. Trump, we support you!”

Chick-fil-A visit marks Trump's second in Georgia this year

Today’s visit marks the second time Trump has come to Georgia in a little over a month, showing that the state will once again be an important battleground in the 2024 presidential election.

Prep for the polls: See who is running for president and compare where they stand on key issues in our Voter Guide

According to the Atlanta Journal Constitution , the fundraiser cost $6,600 to attend, with an additional $25,000 fee per couple for a photo opportunity with the 45th president. Those expected to be in attendance included former U.S. Senators David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler, as well as prominent figures of the Georgia business sector, including Bernie Marcus of Home Depot and poultry industry billionaire Tommy Bagwell.

In all, the fundraiser was expected to rake in more than $5 million for the embattled candidate, who currently owes nearly $470 million for his various legal troubles , including cases over hush money and election fraud.

But at his stop before the fundraiser, the former president appeared more interested in the chicken he was about to be served. “That’s the Lord’s chicken,” Trump quipped.

Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

University of Missouri Athletics

Baseball 4/10/2024 6:40:00 PM

Baseball Travels to Athens for SEC Showdown With Georgia

ATHENS, Ga. – University of Missouri baseball looks to continue building momentum in Southeastern Conference play this weekend when the Tigers travel to Athens for a three-game series with Georgia at Foley Field.

Despite a Tuesday evening setback against SIUE that ended its five-game win streak, Mizzou (15-19, 4-8 SEC) is coming off its first conference series sweep of the season last weekend, when the Tigers claimed three consecutive one-run contests against No. 6 Florida in Columbia. The Tigers' most-recent conference series sweep occurred against Georgia (May 12-14, 2023), and MU has claimed four of its five road series against the Bulldogs (25-8, 5-7 SEC) in Athens since joining the SEC. Thursday's series opener will be broadcast live on the SEC Network , with Sam Ravech and Gregg Olson calling the action. Each of the final two games of the series will be streamed through SEC Network+ (Matt Stewart/Jason Jacobs). Additionally, each of this weekend's games will be produced by the Tiger Radio Network for broadcast locally in Columbia via KTGR AM/FM (105.1 FM/100.5 FM/1580 AM) and streaming via the Varsity Network app (by searching 'Missouri'), with Tex Little and Matt Michaels once again handling broadcast duties.

PITCHING PROBABLES

• Game 1 (Thursday, April 11 – 6 p.m.) – RHP Carter Rustad (Mizzou) vs. LHP Jarvis Evans (Georgia)
• Game 2 (Friday, April 12 – 5 p.m.) – RHP Logan Lunceford (Mizzou) vs. RHP Leighton Finley (Georgia)
• Game 3 (Saturday, April 13 – 2:30 p.m.) – LHP Javyn Pimental (Mizzou) vs. TBD (Georgia)

SERIES HISTORY

• The Tigers and Bulldogs have evenly split their previous 30 meetings.
• Mizzou swept last season's series from Georgia after putting up 32 runs in three games at Taylor Stadium (May 12-14).
• The Tigers have won five of the last six meetings, including two of three contests two years ago in their most-recent trip to Foley Field.
• Overall, MU is 9-6 vs. Georgia on its home field, with SEC road series wins in 2013, 2015, 2017 and 2022.

SCOUTING MISSOURI

• Missouri posted a 30-24 regular-season finish last spring, including a 10-20 SEC mark.
• Kerrick Jackson was named the 15th head coach in Mizzou history in June, returning to Columbia to lead a program for which he served as an assistant coach from 2011-15 under Mizzou Hall of Fame head coach (and current pitching coach) Tim Jamieson .
• The Tigers return three regular starters from last season, led by senior INF/OF Trevor Austin , who batted .311 with eight homers and 10 steals to help bolster the MU offense.
• Senior INF Matt Garcia turned in a solid debut season with the Tigers, providing clutch hitting and lock-down defense on the MU infield.
• MU should also receive a lift from sophomore INF Jackson Lovich and junior OF Juju Stevens , who each made key contributions in limited duty in 2023.
• Several newcomers could also make early contributions, including junior INF Danny Corona , who helped Wake Forest to a 2023 College World Series berth, C Jedier Hernandez , a standout behind the plate for Seton Hall the last two seasons, and sophomore OF Jeric Curtis , a Texas Tech transfer who brings significant speed to the Tiger outfield and batting order.
• On the mound, sophomore RHP Logan Lunceford is back to help anchor Mizzou's weekend rotation after posting 68 strikeouts to lead all SEC freshman hurlers last spring.
• Junior LHP Javyn Pimental also contributed mightily to the Tigers' mound efforts in 2023, making eight starts for the Tigers.
• Mizzou should also benefit from the potential return of a pair of veterans who missed significant time last spring; left-hander Ian Lohse and RHP Carter Rustad missed significant portions of 2023 due to injury following promising starts to the campaign.
• New arms like RHP Xavier Lovett and RHP Bryce Mayer could compete for starting rotation spots, while RHP Jacob Peaden may give the back end of the Tigers' bullpen a strong presence.

MIZZOU BY THE NUMBERS

• Despite being sidelined for much of the last two weeks due to injury, 1B Jackson Lovich leads all Mizzou qualifying batters with his .307 average and 21 RBIs, while his six home runs are second on the squad.
• The sophomore recorded a career-best 13-game hit streak, February 24-March 15, batting .388 (19-for-49).
• Lovich leads the SEC and ranks 32nd nationally with three triples.
• Lovich has reached base safely via a hit or walk in 25 of his 27 games, including the Tigers' first 18 contests.
• RHP Brock Lucas turned in a string of 11 1/3 consecutive scoreless innings spanning four appearances, March 17-April 2.
• Lucas has posted six scoreless relief outings in nine total appearances this spring.
• LHP Javyn Pimental has been outstanding in SEC play, limiting four top 25 clubs to a combined batting mark of .156.
• Pimental held No. 1 Arkansas hitless through four frames as part of 5.0 shutout innings on March 17. He also notched his first win of the season against No. 21 Kentucky (March 23), allowing just one run on four hits over 6.0 innings.
• INF Brock Daniels went a combined 5-for-7 (.714) with two homers and nine RBIs, nearly tripling his career RBI total, in the Tigers' two-game sweep of UT Martin last week.
• Daniels led the Tigers with a .474 average in five games last week, driving in 10 runs and swiping five bases to lead all SEC base-stealers.
• As a team, Mizzou stole five bases in back-to-back games vs. UT Martin, achieving the feat for the first time since April 11, 2023 vs. Missouri State.
• INF Justin Colon has been a driving force for the Mizzou offense in the Tigers' 15 wins, hitting .438 (7-for-16) with eight RBIs and a .571 OBP.
• OF Kaden Peer enjoyed a big week in helping the Tigers go 5-0 (April 2-7), hitting .353 with five RBIs and seven runs scored.
• Peer went 3-for-3 with two walks and three RBIs Sunday to help Mizzou to its first-ever series sweep of Florida.
• INF Trevor Austin leads the club with eight home runs, matching his personal season high (2023) and upping his career total to 24 round-trippers.
• Austin hit .438 (7-for-16) in helping the Tigers go 5-0 last week. The senior from Jefferson City scored three runs in three different contests last week.
• LHP Ryan Magdic has proven to be a valuable weapon out of the bullpen, logging four scoreless two-inning outings to date. The graduate transfer picked up his first save as a Tiger in last Saturday's 4-3 win over No. 6 Florida.
• C Jedier Hernandez played a pivotal role in MU's series sweep of No. 6 Florida over the weekend, hitting a club-best .417 with key RBIs in each of the three games.
• Hernandez drove in the game-winning run in the 11th inning of game one vs. UF, then brought home the tying run in the sixth inning of MU's 4-3 win in game two. The junior capped his week with a pair of RBIs on a first-inning double in the finale.
• The Tigers rank fourth in the conference in stolen bases (47), led by 12 steals from OF Jeric Curtis .
• As a team, Mizzou ranks fifth in the SEC in fielding double plays (20).
• The Tigers' pitching staff ranks 32nd nationally in walks allowed per nine innings (3.68).

SCOUTING GEORGIA

• Led by first-year head coach Wes Johnson, the Bulldogs enter the weekend with a 25-8 overall mark and 5-7 SEC record to date.
• As a team, Georgia leads the SEC with a .448 on-base percentage and 89 home runs. The Bulldogs rank second in the circuit in runs scored (316), hitting (.323) and slugging (.634).
• Sophomore All-American Charlie Condon rates as one of the nation's top offensive threats, bringing the SEC's top batting average (.468), slugging percentage (1.081) and totals for hits (58), home runs (21) and total bases (134) into the weekend.
• Corey Collins has been a standout in the Bulldogs' lineup as well, hitting .382 with 12 home runs and 32 RBIs through just 25 appearances.
• On the mound, RHP Christian Mracna eads the rotation with a 3-2 record, 40 strikeouts and 3.86 ERA in a league-leading nine starts.
• RHP Brian Zeldin anchors the bullpen, entering Thursday's game with a sparkling 0.95 ERA to go along with three wins and four saves in 12 appearances.

HOW SWEEP IT IS

• Mizzou completed its second SEC series sweep of a top 10 conference foe in as many seasons on Sunday, securing its first-ever sweep of No. 6 Florida.
• The Tigers, who also swept Georia (May 12-14) and No. 4 Tennessee at Taylor Stadium (March 17-19) last spring, logged three consecutive one-run victories over the Gators.
• Mizzou pitching limited a potent UF lineup to a .196 batting mark for the series.
• RHP Logan Lunceford turned in 6.0 shutout innings in the opener, holding the Gators to a single hit, while combining with RHP Carter Rustad on a two-hit, 2-1 victory in 11 innings.
• The Tigers fanned a season-high 14 hitters in Sunday's finale and averaged 12.0 strikeouts per game for the series.
• At the plate, C Jedier Hernandez turned in a series to remember, hitting a club-best .417 while driving in key runs in each victory. He plated the game-winning run on an 11th inning single in Friday's opener, plated the tying run in the sixth inning of game two, then drove home two more runs in the finale.

CAN'T SLOW OUR ROLL

• In the Tigers' 15 wins this season, MU baserunners have been successful on 29-of-30 steal attempts.
• Mizzou posted five stolen bases each of its two wins over UT Martin (April 2-3), going 10-for-10 in steal attempts against the Skyhawks.
• The Tigers' last five-steal performance came on April 11, 2023 at Missouri State.
• INF Brock Daniels was a perfect 5-of-5 in steal attempts last week, including the first three-steal effort by a Tiger since 2022.
• For the season, Mizzou ranks fourth in the SEC with 47 steals (in 54 attempts) this season.
• OF Jeric Curtis leads the Tigers with 12 steals, which is good for seventh overall in the SEC.
• Additionally, freshman INF Drew Culbertson is a perfect 7-for-7 in steal attempts this spring.

PRIMETIME PIMENTAL

• Junior LHP Javyn Pimental has been one of the Tigers' key linchpins on the mound through the first eight weeks of the season as well, bringing a 2.48 ERA into the week.
• Pimental has registered dominant starts against top 25 teams in three straight weekend starts to open SEC play; the lefty notched his first victory of the season with 6.0 strong innings vs. No. 21 Kentucky (March 23), allowing just one run on four hits while fanning five; the previous week, he held No. 1 Arkansas hitless through four innings and posted 5.0 scoreless frames overall before yielding to his bullpen.
• For the season, the Hawaii native has fanned 33 batters — a single-season best for the junior — in 32.2 innings spanning seven total appearances.
• In his last six outings (five starts), Pimental has surrendered just six earned runs while striking out 28 batters over 29.0 innings, good for an ERA of 1.86.
• Over the same stretch dating back to March 1, the lefty has limited the opposition to a .177 batting average.

MIZZOU MILESTONES

• Several Tigers have reached or are approaching significant career milestones this season.
• Last Tuesday's game with UT Martin marked Kerrick Jackson's 200th career game as a Division I head coach.
• INF Danny Corona recorded the 100th hit of his collegiate career in last March 19 vs. Kansas at Kauffman Stadium.
• INF Trevor Austin sits atop the Tigers' leaderboard for career hits among active players with 142.
• Austin, who played in his 150th career game on Sunday vs. Florida, ranks fourth all-time at Mizzou in HBP (41) to go along with his 24 career homers, the latter of which is eight shy from cracking the Tigers' all-time top 10 list.
• Both LHP Ian Lohse and RHP Logan Lunceford enter this weekend's series within striking distance of reaching the 100-K plateau for their collegiate careers; Lunceford has 91 strikeouts to date, while Lohse enters Thursday's opener with 93 punchouts to his credit.
• C Jedier Hernandez's game-winning hit vs. Florida on Friday marked the 100th hit of his collegiate career.

SEC MOUND MASTERY

• The Mizzou pitching staff has met the challenge of SEC play, logging a team ERA of 3.84 over the Tigers' last three league series.
• Against three ranked opponents (Kentucky, Vanderbilt and Florida), the Tigers have limited the opposition to .223 hitting and an average of just 4.6 runs per game over the nine-game stretch.
• Mizzou's three weekend starting pitchers — RHP Logan Lunceford , LHP Javyn Pimental and RHP Carter Rustad — have combined to hold the opposition to 20 earned runs over their 48.0 total innings, while striking out 42 hitters.
• Additionally, the MU bullpen has been equally as effective, holding the Wildcats and Commodores to a .211 average. RHP Bryce Mayer has turned in 5.1 scoreless innings, combining with LHP Daniel Wissler , LHP Ryan Magdic and RHP Victor Quinn for 12.0 scoreless frames of relief work.

RANK AND FILE

• With their three wins over the sixth-ranked Gators, the Tigers can now boast of four total SEC wins over ranked opponents this season.
• Mizzou notched its first win over a top 25 foe March 23 with a 2-1 victory over No. 21 Kentucky.
• The victory over UK also marked head coach Kerrick Jackson's first conference win — as well as the first SEC win for a Black head coach in the circuit's history.
• Mizzou recorded seven wins over ranked opponents last season, but suffered 18 of its 24 overall losses against ranked clubs.
• This year, the Tigers could face as many as nine ranked SEC foes in weekend series, as each of their scheduled league opponents have spent time in at least one top 25 poll this spring.

TERRIFIC WITH TWO

• The Tigers have been clutch this season with two out, both at the plate and on the mound.
• Mizzou's offense has recorded 80 two-out RBIs in just 34 games, while hitting .291 (116-for-399) after the second out has been recorded in an inning this season.
• This past weekend vs. No. 6 Florida, Mizzou produced eight two-out RBIs, including all four of its runs in Saturday's game two victory.
• The Tigers also rallied for three runs with two out in the bottom of the ninth in the finale, overcoming a 10-8 defict to complete their first-ever sweep of the Gators.
• Jackson Lovich and Kaden Peer have been MU's most consistent two-out threats, hitting .310 (13-for-42) and .364 (12-for-33) in such situations, respectively.
• Mizzou pitchers have been equally dominant, holding the opposition to a collective .206 (75-for-364) two-out batting average.
• Brock Lucas has yet to allow a two-out hit, holding the opposition hitless in 25 official at-bats. Jacob Peaden has been nearly flawless as well, limiting MU's opponents to just two hits in 26 two-out at-bats (.077).

FOLLOW THE TIGERS

• Each of this weekend's games will be produced by the Tiger Radio Network for broadcast locally in Columbia via KTGR AM/FM (105.1 FM/100.5 FM/1580 AM) and streamed via the Varsity Network app.
• Thursday's series opener will be broadcast live on the SEC Network . Each of the final two games of the series will be streamed through SEC Network+.

TICKETS Mizzou baseball 2024 single-game tickets are on sale now. Fans can purchase tickets by calling the ticket office at 1-800-CAT-PAWS or by visiting  MUTigers.com/Tickets .

FOLLOW THE TIGERS For all the latest information on Mizzou baseball, please visit  MUTigers.com . For up-to-the-minute updates, follow the Tigers on  X ,  Instagram  and  Facebook .

Players Mentioned

#19 Trevor Austin

#12 Justin Colon

#23 Ian Lohse

#30 Carter Rustad

#1 Juju Stevens

#5 Brock Daniels

#4 Matt Garcia

#18 Jackson Lovich

#37 Brock Lucas

#48 Logan Lunceford

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