25 Best Places To Visit In Georgia - Updated 2024

best places to visit in georgia
Priyanjali
Priyanjali 
Updated
| 13 min read

A hotspot of activity during the American Civil War, Georgia claims its fame as the last of the 13 original colonies in the USA. The state is home to some of the world’s most stunning natural wonders and has a rich cultural and historical background, all of which you can explore. While Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is wildly famous for outdoor junkies, Georgia’s beautiful region offers the best balance of energy and laid-back fun, making it an ideal vacation destination for all kinds of travellers. There’s also a multitude of Airbnb cabins and treehouse hotels available to extend your enjoyment. Offering an array of attractions from bustling cities to historical sites, these are the best places to visit in Georgia. Plan your Southern getaway and prepare yourself for a unique style of hospitality.

1. Cloudland Canyon State Park

Cloudland Canyon State Park
Source: Photo by Flickr user Jeff Gunn used under CC BY 2.0

Cloudland Canyon State Park is one of the best places to go in GA if you’re looking for nature-filled adventures. It features deep canyons, sandstone cliffs, wild caves, waterfalls, creeks, dense woodland, and abundant wildlife. Nature abounds as you travel through the many walking and hiking trails around the park. There is even a biking trail that visitors can take.

The park also offers horseback riding, a picnic area, a fishing pond, and disc golf. You’re also spoilt for amazing views around the park. Guests can also stay overnight and can choose to sleep in a cottage, a yurt, or other camping options.

Cloudland Canyon State Park

Address: 122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738, United States

Website: Cloudland Canyon State Park

Opening hours: 7am - 10pm (daily)

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2. Marietta

All About Marietta, Ga & Surrounding Areas
Source: Photo by Flickr user Marcia Todd used under CC BY 2.0

Marietta is the fourth-biggest city in Georgia and one of the best destinations to include on your travel list. The rich history behind this amazing city is sure to be quite the treat for history buffs, with places like the famous Kennesaw House and Marietta Square calling back to the American Civil War.

History buffs aren’t the only ones getting a treat when visiting this city as those who like the paranormal can take a ghost tour around the city, including the Confederate Cemetery. There’s also Kennesaw Mountain for nature lovers. Let’s not forget The Big Chicken, which is a regular KFC restaurant but its 17-meter (55.7-foot) tall statue has become a well-known landmark in the city.

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3. St. Marys

GA St Marys Orange Hall02
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 3.0

A trip to St. Marys is often clubbed with one to Cumberland Island and that is because this is the gateway to Cumberland Island National Seashore. Visitors can hitch ferry rides to Cumberland Island, partake in its many beautiful offerings, and return to enjoy the attractions at St. Marys as well. While in the city, trips to St. Marys Submarine Museum and Crooked River State Park will be pretty interesting. Else, the annual St. Marys Rock Shrimp Festival is quite the event that you can attend. It is a single-day event that is usually hosted in October, so do check when it’s happening and plan your visit accordingly.

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4. Cumberland Island

Ruins of Dungeness Mansion (20953578332)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jamie used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Boasting 28 km (17 miles) of sandy beaches, rich historical value, a variety of animal and bird species, and hordes of camera-toting tourists, Cumberland Island has all the makings of a fairytale destination. The island’s tranquil beaches and verdant forests make it a nature creature’s paradise, and bird watchers can find peace lying back and admiring the flocks of birds. One of the most amazing sights in this tourist attraction is the wild horses casually sauntering and grazing through Dungeness Mansion’s ruins. If you’re wondering where to visit in Georgia, this one is really quite a stunning destination to consider.

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5. Augusta

Augusta National Golf Club, Hole 10 (Camellia)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mbrooks used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Perched along the Savannah River, Augusta has its claim to fame as Georgia’s second-oldest city. While it has tons to offer with its local attractions, satisfying eateries, and beautiful riverfront, it is most famous among golf enthusiasts. Augusta National Golf Club hosts its annual Professional Golfers’ Association Masters tournament in the month of April, and fans from all over flock to watch.

Off the course, a stroll along Augusta Riverwalk can be a pretty peaceful experience, or you can rent a kayak or canoe and go about wading through the waters of Augusta Canal. Else, a visit to Morris Museum of Art and Augusta Museum of History will also be worth your while.

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6. Atlanta (from USD 69.0)

Georgia’s capital city and pretty much the state’s aorta, Atlanta is a wonderful mishmash of energetic modern experiences and humbling historical roots. It is touted to be “the Empire City of the South” and is home to several noteworthy places such as Atlanta History Center, Centennial Olympic Park, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, CNN Studio, and World of Coca-Cola. Georgia Aquarium is also a must-see, especially if you’re kids are fond of aquatic animals such as African penguins, whale sharks, manta rays, and more.

Bibliophiles can also check out novelist Margaret Mitchell’s home, now turned into a museum, and see the place where she wrote her most famous work, “Gone with the Wind”. Another fantastic experience is a ride on the Skyview Ferris Wheel to catch some scintillating views of Atlanta’s cityscape.

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Atlanta 5-Hour Sightseeing Bus Tour

Duration: 5 hours

644 reviews

7. Johns Creek

Johns Creek Georgia City Hall
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Thomson200 used under CC0

Johns Creek is a suburban city about 40 km (25 miles) from downtown Atlanta. Sprawling parks, six golf facilities, and a host of interesting annual festivals make the city a great combination of lively and relaxed, attracting tourists looking for a chill time. While here, you can enjoy a picnic along the banks of Chattahoochee River or a refreshing hike up to Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Centre. Do also give the city’s piano bars or rock-n-roll eateries a chance - you’ll take back memories for a lifetime!

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8. Savannah (from USD 29.0)

Savannah, with its cobblestone streets lined by lush oaks and lavish Southern American-style mansions, is quite a beautiful city to explore. While the downtown commercial centre is a thriving urban district, River Street, Forsyth Park, and City Market are other popular haunts to sightsee. For a fantastic experience, you may even head to one of the many cafes, galleries, or stores along Savannah River Street and enjoy superb views of the riverfront. Rides on horse-drawn carriages are quite the thing here, so hitch one for an unforgettable experience in this picturesque city.

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Savannah Trolley Tour, with Guide

Duration: 2 to 8 hours

4312 reviews

9. Tybee Island (from USD 69.0)

Tybee Island can very well be dubbed Savannah’s beach resort, and it is only a 20-minute drive from the city centre. The island’s beach is about eight kilometres (five miles) long and offers plenty of activities, enormous relaxation, and scenic beauty, with sand dunes bordering the beach’s perimeter.

While hiking, sailing, fishing, boating, and sunbathing are a few of the many activities you can do here, do also take some time out to see the beautiful Tybee Lighthouse just a short distance from the beach. For history buffs, a trip to historical places like Fort Pulaski National Monument or Tybee Museum may also be a rewarding experience.

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Tybee Island Day Trip and Dolphin Cruise from Savannah

Duration: 5 to 6 hours

826 reviews

10. Blue Ridge (from USD 105.0)

Oozing an artistic vibe and charm like no other, Blue Ridge is a mountainous region home to friendly locals, stylish shops, upscale restaurants, exquisite wineries and breweries, verdant orchards, and calm lakes, all against the backdrop of the pretty Blue Ridge Mountains. Here also stand’s Georgia’s tallest summit, Brasstown Bald. While a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is perhaps the best way to soak in the area’s beauty, hiking through the mountains or camping in cosy mountain cabins can also make for refreshing experiences.

You can even rent yourself a pontoon on Lake Blue Ridge and spend time marvelling at the beauty all around. Else, fishing enthusiasts may even go trout fishing on the crystal-clear waters of Toccoa River.

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Blue Ridge Parkway Waterfalls Hiking Tour with Guide

Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes

479 reviews

11. Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Jo Jakeman used under CC BY 2.0

Another ideal destination for beach bums is Jekyll Island, which was once an exclusive beach resort for millionaires such as the Rockefellers, J.P. Morgan, the Astors, and the Vanderbilts. Today, it is accessible to all. One of the barrier islands of Georgia, Jekyll Island features an interesting historic district, nature trails, golfing facilities, pristine beaches, and excellent camping areas, making it a popular getaway destination. You can hitch one of the many tram, carriage, bicycle, or walking tours available and explore. 

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12. Duluth

Downtown Duluth, Minnesota Skyline (25406820466)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Tony Webster used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Duluth is famous for the many public events and fun festivals it hosts throughout the year, attracting thousands of tourists from the state and beyond. The town is a pleasant mix of small-town charm and a big-city vibe, offering plenty of unforgettable experiences and tourist attractions. While trips to the Southeastern Railway Museum, Hudgens Center for the Arts, and Arena at Gwinnett Center are fail-safe, attending one of the concerts, such as Barefoot in the Park or Duluth Fall Festival will make for unique experiences as well.

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13. St. Simons Island

St. Simons Island
Source: Pixabay

Abundant wildlife, extensive beaches and marshlands, plenty of fishing and water sports opportunities, and more than 10 historic sites make up St. Simons Island, bordered by hundred-year-old majestic oaks. In addition to these, this place also offers great dining and shopping options, all of which make it the largest and most developed of Georgia’s Golden Isles.

St. Simons Island offers some brilliant coastal living, where you can spend time exploring quaint neighbourhoods, hitting up lively eateries, admiring unmatched natural beauty, and relaxing at the beach. This island is also considered one of the barrier islands of Georgia, alongside Sapelo Island, Jekyll Island, and Sea Island.

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14. Athens

Athens, Georgia City Hall 2008
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Richardelainecham... used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Home to the University of Georgia, Athens is very much the university town, oozing a chirpy vibe and a loaded arts scene all at once. Perhaps the most exciting area here is downtown, where you’ll find beautiful churches, important government buildings, art galleries and studios, bustling bars and eateries, and boutiques and shops galore. Else, Athens Institute for Contemporary Art, State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Georgia Museum of Art, and Georgia Museum of Natural History are among the many amazing places you can visit here.

You can also catch a performance at the Georgia Theatre or Morton Theatre and entertain yourself. Or go hiking at Sandy Creek Nature Center or Birchmore Trail for a wonderful time in nature.

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15. Macon

Macon
Source: Pixabay

Macon is the right kind of laidback. Although it is away from the hustle and bustle of larger cities, this place has a charm of its own. The town is touted to be the festival capital of the state and hosts more than 20 events and festivals each year, from Macon Film Festival to the International Cherry Blossom Festival - the ambit is quite large. Plus, their food scene is just as fabulous, whether it’s fine dining at Dovetail or a casual lunch at Oliver’s Corner Bistro.

The town is also famous for its craft beer pubs, so do head to Macon Beer Company, Ocmulgee Brewpub, or Piedmont Brewery & Kitchen. Other than that, spending some time at one of the art galleries, such as Macon Arts Alliance, 567 Center for Renewal, Gallery West, or Middle Georgia Art Association may also be worth your while. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts can feed their thrills at High Falls State Park.

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16. Dahlonega

Public Square North, Dahlonega, GA
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Gwringle used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Dahlonega is cosily nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in northern Georgia. From breathtaking natural landscapes to a power-packed commercial scene, this destination packs quite a punch. While scenic drives along the Lumpkin-Union Loop are a fail-safe experience, exploring the town’s wineries will be just as amazing. Cavender Creek Vineyards and Wolf Mountain Vineyards are the most popular local wineries here.

You can also partake in some culinary delights - Yahoola Creek Grill in Dahlonega offers the best Southern fare, so be sure to try their Southern burger with fried green tomatoes and pimento cheese, or the pecan-crusted chicken. Plus, early November kicks off Dahlonega’s Old-Fashioned Christmas, a month-long festival that accentuates the town’s charm. During this time, the place is twinkling with fairy lights and storefronts are adorned with garlands and other decoratives. Do try planning your trip around this time, as the beauty is almost unreal!

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17. Lumpkin

Providence Canyon State Park in southwest Georgia (13)
Source: Photo by user Soil Science used under CC BY 2.0

Lumpkin is home to an impressive array of canyons, gullies, and pockets that are truly nature’s work of art. Head to Providence Canyon State Park and you’ll understand - 45-m (150-ft) duo-toned canyons and wondrous geology galore! You can check out one of the superb astronomy spots or join the geology hike and return thoroughly enlightened. Other than that, the town has a limited - but decent - spread of cafes, shops, and restaurants to hit up.

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18. Clarkesville

Mauldin House - Clarkesville, GA
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user ТимофейЛееСуда used under CC0

Another one of Georgia’s cities that occupy the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is Clarkesville, a place that looks like something straight out of a storybook. Walking tours of the city’s downtown are a dime a dozen and probably the best way to soak in the beauty, so try to join one. Mauldin House and Garden, a Victorian-style cottage, is a fantastic example of architecture that you can check out. While here, you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with nature. Enjoy a picnic at Mary Street Park or Sam Pitts Park, both by the Soque River.

For automobile junkies, remember to head up to Alpine Antique Auto & Buggy Museum and admire their superb collection of antique vehicles, including buggies, wagons, cars, and trucks. Load up with some cash since the museum also offers some of these antique vehicles for sale!

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19. Tallulah Falls

20161108-108A2554_HDR
Source: Photo by user Rain0975 used under CC BY-ND 2.0

Overlooking the Tallulah Gorge and its six impressive waterfalls, Tallulah Falls is a nature creature’s dream destination. If heading here, do pack your comfiest pair of shoes and hike at Tallulah Gorge State Park, the town’s star attraction, which has plenty of hiking tours and whitewater kayaking opportunities.

Shoreline Trail, following the Old Tallulah Falls Railroad Bed, is a pretty popular hiking spot amongst tourists for the many brilliant views it allows. Head to the park during the fall season to experience a unique iridescence of colours - a completely postcard-perfect sight and a sublime experience overall. Other than that, swimming, fishing, or boating on Lake Yonah and Lake Tugalo are also quite fun.

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20. Alpharetta

Uedem - Uedemer Hochwald 01 ies
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Frank Vincentz used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Halfway between Atlanta’s fast-paced pulse and the enchanting beauty of North Georgia Mountains is Alpharetta, the best combination of both sides. The town has a great shopping scene, with about five distinct shopping districts offering everything from artisanal products to everyday fast fashion and no dearth of outdoor recreation and dining spots as well. While Avalon combines shopping, eating, and playing, Big Creek Greenway Trail is fantastic for walking or biking.

If you’re around town anytime between May to October, do head over to the Alpharetta Food Truck Alley downtown, where five savoury and two dessert trucks are stationed every Thursday night selling everything from Japanese dumplings to quesadillas. Finger-licking food along with live music - a winning duo, no?

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21. Lithonia

Vernal Pool - Arabia Mountain
Source: Photo by user Eric Foster used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

If you’re the kind who doesn’t mind walking around, soaking in the essence of a charming city, Lithonia is the place for you. Boasting lots of historic spots and fine architecture, Lithonia is a small but interesting family vacation destination. Although most of the city’s attraction lies in the Mall at Stonecrest - which is operational throughout the year - catching a show at Lithonia Stewart Amphitheater is also a fun prospect. Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, a place that offers one-of-a-kind, picture-perfect sights also get quite a bit of the limelight. You can head here for an incredible outdoor experience. Do keep those cameras ready!

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22. Pine Mountain

Callaway Gardens - April 2008
Source: Photo by user Tony Crescibene used under CC BY 2.0

Pine Mountain, with its cute boutiques, loaded history, and plenty of recreational activities, encapsulates the allure of a small Southern town. It is an ideal destination for some laidback chilling, such as a day outing at Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park or feeding animals at Wild Animal Safari. Pine Mountain’s most famous property is Callaway Gardens Resort and Preserve, which has the state’s best golf course and offers excellent hiking, fishing, and horseback riding opportunities. If nothing, you could just spend hours in their verdant, scenic gardens. Do head here for an unforgettable experience.

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23. Canton

Canton Theatre, Georgia
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Thomson200 used under CC0

Canton offers some striking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Etowah River flowing through, making it a completely pedestrian-friendly town. Lace into your comfiest pair of shoes and stroll along Canton’s quiet streets lined with historic, Southern-style architecture. If done walking around, head to Canton Farmers’ Market in the downtown area. This market is set up every Saturday morning from May to September, so spend some time sampling local flavours while here.

Cherokee County History Museum and Visitors Center is another great place you can check out. Else, head to Brown Park during the summer months for Movies in the Park, an open-air event. Theatre performances at Canton Theatre are also quite the thing, so try catching one too.

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24. Blairsville

Day 113 - Downtown Blairsville, GA
Source: Photo by user Stephen Rahn used under CC0

Check out the dazzling Helton Creek Falls and the turquoise-blue waters of Lake Nottely, camp at Vogel State Park, visit Sleepy Hollow - Whimsical Fairy Garden, and savour hearty meals at Hole in the Wall. These will make up a few of the many fantastic things to do at Blairsville. While camping, fishing, or boating across Lake Nottely is probably the best way to admire the area’s picturesque beauty, spending a night or two at Vogel State Park’s top-class cabins will be just as fabulous.

A trip to Sleepy Hollow is a must if you’re in town with little ones - they can explore the child-size cottages at the park. All said, Blairsville may be a small town, but it’s not a boring one.

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25. Fayetteville

Welcome to Fayetteville Ga
Source: Photo by user George Creal used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Just an hour’s drive from Atlanta, Fayetteville is the quintessential suburb city - minimal hustle and bustle and plenty of relaxation. While the downtown area has quite a few cafes, local shops, and restaurants that you can hit up, several great public parks are strewn across the city so you can enjoy a peaceful time outdoors. For a chill destination, head here.

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Heart of the American South

Georgia sits at the cusp of modernity and its Southern stronghold from the past, offering an interesting mix of experiences to the many tourists who head here, such as scenic train rides and wine tours. Although, no matter how fresh things might look here, they retain the charm of the Antebellum South. These are the best places to visit in Georgia, USA, that will add just the right kind of memories to your day trips and holidays, so start planning!

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Priyanjali, a writer and traveler, identifies as a self-proclaimed aesthete dedicated to achieving fulfillment in her personal and professional life. Her skill lies in transforming intangible...Read more

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