From charming coastal escapes (did you know Georgia had beaches?) to picturesque mountain retreats and historic towns, the hidden gems of Georgia go beyond its well-known cities and tourist hotspots. And many of these destinations won’t break the bank. Having explored the Peach State for decades, I’m sharing ten Georgia travel ideas you won’t want to miss.
While these destinations are family-friendly, this guide is geared toward adult travelers looking to explore beyond Georgia’s popular spots. Let’s explore the best of the Peach State!
Thomasville: Small-Town Southern Elegance
For a taste of classic Southern charm, Thomasville is a lesser-known gem and my quintessential perfect southern city. Known for its historic downtown, gorgeous gardens, and thriving arts scene, it’s a delightful stop on any Georgia road trip.
Are you ready to explore off the beaten path? Let us inspire you!
Best Things to Do
- Stroll through Downtown Thomasville for primo shopping and dining.
- Take a fantastic food tour, Taste of Thomasville, to eat your way through the city and learn the history and fun facts from Debbie, the creator of this long-running offering.
- Tour the stunning Pebble Hill Plantation.
- Visit the Thomasville Rose Garden in spring, where over 1500 rose bushes are blooming. Don’t miss Cherokee Lake Park, a great place to stroll around and take in the sights.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Enjoy farm-to-table dining (and the best Shrimp & Grits in Georgia) at Jonah’s Fish & Grits.
- Sip a tasty glass of wine and share a fabulous charcuterie board from Sweet Grass Dairy Cheese Shop.
Where to Stay
Enjoy a cozy stay in the aesthetically pleasing 1884 Paxton House. The rooms are stylishly decorated and the location is within walking distance of Downtown Thomasville. The complimentary breakfast alone (and the gorgeous blue dishes) will really wow you!
Fun Fact: Thomasville has been the film site for several movies, including The Tiger Rising, One Way, and Bandit.
Tybee Island: A Laid-Back Coastal Escape
Tybee Island is perfect if you love beachy vibes and charming seaside shops. Located just 20 minutes from Savannah, this little barrier island offers a relaxed atmosphere, historic sites, and yummy seafood. My husband and I like to go in early fall or around Christmas when Airbnb rentals are super affordable.
Best Things to Do
- Relax on Tybee Beach and enjoy the gentle waves. Back River has even fewer tourists and is an outstanding spot for dolphin spotting.
- Climb the Tybee Island Light Station (lighthouse) for breathtaking views. Only 178 steps!
- Get educated while you’re at Tybee Island with a tour of Fort Pulaski National Monument, where you can also get a stamp in your National Parks Passport.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Dine at The Original Crab Shack for an authentic coastal experience. Hearty appetites should brave the Captain’s Sampler Platter, which my husband successfully did.
- A-J’s Dockside Restaurant is a casual spot where the locals hang out. The food is good and the fresh seafood is off the hook, literally.
- Zunzibar offers award-winning sandwiches (the Conquistador is outrageously good!), original cocktails, amazing beer choices, and a fun sports-bar setting.
Where to Stay
DeSoto Beach Hotel is a beachfront hotel with classic coastal charm. It has been one of the most popular spots on the island for 20 years or more. Another option is renting an Airbnb property with multiple levels and several bedrooms. There seem to be hundreds to choose from at Tybee Island.
SheBuysTravel Pro Tip: Tybee Island is a great place to explore by bike. If you can’t bring one, there are a few rentals in the area.
Macon: The Heart of Georgia’s Music Scene
Macon is a must-visit for music lovers and history buffs. With its rich musical heritage, grand historic homes, and vibrant arts scene, there’s always something to explore. Come for the 10-day annual International Cherry Blossom Festival in mid to late March for the optimum photo ops and a fun celebration. The whole town gets decked out in pink.
Best Things to Do
- Reminisce about your favorite 70s songs at The Big House, the Allman Brothers Band Museum.
- Explore the stunning, historic Hay House.
- Spend time at the Tubman Museum to learn about African American history and admire the incredible exhibits.
- Catch live music at The Hummingbird Stage & Taproom.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Chow down at The Rookery, where the gourmet burgers are something to write home about. I loved the Jimmy Carter Burger, which has peanut butter and applewood-smoked bacon.
- Bearfoot Tavern has elevated bar food, and everything is good. Seriously. If I had to narrow down a suggestion, it would be the Banger Dog with beer cheese and sautéed onions.
Pro Tip: My waitress recommended a side of jelly for the Jimmy Carter Burger. It was a fantastic addition!
Where to Stay
My adult daughter and I had a fantastic stay at the Burke Mansion. This lavishly decorated antebellum mansion is owned by a gracious couple who love sharing their collectibles and “pretties” with their guests. The rooms have exquisite furnishings, and the common rooms are stunning.
Blue Ridge: A Mountain Escape
Blue Ridge is a must if you love the outdoors and cozy cabin vibes. Nestled in the North Georgia mountains, this small town offers breathtaking views, scenic hikes, and a charming downtown area with loads of cutesy stores. Fall is probably the most crowded time of year, but Blue Ridge is a four-season destination.
Best Things to Do
- Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, a four-hour, 26-mile trip along the Toccoa River’s North Georgia mountain area.
- Hike to Fall Branch Falls. Advanced hikers should continue to Long Creek Falls.
- Shop for local art and browse the adorable boutiques in downtown Blue Ridge; Canoe, Blue Ridge Booksellers, and Chester’s Provisions are a few of my most popular.
- Can you visit a mountain town and not shop in an antique store? The answer is no, so be sure to pop into Blue Ridge Antique Mall & Consignment, which is chock full of goodies.
Where to Eat and Drink
- You can eat surprisingly good Cuban food at Rum Cake Lady. Don’t forget to add a Cuban coffee or cortadito, my fave.
- Feast on a gourmet burger or sandwich at Chester Brunnemeyer’s Bar & Grill. The Pimento Cheese Chicken Sandwich is a mouthful of Southern flavors in one bite.
- Grab a treat at Mercier Orchards. Their fried pies are the stuff dreams are made of. I prefer peach.
Where to Stay
You’ll find plenty of accommodation options, but the Blue Ridge Inn Bed & Breakfast offers a cozy and historic mountain retreat. The Blue Sky Inn is another option, and very affordable.
SheBuysTravel Pro Tip: Wine enthusiasts should visit nearby Ellijay for aromatic wine samplings. I recommend Cartecay Vineyards, Engelheim Vineyards, and Frogtown Cellars.
St. Simons Island: A Coastal Gem
For a more secluded beach experience, St. Simons Island is a fantastic stop. This charming island town offers gorgeous beaches, rich history, and a slower pace of life, making it ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Best Things to Do
- Visit the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, a super fun way to get in steps and capture awesome photo ops from the top.
- Explore the historic Christ Church with a bonus Louis Comfort Tiffany stained glass window.
- Give your clubs a workout on one of the premier golf courses. You may even rub elbows with the PGA pros or tour residents living at nearby Sea Island.
- Take a Cap Fendig tour (Lighthouse Trolley Tours) by open-air trolley or boat, where you can expect marshlands, unique birds, and even a driftwood beach area.
- Browse the unique boutiques in Pier Village Market, like Savannah Bee Company, for one.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Try the famous shrimp and grits at Georgia Sea Grill. They’re a great date night dinner choice paired with a lovely glass of vino. The escargot is sublime, too!
- Indulge in a spicy Nashville hot chicken sandwich from Porch, which has been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.
Where to Stay
The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort, a luxurious beachfront resort, is synonymous with St. Simons Island; my family has approved of this charming property for 25+ years. From gorgeous rooms and high-end restaurants to a convenient spa and a host of amenities, you will also find a bit of romance at this boujee address.
Helen: A Bavarian-Inspired Getaway
For a taste of Bavaria in Georgia, Helen is a unique stop that rivals a trip to Germany. This Alpine-themed village is known for its festive atmosphere, beautiful mountain setting, and fun outdoor activities. It is also primo for people watching.
Best Things to Do
- Tube (river tubing) down the Chattahoochee River, weather permitting.
- Take a short hike (0.9-mile out-and-back trail) to Anna Ruby Falls at Unicoi State Park.
- Browse the cute and fun shops in downtown Helen. You could spend hours browsing in this adorable town.
- For a unique opportunity, go for a spin on the Georgia Mountain Coaster.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Sample German beer and food at Hofbrauhaus Restaurant & Pub. The inside dining room is lovely, but the outdoor patio overlooking the Chattahoochee River is where all the action is.
- Visit Habersham Winery, one of Georgia’s oldest and largest wineries, for a tasting. Scarlett, a red blend, is my top choice.
- Another international eatery to try in Helen is Muller’s Famous Fried Cheese Cafe, serving Czech and German food. Do yourself a favor and try the Original Hungarian Goulash with Bread Dumplings. you will thank me later. Muller’s also serves breakfast food.
Where to Stay
Valhalla Resort Hotel is perfect for a luxury mountain retreat. At Unicoi State Park, you can camp, RV, or overnight in a lodge room. This state park will wow you and the setting is stunning. There are even glamping Safari Tents to choose from.
SheBuysTravel Pro Tip: Fall is gorgeous in the North Georgia Mountains. It’s my favorite time; you can go to pumpkin patches and autumn markets.
Savannah: Southern Charm & Historic Beauty
Savannah epitomizes Southern elegance with its oak-lined streets, historic squares, and stunning waterfront. It’s the perfect road trip destination for history lovers, foodies, and those who adore boutique or antique shopping, and the one my family visited monthly for several years. You could say we are fans, but it is equally enjoyable on a girlfriend’s getaway or a romantic trip with your significant other.
Best Things to Do
- Wander through Forsyth Park, one of Savannah’s most iconic spots and one of its 23 squares.
- Take a ghost tour for some spooky fun. The historic Bonaventure Cemetery will most likely be on the itinerary.
- Explore River Street, a brick walkway along the Savannah River, for unique shops and historical monuments.
- Board the Georgia Queen (Savannah Riverboat Cruises) for a sightseeing boat cruise with a live guide and optimum sunsets or brunch offerings.
- Get tickets for the Old Town Trolley and hop on/hop off the bus to see the most iconic sites, which will save you a few bucks.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Enjoy high tea at Gryphon, operated by SCAD. The elegant interior, dark mahogany bookcases, and lovely stained glass will transport you to a bygone era.
- Alligator Soul is always tasty, with expertly crafted Shrimp and Grits.
- Olde Pink House is an oldie but a goodie and a dining spot where you’ll be treated like royalty and treated to a 10/10 meal. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
Where to Stay
The Marshall House, a beautifully restored boutique hotel with historic charm, is great for those who want to possibly experience a ghost encounter. An alternative is the elegant Desoto, a Historic Hotel of America in Savannah’s Historic District. It boasts a rooftop pool and patio, affording views of Madison Square.
Pro Tip: It rains a lot in Savannah. Rain boots and a big umbrella are recommended.
Marietta: A Historic and Artsy Gem
Marietta offers Southern hospitality with a creative twist. Known for its quaint town square, historic sites, and lively arts scene, it’s a fun and easy road trip stop. However, I’ve only been to Marietta once, with my husband, on a day trip, but we really liked it and would like to spend more time there.
Best Things to Do
- Catch a show at the Earl Smith Strand Theatre.
- Tour the unique Gone with the Wind Museum at Brumby Hall. If you’re a fan, you’ll thank me later.
- Stroll around the downtown square and enjoy its local shops and Glover Park.
- Indulge in Marietta’s tremendous art scene by exploring the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art and eye-catching murals.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Enjoy scrumptious pizza and equally as good salad from Marietta Pizza Co.
- Then, walk down the street to Pie Bar and satisfy your sweet tooth with one of their delightful sweet treats, such as Key lime, brown sugar chess, or tart cherry crumble.
- Visit Marietta Square Market for great food hall choices, ranging from Phillys and Cuban food to vegan and Korean food.
FYI: See the Big Chicken-shaped sign for a Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant built in 1956 at the intersection of Cobb Parkway and Roswell Road. It’s a Marietta landmark.
Dunwood: Steeped in History and Brimming with Modern Vitality
Dunwoody, an under-the-radar Atlanta suburb, offers a mix of city convenience and suburban charm, perfect for a weekend getaway, road trip, or even a day trip visit. Enjoy upscale shopping, the thriving food scene, and several outdoor parks. With its proximity to Georgia’s biggest city, Dunwoody is a fantastic home base for travelers looking to experience the city while staying in a relaxed and less expensive setting.
Best Things to Do
- Wander the Dunwoody Nature Center, a 22-acre nature preserve that promises a serene setting.
- Shop at Perimeter Mall with favorites like Nordstrom, Apple, J. Crew, and Lush.
- Spruill Center For The Arts is a multi-use property where you can take an art class, explore galleries, and shop in a one-of-a-kind 1840s Victorian homestead.
- Treat yourself to a heavenly massage or body treatment at Woodhouse Spa.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Novo Cucina is great for wood-fired pizzas and tasty Italian eats like Polpette (meatballs) and Bolognese. They also have a fantastic affogato and many flavors of gelato.
- Eclipse Di Luna is known for its Latin and Spanish cuisines. Its tapas, empanadas, and sangria reign supreme.
- Fangirl at Cafe Intermezzo, a European-style coffeehouse that features gourmet desserts, crepes, and pastries, as well as an even more impressive coffee (boozy options, too), tea, adult libations, and champagne cocktail menu.
Where to Stay
Le Meridien Atlanta Perimeter, a boutique hotel, gets my vote on where to stay in Dunwoody. Its outdoor pool is quaint and private and offers cute little cabanas. The hotel even offers a shuttle for things within a two-mile radius.
Cordele: The Gateway to South Georgia
I ended up in Cordele to check out a really nice state park. Known as the Watermelon Capital of the World, Cordele is a charming South Georgia town with a laid-back feel, beautiful scenery, and a picturesque lake. History buffs, couples, and those wanting a serene escape from city life are in for a real treat.
Best Things to Do
- Visit Georgia Veterans State Park and go for a scenic bike ride. You’ll also want to take in the outdoor Military Museum that includes tanks, a B-29A Superfortress, a helicopter, and more.
- Rent a boat and get out on the water at Lake Blackshear. Stay for the epic sunsets.
- Ride the SAM Shortline Excursion Train to Plains, Georgia, or enjoy one of the dinner, holiday, or unique event train rides.
- Bring your clubs and get in a good game of golf on a gorgeous course that won’t break the bank.
Where to Eat and Drink
- Railhouse Tavern is a local spot that’s great for wings, burgers, and craft beer selection.
- Cypress Grill (adjacent to the marina and overlooking the lake) and Cordelia’s (onsite) are recommended at Lake Blackshear Resort & Golf Club. Both have delicious food and a lovely setting. I didn’t expect food this good to come from a state park, which is a big compliment. Go for the burgers and signature shrimp & grits, respectively.
Where to Stay
Lake Blackshear Resort & Golf Club is a fantastic property full of southern hospitality and a blissful landscape. Accommodations range from cozy cabins, lodge rooms, and glamping sites to RV and tent camping spots.
SheBuysTravel Pro Tip: Check the live music schedule at Cypress Grill online. Past performers have included Lee Brice, Zac Brown Band, and Atlanta Rhythm Section.
Which of these road trips would you most like to experience? Comment and let us know your favorite Georgia road trips.
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