Gorgeous Georgia is mostly known for being home to charming historic cities filled with leafy squares and oak-lined streets, sprawling farmlands, towering mountains, and lashings of Southern charm. It was a tough task, but I’ve managed to narrow down my favorite places…
1. Savannah
I found that this impressively preserved coastal Southern city – which dates from 1733 – was stunning home to an enchanting blend of cobblestone streets, moss-draped oak trees, grand antebellum mansions, elegant squares filled with fountains and flowers, and well-preserved historic buildings.
I started my Georgia trip flying into Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) and stayed for a charming four days at the 4-star historic boutique Kehoe House and I loved the city’s romantic, soulful vibe – it felt artistic, slightly mysterious, and steeped in Southern charm!
I spent it wandering the oak-shaded squares and cobblestone streets of the Savannah Historic District, exploring the elegant Mercer-Williams House and Telfair Academy, strolling through Forsyth Park, admiring the haunting beauty of Bonaventure Cemetery and the iconic oak-lined drive at Wormsloe Historic Site.
I also explored the historic cotton warehouses turned into boutiques, bars, and galleries out in the lively, historic waterfront district River Street, sampled Southern Cuisine from crispy fried green tomatoes at the upscale Olde Pink House to the golden and crumbly corn muffins and okra gumbo at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 301 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Savannah, GA 31401
- Location: southeastern part of the state
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: population around 148,800
My favorite highlights…
- Going on a romantic dinner cruise with Savannah Riverboat Cruises – I loved the sailing on a historic paddlewheel boat, the old historic waterfront views, the live jazz and the Southern-style buffet (especially the Baked Tilapia and Savannah Red Rice)!
2. St Simons Island
I thought this laid-back barrier island off Georgia’s coast was a gem! I loved its wide, golden-sand beaches, ancient live oak trees draped in Spanish moss, scenic salt marshes, charming historic landmarks and the quaint cottages and boutiques.
I crossed the causeway from Brunswick and reached St. Simons in just 15 minutes, it was an awesome peaceful drive over the tidal rivers and I stayed for a relaxing 3 days. It had a relaxed, coastal village vibe with a touch of Southern charm – it felt peaceful, friendly, and a little nostalgic too!
- Location: part of the Golden Isles, off the southeastern coast of Georgia (between Savannah and Jacksonville)
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: 17 square miles and population around 16,000 people
My favorite highlights…
- Dining at the upscale Georgia Sea Grill – I loved the chic vibe, how it sourced ingredients from its own kitchen garden, and the decadent Georgia Pecan Pie which came drizzled in rich, golden Bourbon Honey!
3. Tallulah Falls State Park
I thought this scenic natural area was beautiful for its jaw-dropping two-mile-long gorge carved by the rushing Tallulah River, its six dramatic waterfalls tumbling over rocky cliffs, forested canyon walls and its striking suspension bridge.
I drove just over an hour southeast from the Northeast Georgia Mountains, following a lovely forested route that hugged hills and rivers. It had a wild, adventurous vibe that felt rugged, dramatic, and invigorating!
I spent a full day hiking the Tallulah Gorge Overlook Trail for breathtaking canyon views, crossing the swaying Suspension Bridge, see the powerful waterfalls from Inspiration Point, walking the easy Shortline Trail past the interesting Tallulah Falls Dam, and cooling off at Tallulah Lake Beach.
- Address: 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
- Location: northeast part of the state
- Map Location and Direction
- Size: spans around 2,700 acres
- Wildlife: white-tailed deer, raccoons, river otters, wild turkeys, and birds of prey like red-tailed hawks and peregrine falcons.
My highlights…
4. Jekyll Island 
This much-loved tranquil barrier island off Georgia’s coast was an extraordinary beauty spot! It had a mix of hauntingly scenic beaches like Driftwood Beach with its twisted, sun-bleached trees, serene marshlands, wide sandy stretches, centuries-old moss-draped oak forests, and elegant historic buildings.
It was a quick 30-minute drive south from St. Simons Island to Jekyll Island, passing marshland and scenic stretches along the coast. It had a peaceful, slow-paced, nostalgic vibe – it felt secluded and nature-filled, with a quiet elegance from its historic charm. I loved that it was atmospheric that it’s been used as a filming location for X-Men movies and The Walking Dead!
I spent three days here wandering the eerie Driftwood Beach, biking the scenic island loop trail, touring the elegant Jekyll Island Club and Faith Chapel, spotting dolphins at St. Andrews Beach Park, picnicking on family-friendly Great Dunes beachfront park and visiting the Georgia Sea Turtle Center to see rescued turtles up close.
- Visitor’s Center Address: 901 Downing Musgrove Causeway, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
- Location: southeastern coast of the state, between Brunswick and St. Simons Island
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: covers around 5,700 acres
- Wildlife: nesting sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, deer, alligators, wading birds like herons and egrets, and migratory shorebirds
My favorite highlights…
- Educating myself about the super-cute sea turtles at Georgia Sea Turtle Center – I really enjoyed learning about how they care for injured turtles and seeing them in recovery in the rehabilitation tanks.
5. Cumberland Island
I loved Georgia’s largest and wildest barrier island! Part of a National Park, it was home to 17 miles of windswept, undeveloped beaches backed by towering dunes, serene salt marshes, ancient live oak forests draped in Spanish moss, and haunting historic sites and my favorite – wild horses roaming freely across the landscape (although I had to respect their space as they could be quite frisky)!
I continued just over an hour south from Jekyll Island to St. Marys, then caught the 45-minute ferry to reach the wild beaches of Cumberland Island. It had a wild, untouched vibe, it felt remote, mysterious, and timeless, with a dreamlike mix of natural solitude and faded grandeur.
I spent three days here hiking and biking through moss-draped forests to the haunting Dungeness Ruins, touring the grand Plum Orchard Mansion, discovering the intriguing historic Chapel and Cemetery at Stafford Plantation, relaxing on the untouched beaches, and spotting wild horses, armadillos, and birds along the island’s trails (there were 50 miles of them in total)!
- Visitor’s Center Address: 113 St Marys St W, St Marys, GA 31558
- Location: southeastern coast of the state, near the Florida border
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: around 36,000 acres
- Wildlife: wild horses, armadillos, loggerhead sea turtles, alligators, dolphins, and over 300 species of birds
My highlights…
Staying at the historic Greyfield Inn – with its 1900s Carnegie-era architecture, candlelit dinners made with garden-grown ingredients, and vintage bikes for exploring the island it actually felt like stepping back into the Gilded Age in the middle of the wild!
6. Madison
I thought this charming small town was very easy-on-the-eye with its wide, oak-shaded streets lined with impeccably preserved antebellum mansions, manicured gardens, and a walkable historic district filled with 19th-century architecture, fountains, and charming Southern storefronts!
It was a 1.5-hour drive northeast from my previous visit in Macon to Madison and it was a relaxed journey through green rolling hills and quiet backroads. It had a refined, timeless vibe which felt peaceful, genteel, and steeped in Southern elegance, like a very graceful step back into the 1800s!
I spent two packed days touring the grand Heritage Hall and Rogers House, strolling through the elegant Town Park, browsing antiques at Unique Treasures of Madison, admiring folk art at the Steffen Thomas Museum, and visiting Rose Cottage which was built by Adeline Rose (one of the first African-Americans to own property after being freed from slavery).
- Visitor’s Center Address: 115 E Jefferson St, Madison, GA 30650
- Location: northeast Georgia
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: population around 5,100
My highlights…
- Tasting modern twists of traditional Southern Cuisine at the trendy Town 220 – I loved the exposed brick decor, my dish of charred okra with smoked paprika aioli, the roasted beet salad and candied pecans and the divine Jack Daniels Bread Pudding which came with a velvety whiskey caramel sauce!
7. Providence Canyon State Park
I thought this jaw-dropping place was very underrated! Often called “Little Grand Canyon,” it was a dramatic network of deep, multicolored gullies carved into soft sandstone, where vivid red, orange, pink, and white canyon walls rose above wildflower-filled trails, pine forests, and sweeping scenic overlooks!
I made the long inland drive north from Okefenokee Swamp for 4 hours, crossing forested stretches and farmland to reach the colorful canyons near Lumpkin. It had a rugged, otherworldly vibe, it felt remote, quiet, and unexpectedly dramatic, like discovering a hidden desert landscape tucked into rural Georgia!
I spent a packed day hiking the Canyon Loop Trail which had incredible views of the colorful gullies, camped overnight at a backcountry site, explored the floor of Providence Canyon, and visited the rusted 1950s-era cars left behind by former homesteaders near the White Blaze Trail.
- Location: southwest Georgia, near the town of Lumpkin
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: spans approximately 1,003 acres
- Wildlife: white-tailed deer, armadillos, wild turkeys, and lizards
My highlights…
- Camping overnight at a remote Backcountry Campsite along the trail – it took a 2-mile hike through pine woods to reach it, but I loved the total solitude, the crackle of the campfire under the stars, and waking up to golden canyon views!
8. Lookout Mountain
I thought this dramatic mountain ridge was beautiful for its sweeping panoramic vistas stretching across seven states, dramatic sandstone cliffs, lush valleys, cascading waterfalls like Ruby Falls hidden inside a cave, and iconic spots like Rock City with its winding garden trails, stone bridges, and whimsical rock formations!
I drove 2 hours northwest along scenic ridge roads from Lake Allatoona and into the rising hills to reach the summit at Lookout Mountain. It had a bold, adventurous vibe – it felt dramatic, scenic, and slightly whimsical, blending natural wonder with old-school charm and mountain mystique!
I spent a very full day hiking to Sunset Rock and seeing incredible ridge views, exploring the underground wonder of Ruby Falls, walking the whimsical stone trails and bridges at Rock City, and riding the steep Lookout Mountain Incline Railway which had breathtaking vistas from the top station!
- Location: northwestern corner of the state, near the town of Rising Fawn
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: 100 miles long, spanning parts of Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama
- Wildlife: white-tailed deer, red foxes, barred owls, wild turkeys, and songbirds
My highlights…
- Visiting the extraordinarily located Covenant College which was perched atop Lookout Mountain, it looked liked a fairytale castle with its striking stone Gothic Revival buildings, and I loved gazing at the views across Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama from there too!
9. Tybee Island
I loved this relaxed barrier island on Georgia’s Atlantic coast it was a very attractive spot for its wide, sun-bleached beaches, rolling sand dunes, tranquil salt marshes teeming with wildlife, and historic landmarks and its quaint 19th-century keeper’s cottages.
I drove just 30 minutes east from from my previous stop in Savannah along Highway 80 – the route was flat and scenic, with marsh views and glimpses of the ocean. I loved its carefree, old-school beach town vibe, it felt relaxed, breezy, and nostalgic, with a mix of coastal simplicity and vintage charm.
I spent three days swimming and sunbathing at South Beach, climbing the historic Tybee Island Lighthouse, exploring Fort Pulaski National Monument, watching dolphins on a sunset boat tour, and strolling the Tybee Pier and Pavilion for ocean views and people-watching!
- Location: southeastern coast of the state (18 miles east of Savannah)
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: covers approximately 3.2 square miles
- Wildlife: bottlenose dolphins, loggerhead sea turtles, pelicans, herons, marsh rabbits, many species of birds
My highlights…
- Staying at the gorgeous Tybee Cottages on South Beach – I loved the funky beachy decor with flamingo cushions, seashell lamps, and pastel porch chairs and how my cute cottage had vintage surfboard art, weathered wood floors, and big shuttered windows, and I loved waking each morning to the sound of crashing waves!
- Tucking into crispy-edged sweet potato fries with cinnamon butter at the laid-back AJ’s Dockside (the ocean views from the deck were gorgeous!), then treating myself to Salted Caramel Pretzel waffles at the super-cute Sugar Shack!
10. Appalachian National Scenic Trail
I though the scenery along this legendary 2,180-mile hiking trail stretching from Georgia to Maine was breathtaking! The Georgia section was home to winding mountain paths which passed through misty forests, wildflower meadows, and rhododendron tunnels, and Insta-worthy vistas.
It was a short 20-minute drive from where I was previously in Amicalola to the Springer Mountain trailhead and the road was narrow and surrounded by dense forest. The trail had a peaceful, rugged vibe, it it felt remote, meditative, and deeply connected to nature, with a sense of adventure and solitude in every step.
I spent 4 days beginning my hike at Springer Mountain, taking in the views from Blood Mountain, stopping at the Mountain Crossings outfitter at Neel Gap, camping at Dicks Creek Gap (and meeting fellow hikers!), and visiting the misty cascades of Long Creek Falls.
It was also from here that I finally completed my Georgia state loop and I drove the 4.5 hours southeast back to Savannah.
- Location: begins at Springer Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest, located in the northeastern part of the state near Dahlonega and Amicalola Falls State Park.
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: The Georgia section of the Appalachian Trail spans 78.6 miles
- Wildlife: black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, barred owls, salamanders, and songbirds
My highlights…
11. Macon
I was charmed by the elegant beauty of this small town which has strong musical roots! The birthplace of both Little Richard and Otis Redding, was a gem for its tree-lined streets, grand antebellum architecture, scenic views of the Ocmulgee River, and an attracrive downtown filled with historic theaters, churches, and music landmarks.
From my previous visit a Providence Canyon, I drove 2.5 hours northeast, following wide country highways lined with pecan groves and pastureland. I loved its soulful, laid-back vibe, it felt warm, artistic, and deeply rooted in music and history, with a blend of Southern charm and creative energy!
I spent two days touring the Italian Renaissance-style Hay House, visiting the prehistoric Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, exploring the Tubman Museum’s African American art collection, strolling Cherry Street’s shops and galleries, and catching a show at the historic Grand Opera House which was filled with plush red interiors!
My personal highlights…
Dining on the Jamoie Bowl at iconic H & H Soul Food – I loved the zesty black bean and corn salsa, the warm cornbread side, and the soulful vibe with vintage photos and classic Southern rock tunes!
12. Okefenokee Swamp
I thought this vast, protected wetland was really special and deserved a place on the list for its mirror-like blackwater channels which wound through towering cypress and tupelo trees draped in Spanish moss, floating islands of peat, wide open prairies filled with wildflowers.
I drove 1 hour northwest from St. Marys (my previous stop at Cumberland Island) to reach the Folkstone entrance and the route passed through rural woodlands and sleepy southern towns. It had a haunting and tranquil vibe, and felt ancient, mysterious, and deeply wild, like stepping into a secret, hidden world!
I spent a full two days paddling on a guided boat tour through the Suwannee Canal, hiking the Chesser Island Boardwalk to the observation tower, visiting the fascinating historic Chesser Island Homestead and seeing how early swamp settlers lived in the 20th-century, spotting alligators and wading birds along the Swamp Island Drive, and exploring the interpretive exhibits at the Okefenokee Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center!
- Location: southeastern part of the, near the towns of Folkston and Waycross
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: approximately 700 square miles (around 450,000 acres)
- Wildlife:over 600 species of animals, including American alligators, black bears, sandhill cranes, wood storks, otters, and a wide variety of turtles, frogs, and migratory birds.
My highlights…
- Going on a guided swamp boat tour with Okefenokee Adventures – as well as the extraordinary scenery, I loved learning about ‘Okefenokee Joe’ the legendary 12-foot alligator who ruled the waters for decades and recently passed away at the impressive age of 80!
13. Helen
I loved this quirky Bavarian-style mountain town! It was an attractive spot home to charming Alpine-style buildings complete with colorful facades and flower-filled balconies, cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops and Bavarian eateries, and a backdrop of the lush Blue Ridge Mountains.
I headed 2.5 hours east from Lookout Mountain, crossing into the lush North Georgia Mountains on winding scenic byways. I loved its festive, whimsical vibe, it felt like a cozy European village nestled in the mountains, with Bavarian culture, seasonal festivals, and welcoming mountain charm.
I spent two days strolling the cobblestone streets and Bavarian shops, hiking to nearby Anna Ruby Falls, riding the thrilling Georgia Mountain Coaster, visiting the Helen Arts & Heritage Center, and savoring authentic German fare (the potato pancakes were my favorite!) at Bodensee Restaurant, and going wine-tasting at the family owned Sweet Acre Farms Winery Tasting Room.
- Location: North Georgia Mountains in the northeastern part of the state in White County (90 miles from Atlanta)
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: population around 630
My favorite highlights…
- Staying at the Bavarian-style Helendorf River Inn – I loved the Alpine rooms with hand-painted murals, Chattahoochee riverfront balconies, cozy vibe, and the hosted “Alpine Stroll” walks!
14. Northeast Georgia Mountains
I thought this scenic region of the southern Blue Ridge Mountains was jaw-dropping with its Insta-worthy vistas of forested ridges and valleys, clear mountain lakes, cascading waterfalls, colorful wildflower meadows, and quaint mountain towns nestled among ancient hardwood forests.
It was a quick 30-minute drive deeper into the mountains from my previous stop at Helen and I passed through tiny mountain towns and roadside farm stands. It had a peaceful, rejuvenating vibe – it was an area that felt feel fresh, natural, and inviting, with a welcoming small-town warmth.
I spent three days here and spent it hiking to the summit of Brasstown Bald and seeing incredible panoramic views, exploring Tallulah Gorge and Amicalola Falls State Parks, kayaking on Lake Rabun, and browsing folk art at Rocky’s Place in Tiger.
- Location: far northeastern part of the state
- Map Location and Directions
- Size: spans roughly 1,700 square miles
- Wildlife: black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, bobcats, songbirds, and a variety of amphibians.
My personal highlights…
- Sampling the smooth, ripe berry-driven Château Élan Velve while staying at the upscale winery and resort Château Élan – I loved their gorgeous vineyard, the chic decor, the modern onsite spa and learning about the winemaking process on a guided tour.
15. Lake Allatoona
I thought this family-friendly recreational large reservoir was beautiful for its its clear, calm waters framed by lush forests and rolling hills, sandy beaches perfect for swimming, scenic hiking trails with panoramic lake views, and interesting historic sites nestled along its shores.
I drove just over an hour northwest from my previous stop at Atlanta and it was a smooth trip up I-75 that passed wooded suburbs and lake towns. It had a relaxed, family-friendly vibe which felt peaceful and outdoorsy, with a mix of lakeside recreation, nature, and history.
I spent three days here swimming at Bartow Beach, hiking the Pine Mountain Trail Loop which had superb lake views, explored the Allatoona Pass Battlefield, rented a boat from Allatoona Landing Marina, and camped at Red Top Mountain State Park.
My highlights…
- Walking the 175-foot-deep “Deep Cut” on the old railroad at Allatoona Pass Battlefield and then admired the views over the red clay cliffs and railroad gorge above Lake Allatoona.
16. Atlanta Botanical Garden
I thought this much-loved urban garden (founded in 1976) was a stunning destination for its beautiful seasonal flower displays, towering tropical and desert plant collections, breathtaking treetop canopy walk, stunning Chihuly glass sculptures, peaceful Japanese garden, and lush green landscapes set against the backdrop of Atlanta’s city skyline!
I headed west from my previous stop at Madison for 1.5 hours to Atlanta, then made the short drive through Midtown to reach the garden from my hotel downtown. It had a vibrant, serene vibe – like a peaceful urban oasis where art, nature, and community had come together!
I spent 3 hours strolling through the vibrant Fuqua Orchid Center, walking the treetop Canopy Walk, admiring the colorful Chihuly glass sculptures, exploring the serene Japanese Garden, and visiting the seasonal Edible Garden and Model Train Garden.
My personal highlights…
- Seeing all the fresh herbs such as basil, rosemary, and thyme, and fruit plants including blueberries and figs alongside interesting live cooking demonstrations at the Edible Garden and Outdoor Kitchen!
17. Amicalola Falls State Park
I thought scenic park was a charming beauty spot with its majestic 729-foot waterfall which cascaded down mossy cliffs into a lush, forested gorge, miles of scenic hiking trails that wound through hardwood forests, mountain streams, and panoramic overlooks that showcased the serene Appalachian foothills.
I continued about 1.5 hours southwest from my previous visit to Tallulah Falls State Park along the foothills to reach this waterfall-filled park near Dawsonville. I loved its peaceful, invigorating vibe – it felt refreshing and awe-inspiring.
I spent a full day hiking the Base of the Falls Trail seeing close-up views of the waterfall, exploring the scenic Amicalola Falls Trail, visiting the Appalachian Approach Trailhead, and relaxing at the lodge nestled in beautiful forest surroundings.
- Address: 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Road, Dawsonville, GA 30534
- Best times to visit: March to May and September to November (for mild weather and powerful waterfall flow)
- Map Location and Direction
My highlights…
- Staying at Amicalola Falls Lodge in one of their luxurious style Safari Tents – I loved is stylish boho decor, soft ambient lighting, king-sized bed, and a private porch where I sat and listened to the forest sounds under a star-filled sky!
18. Brunswick
I thought this historic port city and gateway to the Golden Isles was full of charm with its tree-lined streets, elegant Victorian architecture, scenic tidal rivers and marshlands teeming with wildlife.
I came here from my previous stop at Tybee Island and I drove 1.5 hours south along the coastal highway, crossing long causeways and passing through charming small towns. I enjoyed soaking up the laid-back, coastal Southern vibes here!
I spent two days here before moving onto the Golden Isles and spent it exploring the quaint Victorian Old Town Historic District, strolling along the scenic waterfront marina, visiting the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, and admiring the centuries-old Lover’s Oak Tree.
My favorite highlights…
- Sampling the very potent Richland Cask Strength Rum which had hints of dark cherry and caramel in Georgia’s only rum distillery, the Richland Rum tasting room. They also had lots of other award-winning locally crafted, small-batch rum to sample!
