Georgia, the southeastern state in the United States, is a popular tourist destination solely for the Three Ps—peaches, peanuts and pecans. Famously called the Peach State, Georgia is famous for its warm and mild weather along with picturesque coastlines coupled with succulent southern cuisine.
Check out the state’s natural beauty by going to the Tallulah State Park and Jekyll Island, or recreate MLK’s ‘I Have a Dream’ moment by visiting the historic site and delving deeper into the archives. But if you are in the mood for something a little more fun, then going to the World of Cocca Cola would be right up your alley.
No matter what you desire, the Peach State has it for you. All you have to do is come here. Planning a trip can be stressful, which is why we at Trekhops decided to lighten that load and list the top 35 places to visit in Georgia.
35 Places to visit in Georgia
Tallulah Gorge State Park
One of the most stunning natural areas in the Tallulah Gorge State Park is the fascinating eastern canyon, which offers breathtaking views and beautiful sceneries. The park is known for its geological formations.
The visitors can climb along the rim trails for scenic overlooks, go down into the gorge for more difficult hiking, or even engage in kayaking and swimming in the Tallulah River. L’Eau d’Or and Tempesta Falls are some of its stunning waterfalls, where a suspension bridge gives a thrilling view of the gorge.
Helen
Helen, a lovely mountain village in northeast Georgia, is modeled after a Bavarian town. Its structures are one of its own kind in style and atmosphere. Also, being a tourist destination that offers the feeling of Germany to Georgians, Helen has long been a cultural heritage site.
Regarded as one of the best places to visit in Georgia, visitors can explore local shops, eat German food, participate in the annual Oktoberfest, or engage in such outdoor activities as tubing on the Chattahoochee River.
Its unique buildings were built in Bavarian style, and colorful festivals made it a picturesque place in Georgia’s historic White County.
It is located in the northeastern part of Georgia’s White County. Though there may be admission fees for certain attractions, including their own expenses, into the town, they are free of charge.
Jekyll Island
Jekyll Island is a barrier island famous for its lovely beaches, wildlife, and history. It is located off the coast of Georgia. The preservation efforts it makes and its status as a serene haven combining nature’s wonders with historical events make it significant.
Regarded as one of the top places to visit in Georgia, you can indulge in activities such as walking along the beach, cycling on picturesque Trailways through the old part of the town, and visiting the Georgia Sea Turtle Centre, where visitors can also see loggerhead turtles.
It is famous for Driftwood Beach, which boasts weathered trees in a striking landscape, and historic cottages from the Gilded Age, which are what Jekyll Island is mostly known for. It is situated on the Southeastern Georgia coast.
Callaway Gardens
Pine Mountain, Georgia, is home to the large resort and garden complex known as Callaway Gardens, which is famous for its amazing scenery and other activities. The gardens are of major importance as far as their horticultural excellence is concerned, as well as a relaxation center with many outdoor activities to engage in.
Visitors can explore themed gardens, hike or bike on nature trails, enjoy the butterfly center, and participate in golf or water sports.
There is a magnificent butterfly house found at the resort, as well as an expansive horticultural exhibit and seasonal events such as Fantasy in Lights during the holiday season. It takes about an hour’s drive from Columbus or Atlanta to get to Pine Mountain, where Callaway Gardens is situated.
Atlanta
Atlanta is famous for its history, variety of cultures, and strong economy, and it is Georgia’s largest city. It is a major cultural center and business hub known for many corporate institutions, historical places, and several other points of interest.
To mention just a few, the Georgia Aquarium is worth visiting, so are The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, The Atlanta Botanical Garden, and Fox Theatre, where one may go to see some performances.
It may feature such unique places as the World of Coca-Cola, Centennial Olympic Park, or its vibrant food scene. This city is situated right in the middle of the state.
You can also check out some of the top places to visit in Atlanta as well.
St. Simons Island
St. Simons Island lies off the coast of Georgia, drawing attention to its sandy beaches, historical places, and natural beauty. The island is important for its tranquil atmosphere and is a common destination among holidaymakers who want to relax and enjoy peace in outdoor activities.
Some of the attractions here include swimming on the shores, touring St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, engaging in water sports, and looking at Fort Frederica, among other historic sites.
This island has an enchanting village area where Spanish moss hangs from beautiful live oak trees, a vibrant art scene exists, and generally, life moves at a leisurely pace. You can find the place just off the southeastern coast of Georgia State.
Savannah
In Georgia, Savannah is an old city whose architecture has been kept intact and up to date. It also possesses cobblestone roads and a live culture. The importance of the history of Savannah, the beauty of its squares, and how it represents Southern hospitality are what make it so valuable.
They can go for a walk in Forsyth Park, tour some historic houses, visit the Savannah Historic District, and take riverboat cruises on the Savannah River. It has 22 historical squares and Spanish moss-lined oak trees that make the savannah unique, as well as an annual St. Patrick’s Day march past.
Being located in South-eastern Georgia near the sea coast makes Savannah attractive to tourists all year round. Many places of interest are open every day; some offer free admission.
Marietta
There is a historic city called Marietta that lies to the northwest of Atlanta. This place has greatly influenced modern American suburbs due to its historical sites, cultural landmarks, and vibrant suburban community profile.
Tourists can get to Marietta Square, pay a visit to Gone with the Wind Museum, watch performances at Strand Theatre, or learn more about history from the Marietta Museum of History.
It boasts several unique features, such as a well-preserved historic district, thriving arts quarter, and Marietta National Cemetery, which serves as a memory site for Civil War veterans.
Tybee Island
Tybee Island is a charming barrier island located close to Savannah, Georgia. Known for its extensive, sandy seashores and laid-returned environment, it’s miles a famous getaway for those searching for rest via the sea.
Tybee Island is vast for its herbal splendor, historical lighthouse, and as a haven for the natural world. Its importance additionally stems from its position as a leisure destination for beachgoers and water sports activities lovers.
Visitors can experience sunbathing, swimming, and browsing on the beaches, explore the ancient Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, go kayaking, take dolphin tours, and enjoy clean seafood at neighborhood eating places.
The precise features consist of one of the oldest lighthouses in America, the Tybee Island Light Station, and ordinary sightings of dolphins that make the marine existence colorful here. Tybee Island is positioned east of Savannah, Georgia, where you may get entry by automobile.
Columbus
In western Georgia, Columbus is an energetic town that has a rich record and a picturesque location on the Chattahoochee River. The significance of Columbus can be visible in its ancient connection to the Civil War, its flourishing arts scene, and its outdoor undertaking center that offers exceptional riverfront enjoyment.
Examples of attractions in Columbus include the National Infantry Museum, Chattahoochee Riverwalk for hiking or biking, whitewater rafting, Coca-Cola Space Science Centre, and live performances at Springer Opera House.
A few other significant features found here are the whitewater rafting course on the Chattahoochee River, which is one of the best in the world’s s, and this reflects back to what was happening when it was built (around 2008), plus the National Civil War Naval Museum among others—located near Atlanta, Georgia, in the southwest.
Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area
Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area is regarded as one of the top places to visit in Georgia. It is a wild region that is marked by mountains and valleys, including the famous Arabia Mountain.
It has landmarks characterized by unordinary landscapes and historical sites visited by many tourists coming from different parts of the world because of its diverse environment and cultures.
In this regard, the area’s geological importance should not be underestimated due to ancient granite outcrops, among other aspects, together with its colorful past that contains early settlements as well as and stories of the American Civil War.
Also, take up bird watching or nature photography, which allows you to hike on scenic trails or bike along Arabia Mountain PATH while discovering historical sites.
The area’s uniqueness stems from the rare plant species found there, granite monadnocks, and the Flat Rock African American community, which is also historical.
Visitors can reach out here by driving east of Atlanta, Georgia.
Amicalola Falls State Park
Amicalola Falls State Park is a gorgeous Northern Georgia state park famous for its great waterfall and beautiful mountain views.
It is important as a place of beauty, boasting the highest waterfall in Georgia, and as an entrance to the southern end of the Appalachian Trail.
Visitors can trek to falls, picnic around it, get lodgings or choose camping grounds, take part in naturalist-led programs, or commence a journey along the Appalachian Trail.
Unique attributes of this park include Amicalola Falls, which are 729 feet high, and it is also the starting point for hiking on the Appalachian Trail. The park was cited north of Atlanta, Georgia, too.
Cumberland Island National Seashore
Cumberland Island National Seashore is a spotless bar island located on the seacoast of Georgia. It is well-known for its virgin beaches and old sites. The island is ecologically diverse, has a historical value, and is inhabited by such animals as wild horses.
You can hike, camp, visit historically interesting places like Dungeness Ruins, go on wildlife-watching excursions, or just laze around on deserted beaches in the area. Wild horses found here are not to be seen anywhere else in the world.
Below are also Dungness Ruins and other untouched parts of the Island. It is situated in southern Georgia near St Marys. Visitors must take a ferry from St Mary’s to reach this park.
Athens
Athens, in the northeastern part of Georgia, is a college town that is always bustling with activities. This city has a notable music scene and historical architecture. It is important in terms of education and culture.
Athens is one of our top places to visit in Georgia purely because of the rich musical history this town has witnessed, particularly in the birth of popular bands such as R.E.M and B-52s.
One can tour the University of Georgia campus himself, go to the Georgia Museum of Art, listen to music at various places within the town, or even go to the State Botanical Garden of Georgia.
Some of its exceptional characteristics are antebellum architecture dating back to the 1800s, an art gallery hub thriving with artists’ activity, and pulsating with live sounds from different places in town. Athens lies somewhere northeast of Atlanta.
Dahlonega
Dahlonega is a historic settlement in Georgia’s northern region, its position in the gold rush of Georgia, and an attractive downtown.
Dahlonega is notable for its gold rush past, preserved historic buildings from the 1800s, and is a major wine-producing area in Georgia.
Those visiting can hunt for the precious metal, visit the Dahlonega Gold Museum, and check out vineyards around town before enjoying an ancient city at shop areas with eateries.
One of its unique characteristics is that it has a rich heritage of gold mining and features such as Crisson Gold Mine, which is located at the heart of Georgia’s wine country.
Dahlonega is located north of Atlanta. The Dahlonega Gold Museum requires a small fee to enter, and there are costs associated with tasting wines at local vineyards.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
Our next item on the top places to visit in Georgia is a spot of utmost national importance as it is the birthplace of the activist and civil rights icon Dr Martin Luther King Jr.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site in Atlanta honors the lifestyles and legacy of the renowned civil rights leader. Visitors can explore his youth domestically, the church where he preached, and his final resting place.
Here is where his childhood home is, Ebenezer Baptist Church- the church of his baptism and where his father and he were both pastors. This park is also Dr King’s and his wife’s resting place, along with Coretta Scott King, a civil rights activist.
Tour the King Center, visit his birthplace, and explore famous about his paintings and legacy. Includes the “I Have a Dream” World Peace Rose Garden and Dr. King’s gravesite. It is located on Auburn Avenue in Atlanta.
Rock City
Rock City, on Lookout Mountain, offers lovely natural rock formations and panoramic views. It is known for its unique geological features and scenic vistas consisting of perspectives of 7 states from Lover’s Leap.
Walk via gardens, discover rock formations, and enjoy seasonal sports, just like the Enchanted Garden of Lights.
The city is renowned for its Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village. Its miles are located close to Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Bonaventure Cemetery
This historic cemetery in Savannah is understood for its beautiful statuary and Southern Gothic charm. It’s one of the most scenic cemeteries in the world, wealthy in history and art.
Take guided excursions to learn about the extremely good figures buried right here and experience the serene, picturesque environment.
The cemetery is also home to Victorian monuments, and interestingly, it was the setting of the famous hollywood movie “Midnight within the Garden of Good and Evil.”
National Center for Civil and Human Rights
A museum in Atlanta is dedicated to the American Civil Rights Movement and global human rights. It educates visitors on civil rights struggles and celebrates folks who fought for equality.
Explore interactive exhibits, watch The interactive lunch counter, and revel in simulating 1960s sit-down-ins. Documentaries and participate in academic applications.
Centennial Olympic Park
A Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta was constructed for the 1996 Summer Olympics. It serves as a legacy of the Olympics and a first-rate accumulating location in Atlanta.
Enjoy concert events, gala’s, the Fountain of Rings, and playgrounds. The Fountain of Rings is an interactive fountain synchronized to a song. This is Located in downtown Atlanta.
Georgia Aquarium
Located in Atlanta, the Georgia Aquarium has over 70 habitats and is home to thousands of marine animals such as beluga whales, manta rays and whale sharks.
If you are here, you simply cannot miss the public shows featuring marine animals like sea lions, dolphins and penguins where you get up close and personal with them.
We highly recommend that you purchase an Atlanta CityPASS so that you can enjoy discounts. You can also visit the aquarium during major holidays.
As per our research, we recommend you arrive early to beat the crowds. We suggest arriving a bit close to the opening hours. Make sure you get your wetsuit to get a chance to swim with marine wildlife.
Savannah House District
The Savannah Historic District is a large city historic district in Savannah, Georgia, known for its properly-preserved structure and historical importance. It offers a glimpse into the past with its cobblestone streets, historic homes, and public squares, reflecting the city’s wealthy records.
Visitors can take walk tours, visit historical homes and museums, save, dine, and experience the beautiful squares and parks. Unique capabilities include historic buildings, 22 park-like squares, and landmarks, including Forsyth Park and the Owens-Thomas House.
The district is in downtown Savannah and can be reached by way of vehicle public transit.
World of Coca-Cola
The World of Coca-Cola is a museum that focuses on the history and culture of the Coca-Cola Company; it is Located in Atlanta, Georgia.
This museum exhibit highlights how this brand has become one of the most globally recognizable. It will take you back to years when they explained how this product was unveiled to the world.
You can find some interesting flavors from all over the globe and see their secret formula stored in the vaults.
Other unique things include but are not limited to a tasting lounge, 4D theater, and also a polar bear created using Coke bottles. It is situated near Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta.
Cathedral of St John the Baptist
The Roman Catholic Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a historical monument in Savannah, Georgia. It is an essential religious and architectural icon distinguished by its marvelous Gothic architecture as well as historical implications.
Once there, one can attend their services, take guided tours, and marvel at the awesome stained glass windows and decorative intricacies.
What makes it stand out are its matching steeples, breathtaking internal design, and complicated stained glass artistry displays like no other.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a 30-acre botanical lawn located in Midtown Atlanta, Georgia. It offers a lovely area for plant conservation, schooling, and activity within the coronary heart of the metropolis.
Visitors can explore themed gardens, stroll through the tropical rainforest in the Fuqua Conservatory, and experience seasonal exhibits and occasions.
Unique features encompass the Canopy Walk, the Fuqua Orchid Center, and the beautiful seasonal presentations. The lawn is located in Midtown Atlanta, adjacent to Piedmont Park, and is obtainable by MARTA, automobile, or strolling.
National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center
The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center Museum is Located in Columbus, Georgia.
This particular museum is targeted towards the infantry history of America. It pays tribute to infantry soldiers’ service and sacrifice and preserves infantry history within the U.S. Army.
Visitors can engage with interactive exhibits, see artifacts, watch immersive films, or participate in educational programs.
Distinctive aspects are the Last 100 Yards Ramp, the Global War on Terrorism Memorial, and the Vietnam Memorial Plaza. Columbus, Georgia, houses this museum.
Mercier Orchards
Mercier Orchards is found in Blue Ridge, Georgia, and is a farm owned by a family. Their trademark is the delicious apples and lovely orchards. It has become loved both by visitors and the locals.
There are various things visitors can do while there, such as apple picking, scenic tractor tours, sampling fresh apple cider, and buying homemade goods at the market. They also have pumpkin-picking and Christmas tree-cutting activities during that season.
Mercier Orchards gives people an opportunity to pick their own fruits, like apples, strawberries, or blueberries, during U-Pick events held in different seasons.
The farm also bakes tasty pies and cider donuts in its bakery. Mercier Orchards lies at 8660 Blue Ridge Drive, Blue Ridge, Georgia.
Historic River Street
Historic River Street is a bustling waterfront place in Savannah, Georgia, known for its cobblestone streets and historic homes. It changed into as soon as a hectic cotton shipping district. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront, discover particular stores, dine at waterfront restaurants, and revel in the colorful nightlife.
Riverboat cruises are also available for a scenic view of the Savannah River. The vicinity is first-rate for its well-preserved nineteenth-century structure and its array of antique shops, galleries, and bars.
It’s also a top-notch spot to watch large shipment ships pass by. Historic River Street is positioned alongside the Savannah River in downtown Savannah. It is easy on hand by means of car, with adequate parking close by, or by way of the loose Savannah Belles Ferry.
High Museum of Art
The High Museum of Art, situated at 1280 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, Georgia, is one of the Southeast’s greatest art galleries. It has a rich collection of old and new masterpieces.
Within it, several areas have been created to display American, European, African, and contemporary art forms, among others; this adds to its appeal to visitors as they can participate in various educational activities like exhibitions and workshops.
The museum is identified with its very exciting architectural designs that were created by Richard Meier and Renzo Piano, as well as a wonderful collection of works that include those of Monet, Picasso, and Warhol, among others.
Driftwood Beach
The Driftwood Beach, located on Jekyll Island in Georgia, is one of the most picturesque beaches with beautiful driftwood trees. Many individuals enjoy taking pictures there or going for a walk to experience nature at its best.
They can stroll along the shore, photograph the charming branches washed up by the tides, eat lunch outside, and admire the beauty of Mother Nature. Additionally, it is an awesome place for beachcombing and bird watching.
Most importantly, however, it has some of the most hauntingly beautiful driftwood across, which gives it an almost ghostly look to its landscape. It is believed to be among the most romantic places on the island. Driftwood Beach lies at Jekyll’s northern tip point.
Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters
The Owens-Thomas House and its slave quarters are a museum in Savannah, Georgia. In the museum, visitors learn about the life of their former owner, Owens, who owned slaves.
The house is open to guided tours, and next to it are slave quarters; they both have preserved structures that include furniture as well as stories concerning complex slavery issues in Savannah.
Wormsloe Historic Site
The Wormsloe Historic Site in Savannah, Georgia, is a colonial estate with ruins and beautiful oak-lined avenues. It also has a museum that enlightens visitors about Georgia’s early history.
Several activities can be done, such as walking through the scenic grounds, visiting museum building number three, or hiking along nature trails while viewing tabby ruins at the original estate.
Besides hosting historical reenactments and educational programs, this site offers itself for photography purposes because of its picturesque mile-long avenue lined with live oaks hung with Spanish moss. Savannah, Georgia, is where Wormsloe Historic Site is located.
Old Fort Jackson
Old Fort Jackson is a national landmark located on the Savannah River in Savannah, Georgia. Built-in 1808, it’s by far one of the oldest status brick fortifications on the East Coast. It gets its name from the Revolutionary War Hero James Jackson.
Visitors can tour the site, watch cannon firings and navy drills, explore the reveals, and enjoy views of the Savannah River.
The castle gives a glimpse into army history and coastal defense. The fortress features unique 19th-century construction and cannons, together with interactive packages each day that consist of cannon firings and soldier demonstrations.
Historic Savannah Theatre
The Historic Savannah Theatre was established in 1818. An icon of a dramatic arts building in Savannah, Georgia. It is amongst the oldest playhouses in America that have been open nonstop since then.
Consequently, it is possible for people to witness musicals, comedies, and special presentations while visiting these venues. Other than theatrical events, the theater has field trips that may take you through old times, as well as lessons on how things are done backstage.
The theater’s outstanding features include its beautiful nineteenth-century design and an array of performances behind it all over time. This theater offers stunning productions and provides an atmosphere close enough for an individual touch between performers and audience members.
Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum
The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum is devoted to the 39th President of the United States.
Located in Atlanta, the museum has exhibits about President Jimmy Carter’s life, presidency, and post-presidential activities that help people. In addition, there are extensive displays for visitors’ exploration, presidential artifacts viewings, a replicated Oval Office, and knowledge of human rights and diplomacy attempts Carter.
Additionally, the museum contains an extensive collection of memorabilia from his presidency and his Nobel Peace Prize. Also notable are the adjacent gardens and tranquil grounds.
The physical address for both the library and museum is 441 John Lewis Freedom Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia. Visitors can be reached by car or public transportation.
Conclusion
Georgia is a place with many things to do. The Peach State offers different experiences at every destination site, making it a must-visit location for those who want cultural enrichment and scenic beauty. Georgia has a wide range of attractions that can suit everyone. They are in the form of historical sites, cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and family-friendly activities.
Q1) When is a good time to visit Georgia?
The best months to visit Georgia are in May/June or September/October because of the mild weather and fewer tourists.
Q2) Why should I visit Georgia?
Not only is Georgia a stunning place, but it also has many attractions that make it an interesting country to visit. We had never been on a guided trip before, so it was nice for the vacation to be so relaxing.
Q3) Why is Georgia so popular?
There are opportunities for folk art, sacred art, outdoor art, and more all over the state. Moreover, the southern-style food at the local pubs in Savannah and Atlanta, in particular, is definitely something to indulge in. The home-style flavors, especially in dishes like Southern fried chicken and Beef Brisket, are dishes you simply cannot miss out on.
Q4) What are the benefits of visiting Georgia?
The state’s vast beauty, ancient historical buildings and beautiful architecture, culinary dishes/menus, numerous activities, and taste of wines
Q5) What are the most popular dishes in Georgia?
You cannot say you have visited the wonderful state of Georgia without indulging in delicacies like Peach Cobbler, Fried Chicken, Shrimp and Grits, among many others.
