Georgia, a state of remarkable diversity, offers travelers an extraordinary blend of natural wonders, historic treasures, and vibrant cultural experiences. From the misty Blue Ridge Mountains in the north to the sun-drenched coastal islands in the south, Georgia captivates visitors with its Southern charm, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, culinary delights, or a journey through America’s past, the Peach State delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn. Join us as we explore the 50 best places to visit in Georgia that showcase this remarkable state’s beauty, history, and hospitality.
Coastal Georgia’s Treasures
1. Savannah
Savannah stands as Georgia’s crown jewel, enchanting visitors with its cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, and grand antebellum mansions. This historic coastal city exudes Southern charm with its 22 picturesque squares, each with its own personality and historical significance. Don’t miss Forsyth Park with its iconic fountain, the magnificent Bonaventure Cemetery, and the vibrant River Street lined with boutiques and restaurants.
Location: Coastal Georgia | Best Time to Visit: March to June for pleasant weather and blooming azaleas
Savannah’s historic district showcases the city’s timeless Southern charm
2. Tybee Island
Just 20 minutes from Savannah, Tybee Island offers a perfect coastal escape with its wide sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Climb the historic Tybee Island Light Station for panoramic views, explore Fort Pulaski National Monument, or simply unwind on the beach. The island’s laid-back vibe and fresh seafood make it an ideal complement to Savannah’s urban elegance.
Location: Coastal Georgia | Best Time to Visit: May to September for beach weather
3. Jekyll Island
Once the exclusive winter playground for America’s wealthiest families, Jekyll Island now welcomes all visitors to enjoy its pristine beaches and historic charm. The island’s most unique attraction is Driftwood Beach, where weathered, sculptural tree remains create an otherworldly landscape perfect for photography. The Jekyll Island Historic District showcases the preserved “cottages” (actually mansions) of the island’s Gilded Age past.
Location: Golden Isles, Coastal Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with fall offering mild temperatures and fewer crowds
4. St. Simons Island
The largest of Georgia’s Golden Isles, St. Simons combines natural beauty with rich history. Visit the iconic St. Simons Lighthouse, explore the ruins of Fort Frederica, and wander beneath ancient oak trees draped with Spanish moss. The island’s charming village area offers boutique shopping and excellent dining options featuring fresh local seafood.
Location: Golden Isles, Coastal Georgia | Best Time to Visit: April to October
5. Cumberland Island
Georgia’s largest barrier island offers a wilderness experience unlike any other, with wild horses roaming freely among maritime forests and pristine beaches. Accessible only by ferry, Cumberland Island features the ruins of Dungeness, a mansion built by the Carnegie family, alongside untouched natural habitats. The limited visitor capacity ensures a peaceful experience in this protected national seashore.
Location: Southern Georgia Coast | Best Time to Visit: October to April for mild temperatures and fewer insects
Wild horses roam freely across Cumberland Island’s pristine beaches
North Georgia Mountains and Waterfalls
6. Blue Ridge
This charming mountain town serves as the perfect gateway to North Georgia’s natural splendor. Take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, browse the town’s art galleries and antique shops, or use it as a base for outdoor adventures. The surrounding area offers excellent hiking, fishing, and kayaking opportunities in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Location: North Georgia Mountains | Best Time to Visit: September to November for fall foliage
7. Amicalola Falls State Park
Home to the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast, Amicalola Falls plunges 729 feet through a stunning forest setting. The park offers several trails to view the falls from different perspectives, including a challenging staircase that climbs alongside the cascades. Amicalola also serves as the access point for the Appalachian Trail Approach Trail, leading to Springer Mountain.
Location: North Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with spring bringing fuller waterfalls
Amicalola Falls is the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast at 729 feet
8. Tallulah Gorge State Park
One of Georgia’s most spectacular natural wonders, Tallulah Gorge cuts nearly 1,000 feet deep through the Appalachian Mountains. Hike the rim trails for breathtaking views or obtain a permit to explore the gorge floor. The park’s suspension bridge offers a thrilling perspective of the gorge, while seasonal water releases create dramatic whitewater conditions for kayaking enthusiasts.
Location: Northeast Georgia | Best Time to Visit: April-May and September-October for pleasant hiking weather
9. Helen
This recreated Bavarian alpine village offers a unique cultural experience in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stroll through the charming downtown with its distinctive architecture, enjoy tubing on the Chattahoochee River in summer, or visit during Oktoberfest for authentic German celebrations. Helen also serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions like Anna Ruby Falls and Unicoi State Park.
Location: North Georgia | Best Time to Visit: September-October for Oktoberfest and fall colors
10. Brasstown Bald
Standing at 4,784 feet, Brasstown Bald is Georgia’s highest point and offers spectacular 360-degree views across four states on clear days. A short but steep trail leads from the parking area to the observation deck, where interpretive exhibits explain the natural and cultural history of the region. The surrounding area offers additional hiking opportunities through diverse forest ecosystems.
Location: North Georgia | Best Time to Visit: October for fall foliage views
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Historic Sites and Cultural Attractions
11. Atlanta
Georgia’s vibrant capital offers world-class attractions including the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and the moving Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Explore the Atlanta BeltLine, a former railway corridor transformed into a multi-use trail connecting neighborhoods and parks. The city’s diverse dining scene showcases both traditional Southern cuisine and innovative international flavors.
Location: North-central Georgia | Best Time to Visit: March-May and September-November for mild weather
Atlanta’s skyline showcases the vibrant capital city’s blend of modern architecture and green spaces
12. Macon
Known as the “Heart of Georgia,” Macon boasts over 6,000 historic structures across 14 historic districts. Visit the Hay House, an Italian Renaissance Revival mansion, and explore the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, which preserves 17,000 years of Native American heritage. Music lovers will appreciate Macon’s rich musical legacy as the hometown of Little Richard, Otis Redding, and the Allman Brothers Band.
Location: Central Georgia | Best Time to Visit: March for the International Cherry Blossom Festival
13. Athens
Home to the University of Georgia, Athens combines collegiate energy with historic charm and a legendary music scene that launched bands like R.E.M. and the B-52s. Explore the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, visit the Georgia Museum of Art, and experience the vibrant downtown area filled with unique shops, restaurants, and music venues. The antebellum architecture throughout the city reflects its rich history.
Location: Northeast Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Fall for university football season atmosphere
14. Madison
Often described as “the town Sherman refused to burn” during his March to the Sea, Madison preserves one of Georgia’s largest collections of antebellum homes. Take a walking tour of the historic district to admire the Greek Revival and Victorian architecture, visit the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center housed in an 1895 Romanesque Revival schoolhouse, and explore the town’s charming shops and restaurants.
Location: Central Georgia | Best Time to Visit: April-May for the Spring Tour of Homes
15. Augusta
Best known as the home of the Masters Tournament, Augusta offers much more than golf. Stroll along the scenic Riverwalk alongside the Savannah River, explore the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, and visit the boyhood home of President Woodrow Wilson. The city’s Broad Street features historic architecture, shops, and restaurants in a revitalized downtown setting.
Location: East Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though April brings the excitement of the Masters
Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures
16. Providence Canyon State Park
Often called “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon,” this geological wonder showcases massive gullies with colorful layers of exposed soil. The erosion that created these canyons resulted from poor farming practices in the 1800s, transforming environmental damage into a stunning natural attraction. Several trails allow visitors to explore both the rim and floor of the canyons.
Location: Southwest Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for comfortable hiking temperatures
Providence Canyon’s colorful soil layers have earned it the nickname “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon”
17. Okefenokee Swamp
This vast wilderness of peat-filled wetlands is one of the oldest and most well-preserved freshwater systems in America. Explore by boat to witness alligators, rare birds, and carnivorous plants in their natural habitat. The swamp offers several access points, with the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge providing boardwalks, boat tours, and educational exhibits about this unique ecosystem.
Location: Southeast Georgia | Best Time to Visit: November to April for cooler temperatures and fewer insects
18. Cloudland Canyon State Park
Situated on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, this park features spectacular vistas across a deep gorge cut by Sitton Gulch Creek. Hiking trails lead to two cascading waterfalls, while the rim trail offers panoramic views of the canyon. The park also provides opportunities for camping, mountain biking, and disc golf among its diverse recreational offerings.
Location: Northwest Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with fall offering colorful foliage
19. Springer Mountain
As the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, Springer Mountain holds special significance for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. A bronze plaque marks the official starting point of the 2,190-mile journey to Maine. Even for those not attempting the entire trail, the area offers excellent day hikes through beautiful forest landscapes in the Chattahoochee National Forest.
Location: North Georgia | Best Time to Visit: March-April to see AT thru-hikers beginning their journey
20. Lake Lanier
Created by the completion of Buford Dam in 1956, Lake Lanier offers 692 miles of shoreline and numerous recreational opportunities just northeast of Atlanta. Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and water sports, or visit Lake Lanier Islands for its beach, water park, and resort amenities. The lake’s numerous parks and marinas provide easy access to its clear blue waters.
Location: North Georgia | Best Time to Visit: May to September for water activities
Charming Small Towns
21. Dahlonega
Site of America’s first major gold rush in 1829, Dahlonega combines mining history with mountain charm. Pan for gold at the Consolidated Gold Mine, tour the Dahlonega Gold Museum housed in the old courthouse, and explore the picturesque town square lined with shops and restaurants. The surrounding area is also home to several award-winning wineries making use of the region’s favorable grape-growing conditions.
Location: North Georgia | Best Time to Visit: October for fall colors and wine harvest
Dahlonega’s historic town square features the gold-domed former courthouse, now home to the Gold Museum
22. Thomasville
Known as the “City of Roses,” Thomasville captivates visitors with its well-preserved Victorian architecture and vibrant downtown. Stroll Broad Street to discover unique shops and restaurants, visit the Thomasville Rose Garden, and tour historic plantations like Pebble Hill. The town’s rich agricultural heritage is celebrated through food festivals and farm-to-table dining experiences.
Location: Southwest Georgia | Best Time to Visit: April for the Rose Show and Festival
23. Rome
Built on seven hills like its Italian namesake, Rome offers a charming riverfront downtown where the Etowah and Oostanaula Rivers meet. Visit the Rome Area History Museum, climb Myrtle Hill Cemetery for panoramic views, and explore the Between the Rivers Historic District. The city’s Clock Tower, built in 1872, stands as an iconic landmark overlooking the downtown area.
Location: Northwest Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for pleasant temperatures
24. Senoia
This picturesque town gained fame as the filming location for “The Walking Dead,” but its appeal extends beyond zombie fandom. Explore the well-preserved historic downtown with buildings dating to the 1800s, take a film location tour, and enjoy dining and shopping in this charming small town. The surrounding countryside offers scenic drives through rolling farmland.
Location: West-central Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Year-round
25. Brunswick
Serving as the gateway to the Golden Isles, Brunswick combines coastal charm with rich maritime history. Explore the historic downtown with its Victorian-era Old Town National Historic District, view shrimp boats along the waterfront, and sample the famous Brunswick stew. The city’s palm-lined streets and historic squares reflect its heritage as a colonial port.
Location: Coastal Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild temperatures
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Cultural Experiences and Attractions
31. Fox Theatre in Atlanta
This opulent 1929 movie palace now serves as a premier venue for Broadway shows, concerts, and special events. The lavish interior features a starry ceiling, Egyptian ballroom, and ornate Islamic and Egyptian architectural details. Tours offer behind-the-scenes access to this Atlanta landmark that was saved from demolition by community efforts in the 1970s.
Location: Atlanta | Best Time to Visit: Year-round for performances
The Fox Theatre’s lavish interior showcases its origins as an opulent 1929 movie palace
32. High Museum of Art
The leading art museum in the Southeastern United States houses a collection of more than 18,000 works, including American, European, African, and contemporary art. The museum’s distinctive white building, designed by Richard Meier and later expanded by Renzo Piano, is itself an architectural masterpiece. Special exhibitions complement the permanent collection throughout the year.
Location: Atlanta | Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with free admission on the second Sunday of each month
33. Georgia State Capitol
Topped with a distinctive gold dome, Georgia’s capitol building houses a museum that tells the state’s story through exhibits and artifacts. Self-guided tours allow visitors to explore the historic 1889 building, which is modeled after the U.S. Capitol. The surrounding Capitol Square includes memorials and monuments honoring important figures in Georgia history.
Location: Atlanta | Best Time to Visit: Weekdays when the legislature is in session (January-April)
34. Booth Western Art Museum
This Smithsonian-affiliated museum houses the largest permanent exhibition of Western art in the country. The collection includes paintings, sculpture, photography, and artifacts that tell the story of the American West. A Presidential Gallery features signed portraits of every U.S. president, while the Civil War Gallery explores this pivotal period in American history.
Location: Cartersville, Northwest Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Year-round
35. Georgia Music Hall of Fame
Celebrating Georgia’s rich musical heritage, this institution honors artists from Ray Charles to R.E.M. who have shaped American music. Interactive exhibits showcase the state’s contributions to various genres including gospel, country, rock, and hip-hop. The hall of fame recognizes performers, composers, and music industry professionals with Georgia connections.
Location: Macon | Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Outdoor Recreation and Adventure
36. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
This 48-mile stretch of river and surrounding parkland offers outdoor recreation opportunities just minutes from downtown Atlanta. Popular activities include tubing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking along the river’s scenic banks. Multiple access points allow visitors to enjoy different sections of the river, from gentle flows to more challenging rapids.
Location: Metro Atlanta | Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for water activities
Tubing on the Chattahoochee River is a popular summer activity for locals and visitors alike
37. Appalachian Trail – Georgia Section
The first 79 miles of the legendary Appalachian Trail pass through Georgia, offering challenging hiking through the southern Appalachian Mountains. Beginning at Springer Mountain, the trail traverses ridgelines, forests, and gaps with numerous access points for day hikes or overnight backpacking trips. Blood Mountain, the highest point on Georgia’s section, rewards hikers with panoramic views.
Location: North Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for moderate temperatures
38. F.D. Roosevelt State Park
Georgia’s largest state park offers more than 40 miles of trails, including the popular 23-mile Pine Mountain Trail. President Roosevelt frequently visited nearby Warm Springs for polio treatments, and his influence is evident throughout the park. The scenic drive along Dowdell’s Knob provides views of the valley where Roosevelt often picnicked and contemplated world affairs.
Location: West-central Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, fall for foliage
39. Oconee River Greenway
This riverside park and trail system in Milledgeville offers walking, biking, fishing, and kayaking opportunities along the scenic Oconee River. The paved path connects to Georgia College & State University and downtown Milledgeville, making it accessible for both recreation and transportation. Picnic areas and river overlooks provide spots to relax and enjoy the natural setting.
Location: Central Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Year-round
40. Skidaway Island State Park
Located near Savannah, this coastal park features trails winding through maritime forest, salt marsh, and past scenic overlooks. Interpretive exhibits explain the area’s rich natural and cultural history, while a boardwalk and observation tower provide opportunities to spot wildlife including deer, fiddler crabs, egrets, and herons. The park’s campground accommodates tents, trailers, and RVs.
Location: Coastal Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Fall through spring for comfortable temperatures
Unique Experiences and Attractions
41. Georgia Guidestones
Often called “America’s Stonehenge,” this mysterious granite monument stood in rural Georgia until its destruction in 2022. The 19-foot-tall structure featured 10 guidelines for humanity inscribed in eight modern languages, with a shorter message inscribed at the top in four ancient language scripts. Though the original structure is gone, the site remains of historical interest.
Location: Northeast Georgia | Best Time to Visit: N/A (no longer standing)
The Georgia Guidestones as they appeared before their destruction in 2022
42. Pasaquan
This visionary art environment was created by Eddie Owens Martin (St. EOM) between 1957 and 1986. The seven-acre compound features six major structures, mandala murals, and more than 900 feet of elaborately painted masonry walls. Restored in 2016, this psychedelic folk art site blends African, pre-Columbian, and Eastern influences into a unique artistic expression.
Location: Southwest Georgia | Best Time to Visit: During scheduled open hours, typically weekends
43. Consolidated Gold Mine
Descend 200 feet underground to explore tunnels where miners once sought gold in the largest hard rock gold mine east of the Mississippi. Guided tours explain mining techniques and equipment, while above ground, visitors can try their hand at gold panning and gemstone mining. The mine operates in Dahlonega, site of America’s first major gold rush in 1829.
Location: North Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Year-round (underground temperature remains constant)
44. Babyland General Hospital
The whimsical birthplace of Cabbage Patch Kids dolls invites visitors to witness “births” from the magical cabbage patch under the Magic Crystal Tree. This unique attraction combines toy store, museum, and interactive experience in a Southern-style building surrounded by landscaped grounds. Staff members dressed as doctors and nurses maintain the hospital theme throughout the facility.
Location: Northeast Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Year-round
45. Georgia Rural Telephone Museum
Housing the nation’s largest collection of antique telephones and telephone memorabilia, this unique museum traces the evolution of communication technology. Exhibits include manual switchboards, pay phones, and thousands of telephones dating from the 1880s forward. The museum occupies a former cotton warehouse in the small town of Leslie.
Location: Southwest Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Year-round
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Seasonal Attractions and Events
46. Georgia National Fair
This annual agricultural fair in Perry showcases the state’s farming heritage through livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, and competitions. Beyond agriculture, the fair offers concerts, carnival rides, food vendors, and family entertainment. The 11-day event typically attracts more than 500,000 visitors each October.
Location: Central Georgia | Best Time to Visit: October
The Georgia National Fair combines agricultural heritage with entertainment for all ages
47. Cherry Blossom Festival in Macon
Each spring, Macon celebrates its 350,000+ Yoshino cherry trees with a 10-day festival featuring concerts, arts and crafts shows, food, and special events. The pink blossoms transform the city into a photographer’s paradise, with guided tours available to the most spectacular viewing locations. The festival has grown into one of the state’s premier spring celebrations since its inception in 1982.
Location: Central Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Late March
48. Georgia Apple Festival
Celebrating the apple harvest in Georgia’s apple capital, this festival in Ellijay features more than 300 vendors offering food, crafts, and demonstrations. Visitors can sample and purchase apples and apple products from local orchards, enjoy live entertainment, and participate in activities including a classic car show and parade. The festival spans two weekends in October.
Location: North Georgia | Best Time to Visit: October
49. Savannah Music Festival
Georgia’s largest musical arts event presents world-class performances across multiple genres including classical, jazz, Americana, and world music. Concerts take place in venues throughout Savannah’s historic district, from intimate churches to larger theaters. The 17-day festival attracts renowned artists and music lovers from around the world each spring.
Location: Coastal Georgia | Best Time to Visit: Late March to early April
50. Atlanta Dogwood Festival
This springtime tradition celebrates the blooming of dogwood trees with a fine arts market, live music, international performances, and food vendors in Piedmont Park. Founded in 1936, the festival has grown into one of the city’s most beloved events, drawing artists and visitors from across the country. The Midtown setting offers beautiful skyline views alongside the festival activities.
Location: Atlanta | Best Time to Visit: Mid-April
The Atlanta Dogwood Festival celebrates spring with art, music, and the iconic blooming trees
Plan Your Perfect Georgia Getaway
Ready to explore the best of Georgia? From historic Savannah to the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, your perfect Georgia adventure awaits. Find the best deals on flights and accommodations to start your journey.
Experience the Diversity of Georgia
From the misty Blue Ridge Mountains to the sun-drenched Golden Isles, Georgia offers an incredible diversity of experiences for every type of traveler. The state’s rich history, natural beauty, and Southern hospitality create memorable adventures whether you’re exploring vibrant cities, hiking scenic trails, or relaxing on pristine beaches. As you plan your Georgia journey, consider visiting during different seasons to experience the state’s changing landscapes and seasonal attractions.
Georgia truly embodies the essence of Southern charm while offering world-class attractions and natural wonders that rival any destination. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or cultural explorer, the Peach State welcomes you with open arms and unforgettable experiences. Start planning your Georgia adventure today and discover why this remarkable state captures the hearts of visitors year after year.
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