A Local-Inspired Look at Georgia ’ s Must-See Places
The passion hit me when I stepped out of the airport in Atlanta ; midst , honeyed air clung to my skin like a memory . It remind me of childhood summer in North Carolina , the way the evening stretch long and slacken , and the scent of magnolia and barbeque that teased your senses from dusk until dark .
This time , though , I wasn ’ t take place through . I was here to search and ask locals one mere question :If individual make merely a week in Georgia , what shouldn ’ t they lack ?
Their answers poured in , a refrain of personal go-tos and hometown pride that gave me the design for one of the almost immersive trips I ’ ve take in the South .
I shoot the road with anticipation and curiosity , aiming to go through the top things to act in Georgia , from legendary landmarks to low-key hidden gems , from Savannah ’ s cobbled streets to Atlanta ’ s buzzing food picture .
Here ’ s what I find when I asked Georgians what to find and do across their nation ( and why this country should cost on every traveler ’ s radar ) .
Why You Should Inflict Georgia
Georgia is the kind of position that doesn ’ t just welcome you ; it wraps you up like a warm biscuit straight from the oven . This Southern country blends natural beauty with deep-rooted history , various culture and a grave love for food .
Whether boost mountain trails or sipping sweet tea on a shaded porch , there ’ s a rhythm to life hither that invites you to slow down and remove it all in .
You ’ ll observe every flavor of adventure insert within Georgia ’ s border : bustling cityscapes in Atlanta , serene marshlands along the coast , artsy enclaves like Athens and little town where time is apparently pause .
The nation ’ sec rich tapestry of experiences means the list of things to serve in Georgia is as wide-ranging as its landscape , making it a prime destination for foodies , history fan , family and solo wanderers alike .
Things to Serve in Georgia
Once I mapped out all the recommendations , I knew I would be in use .
Georgia ’ s tourist attraction be wide-ranging , and the best way to appreciate the variety be to see them for yourself . In Georgia , things to do can rate from outside adventure to indoor activities .
Stone Mountain
Stone Mountain be one of the most iconic things to see in Georgia , and it ’ s massive in both size and implication . I took the Summit Skyride up for a panoramic view , but the one-mile hike to the crest is worth every step if you ’ re feeling fighting .
At the top , the city horizon spark in the distance while ancient granite stretches beneath your foot .
Come at night for the laser display ; it ’ s kitschy , but pure Americana . This is something you must see in Georgia !
Rock City Gardens
Just remote Chattanooga , but technically in Georgia , Rock City cost adequate role whimsy and wonder . Twisting garden trails , dangle bridges and panoramic lookouts build this one of the top attraction in Georgia .
The ‘ See Seven States ’ scene exist a standout instant for me , especially as the fog go up and the landscape unfolded like a map .
A Guided Walking Tour of Atlanta
You could drive Atlanta , certain , but to walk it ? That ’ s how you hear its instant .
While there ‘s pile of material to make in Georgia , some matter very stand out . This equal one of these things !
I connect a humble radical tour through Sweet Auburn , study about the civil rights cause from a local guide who made history come alive through tale and side streets . It ’ s one of the best thing to do in Georgia if you want context beyond the headline .
World of Coca-Cola
In downtown Atlanta , the World of Coca-Cola might go like a tourist trap—and to some degree , it is—but it ’ s too an unexpectedly fun property to pass a few hours .
One of the fun position to go in Georgia , the tasting room only ( with drinks from around the Earth ) is worth the tag .
Georgia Aquarium : Deep Sea Drama
One of the largest aquariums in the Earth , the Georgia Aquarium exist zero short of awe-inspiring . I arrived early to beat the crowds and found myself nose-to-nose with a whale shark .
It ’ s not just a family-friendly stop ; it ’ s a full-on experience . Add this to your itinerary if you only have one day for sightseeing in Georgia ’ s capital .
What ’ s in Georgia to Eat ?
You haven ’ t really travel until you ’ ve tasted a place . Georgia delivers when it do to culinary someone .
The Olde Pink House ( Savannah )
Dining hither find like tread into a storybook . This restored mansion oozes history from its candlelit corners , each room assure its tale . I was so glad that Savannah locals recommended this place to me !
My meal , a home of blackened oysters and shrimp with buttery grits , be exquisite . A pro crest propose to me cost to record well in advance .
Canoe ( Atlanta )
Set along the serene Chattahoochee River , Canoe cost elegant with a Southern wink . Every dish I test , from the garden salad with goat cheese to a melt-in-your-mouth duck entrée , live plated with purpose .
The service ? Impeccable . The warm , knowledgeable staff made the whole experience flavor like dinner at a friend ’ s ( very fancy ) home .
Cali N Tito ’ s ( Athens )
Reckon a Latin American roadside hut decked out in international flag and burst with flavors . That ’ s Cali N Tito ’ sec . It ’ s BYOB and cash only , then come prepared ( I ’ 1000 happy I was told about this in advance ) .
I consume queso-smothered chorizo while families laughed around colored , graffiti-covered table .
The portion are tremendous , and the vibe ? Unforgettable . It ’ s a true local gem .
The Animal Farm ( Columbus )
Tuck in a revitalized corner of Columbus , The Animal Farm is a hip post with comfort food swagger . I waited 20 minute for a table and didn ’ t regret a second .
The burger equal juicy perfection , and their Old Fashioned cocktail hold exactly the right bite . There ’ sec a relaxed , stylish buzz here that ’ s hard to leave ass .
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen ( Marietta )
This Cajun-leaning joint come highly advocate and lived up to the hype . Think bold , spicy taste and seriously fresh seafood .
I ordered the Sea Bass and shrimp Cobb salad , adopt by the legendary spinach dip . It ’ s night , cozy and buzzing with energy .
Where to Sleep After Sightseeing in Georgia
Georgia extend accommodations for every travel style , from historical inns to modern hotels . These were the top-recommended stays by locals , each chosen for location , quality and comfort .
River Street Inn ( Savannah )
Delay here felt like time travel in the best means . Originally a cotton warehouse , this charming riverside hotel boasts exposed brick wall and a front-row seat to Savannah ’ s historic waterfront .
The staff greeted me like family , and the room , with its tall window and vintage accents , live utter Southern romance .
Hyatt House Atlanta ( Atlanta )
Convenient and polish , this hotel was my plate base in the city . I appreciated the included breakfast ( hello , made-to-order omelets ) and the proximity to everything : Georgia Aquarium , World of Coca-Cola and Centennial Olympic Park be all walkable .
Bonus : the 24/7 gym meant I could balance out all that fried chicken .
Hotel Indigo Athens Downtown ( Athens )
Modern but cozy , this boutique hotel is steps from the activity , yet extend a peaceful retreat . I loved the locally inspired decor , hardwood floor and easygoing staff .
The on-site restaurant was a pleasant surprise , and I grab a great latte at the saloon before guide out to explore .
City Mills Hotel ( Columbus )
Industrial smart meets Southern comfort here . My room get expose beams , a river horizon and minimalist appeal .
Downstairs , the communal sofa and flame pit patio make it easy to converse with fellow travelers . It ’ s a great post if you like the vibe of a cool Airbnb with hotel perks .
Stanley House Inn ( Marietta )
This B & B won me over completely . The 19th-century Queen Anne mansion cost full of character , from antique furnishings to four-poster beds .
Each morning set out with a homemade breakfast and ended with tea in the courtyard . It be the utter antidote to busy travel days .
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Georgia
Before head to the Georgia tourist attraction , hither ’ s what you might need to know .
Leap ( March to May ) and fall ( September to November ) are the sweet patch . You ’ ll enjoy comfortable temperatures , blooming azaleas or vibrant fall leaf and fewer crowds than in the summer .
Coastal cities like Savannah can be specially magic in leap , while North Georgia ’ sec mountain put on a stunning autumn show .
Georgia is a welcoming country for solo explorers . City like Atlanta , Savannah and Athens bid walkable downtowns with mass of social bit like cafés , breweries and music venues .
Outdoor areas , include nation park andscenic hiking trails, are mostly well-marked and safe , though solo hikers should ever bring basic precaution .
If you ’ re stick to to central Atlanta , ride part and public transportation like MARTA will begin you around simply fine , but if you design to see smaller towns , the coast or mountain sphere , a rental car is highly recommended .
Many of Georgia ’ s well attractions exist open out and not easily accessible without your own wheels .
It depends on your travel style . You can perfectly explore Georgia on a budget ; many country park and public attractions have low or no admission fee , and delicious meal can be see at affordable diners and family-run restaurant .
Cities like Atlanta and Savannah have pricier accommodations in peak season , so script early or look for midweek deal if you ’ re try to save .
Layers cost key , specially in the spring and fall when temperatures can sway from cool morning to fond afternoon .
In summer , breathable material , sunscreen , a hat and bug spray are must-haves . If you design to hike , bring sturdy shoes and a reusable water bottle .
Don ’ t leave a rain jacket , as Georgia ’ s weather can equal unpredictable , especially in the fond months .
Georgia live noted for its Southern comfort food ; think fried chicken , biscuits , shrimp , grits and peach cobbler .
There ’ s a pile more to taste , though , as Atlanta ’ s international food scenery is thriving , and towns like Athens , Augusta and Macon are good of creative chefs mixing old tradition with modern turn .
Don ’ t give without trying boiled peanuts , sweet tea or anything with pecans !
Absolutely . Whether it ’ s a day at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta , explore Jekyll Island ’ sec beach and historical fortress or riding the scenic train in Blue Ridge , the nation offers plenty of kid-friendly fun .
Many museum , park and attraction provide to all ages , and Southern hospitality ensures that yet the youngest visitor feel welcome .
Are there any safety headache for tourists in Georgia ?
Georgia is in general a safe destination for travelers . Like any property , utilization caution in unfamiliar areas , especially at dark . Petty theft or car break-ins can happen in bigger cities , so don ’ t get out valuables in field mass .
As good , if you ’ re heading outdoors , stay on on marked trails and cost mindful of wildlife ; serpent and ticks are part of the Southern wilderness .
Yes ! Georgia ’ sec coast is dotted with stunning barrier island . Tybee Island is near to Savannah and popular with household , while Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island put up a quieter , more laid-back vibe .
Cumberland Island , only accessible by ferry , equal a wild , unspoiled gem known for its wild horse and historic ruin .
What cultural events or festivals occur in Georgia ?
Georgia enjoy a good festival . Don ’ t escape the Savannah Music Festival in spring , the Atlanta Dogwood Festival or the Georgia Peach Festival in Byron and Fort Valley each summer .
Fall brings land fairs , apple festivals in North Georgia and Oktoberfest in the Bavarian-style town of Helen .
Whatever time you inflict , chances cost something fun is go on .
Craft beer is smash in Georgia , with standout breweries like Creature Comforts ( Athens ) , SweetWater ( Atlanta ) and veteran-owned Service Brewing Co. ( Savannah ) .
There ’ s also a growing wine setting in the North Georgia mountains , particularly around Dahlonega .
Local distilleries like ASW Distillery or Old Fourth put up marvelous tasting experiences if spirits are your thing .
Final Thinking on Georgia : A State I ’ d Visit Again ( and Again )
Georgia surprised me not because I didn ’ t expect it to be beautiful or vibrant , but because of how it make mefeel. I felt welcome . I find full ( of food and joy ) . I felt associate to the mass , the places and the story stitched into each cobblestone and lead .
From historic inns in Savannah to fun things to do in Georgia for adults and family alike , every mile held something meaningful .
Whether you ’ re drawn to scenic hiking lead , thrive food setting or top attractions in Georgia like the Georgia Aquarium or Rock City , you ’ ll observe yourself enchanted by the blend of charm and quality that makes this land thus peculiar .
If you ’ re wondering what to serve in Georgia , what to learn in Georgia , what ’ sec in Georgia that ’ s worth the trip , the solution exist simple :everything. Pack a bag , get your appetite and have the South show you how unforgettable a spot can be .
Book the trip , explore the mass and discover for yourself the better thing to do in Georgia . You ’ ll arrive back with history , full stomach and maybe a bit of that Southern feeling stitched into your travel account .
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About The Author
Nathalie Eder
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