22 Best Places in Georgia, USA

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Sviat Oleksiv
March 21, 2022

Georgia provides a one-of-a-kind experience, with everything from bustling, metropolitan cities to a sandy, sun-kissed coastline and breathtaking mountains.

You will witness contemporary Atlanta, with its metropolitan skyline and the world's largest aquarium. Savannah, Georgia's first city, will wow you with its historic splendor and stunning architecture.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has wild horses, as do the Blue Ridge Mountains, picturesque beaches, romantic retreats, amusement parks, stunning wedding settings, water parks, waterfalls, and over 400 Civil War sites. The following are the top locations to visit in Georgia.

1. Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia's capital, is a bustling, buzzing, contemporary city that is also extremely Southern. It is a huge, contemporary metropolis with three metropolitan skylines rising from rolling hills, pine forests, gorgeous old oak trees, and attractive magnolia and peach trees.

Start your journey with the Atlanta History Center, which is a huge part of what makes Atlanta what it is. Visit Martin Luther King Jr.'s former house, which is now a National Historic Site. Visit the Georgia Aquarium and the 21-acre Centennial Olympic Park. You may also take the kids to Six Flags White Water and the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, and the Margaret Mitchell House, which is a lovely example of Southern architecture and culture.

On a hot day, take a stroll around the Atlanta Botanic Gardens to cool down while admiring the lush, verdant world of plants. The CNN Center and World of Coca-Cola are among the city's prominent attractions.

In the evening, go to Atlanta's upscale Buckhead and Westside areas to sample the city's burgeoning restaurant scene and lively nightlife.

You can be interested in: 9 best places to visit in Atlanta

2. Providence Canyon State Park

Providence Canyon State Park is a 1,003-acre park in southwest Georgia near Lumpkin. Providence Canyon, also known as Georgia's "Little Grand Canyon" and one of Georgia's Natural Wonders, lies at the heart of this exciting park. The steep gullies that drop down 150 feet were formed by soil erosion caused by poor 19th-century farming techniques, which is strange given that the Canyon is not natural.

On the other hand, the Canyon's beautiful orange, pink, red, and purple colors provide beautiful photographs and paintings. The rare indigenous plum leaf azalea in full flower in July and August, making the Canyon even more attractive. Hiking along the Canyon's rim provides breathtaking vistas, and rock climbers frequent several of the gullies.

3. Driftwood Beach

Driftwood Beach is located on Jekyll Island's north between the Villas By The Sea Resort and Clam Creek Picnic Area. It's a bizarre setting unlike anything you've ever seen and an incredible photo opportunity. The beach is a tree graveyard with kilometers of wonderfully formed dead trees and fallen branches that have been beaten and bleached by the storms and waves.

Driftwood Beach is a terrific area for a quiet stroll, and it's a photographer's dream because it's generally deserted. The beach has some of the most beautiful sunsets.

4. Toccoa Falls

You can enjoy The Toccoa Falls Waterfall in the picturesque North Georgia Mountains, not far from Toccoa. It is located on the Toccoa Falls College campus. Toccoa Falls is made up of a college campus and a spectacular waterfall. Visitors must walk through the campus and enter through Gate Cottage, which houses Toccoa Falls Books & Gifts, to get to the falls.

A lovely trail leads from the cottage to the natural canyon, where the falls may be seen. The Toccoa Falls cascade is one of the highest single-drop waterfalls in this section of the country, at 186 feet high - roughly nineteen feet higher than Niagara Falls. The falling water streams through the magnificent forested college campus, forming a stream. On Sundays, the Gate Cottage Restaurant, which has a magnificent view of Toccoa Creek, is available to the general public for lunch.

5. Stone Mountain Park

Stone Mountain, an 863-foot-high granite outcrop with a bald dome that stands out dramatically from the surrounding area, is virtually devoid of trees or plant life. The bas-relief on the mountain's north face is the world's largest. It has a sculpture of Confederate President Jefferson Davis, General Robert E. Lee, and General Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson called the Confederate Memorial Carving.

The top of the building stands 825 feet (251 meters) above the surrounding surroundings, providing a stunning perspective of Atlanta. A 1940s locomotive transports visitors through the park on a five-mile track, and a land-and-water tour aboard a 1940s Army DUKW highlights local history.

The Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, an open-air museum with farm animals that guests may pet and 19 historic structures that mimic a pre-Civil War plantation, is also worth visiting. The dinosaur park, which has 20 life-size ancient monsters that move and roar, is popular with families.

6. Savannah

Savannah, Georgia's oldest city, is situated on Georgia's Atlantic Coast in eastern Georgia and is rich in history, hospitality, and natural beauty.

A tour of Savannah's Historic District, which encompasses about a square mile and preserves the historic city as it was during the Civil War, is the greatest way to view the city. It is one of the most lovely urban environments in the world, with its gorgeous shaded squares bordered by majestic mansions and stone-paved streets dotted with trees draped in exquisite Spanish moss. In addition to the historic environment, the Historic District is alive with art, culture, museums, and palaces to explore.

The riverside runs along the north end, while Forsyth Park runs along the south. Although the entire region is famed for its numerous lovely parks and squares, Forsyth Park is the largest and best example of a well-designed mid-nineteenth-century Southern park. An elegant fountain is a focal point, and the strolling paths are covered by wonderful ancient trees draping over them.

Visit City Market for excitement both day and night, and wander down Savannah River Street to see galleries, cafés, restaurants, and wonderful river views. There will be a festival to bring locals and visitors alike out on the streets no matter what time of year you visit.

7. Georgia Aquarium

The Georgia Aquarium is the biggest in the Western Hemisphere, and it was the largest in the world until Singapore's aquarium surpassed it. This magnificent aquarium, located near Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta, is a must-see.

The aquarium, which is home to thousands of marine species such as whale sharks, beluga whales, sea otters, and rare fish, strives to maintain, protect, and teach visitors about the ocean system's remarkable variety.

Live presentations at the aquarium include a dolphin show that emphasizes the link between animals and humans and a 3D underwater display that emphasizes the need for marine animal preservation. Visitors may get up and personal with some of the creatures, such as dolphins, sea otters, and penguins, through special interaction programs.

The largest, the 6.3-million-gallon Ocean Voyager, is home to millions of species, including whale sharks and manta rays, and has a 100-foot-long glass tunnel that visitors may stroll through while surrounded by moving fish. Courageous guests can even dive alongside whale sharks and manta rays in the Ocean Voyager.

8. Amicalola Falls

Amicalola Falls is Georgia's highest waterfall (222 meters). It is located near Dawsonville, Georgia, between Ellijay and Dahlonega, and is part of the Amicalola Falls State Park.

There are additional locations for archery, zip line, GPS scavenger hunts, survival games, and various hiking paths, including tourist favorites like the East Ridge Trail and the Base of the Falls Trail. The campsite, cottages, and a hilltop lodge are all available for visitors to stay in.

The Maple Restaurant in the park is noted for its breathtaking views and Sunday brunch buffet. A 5-mile journey leads to the Len Foote Hike Inn, Georgia's only wilderness resort, for those seeking adventure.

Amicalola Falls State Park is opened: 7:00-22:00

9. Tybee Island

Tybee Island is Savannah's coastal tropical paradise with five miles of sandy public beach and historic dunes. The Island is perfect for everybody. There are a lot of activities: sunbathing, fishing, sailing, boating, hiking, riding, dining, drinking...

Take a dolphin-watching cruise, learn to surf at North Beach, paddleboard through the wildlife-rich salt marshes of Little Tybee Island, kayak around the tiny Cockspur Island Lighthouse, and climb to the top of historic Tybee Island Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Island.

Don't miss the historic Fort Screven area, including the picturesque Tybee Lighthouse. You can learn about island history at the Tybee Museum or take the kids to Fort Pulaski to learn about the country's turbulent past. Enjoy wonderful restaurants, beach bars, cafes, and breathtaking sunsets.

10. World of Coca-Cola

The World of Coca-Cola is an unforgettable museum that combines colorful and amusing exhibits to depict the beverage's history and evolution into the globally famous drink it is today.

In 1886, a syrup made by Dr. John Pemberton to alleviate headaches was blended with carbonic acid and water and served in Pemberton's drugstore, resulting in the world's most popular soft drink.

Sixty years of jingles, advertisements from the 1800s, and a 4-D movie experience are just a few of the attractions.

The Pop Culture Gallery, located upstairs, features works by a variety of artists who have been influenced by the brand and is a must-see for pop culture lovers.

Visit the Vault of the Secret Formula after taking a photo with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear. You won't find out what goes into manufacturing the world's most popular soft drink if you've ever wondered. The formula is kept safe in the vault, but you can try crafting your own "mix" to see how close you are to the actual thing. Take a look behind the scenes at the bottling process and then travel upstairs to Taste It! to try over 100 Coca-Cola varieties from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Pick up a keepsake at the Coca-Cola Store, where many goods are only available here.

11. Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain, located on the Georgia-Tennessee line, was the site of a Civil War fight but is best known today for the natural park that runs along its rocky crest. The park was opened in 1932. It is famous for over 900 barn signage in 19 states. There is an adventure pathway through beautiful rock formations and across a swinging bridge to Lookout Point.

Points in seven states may be seen from the summit of the vertical cliff on particularly clear days. Walking through rocks, you can enjoy gardens, stone bridges, tight tunnels between gigantic rock faces, art installations, a mushroom-shaped balancing rock, etc. Christmas lights and a Halloween celebration featuring a corn maze are seasonal festivals and activities.

12. Tallulah Gorge State Park

Tallulah Gorge State Park is a great place to visit to see some incredible natural beauty. Tallulah Gorge, which is 2 miles long and approximately 1,000 feet deep, is located just west of the Georgia-South Carolina line in the state's northern region. The area's major attraction is six Tallulah Falls.

Hiking routes with fantastic views are available on the gorge's rim, but visitors must get permission to hike on the canyon floor.

Tallulah Gorge State Park also has a suspension bridge with spectacular views of the park's six waterfalls and over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails.

The Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center tells visitors about the area's history, geography, and delicate environment.

13. Atlanta Botanical Garden

In the heart of Midtown Atlanta, the 30-acre botanical garden adjacent to Piedmont Park is a delightful surprise. It is divided into wonderful parts. There is a Japanese garden, a rose garden, wooded areas, and a children's garden.

The Japanese Garden has a teahouse, waterfall, pond, bamboo, miniature Japanese maples, and a Moon Gate.

The Rose Garden is amazing in late spring and late summer, and the Hydrangea Collection and the collection of water plants are among the best in the Southeast.

The indoor Fuqua Conservatory, which houses a variety of tropical, desert, and subtropical plants and animals, is one of the botanical garden's primary attractions.

The Fuqua Orchid Center exhibits orchids of many forms and hues and tropical birds, turtles, and poison dart frogs.

14. Delta Flight Museum

Another fantastic spot to visit if you have a fear of heights is the Delta Flight Museum, which examines the history and growth of the aviation industry. A large assortment of antiques, airline equipment, and aircraft are housed in two massive hangars. More sparkling planes and jets are located outdoors.

The corporate museum, located near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, was established in 1995 and largely focuses on Delta's history, development, and the future of aviation. You'll learn about various plane makes and models and take a look inside a Boeing 747 while exploring its intriguing displays. On top of that, you can try out their entertaining flying simulator.

15. Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area

Arabia Mountain, with three lakes and over 2,000 acres, provides lots of options for adventure near Atlanta. The Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area is known for its spectacular vistas. What appears to be a lifeless, barren landscape is really home to particularly adapted plants that flourish in the mountain's severe climate, including uncommon black-spored quillwort and amianthus.

The Arabia Mountain Top Trail is a beautiful hike that takes you over giant exposed granite boulders and fields mixed with tiny basins stocked with unique vegetation before going to the crater-spotted peak for breathtaking vistas.

There are various streams excellent for throwing a line for people who like fishing. But keep in mind that fishing in Georgia necessitates the purchase of a Georgia fishing license.

16. Panther Creek Falls

A hidden gem awaits hikers in Georgia's Cohutta Mountains, near the southern extremity of the Smoky Mountains. The famous 5.8-mile Panther Creek Trail, located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, passes through a succession of beautiful waterfalls on North Georgia's Panther Creek. A row of large waterfalls cascades into a deep clear pool of water in numerous layers.

There are several campsites before and after the falls, and they are usually occupied because this is one of Georgia's most popular hikes. Another route to get to the waterfalls from the trailhead near Yonah Dam is shorter but considerably more difficult.

17. Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame

The College Football Hall of Fame is located right adjacent to Centennial Olympic Park and is another of Atlanta's top tourist sites that is well worth visiting. Inside the huge football-shaped structure are several relics and exhibitions that honor some of the game's best players and coaches.

The fascinating and amusing museum, a particular favorite with football enthusiasts, launched in 2014, with prior incarnations previously existing in Kings Mill and South Bend. Aside from learning about the inductees and viewing their records, helmets, and outfits, you can also practice your quarterback skills on the facility's indoor pitch or use one of its augmented reality stations.

18. CNN Studio Tours

The world's most well-known news organization needs an as impressive headquarters, and the CNN Center does not disappoint. Centennial Olympic Park, Phillips Arena, the Georgia Dome, and the Georgia Conference Center are all connected by a vast food court atrium.

There are studio tours available, including technological demos and access to viewing galleries with views of CNN's newsrooms and newsreaders. Guests may stay in a big, adjoining hotel, which is ideal for those wanting to get a glimpse of their favorite newscaster or a special guest at the studios.

19. Vogel State Park

Vogel State Park is a popular state park located at the base of Blood Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest. It is one of the best tourist attractions and instagrammable spots. This wonderful park provides something for everyone, with miles of easy hiking trails, a 22-acre lake, a mountain-view beach, cottages, campsites, and primitive backpacking sites. The trip from the south across Neel Gap is lovely in the fall.

This mountain pass offers visitors a stunning view of the Appalachian Mountains' changing foliage. The park also has a museum that chronicles the park's and the surrounding area's rich history.

20. Red Top Mountain State Park

Red Top Mountain was originally an important mining location, named after the soil's deep red hue produced by high iron-ore concentration. The famous Red Top Mountain State Park is now located in this location. The park's 12,000-acre Lake Allatoona serves as a playground for watersports enthusiasts of all types.

Visitors can hire boats of the marinas or bring their own ones to explore the lake. Hikers may enjoy almost 15 miles of path, including the 4-mile Iron Hill Trail, which is available to both hikers and bikers. There are rental cottages available, as well as a campsite.

21. Mercedes-Benz Stadium

The vast, multi-purpose Mercedes Benz Stadium is another beautiful spot to go if you want to attend a concert, show, or sporting event. The gleaming new stadium, which is home to the NFL's Atlanta Falcons and Major League Soccer's Atlanta United FC, is just a short walk or drive west of downtown Atlanta.

The massive, state-of-the-art arena, which was only completed in 2017, is a more than suitable successor for the destroyed Georgia Dome. The stadium boasts an exhilarating atmosphere when its retractable 'pinwheel' roof is closed, as the two clubs' adoring fan groups shout them to victory. Visitors can attend any of the stadium's concerts, conferences, or other athletic activities in addition to viewing a spectacular football game or soccer match.

22. The Jimmy Carter Presidential Museum

The Jimmy Carter Presidential Museum is a beautiful destination to see, and it's only a five-minute drive northeast of downtown, right close to the Carter Center. Inside, visitors may learn about his life and legacy and witness incredible artifacts, images, and film clips from his whole career, including his one stint as president (1977–1981).

The museum, which first opened its doors to the public in 1986, includes everything from his origins and career as a peanut farmer to life on the campaign road and his opposition to racial segregation. You can also witness his Nobel Peace Prize, walk around an identical reproduction of the Oval Office, and stroll around its extensive library and beautiful gardens once you've studied all of the interactive displays.