When I first visited Georgia, I was surprised by how much there was to see and do. From the busy streets of Atlanta to the peaceful mountains in the north, Georgia offers a little bit of everything. Whether you love history, nature, beaches, or good food, you’ll find something that makes you want to stay longer.
What I liked most about traveling through Georgia was the mix of old and new. One moment I was walking under shady trees in historic Savannah, and the next I was tasting fresh peaches from a roadside stand. Every place had its own charm and story to tell.
In this article, I’ll share some of my favorite things to do in Georgia. These spots made my trip special, and I hope they help you plan your own adventure through the Peach State.
Explore Atlanta’s Attractions
My trip to Georgia wouldn’t have been complete without spending some time in Atlanta. It’s a big, exciting city full of energy and things to do. One of the first places I visited was the Georgia Aquarium—it’s one of the largest aquariums in the world, and I was amazed by the giant whale sharks and playful sea otters. It felt like stepping into an underwater world.
Right next door, I checked out the World of Coca-Cola, where I learned all about the history of the famous drink. I even got to taste different sodas from around the world. It was a fun and unique experience I didn’t expect to enjoy so much.
Another highlight was visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Walking through Dr. King’s childhood home and seeing the church where he preached was powerful and inspiring. It reminded me how much history lives in this city.
Atlanta is full of museums, parks, and neighborhoods to explore. If you like sports, you can also catch a Braves or Falcons game. There’s always something going on, and that’s what makes Atlanta such a great place to start your Georgia journey.
Visit Savannah’s Historic District
When I arrived in Savannah, it felt like stepping into a storybook. The streets are lined with giant oak trees covered in Spanish moss, and the old brick buildings and cobblestone roads give the whole city a timeless charm. I spent hours just walking around the Historic District, and it quickly became one of my favorite parts of Georgia.
There’s so much to see in every square and corner. I loved wandering through the beautiful city squares, each with its own statue or fountain, and sitting on benches just taking in the peaceful surroundings. I visited places like Forsyth Park, with its famous fountain, and toured elegant old homes like the Mercer-Williams House, which had a fascinating history.
What made Savannah extra special for me was the mix of history, ghost stories, and Southern hospitality. I even joined a ghost tour at night, which was spooky and fun. And of course, the food in Savannah was amazing—shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and sweet tea everywhere I went.
Hike in the North Georgia Mountains
One of the most peaceful and refreshing parts of my trip to Georgia was spending time in the North Georgia Mountains. If you love nature like I do, this area is a dream come true. The air feels fresh, the views are stunning, and the trails offer something for everyone—from easy walks to more challenging hikes.
I started my adventure in Helen, a small town that looks like a German village. From there, I drove into the mountains and hiked to Anna Ruby Falls, which is an easy and rewarding trail with two beautiful waterfalls at the end. It was such a calming place, with the sound of water and birds all around me.
I also hiked a part of the famous Appalachian Trail near Blood Mountain, and the view from the top was worth every step. The rolling hills, endless trees, and quiet made me feel far away from the busy world. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just going for a scenic drive, the North Georgia Mountains are a perfect escape into nature.
Relax on the Beaches of Tybee Island
During my visit to Georgia, I made sure to spend a day at Tybee Island, and I’m so glad I did. Just a short drive from Savannah, this quiet beach town felt like a hidden gem. It was the perfect spot to slow down, take a deep breath, and just enjoy the ocean.
I started my morning with a peaceful walk along the soft sandy beach, watching the waves roll in and collecting seashells. The water was calm and warm, and I even saw a few dolphins jumping in the distance! I brought a beach chair and a good book, and I spent hours just relaxing in the sun. It felt like time stood still.
One of my favorite parts of Tybee was visiting the Tybee Island Lighthouse, which gave me amazing views of the coastline. I also found some cozy seafood spots nearby where I tried the freshest shrimp I’ve ever had. Tybee Island isn’t crowded or flashy—it’s calm, beautiful, and full of charm. If you’re looking for a peaceful beach day, this is the place to go.
Tour the College Town of Athens
I didn’t expect to fall in love with a college town, but Athens, Georgia, really surprised me. It’s known as the home of the University of Georgia, but it’s so much more than that. The town has a fun, youthful vibe, mixed with Southern charm and a deep love for music, food, and local art.
I started my visit by walking around the historic downtown area, which was full of cool coffee shops, boutiques, and colorful murals. I loved how friendly everyone was, and I felt welcome wherever I went.
The energy here is something you can really feel—especially at night when live music spills out from bars and small venues. I even caught a local band playing at one of the famous spots where groups like R.E.M. and the B-52s once started out.
During the day, I explored the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, which was peaceful and beautiful, especially in the spring. I also tried some delicious Southern food at one of the town’s farm-to-table restaurants.
Athens may be a college town, but it’s perfect for anyone who enjoys good music, tasty food, and a relaxed, creative atmosphere.
Discover Stone Mountain Park
One of my favorite outdoor adventures in Georgia was spending a day at Stone Mountain Park. This massive granite mountain stands out right away—it’s hard to miss! The park around it is full of fun things to do, whether you’re into hiking, history, or just soaking in beautiful views.
I decided to hike up to the top of Stone Mountain, and the trail wasn’t too hard. It was actually fun, and the view from the top was totally worth it. I could see the Atlanta skyline in the distance, and the breeze made it a peaceful place to rest for a while. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can also take a cable car to the summit.
Besides the hike, there were lots of other activities in the park. I saw families having picnics, kids riding the scenic train, and visitors enjoying the lake. One highlight for me was the laser light show at night—it was colorful, exciting, and felt like a little celebration under the stars. Stone Mountain Park gave me a mix of nature, fun, and Georgia history all in one place, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the state.
Taste Local Food and Southern Cuisine
One of the best parts of visiting Georgia was the food. I made it a point to try as much local Southern cuisine as I could, and I wasn’t disappointed. From fried chicken to sweet peach cobbler, every bite felt like a warm welcome from the South.
I stopped at a few family-owned restaurants where the mac and cheese was creamy, the collard greens were perfectly seasoned, and the biscuits were soft and buttery. One meal I’ll never forget was a plate of shrimp and grits I had in Savannah—it was rich, flavorful, and made with fresh, local ingredients.
No visit to Georgia would be complete without tasting a few classic desserts. I tried a slice of pecan pie and some Georgia peach ice cream, and both were sweet, comforting treats. Whether I was eating at a small diner in the mountains or a trendy café in Atlanta, the food always felt like a true taste of the South. If you love trying new dishes and experiencing local culture through food, Georgia is definitely a delicious destination.
Visit Helen, Georgia – A Little German Town
When I first arrived in Helen, Georgia, I felt like I had stepped into a fairy tale. This small mountain town looks just like a Bavarian village in Germany, with colorful buildings, wooden balconies, and cobblestone streets. It’s one of the most unique and charming places I’ve visited in Georgia.
I spent the day walking around town, enjoying the cozy shops, bakeries, and cafes. I stopped for some authentic German food—a big pretzel and bratwurst—and it was delicious. I also picked up some handmade gifts and local treats to take home. The atmosphere was so cheerful, and everyone was friendly.
Helen is also a great place for outdoor fun. I went tubing down the Chattahoochee River, which was relaxing and a little silly in the best way. In the fall, the town really comes alive with Oktoberfest celebrations, and during winter, it looks like a magical holiday village. Whether you go for the scenery, the food, or just a fun escape, Helen is a must-see in Georgia.
Explore Cumberland Island’s Wildlife and Ruins
One of the most peaceful and unforgettable experiences I had in Georgia was exploring Cumberland Island. This beautiful island is full of wild nature, historic ruins, and quiet beaches that feel like a secret getaway. To get there, I took a ferry, which set the tone for a relaxing adventure.
On the island, I saw wild horses roaming freely—it was amazing to watch these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Walking along the sandy beaches and through the dense forests, I felt completely connected to nature. The island is also home to some fascinating historic ruins, like the old Carnegie mansion, which gave me a glimpse into Georgia’s past.
Cumberland Island felt like a hidden treasure, perfect for anyone who loves wildlife, history, and peaceful walks. It’s not a place you can rush through—spending the day there helped me slow down and enjoy the simple beauty of Georgia’s coast. If you want a unique and quiet escape, Cumberland Island should definitely be on your list.
Drive the Scenic Georgia Wine Highway
One of the most relaxing and enjoyable things I did in Georgia was driving along the Georgia Wine Highway. This scenic route takes you through beautiful countryside filled with rolling hills, vineyards, and charming small towns. It was a perfect way to see a different side of Georgia away from the busy cities.
Along the way, I stopped at several local wineries to taste some of Georgia’s best wines. I loved learning about the wine-making process and meeting the friendly people behind each vineyard. The atmosphere was peaceful, and the views from the tasting rooms were stunning. Whether you’re a wine expert or just curious, this drive offers something special for everyone.
Driving the Georgia Wine Highway gave me a chance to unwind, enjoy great wine, and experience the warm hospitality of the region. It’s a perfect day trip or weekend getaway if you want to explore Georgia’s countryside and taste some delicious local flavors.
Conclusion
Visiting Georgia was an amazing experience that surprised me at every turn. From exploring lively cities like Atlanta and Savannah to discovering peaceful places like Cumberland Island and the North Georgia Mountains, there’s so much to see and do here. The mix of history, nature, culture, and delicious Southern food made my trip unforgettable.
I loved how each place offered something different, whether it was hiking scenic trails, tasting local wines, or walking through charming small towns like Helen. Georgia really has something for everyone, no matter what kind of traveler you are.
If you’re planning a trip to the South, I highly recommend adding Georgia to your list. Trust me, once you visit, you’ll fall in love with its warm hospitality and beautiful sights just like I did.
