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Here Are 20 Great Road Trips From Atlanta

Looking for weekend road trips from Atlanta? A couples getaway from Atlanta? Or maybe a family road trip idea from Atlanta? We’ve compiled the top 20 road trips from Atlanta to get you started on your travel plans! Take a look at the list and get ready to pack your bags and fill your tank for a great adventure!

1. South Walton, Florida

South Walton is full of charming neighborhoods located along Florida’s scenic 30A highway and 26 miles of stunning beaches with beautiful white sand and turquoise colored water. Find a spot that suits you to spend your vacation – whether it’s at the sprawling Sandestin Resort, or a rental home at one of South Walton’s 16 quaint communities.

Travel Time: 5 hours / 310 miles

2. Hendersonville, North Carolina

One of the most beautiful small towns in North Carolina is known for its mountain views, close proximity to waterfalls, a wide variety of locally owned restaurants, and even its own Pinball Museum downtown. Hendersonville is also one of the top spots in the USA for apple orchards with a chance to pick your own fresh fruit at numerous farms around the area starting late in the summer and throughout the fall. Renowned poet, Carl Sandburg owned a home here that visitors can tour through the National Park Service.

Travel Time: 3h 10m / 180 miles

3. Nashville, Tennessee

What’s not to love about Nashville? (Okay, maybe rush hour traffic.) Music City USA is hopping these days! Even if hanging out at a honky tonk isn’t your thing, Nashville is home to top notch attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame, Johnny Cash Museum, and the world-famous Grand Ole Opry – which is also the longest running radio broadcast in history. One museum not to miss is the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum – a truly underrated collection of artifacts and exhibits that pay tribute to the guys and gals playing the music!

Travel Time: 4h / 258 miles

4. Macon, Georgia

If you’re a lover of music history, Macon has given us some of the biggest names of all time! Take a tour of Capricorn recording studio, hang out where Little Richard used to play the piano, grab a photo with the Otis Redding statue, and visit “The Big House” where The Allman Brothers lived and wrote some of their biggest hits. Macon has some amazing restaurants and southern food as well!

Travel Time: 1h 25m / 83 miles

5. Greenville, South Carolina

Known as one of the friendliest towns in America, Greenville has an incredible downtown that includes Falls Park, an urban green space with waterfalls and bike trails. The Swamp Rabbit Trail is one of the best biking trails in the south and extends over 22 miles from downtown to neighboring Travelers Rest. You can grab a beer, lunch, or even fresh produce along the way at one of the many shops and restaurants that line the path.

Travel Time: 2h 18m / 145 miles

6. Amelia Island, Florida

Amelia Island is one of the best kept secrets on the eastern coast of Florida. The island has a really cool historic district and lodging like the Florida House Inn that can put you right in the middle of all the action. Be sure to check out the oldest bar in Florida, Fort Clinch State Park, and don’t forget to grab a bite at Tasty’s – a delicious fast food joint that opened in 2011 with amazing burgers and shakes!

Travel Time: 5h / 356 miles

7. Brevard, North Carolina

Brevard is known as the “land of waterfalls” in North Carolina with easy access to the Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Forest, and Gorges State Park. Each spot has multiple waterfall hikes, many of which are easy to navigate. Brevard is a great spot to enjoy outdoor recreation of all types – including kayaking, mountain biking, or maybe even fly-fishing. Be sure to look for the famed white squirrels that Brevard is known for! You might see them running around the local college if you look carefully!

Travel Time: 3h / 168 miles

8. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge has been a family friendly gateway to the Smoky Mountains for decades. You can enjoy shows, ride Go Karts and mountain coasters, and of course – enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and all of its beauty. Unlike Gatlingburg, Pigeon Forge is a bit more spread out making it slightly easier to get around. It’s also home to Dollywood – the award winning theme park owned by Dolly Parton. If you’re an RV owner, consider staying at the new Margaritaville RV Resort & Lodge .

9. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Some call it the “redneck riviera” but Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are terrific places for a getaway with so much to do for any age group. Of course, if sitting by the beach and watching the waves is all that you want – you can’t beat the white sand and beautiful blue water that awaits you. Be sure to take a bike ride through Gulf State Park and try some amazing barbecue at Hog Wild BBQ.

Travel Time: 5h 27m / 348 miles

10. Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge

If you already live in Georgia, you know how great the state parks are and Amicalola is certainly no exception. Located in Dawsonville, the park sits in the middle of the Chattahoochee National Forest. The focal point, Amicalola Falls is a 729 foot waterfall that ranks as the highest in the state. The park’s lodge is first class with cozy rooms , meeting space, and fire places for those chilly fall and winter months up in the mountains.

Travel Time: 1h 30m / 70 miles

11. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is one of the best weekend road trips from Atlanta! While it’s best known as the place that Elvis Presley called home – Memphis has so much other music history. Sun Records also discovered Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Roy Orbison to name a few. B.B. King has ties to Memphis and don’t forget blues legend, W.C. Handy. Beale Street is a great spot for drinks and live music while the National Civil Rights Museum is a must-see collection of exhibits that’s based around the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr was killed in 1968.

Travel Time: 5h 30m / 390 miles

12. Covington, Georgia

Covinginton is one of the fun road trips from Atlanta if you’re looking to get out of the city. If you’ve seen shows like  Dukes of Hazard, The Vampire Diaries ,  In The Heat of the Night , or  The Walking Dead  – you’ve seen Covington. That’s a small sampling of the more than 100 different productions that have used the town square, local neighborhoods, and of course the iconic courthouse downtown as backdrops for the small, and big screen.

In addition to TV shows, Covington has some iconic film history as well. Twelve Oaks, a fictional home used in the film Gone with the Wind, was based off of a mansion in Covington. ( Pictured above) Staying a night a the Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast is a must for any movie buff!

Travel Time: 40m / 35 miles

13. St. Simons Island, Georgia

Located off the coast of Georgia, St. Simons Island is one of the most beautiful road trips from Atlanta. The island offers a quaint community with a slightly more relaxed, quiet setting than places like Savannah with the same moss draped oaks that line the streets. You can meander around the downtown shops and diners or check out one of the many local bike paths. You can also tour the St. Simons Lighthouse which was rebuilt in 1872 after being destroyed in the Civil War.

Travel Time: 4h 30m / 315 miles

14. Destin, Florida

The Emerald Coast has become one of the most popular road trips from Atlanta for good reason – it’s beautiful! There’s also so much going on it’s impossible to keep track. All of the family friendly fun in addition to every restaurant you can imagine and of course – stunning white sand beaches and gorgeous emerald green water. Wander over to neighboring Fort Walton Beach for more shopping and dining options. Oh, and be sure to grab some fresh fish at Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant!

Travel Time: 5h / 314 miles

15. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Home of the award winning Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga is a lovely Tennessee getaway for families or couples. You’re near the iconic Rock City Gardens as well as Ruby Falls. Take a ride on the Lookout Mountain Incline and of course – catch a glimpse of the Chattanooga Choo Choo! Visitors can actually stay the night on board one of these historic train cars!

The city has really grown and become a terrific tourist spot. It’s perfect for any road trips from Atlanta.

Travel Time: 2h 7m / 118 miles

16. Bryson City, North Carolina

You can’t visit Bryson City without taking a ride on the scenic Great Smoky Mountain Railroad and hiking to some of North Carolina’s most beautiful waterfalls. Don’t miss the waterfall loop that will take you to at least a dozen of them in one hike. Nearby, check out Mingo Falls in Cherokee, North Carolina. Bryson City has a cool downtown with stores and restaurants, or check out lodging at Bryson Village where you can have a kitchen of your own to prepare meals!

Travel Time: 2h 50m / 164 miles

17. Oconee, South Carolina

What’s not to love about chasing waterfalls, enjoying nature and outdoor recreation, and small town charm? Oconee County, South Carolina is an easy road trip from Atlanta. It’s the perfect spot to escape the busy city life and enjoy some peace and quiet. Enjoy hiking trails or a pontoon boat exploring one of the areas beautiful lakes. Check out Lake Jocassee, named one of National Geographic’s Top 50 “Best Places Left on Earth”.

Travel Time: 2h / 124 miles

18. Helen, Georgia

This is an all-around family-friendly getaway and one of the classic road trips from Atlanta. Helen will make you feel like you traveled all the way to Germany! Check out the nearby state park for beautiful outdoor recreation and get your fill of sweets from the many candy stores in town. Helen also has the only alpine roller coaster in Georgia!

19. Huntsville, Alabama

Huntsville has quietly become a top-notch tourist destination and one of the favorite road trips from Atlanta! Starting with its ties to NASA and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. For decades, this is where kids from across the country have visited to attend “space camp” – but now there are many reasons to visit this hip Alabama town. The views in northern Alabama are stunning and you’ll find plenty of outdoor recreation, a growing foodie scene, and a beautiful botanical garden.

Travel Time: 3h 15m / 180 miles

20. Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville is a gateway to the Smoky Mountains for sure but it can certainly stand on its own as a first class college town. This is one of my favorite road trips from Atlanta! Its downtown is easily walkabout with great restaurants, a historic theater, and fun sculpture garden mixed in-between. The World’s Fair Park is a must-see and you’ll need to take a ride to the top of the Sunsphere for a 360 degree look at the town from high above. Just avoid visiting during a football game weekend as this place is packed with visitors cheering on their beloved team.

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32 Short Road Trips From Atlanta You’ll Love

Atlanta is one of the biggest and busiest cities located in the South. Citizens and travel enthusiasts love to take short road trips from Atlanta, whether day trips, weekend getaways, or week-long vacations.

Many day trips and extended getaways are available, including day hikes in the mountains, exploring small towns, and traveling to other states.

Whether you want to explore the various mountains or relax on the beach, this article will help you choose a fun and exciting Atlanta road trip!

Table of Contents

Best Road Trips from Atlanta

Here are 10 of the best short road trips from Atlanta that will leave you wanting to come back for more.

1) Stone Mountain

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 20 miles – 30 minutes

Best time to visit: any time of the year!

Stone Mountain Park is Georgia’s most-visited attraction and is located just a short drive outside the city. This is the world’s largest granite formation, so it’s rather unique.

The hike to the top is challenging yet rewarding–you can see views for miles, including Atlanta’s skyline! On a clear day, you can watch planes going to and from the airport.

2) Lake Allatoona

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 34 miles – 40 minutes

Best time to visit: summer is best for swimming, boating, or watersports, while fall is the best time for hiking and camping

Lake Allatoona is a large freshwater lake in northeast Georgia . It covers more than 12,000 acres and has 270 miles of shoreline. The serene and peaceful surroundings of Allatoona Lake offer a break from the bustle of city living. Situated on the Etowah River, just 30 miles from Atlanta, this lake offers visitors a tranquil oasis.

3) Lake Lanier

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 49 miles – 55 minutes

Best time to visit: April through September

Lake Lanier is a beautiful lake that’s located just outside of Atlanta. The lake is excellent for a quick road trip, especially in the summertime!

There are plenty of things to do on the lake, including swimming, boating, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, and hiking. Plus, the scenery is breathtaking!

4) Dahlonega, Georgia

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 65 miles – 1 hour, 10 minutes

Best time to visit: There are fun things to do all year long

Dahlonega is historically associated with gold, but recently it’s gained attention as the heart of the North Georgia Wine Country. If you’re looking for a more “adult” vacation, spend the day at some of Georgia’s best vineyards.

5) Athens, Georgia

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 72 miles – 1 hour, 15 minutes

Best time to visit: Head to this college town in the fall if you enjoy football and tailgating

Downtown Athens is a great place to eat or spend time shopping at local boutiques. It’s also world-renowned for its vibrant music scene.

The University of Georgia campus is only a short drive away. It offers plenty of things to do, such as watching a football game or attending one of the many festivals each year.

6) Callaway Gardens (Pine Mountain)

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 80 miles – 1 hour, 15 minutes

Best time to visit: You can see the azaleas in full bloom in April

The famous Callaway Gardens was founded in 1952 to protect a rare azalea species. This 40-acre garden contains over 3,000 types of azaleas, making it the perfect place to stroll on a spring day. Additionally, the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center is home to over 2,000 butterflies of 50 different species!

7) Blue Ridge, Georgia

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 93 miles – 1 hour, 30 minutes

Best time to visit: May through December when most of the local businesses are open and you can enjoy the summer and fall activities

If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, Blue Ridge is another great option. Not only does it offer incredible views of the North Georgia mountains , but there are also plenty of shops and restaurants in town to keep you entertained. There are some pretty awesome craft breweries too!

Related: 15 Amazing Blue Ridge Sunrise Spots with Mountain Views

8) Yonah Mountain

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 82 miles – 1 hour, 30 minutes

Best time to visit: Fall or spring is best so you’re not too overheated on this challenging hike

The Yonah Mountain Trail is a challenging hike with a moderately steep climb to the summit. The mountain’s striking asymmetrical shape and exposed rock outcrops near the summit give it a popular hiking and climbing destination. The hike is strenuous, but it’s worth it for the fantastic views at the top.

You can go camping and stay overnight at Yonah Mountain on a first-come, first serve basis. It’s a great opportunity for anyone who is new to backpacking.

9) Columbus, Georgia

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 107 miles – 1 hour, 30 minutes

Best time to visit: summertime for white water rafting

Although white water rafting is a popular activity in nearby Columbus, many other attractions and activities in the city make it a desirable trip destination this summer.

10) Blood Mountain

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 85 miles – 1 hour, 40 minutes

Best time to visit: Spring or fall so you can see the beautiful foliage in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Blood Mountain is a popular hiking destination in Georgia, with an elevation of 2,784 feet. The hike can be challenging as it’s a relatively steep ascent to the summit. Stunning views from atop Blood Mountain make it one of North Georgia’s most popular day hikes.

11) Helen, Georgia

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 93 miles – 1 hour, 40 minutes

Best time to visit: Summer for the outdoor activities and early fall for Oktoberfest!

Helen is a mountain town in Northeast Georgia known for its tubing down the Chattahoochee River in the warmer months. Georgians and other tourists flock to Helen in September and October for their famous Oktoberfest activities.

12) Brasstown Bald, Georgia

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 99 miles – 2 hours

Best time to visit: Spring or fall so you can take in the beautiful views and enjoy the cooler weather

Brasstown Bald, located in Georgia, is a popular destination for road trips because of the 360-degree views it offers of the Chattahoochee National Forest. On a clear day, you can see four different states!

13) Chattanooga, Tennessee

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 118 miles – 2 hours

Best time to visit: any time of year

Chattanooga wasn’t such a popular tourist destination, but the city’s beautiful backdrop and developed downtown have made it a great choice to add to travelers’ bucket lists. Some of the best things to do include walking along the Tennessee Riverwalk and visiting the Tennessee Aquarium.

14) Lookout Mountain

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 122 miles – 2 hours

If you’re anywhere near Lookout Mountain, it’s worth your time to visit! The mountain ridge is located in three states, making for a fantastic view. Most of the mountain is located in northwest Georgia, while the rest is in Alabama and Tennessee.

Lookout Mountain is just up the road from Chattanooga, but there is so much to do here that it’s worth another trip! Rocky City Gardens and Ruby Falls are two of the most popular destinations. There are several hiking trails on the mountain for outdoor enthusiasts too.

15) Birmingham, Alabama

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 147 miles – 2 hours, 10 minutes

The Red Mountain Park is located in the Appalachian mountains and features many outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking trails, a long zip line, and plenty of things to do for tourists. Make sure to clean your shoes after visiting the park, since the red iron oxide can get everywhere!

16) Lake Chatuge

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 111 miles – 2 hours, 10 minutes

Best time to visit: May through September so you can enjoy all the summer activities around the lake

Lake Chatuge is located in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Hiawassee, Georgia. The lake is a popular destination for fishing, swimming, and boating. The surrounding mountains are beautiful and offer scenic views. Take a drive up to Bell Mountain and see the lake down below and miles and miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains!

17) Providence Canyon State Park

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 148 miles – 2 hours, 15 minutes

Best time to visit: Spring or fall is best so you can avoid the heat and humidity

Did you know that Georgia has its own Little Grand Canyon? Located in Lumpkin, Providence Canyon State Park is a must-see destination in the state.

This large expanse of a deep rocky canyon, plus wildflowers and vegetation, looks incredibly cool and out of place in Georgia, which is mostly farmland caused by poor farming practices from the 1800s.

18) Cherokee, North Carolina

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 161 miles – 2 hours, 45 minutes

Best time to visit: Summer or fall so you can enjoy the outdoor activities

Cherokee is a low-key option if you want access to the Smoky Mountains National Park and avoid all the tourism in Gatlinburg. There are a few waterfalls around Cherokee that you can hike to and some scenic overlooks. Clingman’s Dome is a short drive away and has 360-degree views of the mountains. Downtown Cherokee also has some interesting shops and restaurants worth checking out. In the summertime, you can go tubing or kayaking along the Oconaluftee River.

19) Asheville, North Carolina

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 197 miles – 3 hours, 20 minutes

Best time to visit: Fall is amazing before the leaves fall or you can go in the winter and see the Christmas decorations at The Biltmore

Asheville is a quaint town that’s nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville. It’s home to some of the best craft breweries . You can also drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway because it’s located right outside town!

The main sight in Asheville is the Biltmore Estate. The mansion with landscaped gardens was built in 1889 by the Vanderbilt family. It has over 250 rooms and can be a pricey day out for a family, but discounts are available for children.

Related: Top 10 Breathtaking Overlooks in the Blue Ridge Mountains

20) Bryson City, North Carolina

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 164 miles – 2 hours, 45 minutes

Bryson City, North Carolina is a small town that sits on the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Tuckasegee River is popular for white-water rafting and has many Class III rapids. If you enjoy craft beers, then head to Nantahala Brewing Company and Mountain Layers Brewing Company.

21) Greenville, South Carolina

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 197 miles – 3 hours, 30 minutes

There are a lot of art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants in this town in South Carolina.

Looking for some fun and excitement in your life? Main Street is the place to go! There are coffee shops, rooftop dining options, swanky hotels, and so much more on this street.

Reedy Ride is a great way to explore the city while you ride your bike! You can enjoy the weather and work up an appetite while you bike through the town.

22) Savannah, Georgia

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 248 miles – 3 hours, 40 minutes

Best time to visit: Spring, fall, or winter so you can avoid the humidity

Savannah is the oldest city in the state, and its historic district is packed with history, beautiful architecture, and Southern charm. The best way to explore this district is on a ghost tour!

23) Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 196 miles – 4 hours

Best time to visit: Visit in the fall before the leaves fall (late October to early November) or in the spring after the trees and flowers bloom again

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see for any visitor to the eastern United States. It’s one of the most popular national parks in the country, and for a good reason! The park features some of the most beautiful scenery in all of America, and there are plenty of things to do while you’re there.

If you stay in Gatlinburg, you can easily access some of the park’s best attractions. You can easily walk or bike to popular spots like Elkmont and Fontana Lake. Or, if you’d rather drive, then take I-40 east to Knoxville and take I-75 south. Either way, you’re sure to have a memorable trip!

24) Tybee Island

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 265 miles – 4 hours

Best time to visit: May through September so you can enjoy swimming at the beach

Sand, sea, and salty breezes have a certain charm. Tybee Island is an enjoyable destination with history, fresh local cuisine, and outdoor adventures. There are five miles of public beaches, so you have the opportunity to find a low-key place on the beach to hang out and relax.

The south-end pier and pavilion of the island provide a great spot to take in a picturesque view or reel in the day’s catch.

25) Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 281 miles – 4 hours, 10 minutes

Best time to visit: May through September

The island is located near the southern coast of South Carolina and has a population of approximately 36,000. The town of Hilton Head Island is located at the heart of the island and is noted for its shopping, dining, and nightlife.

You can find everything you need in the town, but if you’re looking for a bit more excitement, you can head to one of the beaches on either side of the island or explore some of the local attractions.

You may see dolphins in the ocean and be aware of alligators in fresh waters!

26) Brunswick, Georgia

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 307 miles – 4 hours, 30 minutes

Brunswick is a seaside town on the southeast coast of Georgia known for its beautifully restored and maintained Victorian-era Old Town Historic District, as well as the massive centuries-old Lover’s Oak tree. There are many things to enjoy in Brunswick, from festivals to mouth-watering seafood. Be sure to check out the driftwood beach on Jekyll Island.

27) St. Simons Island

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 316 miles – 4 hours, 45 minutes

St. Simons Island is one of the most beautiful barrier islands on the Golden Isles, and it has plenty of beaches, marshes for swimming, and some great golf courses. In the summer, one of the best things to do is golf on St. Simons Island!

28) Nashville, Tennessee

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 250 miles – 4 hours

Nashville is known as the Music City and has a thriving live music industry. Some of the most excellent musicians of the 20th century have called Nashville home, and its music scene continues to be popular today.

The city’s famous venues include Ryman Auditorium, The Grand Ole Opry, and The Country Music Hall of Fame. Plenty of small live music venues scattered around town are perfect for catching a show if you’re on a short road trip.

And if you’re looking for some fun out in the city, it’s time to head to Broadway. Lower Broadway is an incredibly popular tourist destination that includes tons of retail shops, restaurants, dessert spots, and tourist attractions. There are so many rooftop bars and other places to enjoy live music and adult beverages.

And while you’re here, be sure to try the famous Nashville hot chicken–but only if your tastebuds can handle the heat!

29) Charleston, South Carolina

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 305 miles – 4 hours, 40 minutes

Best time to visit: spring and fall so you can avoid some of the humidity

Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the original thirteen colonies with a fascinating historical backdrop. It’s where the Civil War started and has a lot of clout.

The picturesque streets of Charleston date back to the 17th century, when the city was founded and named after King Charles II of England. Many of the city’s buildings are from this period, including one called the Pink House, which is thought to have been built between 1694 and 1712.

30) Cumberland Island, Georgia

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 343 miles – 5 hours

Best time to visit: December, January, or February if you want to avoid the crowds and the bugs!

Cumberland Island is a barrier island located in the southeast corner of the state. It offers visitors a wide range of activities, including bird watching, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and swimming. You can camp overnight on the island or stay at the Grayfield Inn.

31) Boone, North Carolina

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 288 miles – 5 hours

Best time to visit: spring or fall

Boone is a charming little town situated in the Appalachian Mountains. The downtown area is full of antique stores, art galleries, and restaurants that will tantalize your taste buds with their unique flavors. If you’re looking for a place to hike or mountain bike, Boone has plenty of trails available.

In addition to all the outdoor activities that Boone offers, the town also has a historical district where you can explore some of the oldest homes in Watauga County. If you’re looking for a sort of Asheville vibe but with more of a connection to small town mountain roots, Boone might just be the perfect place for you.

32) Amelia Island, Florida

Distance from downtown Atlanta: 356 miles – 5 hours, 20 minutes

Best time to visit: spring or summer

There’s nothing like the tranquility of a beach that is largely unoccupied. Amelia Island has all the open spaces you could hope for, and it’s perfect if you want to get away from it all. Amelia Island is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a luxurious stay and an incredible variety of bed and breakfasts! There are also plenty of wonderful restaurants that will satisfy even the most discerning palate.

These are just some of the many short road trips from Atlanta that explore Georgia’s beautiful countryside and stunning scenery. As you can, there is plenty to do so it’s no surprise that many Atlantans make short road trips a regular part of their lives.

Whatever your interests may be, countless roads in Georgia will offer breathtaking views on your journey to your final destination. This is your sign to pack your luggage and go on your next road trip!

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The 21 Best Road Trips from Atlanta, from Popular Destinations to Little-Known Gems

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Atlanta is such a destination on its own, you might not realize how much of a jumping off point it can be for other sightseeing adventures. Turns out, there are a ton of must-experience destinations within driving distance of The Big Peach. With Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, and the Carolinas all within your radius, let’s just say there is *a lot* of ground to cover. 

From charming small towns in Georgia to picturesque state parks and bustling cities like Nashville, Charleston, and Orlando, you can find destinations for any vibe or occasion. Buckle up and scroll on to find the best road trips from Atlanta. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip, a weekend getaway, or a longer vacation, there’s something on this list for you.

15 Charming Small Towns in Georgia

1. Chattanooga, Tennessee

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs
• Where to stay: Blue Ivy Modern Mountain Home (from $163/night), The Edwin Hotel, Autograph Collection (from $500/night)

A two-hour drive from Atlanta, Chattanooga makes an excellent weekend destination. You could spend an entire weekend exploring Chattanooga’s River Walk alone, with miles on end of restaurants, shops, and bars. There are also museums, tours, river cruises, and an aquarium that is not to be missed. But if you visit in fall, when the foliage is in full force, you must take one of the trails up to Lookout Mountain for an Instagram-worthy photo opp.

2. Augusta, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs and 15 mins
• Where to stay: Private Oasis (from $105/night), The Partridge Inn Augusta, Curio Collection by Hilton (from $175/night)

Walk up and down Broad street, wandering in and out of local galleries, cafes and small shops. In the summer, make sure to check out the Riverwalk and have lunch at one of the many restaurants along the scenic Savannah River. Fun fact: Augusta is actually the second-oldest town in Georgia (after Savannah) and is home to many classic buildings and monuments.

3. Greenville, South Carolina

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs and 30 mins
• Where to stay: Downtown Suite (from $80/night), The Westin Poinsett (from $309/night)

If you’re looking for a bustling small city with eclectic boutiques, beautiful galleries, and unique dining experiences, add Greenville, South Carolina to your travel list . Now known as “ that Greenville,” it is one of the fastest growing cities in America and is attracting more visitors each year. There’s always something going on in downtown Greenville, so you can’t go wrong no matter what time of year you visit—simply head to Main Street and join the fun.

4. Blue Ridge, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 1 hr and 30 mins
• Where to stay: Riverfront Cabin (from $171/night), Grand View Cabin (from $153/night)

You don’t want to miss Blue Ridge in the fall, when the mountains are alive with color and the temperatures are starting to cool off. Hop aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for a four-hour journey along the Toccoa River and through the North Georgia Countryside where you can take in all the charm this town has to offer. Don’t feel like sitting? Walk around historic Main Street or spend the day at a local orchard instead. 

5. Lake Lanier, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 1 hr 
• Where to stay: Beautiful House on the Dock (from $349/night), Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge (from $335/night)

For a quick escape from Atlanta, check out Lake Lanier. Located in Gainesville, Georgia, just one hour North of Atlanta, Lake Lanier is a summertime getaway that will keep the kids busy and the adults happy. Visit the Olympic Park, home to a public beach and a public boat launch, along with a picnic area and access to beginner classes for rowing or paddling. If you’re traveling with kids, spend at least one day at the Water Park at Margaritaville .

6. Birmingham, Alabama

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs and 15 minutes 
• Where to stay: Condo with a View (from $243/night), Elyton Hotel, Autograph Collection (from $359/night)

Birmingham has a significant place in Civil Rights history as the city where Martin Luther King, Jr. wrote his letter from prison. There is no shortage of museums, galleries and attractions, with some of the most noteworthy being the Birmingham Museum of Art, the McWayne Science Center and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. And while you’re at it, add the Birmingham Botanical Gardens to your itinerary—and if you are with kids, don’t miss the Birmingham Zoo.

7. Helen, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs and 45 minutes 
• Where to stay: Glamping in the Valley (from $105/night), Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Helen, GA (from $359/night)

Chock-full of hiking trails and water activities, Helen is for adventurous travelers who want a break from the hustle and bustle of Atlanta. You can also check two state parks off your list, with Smithgall Woods State Park and Unicoi State Park (where you could easily spend an entire weekend ziplining, kayaking, paddle boarding and more) both located in Helen. Visit Anna Ruby Falls for jaw dropping views or embark on a longer hike to the stunning Raven Cliff falls. And if you’re lucky enough to visit in the summer, make sure to go tubing down the Chatahoochee River for an unforgettable experience. Then head to Main Street for shopping, eating and more.

8. Orlando, Florida

• Distance from Atlanta: 6 hrs and 15 minutes 
• Where to stay: 6-Person Condo Near Disney (from $105/night), Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando (from $444/night)

Orlando is so much more than just Disney World (although, that’s certainly a can’t-miss). A longer trip from Atlanta, Orlando is still doable by car if you want to make a longer vacation out of it—see: Universal Orlando, Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, etc. Since Disney can get pricey, if you’re looking for deals, we suggest heading out there in the spring (March through May), so you can nab lower prices for hotels and lodging while still getting some good weather.

9. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

• Distance from Atlanta: 4 hrs 
• Where to stay: Condo with Mountain Views (from $156/night), Bearskin Lodge On The River (from $304/night)

Plan a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and make Gatlinburg your homebase. You will want at least a day or two at the park, but you can easily fill another couple days exploring Gatlinburg’s local distilleries, downtown area and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Don’t miss the Gatlinburg Sky Lift Park, an open-air chairlift ride to the top of an 1,800-foot overlook with views of the Smoky Mountains. (Might be time to work on your fear of heights.)

10. Charleston, South Carolina

• Distance from Atlanta: 5 hrs 
• Where to stay: Cozy Downtown Suite (from $156/night), The Spectator Hotel (from $340/night)

Charleston may be a longer drive from Atlanta, but the juice is well-worth the squeeze with this one. Make it a long weekend and spend your time slowly perusing the cobblestone streets, indulging in the city’s signature eats ( from fresh-caught seafood to smoky barbeque) , and simply basking in the Southern hospitality. The historic downtown is dripping with charm and full of colorful buildings, gorgeous boutiques and delicious restaurants. The French Quarter and the Charleston Harbor waterfront also belong on your Charleston travel itinerary. 

11. Asheville, North Carolina

• Distance from Atlanta: 3 hrs and 30 minutes
• Where to stay: Moroccan-Inspired Bungalow (from $257/night), Princess Anne Hotel (from $353/night)

There are so many great things to do in Asheville , and it’s only a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Atlanta. From national forests and wildlife preserves to swanky hotels, salt caves and vineyards, there’s truly something for everyone. It’s also home to the Biltmore Estate, America's largest privately-owned residence (which you can tour while you’re there). Whether you’re spending your day immersed in nature or you’re touring the local breweries, you won’t regret making the trip to Asheville.

12. Athens, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 1 hr and 30 minutes
• Where to stay: Beautiful Townhouse (from $156/night), Peaceful Getaway (from $195/night)

Athens is one of the best college towns in America and is home to historic buildings, great bars and a tailgate experience that is not to be missed (if that’s your thing). The University of Georgia is reason alone to visit this small-but-bustling town, and even if you’re not the biggest college sports fan, there’s nothing quite like a UGA football game. The downtown area has great restaurants and boutiques and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

13. Nashville, Tennessee

• Distance from Atlanta: 4 hrs
• Where to stay: Printers Alley Loft (from $425/night), Noelle Hotel (from $755/night)

You could spend your entire trip doing nothing but eating your way through Nashville , and it would still be worth the four hour drive from Atlanta. Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, Husk and Biscuit Love all belong on your list. That said, it’s called Music City for a reason—and the music scene is *not* to be missed. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and take in the rich history Nashville has to offer. Country and bluegrass not really your thing? You just wait and see: by the time you leave this city you’ll be tapping your foot and tipping your cowboy hat. 

14. Brasstown Bald Mountain (Blairsville, Georgia)

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs and 15 minutes
• Where to stay: Cozy Cabins (from $115/night), Lucille's Mountain Top Inn and Spa (from $509/night)

Brasstown Bald Mountain is located just over two hours North of Atlanta, in Blairsville, Georgia. This hike is strenuous and not for the faint of heart, but once you make it to the top you’ll be at the highest point in Georgia, where you can see all four bordering states. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can also take a scenic drive to the top of the mountain along steep, winding roads with beautiful lookout points along the way. 

15. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

• Distance from Atlanta: 5 hrs and 45 mins
• Where to stay: Oceanview Condo (from $425/night), Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave Myrtle Beach (from $203/night)

Especially beautiful in the summer, Myrtle Beach is a lovely destination for a week-long vacation from big city. Aside from the beach, other must-see attractions are Ripley’s Aquarium, the Hollywood Wax Museum and the SkyWheel, now a full-service destination with its 200-foot observation wheel, miniature golf course, ropes course and snacks. The city has plenty more to offer from restaurants and bars to a slew of activities and events throughout the year. But summer is definitely when the magic happens.

16. Pine Mountain, Georgia

• Where to stay: Tiny Cabin (from $425/night), Chipley Murrah Bed & Breakfast (from $120/night)

Best known for the Callaway Gardens , Pine Mountain, Georgia is a quick and easy 90 minute drive from Atlanta. Callaway Gardens is open all year long, but if flowers are your thing, spring is arguably the best time to visit, when the azaleas (pictured) will be in full bloom. That said, the fall also offers gorgeous foliage (particularly on the 18-hole golf courses) and a festive pumpkin festival. Along with the two golf courses and extensive gardens, you can also check out the lake, the butterfly house, and the birds of prey exhibits.

17. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

• Distance from Atlanta: 4 hrs and 30 min
• Where to stay: Ocean View Top Floor (from $120/night), Luxurious Beach Front Stay (from $150/night)

You’ll fall in love with the wide beaches and gorgeous landscape of Hilton Head Island.  Summer is peak season to visit if you want to spend your days on the beach, but, honestly, Hilton Head is beautiful any time of year—and a winter trip means a calm escape with thinner crowds. There are plenty of public beaches, and most resorts also have pools. Harbor Town and Shelter Cove are both great places for shopping, eating and exploring. For those who like being active on vacation, Hilton Head is also full of paths for walking, biking or running.

18. Savannah, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 3 hrs and 45 mins
• Where to stay: Historic District Garden Apartment (from $145/night), Airstream (from $117/night)

In need of a romantic getaway? Savannah is the place to go. Less than a four hour drive from Atlanta, this city has so much to offer--including all the Southern charm you need in a romantic getaway . Savannah is rich with history and you could spend entire days walking through the town, stopping at Bonaventure Cemetery, Forsyth Park and taking in the 19th-century houses that have been transformed into museums or spooky enclaves. For a one-of-a-kind experience, be sure to sign up for one of Savannah’s famous ghost tours and then enjoy a meal at The Olde Pink House.

19. Stone Mountain, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 30 min
• Where to stay: Tranquil Mid-Century Cabin (from $90/night), Stone Mountain Manor (from $239/night)

If you just want a quick dose of nature and fresh air, Stone Mountain Park is the place for you. Just a quick 30-minute drive from Atlanta, this is one of the best day trips you can take from the city. There’s a gorgeous view of the Appalachian Mountains from the top of the summit, and you can also see downtown Atlanta—best of both worlds! We recommend visiting in September when the leaves are just starting to change and you can also witness the Yellow Daisy Festival. 

20. Lumpkin, Georgia

• Where to stay: Charming Country Home (from $200/night), Lake House Near Eufaula (from $209/night)

Just over two hours from Atlanta is a small town called Lumpkin, Georgia—and if you’ve ever heard of it, it’s likely because of Providence Canyon State Park. Often called “The Little Grand Canyon, Providence Canyon is a gorgeous state park with jaw-dropping views.  

21. Golden Isles, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 4 hrs and 30 mins
• Where to stay: St. Simons Beach House (from $399/night), Charlotte's Beach Chateau (from $319/night)

Between Savannah and Jacksonville, the Golden Isles of Georgia are made up of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island, and they make wonderful destinations for family getaways (especially in the summer months), with a ton of events taking place from June through August. Each island has beautiful beaches, but St. Simons in particular is a must-visit. There are activities year-round from horseback riding and golfing to kayaking and paddleboarding. There are also a number of different museums, theaters, parks and trails.

15 Drop-Dead Gorgeous Georgia Islands Right Off the Coast You Have to Visit ASAP

Freelance PureWow Editor

Best Road Trips From Atlanta, Georgia

These are the best road trips from Atlanta, Georgia! We list both day trips and weekend getaways within a few hours drive.

Best Road Trips From Atlanta

We just want to start off by saying, we love the city of Atlanta. In fact, we’ve spent quite a bit of time there thanks to house sitting . And although we’ve already seen most of the main attractions there thanks to the Atlanta CityPASS , we do plan to go back and see more of this awesome city.

With that being said, we know that sometimes you just want to get away from the hustle and bustle. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best road trips from Atlanta. We, and some fellow bloggers, have recommendations for some great day and weekend trips that are all within four hours of Atlanta. We hope they inspire you to get on the road!

Pro Tip: Make sure you’re ready for your trip with these Road Trip Essentials . They include accessories, games, safety tips, and even a printable checklist!

Athens, Georgia

Alanna of Periodic Adventures

An hour and a half from Atlanta, you’ll find the  “classic city,” Athens  – home of the University of Georgia bulldogs and the iconic Georgia arch seen on the Georgia state flag. Athens makes for a weekend getaway from Atlanta as there is plenty to do for families and college students alike.

For families, I’d recommend checking out the free state botanical garden, Bear Hollow Zoo, or one of the many local parks. College students and football fans will enjoy walking the campus and passing by the football stadium. North Campus, where you’ll see the Georgia arch, borders downtown Athens, so you can stroll the campus and enjoy downtown in the same day.

There are many yummy restaurants downtown, but my personal (local’s) favorite is Clocked!, a 50’s sci-fi themed burger joint that has amazing cheesy Cajun tater tots and a unique bacon peanut butter burger. Beer lovers checkout Creature Comforts Brewery, which has a nice outdoor patio from which to enjoy your local draught. The best places (and cheapest) places to stay are local Airbnb’s, but beware of price gauging during football season!

Marietta, Georgia

You don’t have to travel very far to still have a fun day trip from Atlanta. Just 30 minutes northwest of the big city, we discovered that there are a lot of fun things to do in Marietta .

The town square is really cute and its surrounded by over 70 shops and restaurants. There are also a lot of events that take place there throughout the year. While you’re wandering the square, we suggest you stop in to eat at Taqueria Tsunami. This amazing restaurant fuses traditional flavors from the Far East with flavors from South of the Border. Order the Avocado Cilantro Egg Rolls – you’ll thank us later!

Marietta also has a ton of great museums, including the Marietta/Cobb Museum of Art, the Marietta Fire Department Museum, and the Marietta Museum of History. Our favorite museum, however, was the Gone with the Wind Museum. There are all kinds of memorabilia, promotional pieces from the film, copies of the book signed by Margaret Mitchell, and even an original dress worn by Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O’Hara in the movie!

Savannah,Georgia

Charles of McCool Travel

Savannah is one of USA’s most beautiful, romantic, and interesting small towns. The drive between Atlanta and Savannah is just under four hours, mostly on interstate highways, and goes through Macon and near Vidalia. Visitors can spend a lifetime and not experience all of the  things to do in Savannah .

Most of Savannah’s charm is contained in a compact historic district but three recommended attractions warrant day trips — Bonaventure Cemetery, Wormsloe Historic Site, and Tybee Island. Bonaventure is most famous from  Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil  and can be visited on some trolley and guided tours.

In historic Savannah, allow days (or years) to wander the squares, explore the architecture, visit the museums and attractions, enjoy the parks, and sample the astounding cocktail and cuisine scene. The historic district and classic waterfront are very walkable and I suggest staying in a B&B, inn, or hotel here rather than in the outskirts.

Savannah is a popular foodie city and perhaps no US south restaurant is as esteemed as The Grey—selected by Food & Wine as one of the world’s 30 best restaurants. Also try Treylor Park, featuring a classy cocktail bar, beer garden patio, and eclectic cuisine.

Summerville, Georgia

Emily of Em’s on the Road

If you’re looking for a respite from bustling Atlanta, take the short 1 and a half hour trip up the road to Summerville, Georgia. Folk art fans and children will love taking a day trip to this quaint mountain town and once home to famed folk artist Howard Finster.

Finster was a well-known visionary folk artist with work in museum collections all over the world and a couple of miles from downtown Summerville, you can explore his greatest work, Paradise Garden .

Finster transformed his home and land into a truly magical and immersive art installation that pays homage to the “great inventions of mankind.” Finster was a preacher for many years and in the mid-1970s his work changed when he became a self-proclaimed “man of visions” and recorded these visions in his art all in sculptures and paintings all over his property. It is one of the most unique experiences. Paradise Garden is open to the public Tuesday – Sunday, 11am-5pm with self-guided tours available every half hour. 

When you get hungry, head into town for a trip to the old-school drive-in restaurant Jerry’s. Classic burgers, fries, and shakes for all before heading back to Atlanta.

Birmingham, Alabama

Stephanie of History Fangirl

A fabulous cultural weekend road trip from Atlanta, Birmingham is under three hours away and offers fabulous food, history, and culture. If you want to get out and stretch your legs on the drive, you can visit the Talladega National Forrest. If you want to take a longer drive, you can detour and drive through Tuskeegee and Selma as well. Though this drive is five hours, the extra history you can see at both stops makes it worth the extra time. 

When you get to Birmingham, make sure to see the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument and the Birmingham Civil Rights Museum. You will learn about the city’s pivotal role in the US Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 60s. You can also see the jail cell where Martin Luther King Jr. penned his famous “Letter from Birmingham Jail.” Other important  things to do in Birmingham  include visiting the Negro Southern League Baseball Museum and visiting the Fourth Avenue Historic District.

For a sumptuous dinner, make reservations at the Highland Bar & Grill where James Beart award-winner Chef Frank Stitt mixes traditional French and Southern cuisine. Even if you’re used to enjoying Southern food in Atlanta, this will surprise and delight you.

Huntsville, Alabama

One of the best road trips from Atlanta is to the city of Huntsville. There are a lot of fun things to do in Huntsville , and the drive from Atlanta is less than three and a half hours. The cool thing about Huntsville is that there are historic things to see, adrenaline pumping hangouts, as well as super modern attractions.

Of course, the main attraction in Huntsville is the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. It’s made up of the main museum, the Davidson Center for Space Exploration, historic Shuttle Park, and Rocket Park. Anyone that visits will enjoy learning about the development of the space shuttle program.

Pints & Pixels is another fun place to hang out. It’s an arcade with over 50 vintage arcade games and pinball machines. Have you ever tried axe throwing? Test your skills at Civil Axe Throwing.

History buffs should head up to Burritt on the Mountain. Here visitors will find over 160 acres made up of Dr. Burritt’s mansion, a historic park that has six authentic 19th century homes, a replica of a 1918 Rosenwald School, nature trails, and more.

Two Huntsville restaurants that we recommend are Cotton Row in downtown Huntsville and 1892 East. Cotton Row is great any time, but one of their specialties is their brunch. 1892 East has the best burger in town. So make sure you check out both when you road trip to Huntsville.

Tallahassee, Florida

Another fun road trip from Atlanta is to Florida’s capital, Tallahassee. At just over four hours, it makes for a perfect weekend trip from Atlanta. Tallahassee has a lot of politicians (obviously) but it’s also home to a lot of young students. Here you’ll find colleges like Florida State University (FSU) and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU). This unique blend of diverse demographics means Tallahassee has something for everyone.

A really fun way to get to know the city is to take a segway tour with Tallahassee Segway Tours . You’ll see all the major sites and learn really interesting tidbits about Tallahassee along the way.

One of our favorite things about Tallahassee is the food. There are a lot of unique places to eat in Tallahassee ! Dog Et Al is cool because there are 10,230 possible hot dog combinations that can be made with their 10 different meats and 10 different ingredients. Monk’s is also a great place to eat and has been voted Tallahassee’s best burger continuously for many years.

For your weekend trip to Tallahassee, we recommend staying at the Governors Inn Hotel . It’s a luxury boutique hotel in the heart of historic downtown Tallahassee.

Asheville, North Carolina

Zack of Florida Man On The Run

If you’re looking for a fantastic weekend trip from Atlanta, then consider packing your bags and heading towards Asheville, NC. This is the perfect trip if you love waterfalls, hiking, and beer!

Start on a Friday afternoon to make the most of your time along the route. As you leave Atlanta, take US 23 towards your first stop at Tallulah Gorge. This gem of a state park offers a number of different hikes, but I recommend the hike to Hurricane Falls and the bridge crossing it. Once you’ve stretched your legs, get back on the road towards Franklin, NC where you’ll stay for the night.

Get an early start Saturday and head north along US23 to US 74 to meetup with the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway. Take your time along the road and stop at some hikes like Graveyard Fields. Once you reach Asheville its time to explore! The best way to see the city is through it breweries. Taking a  brewery tour through Asheville  will let you see all the city has to offer along with some fantastic beer and food as well!

For your return to Atlanta on Sunday, you’ll need to grab a bite to eat before hitting the road. Green Sage Cafe in Downtown Asheville will fill you up right with a delicious breakfast. Once you leave Asheville, it won’t be long til your ready to come back again for another trip!

Pro Tip: Check out our list of Essential Hiking Gear !

Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, Tennessee

Apryl of Southern Hospitality Magazine

The Smoky Mountain towns of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, Tennessee, are popular destinations for a weekend getaway for every age and interest.

Less than a four-hour drive from Atlanta following US 23 North and 441 North, there is plenty to explore along the way. In Georgia, take a break at Tallulah Gorge State Park in Tallulah Falls or Black Rock Mountain State Park in Dillard. Once you get to North Carolina, check out either Cherokee or downtown Franklin.

The route takes you through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with places to pull over for views (and photos.) Don’t miss out on Clingman’s Dome or Newfound Gap.

On the other side of the mountain is the city of Gatlinburg. Park and walk to attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies or Anakeesta, or take the trolley. It even goes out to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community.

Many choose Gatlinburg as their home base. Less than eight miles is Pigeon Forge, best known for Dollywood, and then it’s another seven miles to Sevierville, where you can walk across a swinging bridge at Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park, go outlet shopping and more.

Dining is an experience, too. You can’t go wrong with pancakes from Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin in Gatlinburg or meals at either The Old Mill Restaurant in Pigeon Forge or Five Oaks Farm Kitchen in Sevierville. As for accommodations, there are options for every budget.

Nashville, Tennessee

Another awesome road trip from Atlanta is to Nashville , also known as Music City. The drive from Atlanta to Nashville is about four hours heading northwest along I-75 and I-24.

Obviously many of the main attractions in Nashville are music-themed, like the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the Ryman Auditorium which was the first home of the Grand Ole Opry.

Other fun places to visit are the Nashville Parthenon, the new Tennessee State Museum, Belle Meade Plantation and Winery, and if you’re a car enthusiast, the Lane Motor Museum.

Of course, the food in Nashville is pretty amazing too. We recommend visiting Hattie B’s for some Hot Chicken and I Dream of Weenie for some creatively topped hot dogs. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants and bars on Broadway, Downtown Nashville’s most popular street.

Final Thoughts On Road Trips From Atlanta

We love that there are so many options for road trips from Atlanta. You can find scenic parks, delectable restaurants, intriguing museums, and fascinating historic landmarks all within a few hours drive. Happy road tripping!

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It’s amazing how much there is to see within a day’s ride from ATL. I’ve been to a few of these spots but not all of them. We will have to figure out a time to do a grand tour of the southeast in the spring time when everything is in bloom. I know you will love it.

Sounds good to me!

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The 16 best weekend getaways from atlanta.

Atlantans have an array of options for quick trips, from alpine adventures to serene seaside escapes.

Top Weekend Getaways From Atlanta

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Walk along beaches of the southeast coast, hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and explore cities like Chattanooga and Asheville on your next trip out of Atlanta.

Atlanta is a thriving Southern metropolis with world-class cultural attractions, sporting events and historic landmarks – an amazing standalone destination in its own right. The state's capital also makes a great home base, in part because of its prime location in north-central Georgia. City dwellers have access to major freeways and airports that make it a breeze to hop on the road and explore the surrounding Appalachian and Southern regions just a few hours away.

From charming coastal enclaves to sprawling golf resorts to rustic rural hideaways, Atlanta is perfectly positioned for access to a plethora of fun family trips and romantic getaways . Make your great escape from the city to one the top weekend getaways from Atlanta.

The Best Weekend Getaways From Atlanta

About two hours or less:, lake oconee, georgia, amicalola falls state park, georgia.

• Barnsley Resort, Georgia
• Callaway Resort & Gardens, Georgia

About three hours or less:

Brasstown valley resort & spa, georgia, chattanooga, tennessee, great smoky mountains national park, about four hours or less:, asheville, north carolina, columbia, south carolina, about five hours or less:, tybee island, georgia, hilton head island, south carolina, golden isles, georgia, jekyll island, georgia, about six hours or less:, myrtle beach, south carolina, a quick flight:, nashville, tennessee, key west, florida.

Located about 85 miles east of Atlanta, this recreational haven is perfect for those seeking a weekend trip with plenty of outdoor activities. While in Lake Oconee, enjoy fishing, camping, golf, hiking and water sports. Visitors admire the scenic beauty and serene atmosphere of this rural gem, which provides year-round family fun. The reservoir itself boasts nearly 375 miles of lush shoreline, lined with lakefront homes, marinas, restaurants and geologic features – like the popular Jumping Rock, accessible only by boat. Landlubbers can hit the trails at the Rock Hawk Effigy & Trails center to hike, mountain bike and watch wildlife.

The nearby town of Greensboro beckons visitors with art galleries, restaurants and boutiques to browse. You can download a free historic walking tour brochure to study while you stroll so you don't miss any notable landmarks, including several Revolutionary War- and Civil War-era structures. Balance the rustic and the regal with a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee , boasting five golf courses and a unique lakefront swimming pool – perfect for a romantic getaway in Georgia .

Conveniently located 70 miles north of the city, this expansive recreation area in Georgia makes for an easy weekend getaway in the great outdoors. The park's 800-plus acres harbor the tallest waterfall in the region and a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels, including a connector to the official Southern starting point for the renowned Appalachian Trail. The approach to the falls is challenging but worthwhile, according to visitors who appreciate the trek for its stunning scenery. Supervised activities like a zip line, archery sessions and live wildlife presentations offer additional family-friendly entertainment and adventure.

Refuel at the park's mountaintop restaurant, popular for its Sunday brunch and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the forest. On-site accommodations range from glamping and camping sites in the forest to resort-style lodge rooms and cabins – which feature beautiful views in every direction, according to travelers. The park is accessible year-round, and past visitors mention that they enjoyed the experience with fewer crowds during the winter months.

Barnsley Resort: Adairsville, Georgia

Courtesy of Barnsley Resort

This sprawling 3,000-acre property nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains was once the countryside estate of one of the South's first cotton barons, complete with elegant architecture and pristine landscaping. Visitors say the natural beauty and regal ambiance of Barnsley Resort create a quiet serenity that quickly erases any tension built up from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located about 65 miles from Atlanta, the grounds feature riding stables, a golf course, a 10-acre lake for recreation and a sport shooting facility. Other amenities – ranging from an on-site spa and seasonal outdoor pool to curated experiences like bourbon tastings and fireside s'mores – provide everything you need for a well-rounded romantic respite or girls getaway .

Despite the array of adventurous activities, a leisurely stroll through the resort's 10 acres of heirloom gardens is a must. The estate gardens, designed in the 1840s, are featured on the Georgia Garden Trail, a collection of 26 public landscapes with native blooms and historic significance. The nearby town of Adairsville is on the National Register of Historic Places, providing a charming spot to spend an afternoon of antiquing. It also offers additional dining options, which some guests felt were lacking on-site.

Address: 597 Barnsley Gardens Road NW, Adairsville, GA 30103

Callaway Resort & Gardens: Pine Mountain, Georgia

With its two golf courses, a full-service spa, expansive botanical gardens, mini-golf and private lakes featuring a 1-mile white sand beach , a weekend getaway to this 2,500-acre resort is a one-stop shop for fun and relaxation. Located about an 80-mile drive from Atlanta, Callaway Resort & Gardens boasts many activities and amenities that are accessible to non-lodging guests for a daily admission fee, providing entertainment for visitors to the nearby town of Pine Mountain, too.

Seasonal surprises and special events – including vibrant azalea blooms in the spring, foliage in the fall , beach access in the summer and an award-winning holiday light display in the winter – keep travelers returning time and time again. Nature lovers will find delight in a network of trails; the Discovery Center, with wildlife exhibits and live shows; and a conservatory with some 1,000 free-flying butterflies, which many visitors claim as their favorite feature. In addition to Aqua Island, the resort's floating water park, kids of all ages love the challenge of conquering three aerial adventure courses made from a collection of zip lines, ladders, bridges and other fun obstacles (additional fees apply).

Address: 17617 U.S. Route 27, Pine Mountain, GA 31822

Just over 100 miles from Atlanta, this secluded, family-friendly mountain lodge sits in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, spotted with the manicured greens of an on-site golf course. Travelers are enchanted with the beautiful scenery, complete with hardwood forests and flowing streams, which can be explored on a hike or horseback trail ride around the 503-acre property. Equestrian enthusiasts will feel right at home at this full-service north Georgia resort, with its stables, guided trail rides, riding lessons, and customized experiences like catered picnic outings and hayrides. Afterward, soak away any soreness with a refreshing dip in the indoor-outdoor swimming pool or a visit to the spa before heading to dinner at one of the two on-site restaurants. Located on sacred Cherokee ground, Brasstown Valley Resort offers spa services that incorporate ancient Indigenous healing practices.

The surrounding area boasts additional restaurants and attractions such as Crane Creek Vineyards for wine tasting or Lake Chatuge for fishing and boating, which the resort concierge can assist in making arrangements to visit. While people adore the rustic fireplaces throughout the lodge for setting a nice scene to relax with a book or glass of wine, some travelers say the guest rooms feel outdated.

Address: 6321 U.S. Route 76, Young Harris, GA 30582

This midsize mountain town about 120 miles from Atlanta is known as the "Scenic City" for its location on the banks of the Tennessee River at the base of Lookout Mountain – a beautiful natural area that can be explored with a thrilling ride on the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway , a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark. Then, plunge underneath the peak to discover Ruby Falls, the country's tallest and deepest underground waterfall. Visitors advise that although tickets and reservations are required for each of these top-rated activities, both experiences are worth the cost of admission. For a more laid-back trek, you can take a stroll across the Walnut Street Bridge – one of the longest footbridges in the world – at sunset.

Chattanooga is a great place for multigenerational families to vacation together thanks to an array of historic and cultural attractions that pique the interest of all ages. Stop by the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum and Tennessee Aquarium , which residents and tourists alike admire for its impressive collection of more than 9,000 living creatures arranged in thoughtful displays. All of these attractions are easily accessible from The Westin Chattanooga , an upscale hotel located downtown whose rooftop restaurant serves up an impressive view.

[See more of Chattanooga:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Visitors gush about the scenic trails, waterfalls and wildlife that abound in this natural treasure, and Atlanta residents can experience it all for themselves during a long weekend. The entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park located in Cherokee, North Carolina, is about 165 miles from Atlanta. The more than 522,000-acre park straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee and hosts more than 11 million visitors each year – the most of any U.S. national park. A drive north along Newfound Gap Road, the park's main thoroughfare, covers about 30 miles, but you'll want to allow at least two hours to stop at the numerous scenic overlooks and landmarks, such as Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park, and Mingus Mill, a historic gristmill that gives live demonstrations.

If time allows, hit the trails for a more in-depth view of the park, including its many notable waterfalls. Located near Sugarlands Visitor Center, the popular Laurel Falls Trail is about 2.5 miles round trip with a moderate incline, leading to a picturesque 80-foot cascade. There aren't any hotels or restaurants located within the park (save for a few snack items found at the visitor centers), but a plethora of shops, dining and accommodations options can be found in the resort town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee , located near the northern park entrance. The Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is top-rated by travelers for its good value, ambiance and amenities.

[See more of Great Smoky Mountains National Park:  Things to Do  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Hop in the car and cruise north about 200 miles to this vibrant town in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains for a romantic North Carolina getaway or family trip. You'll enjoy access to outdoor recreation, farm-to-table cuisine and the iconic Biltmore Estate : an 8,000-acre property with a chateau museum, restaurant and winery. The historic landmark is top-rated by travelers for its architecture and gardens, especially during the holidays, but some guests warn that admission is a pricey affair. Immerse yourself with an overnight stay at one of the on-site hotels , where you can get the royal treatment with special activities like wine tastings and a falconry experience.

In downtown Asheville , follow the Asheville Urban Trail to work your way through some of the city's other notable spots, from public artwork and indie bookstores to historic buildings and markers, with a plethora of restaurants, shops and parks to explore along the nearly 2-mile route. Travelers can also get out into nature on one of the area's top hikes . Make sure to stop at a brewery to sample the local suds, too, as the city is known as the beer capital of the Southeast and has more than 100 craft beers to offer.

[See more of Asheville:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

This midsize college town is chock-full of trails, events, attractions, restaurants and history to discover – including plenty of free things to do – for a fun weekend trip in South Carolina's state capital. You'll find this city a 215-mile drive from Atlanta. Start with a stroll around the recently revitalized downtown district: Attractions range from the Columbia Museum of Art, known for its thematically organized galleries, to the Soda City Market, a weekly roundup of regional eateries and artisans adored by both travelers and residents alike for its charming atmosphere and variety of vendors. Keep your eyes peeled for public artwork tucked into otherwise nondescript nooks and crannies, including the zany "Tunnelvision" mural by Columbia-born artist Blue Sky.

Next, head to the Congaree riverfront; you can float or paddle the muddy waters, or simply watch for birds and enjoy the lush scenery from the shore. Along the Saluda River sits the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, which houses a nature trail lined with Civil War-era landmarks in addition to more than 2,000 animals. End your day at Terra restaurant, a farm-to-table eatery where diners can enjoy modern dishes and traditional Southern flavors crafted by a James Beard Award-winning chef – such as a pimento cheeseburger pizza.

[Read: The Top Things to Do in Columbia, South Carolina .]

Located just off the coast of Savannah, Georgia , near the South Carolina state border, Tybee Island is heralded for its beautiful beaches and water sports like kayaking and fishing. It sits about 265 miles from Atlanta. The laid-back island is also known for its collection of seaside eateries: Stop by the North Beach Bar & Grill at the base of the Tybee Island Lighthouse or feast at the Crab Shack. You can refuel at the latter with the Snow Country Boil platter, the outpost's unique twist on the traditional Southern seafood dish piled high with shrimp, potatoes, corn on the cob and snow crab legs. Although this popular dining spot and former fishing camp overlooking Chimney Creek can feel a bit touristy, travelers say it's at least worth a stop to check out the on-site alligator lagoon.

The top-rated Tybee Island Inn is described as charming and serene by guests who come back again and again for the bed-and-breakfast 's convenient location near the beach.

Located around 280 miles from Atlanta, this world-class coastal destination is worth the drive for its golf courses , pristine beaches and waterfront dining , most of which can be enjoyed year-round thanks to its warm climate. While on Hilton Head , indulging in Lowcountry cuisine is a must; enjoy seafood boils, fried okra and grits with views over the water at restaurants like the Skull Creek Boathouse. To learn even more about the Lowcountry region's heritage, head to the Coastal Discovery Museum , which is free to enter and lauded by patrons as a hidden gem.

The island is home to two dozen gorgeous championship golf courses and regularly hosts PGA tour events that attract spectators from around the world. The swanky Sea Pines Resort showcases Southern hospitality at its finest, and its Harbour Town location provides plenty of entertainment of its own.

[See more of Hilton Head:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

This cluster of barrier islands on Georgia's Atlantic coast – known as the Golden Isles for its cream-colored sand – provides paradise for those seeking to escape the heat and hustle of the city for a few days. The area is popular for its iconic marshland scenery, laid-back lifestyle and acclaimed golf courses, but each of the islands has distinct offerings. Start with a stop by the historic mainland city of Brunswick – about 305 miles from Atlanta – to poke around its Colonial squares and landmarks before heading to the coast.

The largest of the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island, is home to Pier Village, a quaint district with shops, restaurants and an iconic lighthouse, where visitors say the panoramic views from the top are well worth the climb. Heading north, the exclusive resort community of Sea Island boasts a private beach club, championship golf courses, horseback riding, and a variety of dining and lodging options, including the internationally acclaimed Cloister at Sea Island hotel.

For ultimate privacy and serenity, hop on a ferry at the Hampton River Marina on St. Simons Island for access to the northernmost outpost: Little St. Simons Island. Here you can partake in a naturalist-guided tour of its 11,000 acres of undeveloped beaches, maritime forests and wetlands teeming with wildlife, including 300-plus species of birds. Or, book a cottage at The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island. This all-inclusive resort full of Southern charm accommodates just 32 people per night – ideal for a romantic weekend getaway or a small family reunion.

Guests must pay a parking fee to gain access to Jekyll Island, the southernmost island of the Golden Isle chain. Once covered with sprawling Civil War-era plantations, the island is now a haven for nature lovers with trails for hiking, biking and bird-watching. Its pristine beaches are known for their extraordinary shelling. Travelers say the remote Driftwood Beach, located on the north end of the island, is a must-visit attraction for iconic photos of the sandy strip's twisted log formations and stunning sunsets.

Jekyll Island is also home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, a state-of-the-art rehabilitation and research facility. Sea turtles are the unofficial mascot of the area, and visitors will find turtle-themed events and activities planned throughout the year, including the Turtle Crawl races and Turtleween festivities. Half a mile from the turtle center sits the Jekyll Island Club Resort , a historic enclave on the banks of the East River with a variety of lodging options, applauded by guests for its beautiful grounds and Southern charm.

Drive directly east of Atlanta and you'll reach Myrtle Beach in about 360 miles. This beach resort is great for families with kids, as an array of entertaining attractions will keep them busy. Check out the oceanfront Family Kingdom Amusement Park , Myrtle Waves Water Park, mini-golf courses and Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach , where visitors of all ages find delight in unique exhibits like a shark tunnel, penguin pool and stingray touch tank.

The beach itself is 60 miles long and lined with hotels and high-rise apartment buildings for easy access to sand and surf for sunbathing, water sports and sunrise (or sunset) strolls. Its crown jewel is the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, a scenic promenade complete with a 200-foot Ferris wheel: The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, featuring a cutting-edge design and enclosed gondolas for up to six people, was the first of its kind in the country. If sand traps rather than sandcastles are more your style, Myrtle Beach also boasts more than 80 golf courses , many of which are PGA-rated and celebrity-designed.

[See more of Myrtle Beach:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

A short flight:

Nashville is conveniently only about an hourlong flight away. Traditionally known as the "Country Music Capital of the World," this glitzy Southern city has become a popular destination. There's so much more to see than the Grand Ole Opry (although this renowned landmark is still not to be missed). Guests of the Fairlane Hotel enjoy a central location from which to explore the expansive city.

The best way to see as much as possible during a quick weekend trip to Nashville is to purchase tickets for the Old Town Trolley: a hop-on, hop-off tour that shuttles travelers to more than a dozen popular attractions around the city. Stops include the Ryman Auditorium , a famous concert venue and original home of the Opry, and the Parthenon in Centennial Park, a full-size replica of the Greek original that houses a collection of artwork. After the trolley tour, you can quench your thirst at Nelson's Green Brier Distillery , a historic watering hole whose interesting tour and tasty whisky samples visitors rave about.

[See more of Nashville:  Things to Do  | Tours |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Atlantans can board a less than two-hour flight for a tropical weekend getaway to Key West , known as the southernmost city in the continental U.S. for its location about 90 miles north of Cuba. The town boasts crystal-clear sea and picturesque beaches as well as various annual festivals and events. The wild Fantasy Fest around Halloween is one draw to Key West; there's also the Hemingway Days Festival, a celebration of the famous author whose historic home is now a local museum. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is one of the city's top attractions for its witty and informative tour guides.

Watching the sunset is another popular pastime in Key West: The city's Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park , a former Civil War fortress, is one of the best viewing spots around. Travelers also recommend heading to Mallory Square for its nightly sunset celebration featuring street performers, food trucks and ocean views. Once the sun goes down, Duval Street comes alive with a mile of lively open-air bars and restaurants where visitors can sip rum cocktails and dance until the sun comes up again. Recover in the shade of a palm tree on Smathers Beach , a serene swath of sand just steps away from the hip Margaritaville Beach House Key West.

[See more of Key West:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Blue Ridge, Georgia
• The Top Things to Do in Augusta, Georgia
• The Top Things to Do in Helen, Georgia
• The Top Places to Visit in the North Carolina Mountains
• The Top Weekender Bags for Women
• The Top Travel Neck Pillows
• The Top Carry-on Luggage
• The Top Duffel Bags

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas , Georgia Vacations , Southeast Vacations

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Plan, Ready, Go

27 Perfect Weekend Getaways From Atlanta

Are you looking for the best weekend getaways from Atlanta ? Whether you’re in search of a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous outdoor retreat, there are plenty of options within driving distance of Georgia’s capital city.

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to coastal islands, we’ve rounded up the top destinations that make ideal weekend trips from Atlanta.

So grab your friends and family and hit the road! With these incredible spots just waiting to be explored, you won’t regret it.

The list below is organized based on distance from Atlanta, starting with the closest to the farthest.

The drive times listed are approximations. The length of time it takes you to drive to each destination will of course depend on several things such as the time of day, your exact starting and ending point, and the weather, etc.

Plan the perfect weekend getaway with this free printable travel planner .

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.

Braselton, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 48 miles

Approximate drive time: 50 minutes

Spending a weekend in Braselton, Georgia, is an ideal way to escape for a few days and relax.

Just a short drive from Atlanta, this small town offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge 

Mountains, a revitalized downtown area, and proximity to nearby attractions such as Road Atlanta Raceway Park.

Braselton is probably best known as the home of Chateau Elan Resort , featuring luxurious rooms, spa treatments, golf, and more.

PRO TIP: If you have flexible travel dates you need to check out Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). You get amazing flight deals sent straight to your inbox with instructions on how to book directly with the airlines. Check out Going here. Going is my favorite way to find great travel deals. 

Dahlonega, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 66 miles

Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 5 minutes

Dahlonega, Georgia, is an idyllic getaway bursting with engaging historical sites and lovely scenery. This town is renowned for its place in American history as the location of the first major gold rush back in 1829.

If you want to delve deeper into this past, be sure to visit Consolidated Gold Mine or the Dahlonega Gold Museum.

Forrest Hills Resort is a perennial favorite spot for a romantic getaway in Dahlonega.

Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge

Distance from Atlanta: 72 miles

Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 20 minutes

Amicalola Falls State Park is an awe-inspiring spot for a quick escape from Atlanta. Falling 729 feet, Amicalola Falls is the third-highest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River.

Hikers enjoy the park’s trails. The park is particularly known for the Approach Trail that leads to the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail

The park’s lodge rooms feature panoramic views. You’ll be close to the falls and the rest of the park’s beautiful attractions, resort activities, and dining.

Athens, Georgia

Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 10 minutes

Athens offers visitors plenty to explore and experience in the home of the University of Georgia. 

Experience the beautiful State Botanical Garden of Georgia or take a bike ride on Firefly Trail, enjoy the works of art in the Georgia Museum of Art, and explore the Lyndon House Arts Center.

After a full day of exploring the city, treat your taste buds to the southern flavors from one of Athens’ many great restaurants.

Turn your fun visit into a luxurious weekend with a stay at ATH|BNB :: The Rushmore in Athens’ renowned Five Points Neighborhood.

Pine Mountain

Distance from Atlanta: 85 miles

Pine Mountain, Georgia, is home to Callaway Resort & Gardens . The popular North Georgia resort includes the famous 2500-acre botanical gardens.

Guests also enjoy views of mountain streams and woodlands along with many attractions such as their butterfly conservatory, golf courses, and zip lines. Or spend your day at Robin Lake Beach.

The resort offers eight on-site restaurants and a variety of accommodations from rooms and suites to cottages and deluxe villas.

Helen, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 87 miles

Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Nestled in the beautiful North Georgia mountains, Helen is a tranquil alpine-style village with an abundance of things to do.

Helen has become well known as a top Christmas town and offers other special seasonal events and festivals. Don’t miss Anna Ruby Falls or have some fun tubing down the Chattahoochee River.

If you’re looking for B&B accommodations in the heart of town, try Black Forest Bed & Breakfast .

Or enjoy a romantic getaway focusing on North Georgia’s beautiful scenery at Valhalla Resort .

Blue Ridge, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 93 miles

This charming mountain town offers visitors plenty to explore and experience. You can take in the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from one of the many hiking trails, or explore the charming downtown area with its unique shops and restaurants.

Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway or explore the Aska Adventure Area to enjoy the North Georgia scenery. Or go rafting on the Ocoee (Toccoa) River.

Blue Ridge is a great place to try a cabin rental or enjoy a stay at the award-winning Aska Lodge .

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Distance from Atlanta: 118 miles

Approximate drive time: 1 hour, 50 minutes

Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a great idea for a weekend trip from Atlanta. Lonely Planet has ranked it as one of the top destinations in the U.S.

Treat yourself to a leisurely walk across the iconic Walnut Street Pedestrian Bridge, spanning the Tennessee River and one of the longest pedestrian bridges on the globe.

Explore the famous Tennessee Aquarium, tour the Hunter Museum of Art, and check out the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo.

There are a lot of great places to stay in Chattanooga. Here are a few top options:

Hotel Indigo Chattanooga – Downtown is just half a mile from the Tennessee Aquarium and the Walnut Street Bridge. It’s steps from the city center and offers on-site dining.

Or try one of the most unique experiences in the city and stay in a Pullman car at the Chattanooga Choo Choo .

Augusta, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 145 miles

Approximate drive time: 2 hours, 15 minutes

While Augusta, Georgia, is no doubt best known as the home of the Masters golf tournament, there is much more to this town than its famously exclusive golf club.

Augusta is filled with things to do for all ages. Stroll along the Augusta Riverwalk. Explore the Augusta Museum of History or admire the artwork at the Morris Museum of Art. It’s the oldest art museum in the U.S. specifically dedicated to Southern American art and artists.

Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center overlooks the Savannah River at the Augusta Riverwalk.

If you’re looking for a small, boutique inn, check out Old Town Inn in Augusta’s historic Old Towne Neighborhood.

Birmingham, Alabama

Distance from Atlanta: 147 miles

Conde Nast Traveler named Birmingham one of the 22 Best Places to Go in 2022 . Known as the “Dinner Table of the South,” Birmingham is a top choice destination for food lovers.

From exploring the Civil Rights District to visiting the famous Vulcan Park and Museum, there are plenty of attractions in Birmingham that will keep visitors busy all weekend long.

Tour the Birmingham Museum of Art or the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, take a walk around Railroad Park or check out Red Mountain Park which offers 16 miles of multi-use trails.

The Elyton Hotel offers upscale and modern accommodations in the heart of the city near the art museum and Railroad Park.

Greenville, South Carolina

Approximate drive time: 2 hours, 15 miles

Greenville, South Carolina, is a perfect place for a weekend getaway from Atlanta. The New York Times named it one of their “52 Places to Go in 2023.”

From its performing arts opportunities to award-winning restaurants, there’s much to enjoy during a weekend in Greenville.

Make sure to explore Falls Park on the Reedy before heading over to Main Street for some shopping and dining. And don’t miss the Greenville County Museum of Art or discover nature at one of the state parks close by.

The Westin Poinsett is a classic hotel choice in the heart of downtown Greenville.

Or try the new Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville on the banks of the Reedy River in the center of town.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Distance from Atlanta: 165 miles

Approximate drive time: 3 hours, 30 minutes

Found in Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to some of the most stunning scenery anywhere in the U.S. It’s one of the best southern national parks .

In my opinion, one of the best things about this park is that you don’t have to be super outdoorsy to enjoy it. Anyone can enjoy the scenic drives at Cades Cove and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Avid hikers love the trails to Laurel Falls, Alum Bluff Cave, and Abram Falls.

For everything you need to know about visiting this amazing park, see my Great Smoky Mountains National Park travel guide .

For a complete discussion of where to stay on your Smokies weekend trip, see my article all about where to stay in the Smokies .

Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not really offer any traditional lodging options.

So probably your best option will be to stay in one of the gateway towns at the major entrances to the Park. Gatlinburg is the most popular. Cherokee, North Carolina , and Townsend, Tennessee are also fine options.

Here are a couple of popular options in Gatlinburg:

The Park Vista offers beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains, and every room has its own balcony.

Fairfield Inn and Suites has long been one of our go-to hotels when looking for an economical and comfortable stay. Their downtown Gatlinburg location is mere moments away from the beginning of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Lake Junaluska, North Carolina

Distance from Atlanta: 170 miles

Approximate drive time: 3 hours

Spending a weekend at Lake Junaluska is a unique and perfect way to relax and unwind. With its beautiful scenery and abundance of outdoor activities, there is something for everyone here.

Enjoy fishing, kayaking, birding, and swimming in the lake. Explore the lake on foot using the Lake Junaluska Walking Trail or enjoy 18 holes of golf.

Lodging options include cabins, vacation rentals, and a couple of hotels and B&Bs.

The Terrace Hotel offers beautiful lake views, a heated pool, and easy access to all of the recreational activities the lake has to offer.

The Lambuth Inn appears on the Register of National Historic places and underwent a major renovation in 2018 to modernize and upgrade amenities.

Huntsville, Alabama

Distance from Atlanta: 180 miles

Approximate drive time: 3 hours, 15 minutes

Huntsville, Alabama, is a great destination for a weekend getaway from Atlanta. Huntsville offers plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained all weekend long.

Enjoy tons of options from the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (Space Camp!) to its many historic sites and museums to exploring nature at Monte Sano State Park or taking a stroll through downtown Huntsville with its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants.

The Huntsville Marriott at the Space & Rocket Center is located conveniently on the grounds of that attraction and offers on-site dining.

Holiday Inn Express – Huntsville Space Center offers affordable rooms near both the Space Center and the Huntsville Botanical Garden.

Asheville, North Carolina

Distance from Atlanta: 200 miles

Approximate drive time: 3 hours, 45 minutes

Asheville, North Carolina, is my top choice among possible romantic getaways from Atlanta. Asheville is located in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. With its laid-back attitude, incredible eateries, and historical Biltmore Estate, you won’t want to miss out on all this city has to offer.

Because we got engaged at Biltmore, it holds a special place in our hearts. Read more about how to spend a weekend at Biltmore Estate .

Whether you’re craving a romantic getaway or an unforgettable sightseeing experience, Asheville is the ideal destination all year round, but especially in the fall.

There are many wonderful places to stay in Asheville, North Carolina.

For the ultimate luxurious and romantic spa weekend try the Omni Grove Park Inn – Asheville .

For stays on the Biltmore property, The Inn on Biltmore Estate is our top choice, but we also loved staying at the Village Hotel . We’ve spent four wedding anniversaries at Biltmore.

DoubleTree by Hilton Biltmore/Asheville is conveniently located close to the Biltmore Estate and Biltmore Village.

Knoxville, Tennessee

Distance from Atlanta: 215 miles

Approximate drive time: 3 hours, 10 minutes

Knoxville, Tennessee, makes a wonderful weekend trip from Atlanta. It offers plenty of attractions and activities to keep you entertained all weekend long

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures like hiking or biking at Ijams Nature Center or want to explore the city’s rich history at places like Market Square and James White’s Fort, there are lots of things to do here.

And don’t miss Zoo Knoxville, the Knoxville Museum of Art, or Sunsphere in World’s Fair Park. Plus, if you have time on your hands or are taking a long weekend trip you can even take a day trip into Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Enjoy 4-star accommodations in the heart of Knoxville at The Tennessean . It’s just steps from Sunsphere and the Knoxville Museum of Art.

Cumberland House Knoxville is also conveniently located in the center of the action in Knoxville and is quite close to the University of Tennessee.

Congaree National Park/Columbia, South Carolina

Distance from Atlanta: 230 miles

A weekend of hiking and canoeing through South Carolina’s only National Park is a great way to spend a weekend away from Atlanta.

We love its unique landscape of old-growth hardwood forests and wetlands. The park’s boardwalk loop trail is quite popular and one of the easy hikes in Congaree National Park . Avid paddlers won’t want to miss the 15-mile Cedar Creek Canoe Trail.

There are no hotels or lodges available at Congaree National Park, so camping is the only way to sleep within the park. My recommendation is that you plan to stay in a hotel in the Columbia, South Carolina, area.

The rooms are great at Residence Inn Columbia Northeast/Fort Jackson Area . For the money, we love how much space you get at Residence Inn hotels. They also offer a free breakfast.

Savannah, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 250 miles

Approximate drive time: 4 hours, 15 minutes

For the perfect Southern getaway, look no further than a weekend in Savannah, Georgia .

The atmosphere and food make it a southern destination that’s pretty hard to beat. Even if you go to Savannah only for the food, I think you’ll leave happy.

Must-do stops include the Waving Girl Statue, River Street, Leopold’s Ice Cream, and Forsyth Park. And Savannah is one town where I would recommend doing a history walking tour or a hop-on hop-off trolley tour through the historic district.

Savannah pairs well with Charleston for a lovely short road trip. And there are a lot of great things to do between Savannah and Charleston .

Savannah is full of wonderful hotels and inns. The Marshall House is one of the most popular and highly rated (by guests) places to stay in Savannah.

If you’re looking for a great view of both the historic Savannah Riverfront and the boats that travel along it, we enjoyed our stay at Marriott Savannah Riverfront . It’s just steps from the famous Waving Girl Statue at the end of River Street.

Nashville, Tennessee

Approximate drive time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Nashville, Tennessee, is a vibrant city with a rich music history that makes it a perfect weekend getaway from Atlanta.

From its renowned Grand Ole Opry, famous recording studios on Music Row, and the legendary Bluebird Café, to the Frist Art Museum and Centennial Park, Nashville has something for everyone looking for a bit of Southern charm and hospitality. There are plenty of ways to make your stay in the Music City unforgettable.

The Conrad Nashville offers 5-star accommodations in the thick of historic Nashville.

For the ultimate in Nashville-ness (is that a word?) try the Gaylord Opryland Resort .

Tybee Island

Distance from Atlanta: 270 miles

Easily the most popular of the day trips from Savannah , Tybee Island also makes a wonderful and beach-y destination for a weekend trip from Atlanta.

Check out my beach day essentials so that you don’t forget to pack anything.

Tybee Island is a popular spot for bird watching, sea kayaking, dolphin spotting, biking, fishing, and just relaxing.

There are hundreds of hotel and motel rooms just steps away from the beach on Tybee Island. Beachview Inn and Spa is just a 3-minute walk from the beach. All units have private bathrooms, and some units include kitchenettes.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Distance from Atlanta: 285 miles

Approximate drive time: 4 hours, 40 minutes

Hilton Head Island makes a perfect weekend getaway from Atlanta. It’s one of my top choices for romantic getaways in the South .

Travel + Leisure has named it one of the best islands in the continental U.S. , and I totally agree. 

For public beach access head to Coligny Beach; it’s a designated swim area with free parking. The small park there is also quite charming. If biking is your thing, you’ll love the miles of beaches and recreational paths to explore.

For a luxurious stay, try the Inn & Club at Harbour Town , the only Forbes four-star hotel on Hilton Head Island.

We loved our stay at Marriott Hilton Head Resort & Spa , which offers great beach views.

Jekyll Island

Distance from Atlanta: 325 miles

Approximate drive time: 5 hours

Jekyll Island is one of the “Golden Isles” barrier islands off the coast of Georgia that include St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island, Sapelo Island, Blackbeard Island, plus Historic Darien and Historic Brunswick.

Jekyll Island is a great destination for beach lovers. Don’t miss Driftwood Beach on the northern end of the island.

Jekyll Island is also home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center , which offers educational programs and works to rescue and rehabilitate sick and injured turtles.

To enjoy a relaxing weekend at a historical 19th-century resort with beaches and biking trails nearby, try a stay at Jekyll Island Club Resort .

Hampton Inn & Suites Jekyll Island offers 3-star accommodations with free breakfast, and it’s just steps from the South Dunes Beach Boardwalk and Picnic Area.

Charleston, South Carolina

Distance from Atlanta: 300 miles

Charleston, South Carolina, is the epitome of Southern historical cities, so it makes a great weekend trip from Atlanta.

If you’re having trouble deciding between Savannah and Charleston, try combining them into one itinerary for the perfect Lowcountry road trip .

Top sites to visit during your Charleston weekend trip include Fort Sumter, Aiken-Rhett House, Historic Charleston City Market, and The Battery.

And don’t forget the great food in Charleston. This means you must try the hushpuppies.

You’ll enjoy beautiful accommodations near the top fine dining and shopping in the city (on King Street) if you stay at The Dewberry .

The Doubletree Mount Pleasant is outside the city, but it is easier to save money on hotels in Mount Pleasant. It’s also close to two scrumptious breakfast places: Vicious Biscuit and Page’s Okra Grill.

30A (Florida)

Distance from Atlanta: 310 miles

Approximate drive time: 5 hours, 15 minutes

For a relaxing and romantic getaway from Atlanta, try 30A in Florida’s Walton County. The white sand beaches on this stretch of scenic highway have to be seen to be believed.

And there are plenty of things to do in 30A even if you don’t really consider yourself a “beach person.” From great shopping and food to biking and kayaking, you definitely won’t lack fun activities in 30A.

Hotel stays in 30A can be rather expensive, so consider going with a vacation rental to perhaps save some money. And if you have a full kitchen, you could save on food by cooking some of your own meals and eating in.

If you are looking for a luxurious hotel stay, try The Pearl, Rosemary Beach . It’s in the center of town and just steps from a private beach.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Distance from Atlanta: 350 miles

Approximate drive time: 5 hours, 30 minutes

Gulf Shores offers visitors beautiful white sand beaches, delicious restaurants, stunning views of the Gulf Coast, and plenty of activities to keep you busy.

From scuba diving and snorkeling to dolphin cruises and from golf to biking and hiking, options are endless. Don’t miss the 6,000+-acre Gulf State Park or historic Fort Morgan.

Gulf Shores is a great place to get a vacation rental with beach views and access.

Amelia Island, Florida

Distance from Atlanta: 360 miles

A popular beach vacation destination, Amelia Island boasts 13 miles of beaches in Northeast Florida.

In 2020, Travel + Leisure put Amelia Island at number 6 on its list of the top 15 islands in the United States. Southern Living also named it one of the 10 most romantic destinations in Florida.

Enjoy 5-star luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island . Guests love the beachfront location and excellent service.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Distance from Atlanta: 365 miles

Approximate drive time: 6 hours

Myrtle Beach is one of the most popular beaches in South Carolina. The Beach enjoys 215 days of sun a year, so your chances of finding great weather during your getaway are pretty good.

Golfers love that there are an astounding 90 courses in the “Grand Strand.” For outdoor enthusiasts, Myrtle Beach offers a variety of activities, including parasailing, jet skiing, and kayaking. Venture to Murrells Inlet to explore Brookgreen Gardens and the MarshWalk.

A vacation condo or beach house rental is a great option for Myrtle Beach. If a hotel is more what you’re looking for, here are a couple of top options:

Stay in the heart of the Beach at Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave . This beachfront property offers suites with kitchens just steps from the Boardwalk and Promenade.

Check out the SpringHill Suites Myrtle Beach Oceanfront . This is a newer property that offers an outdoor pool with a sun deck and a lazy river.

Final thoughts on taking a weekend getaway from Atlanta

Taking a weekend getaway from Atlanta is the perfect way to unwind and enjoy some quality time with your special someone.

From 30A in Florida’s Walton County to Gulf Shores in Alabama, there are plenty of romantic options for beach lovers looking for coastal charm and serenity.

From breaks in big cities like Birmingham or Nashville to trips that focus on National Parks and whether you’re looking for luxury or affordability, these spots will have something that fits your needs perfectly and all within driving distance of Atlanta.

What’s your favorite weekend trip from Atlanta? Let me know in the comments below!

More articles related to weekend trips from Atlanta

• Day trips from Atlanta
• How to plan a weekend getaway (especially for beginners)
• Ultimate weekend packing list (for any kind of getaway)
• Essential travel planning resources

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

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8 Family Road Trips from Atlanta

When the world is no longer on lockdown and people are free to start traveling again, I don’t expect they’ll want to go very far at first. I predict the first family vacation many of us will take will be a short road trip that lets us get comfortable being away from home without too much risk to our health and wallets. For Atlantans, there are plenty of great options within a five-hour drive. Here are eight of my favorite Atlanta road trips for your post-quarantine consideration.

At the time of publication, most of the accommodations and attractions listed in this post are closed due to COVID-19. Before taking any trips, contact the destination to confirm reopening. This post contains an affiliate link, which means, at no cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Amelia Island, Florida

Amelia Island is a barrier island off the east coast of Florida about 350 miles from Atlanta. It boasts two great beach resorts, the Omni Amelia Island Resort and the Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island .

The Omni Amelia Island Resort has a range of family-friendly resort amenities such as tennis, golf, paddle boarding, kayaking, and fishing. You can spend the day on the expansive beachfront pool deck or along miles of white sandy beach.

While the Omni Amelia Island offers several options for onsite dining, you can try the restaurants in historic Fernandina Beach or splurge on the Ritz-Carlton’s five-star restaurant, SALT. If you’re looking to explore further off-property, consider a day trip to Cumberland Island , a national park accessible via ferry from St. Mary’s, Georgia.

Drive time from Atlanta: 5 hours and 15 minutes

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Jekyll Island is another barrier island on the Georgia coast, 62 miles north of Amelia Island and about 320 miles from Atlanta. Its notable resorts include The Westin Jekyll Island and the Jekyll Island Club Resort.

Built in 1887, the Jekyll Island Club was originally a private club with members including the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and Pulitzers. Today, you can step back in time with a stay in the historic hotel or cottages, which sit along the East River among Spanish moss-draped trees.

Although the historic buildings aren’t on the beach, guests can enjoy beachfront activities at the resort’s Jekyll Island Ocean Club, a contemporary boutique all-suite hotel located a mile and a half away. If you go, don’t miss Driftwood Beach at the northern end of the island, where the weathered remains of eroded trees create a dramatic display.

Drive time from Atlanta: 5 hours

Looking for more info on Georgia’s Golden Isles? Check out “ First-Timer’s Guide to Beautiful Jekyll Island, Georgia .”

Savannah, Georgia

Whether you’ve never visited or you’ve been a dozen times, Savannah, Georgia, deserves a place on your Atlanta road trip list.

For first time visitors, a guided city tour is a must. Hop on/hop off trolley tours provide an overview of some of the city’s most popular sights, including Forsyth Park and the bustling riverfront. Or try a 90-minute walking tour through the quaint city squares, past Savannah’s many historic homes.

If you have more time, venture outside of the historic district to the famous Bonaventure Cemetery or picturesque Wormsloe Historic Site.

For accommodations, Savannah has a great selection of charming boutique inns and bed and breakfasts. Depending on your choice, you may wind up in one of Savannah’s haunted hotels .

Drive time from Atlanta: 3 hours and 45 minutes

Charleston, South Carolina

The model of Southern charm, Charleston has been ranked among the world’s best cities to visit .

Like Savannah, Charleston has a walkable downtown district filled with historic buildings, making a guided tour a must. History lovers will also enjoy stops at Fort Sumter, the site of the start of Civil War, and Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum , which features a World War II aircraft carrier, the USS Yorktown.

Outside of Charleston are several plantation properties where you can tour antebellum homes and gardens, including Drayton Hall, Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, and Middleton Place. If you’re craving salt air and sand, head to the nearby beaches of South Carolina’s coastal islands.

Drive time from Atlanta: 4 hours and 40 minutes

Read more about things to do in Charleston in “ See the Best of Charleston: A 3 to 5-Day Itinerary .”

Chattanooga, Tennessee

At less than two hours away, Chattanooga, Tennessee, can easily be a day trip from Atlanta. But Chattanooga offers so many fun activities that it’s a perfect place to spend a few nights.

In downtown Chattanooga, kids will love exploring the aquatic habitats of the Tennessee Aquarium and splashing around in the fountains of the Riverwalk. Other top attractions include an interactive science museum called the Creative Discovery Center, the Chattanooga Zoo, and the Hunter Museum of American Art.

Just outside the city are also several worthwhile stops, including Rock City Gardens, Ruby Falls, and Incline Railway. And only a 30-minute drive from Chattanooga is one of Georgia’s loveliest state parks, Cloudland Canyon. The park has 64 miles of trails featuring waterfalls and stunning canyon views.

Drive time from Atlanta: 2 hours

Asheville, North Carolina

If you’ve never been to Asheville, North Carolina, you’re missing out on one of the hippest vacation destinations in the Southeast. Asheville has a cool downtown with eclectic restaurants and craft breweries, all set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge mountains.

Asheville has several standout hotels and resorts, including the Inn at Biltmore Estate , the Grand Bohemian Hotel , and the Omni Grove Park Inn. The Grove Park Inn is also known for its spa, which comes with the perk of admission to the resort’s subterranean mineral pools.

As for Asheville attractions, schedule an afternoon to a full day to see Biltmore Estate , a Gilded Age mansion built for George Vanderbilt in the 1890s. The ornate 178,926 square-foot home and its Olmstead-designed gardens are located on 8,000 acres. In addition to touring the property, you can go horseback riding, learn fly-fishing, or try your hand at falconry.

Drive time from Atlanta: 3 hours and 30 minutes

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park covers more than 800 square miles of North Carolina and Tennessee and is the most visited national park in the United States. Scenic drives and impressive hikes make it a top choice for an Atlanta road trip.

Popular hikes in the park include paved trails to Laurel Falls, an 80-foot-tall waterfall, and Clingman’s Dome, a circular observation platform atop the park’s highest point. Grotto Falls, another popular waterfall, can be accessed via the Trillium Gap Trail off the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

At the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, you can visit the Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill. Or drive the 11-mile loop road to see the churches, barns and log cabins of Cades Cove, a popular area for wildlife-viewing.

While you’ll find plenty of hotel and motel accommodations in towns like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, consider renting a cabin near one of the six park entrances for the complete mountain experience.

Drive time from Atlanta: Between 3 and 4 hours depending on where you enter the park

For advice on planning a trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you might also like this article with Smoky Mountain tips!

Callaway Gardens

For a long weekend getaway, Callaway Resort & Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia, offers a wide variety of outdoor activities. On the 6,500-acre resort, you’ll find golfing, tennis, ziplines, a lake, hiking, biking, and more.

The resort gardens showcase native plants like azaleas, hydrangea, dogwood trees, mountain laurel, and holly. Visit the garden’s website for a printable guide to the monthly blooms. The Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center is also a must-do. Thousands of butterflies alight on tropical plants and feast on fruit in the lush glass-paned center.

Callaway normally features annual events such as the Masters Water Ski and Wakeboard Tournament, a hot air balloon festival, and a steeplechase. During the summer, Florida State University’s Flying High Circus performs under the resort’s big top.

Accommodations at Callaway range from hotel rooms and suites to cottages and villas with fully-equipped kitchens. Near the resort are several family-friendly attractions, including FDR’s Little White House , Hills and Dales estate , and Wild Animal Safari , a drive-thru animal park with more than 75 species, including giraffe, elk and water buffalo.

Drive time from Atlanta: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Headed to Callaway Gardens during the winter holidays? You might like “ Everything You Need to Know about Callaway Gardens Fantasy in Lights .”

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54 Perfect Day Trips from Atlanta

BY Atlanta Magazine - August 22, 2018

Photograph by Growl

From surreal folk art environments to glitzy hotels, from secret gardens to town squares, here are our favorite quick escapes—all within 200 miles of Atlanta.

Edited by Betsy Riley with contributions from  Mary Logan Bikoff , Steve Fennessy , Mara Shalhoup , Matt Walljasper , Myrydd Wells , Thomas Wheatley

• Take a zombie tour in Senoia
• Splash at the 100k square-foot indoor water park at LaGrange's Great Wolf Lodge
• 2 holy places to explore
• See 7 states from Lover’s Leap at Rock City
• 24 hours in Birmingham
• Bring a friend (or 8) to LaPrade’s Marina on Lake Burton
• 2 venues to discover the best in indie music
• Meet 2 peafowl at Andalusia, the Milledgeville home of Flannery O’Connor
• 3 secret gardens in Georgia
• Discover 200 years of pottery at the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia
• 2 great places to see a show
• See the 46,991 artworks at Howard Finster's Paradise Garden
• 24 hours in Chattanooga
• 3 things to do with kids in Dahlonega
• Visit 2 national-quality museums in Cartersville
• Visit 6 fun Minor League ballparks
• 3 places to see white columns
• 12 festivals worth the drive
• Explore 7 colorful acres of folk art at Pasaquan
• Taste medal-winning wines at Tiger Mountain Vineyards
• 24 hours at Barnsley Resort
• 5 stops for auto buffs
• Burn calories hiking to the top of Kennesaw Mountain

Tags Andalusia Cartersville Dahlonega day trips Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park Madison Paradise Garden Pasaquan Rock City Senoia Serenbe Playhouse travel

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39 Best Day Trips From Atlanta — Places Nearby!

Atlanta is cocooned by plenty of beautiful things to see and do, from quaint alpine towns tucked away in magnificent mountains to bustling cities with all the urban comforts one could want to tranquil forests where it’s only you and Mother Nature.

From Athens (the American variety!) in the north to Augusta in the south, you have several (39, to be exact) choices to choose from.

Kick back, relax, and plan a scenic outing with the best day trips from Atlanta below.

1. Chattanooga

At the top of the list is the family-friendly Chattanooga, a melting pot of culture, nature, and history.

For all the history buffs, the city’s vibrant downtown area is a must explore, with several monumental reminders of the Civil War along the Riverwalk, as are the tours of the Chickamauga Civil War Battlefield, the Cravens House, and the 6th Cavalry Museum.

If you’re looking for fun outdoors, you’ll find that too at Chattanooga, in the form of several beautiful green lungs and adventure activities such as hiking, hang-gliding, and rafting along the banks of the gushing Tennessee.

One of the unique experiences the city offers is its Incline Railway, which takes you to Ruby Falls (a magnificent 30-million-year-old waterfall), and Rock City (for views of seven states!).

Begin your day trip with something closer, like Chattanooga, which is only under 2 hours away.

2. Rock City Garden

1400 Patten Rd Lookout Mountain, GA 30750 (706) 820-2531

Speaking of Rock City, here’s a more detailed breakdown of why making the trip to this family-friendly spot may be worth your while!

Rock City Garden sits atop Georgia’s Lookout Mountain and is a beautiful natural museum of caverns, cliff formations, cascades, and stunning views.

These natural wonders line the Enchanted Trail—4,100 feet of scenic beauty—interspersed with family-friendly man-made entertainment such as High Falls, Fairyland Caverns, and Lover’s Leap.

An especially thrilling feature is the Swing-a-Long suspension bridge, a swinging rope bridge that sits 200 feet above the ground.

Another unique offering is the nursing and release of peregrine falcons, some of the few in the country.

With only a 2-hour car ride, you’ll have enough time to explore its attractions.

3. Dahlonega

Sitting an hour and a half’s worth of driving away from Atlanta, quaint, historic Dahlonega is one of the easiest Atlanta day trips to make.

The small city’s rich heritage will interest history lovers—the first settlers of Dahlonega came here during the initial days of the Gold Rush.

If you’re more interested in gold of the liquid variety, you’ll be happy to know Dahlonega sits at the heart of Georgian wine country, with 12 sites for wine tasting spread across 5 vineyards.

The buzzing downtown area, featured on the Historic Register, is where the old and new come together in Dahlonega, with modern shops, art galleries, and restaurants sharing walls with historic museums and buildings.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Dahlonega Square Hotel & Villas

4. Consolidated Gold Mine

185 Consolidated Gold Mine Rd Dahlonega, GA 30533 (706) 864-8473

Though this mine sits in Dahlonega, it deserves a spot of its own on the list for being a thrilling step back in time and for the chance to be a miner, even if only for a short while!

Sitting 200 feet below the surface, visitors to Consolidated Gold Mine can expect interactive and immersive experiences, tours of the mines, and programs that give you a quick but extensive 101 on mining gems and gold.

Once the lessons end, it’s time to practically apply what you’ve just learned—in a throwback to the Gold Rush era, you can pan for emeralds, rubies, amethysts, and gold in the rocks and the water (this isn’t just a marketing hoax; the mines still have gold in them)!

It’s only a little more than an hour away, so you’ll still have plenty of energy to tour the area.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Dahlonega University Area

5. Toccoa Falls

107 Kincaid Dr Toccoa Falls, GA 30598 (706) 886-6831

This majestic 186-foot cascade sits tucked away on the Toccoa Falls College campus, in a secluded area encompassed by dramatic cliffs, away from the campus’s academic life and happenings.

Toccoa Falls is among the highest waterfalls to the Mississippi’s east, 26 feet taller than New York’s Niagara Falls.

You can access the falls via a private pathway that will take you right to the base, where spectacular views and plenty of Insta-worthy photo ops await you.

Aptly named (toccoa means beautiful in the Cherokee language), this spectacle is worth the 1-hour-40-minute drive to the campus if you enjoy being in Mother Nature’s lap.

If you’ve got time left over after visiting the falls, you could enjoy a leisurely walk through the lovely thousand-acre boscage on the campus.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Club Vacations Apple Mountain Resort at Clarkesville

Related: Activities in Atlanta

6. Gatlinburg

Though you’d be pushing against the upper limits of a day trip by driving to Tennessee’s Gatlinburg (it’s four hours away), it’s worth the effort if you love the outdoors—the city is a gateway to the gorgeous Smoky Mountain National Park.

With over 150 trails snaking across 800 miles of wilderness at its rawest and most unblemished, hiking enthusiasts will find no shortage of trails to explore.

The park is also one of the few International Biosphere Reserves in the world, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as the Roaring Fork (a gorgeous confluence of two waterfalls).

If you’d just like to wander around Gatlinburg itself, you’ll find plenty of historic buildings and cabins to explore—time has stood still at these, affording a taste of the OG Smoky Mountain way of life!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Carr’s Northside Hotel and Cottages

7. Birmingham

Just a little over two hours away by road, Birmingham is a great urban getaway and a popular one day trip from Atlanta.

One of the South’s most significant metropolises and Alabama’s most populated city, Birmingham is the state’s cultural capital today, brimming with popular annual festivals and theaters for performing arts.

Several renowned art museums also call the city home, such as the Birmingham Museum of Art, the Southeast’s biggest museum of art.

Birmingham also has many prestigious colleges and universities, so if you’ve got a potential college-goer in the family, you can spend the day checking these out.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Birmingham Downtown at UAB

Also See: Best Day Trips From Augusta

Yep, Georgia has its very own Athens, home to the reputed University of Georgia, but don’t be quick to dismiss Athens as just another college town.

You see, Athens is also home to a roaring music scene, several popular historical and natural attractions, and tons of cultural experiences.

If you’re looking for nature-based attractions, check out the “Tree That Owns Itself” (it’s literally that—the tree has legally owned itself and some of the surrounding lands since the 19th century).

The State Botanical Garden is also a gorgeous sight with a super-fun kids’ play area.

Sports fans can catch a game at the Sanford Stadium, while art lovers can check out the many art galleries and the city’s performing arts venues.

For a slice of 18th-century Southern life, tour the many vintage homes-turned-museums and historic buildings that dot downtown Athens.

An hour-and-a half drive is all it takes to enjoy these attractions, and more!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Graduate Athens

9. Lake Lanier

Come summer, Lake Lanier turns into a veritable water paradise, with plenty of water sports, adventure activities, and outdoor excursions on offer.

The lake and the beach around it present plenty of opportunities for water sports, beach games, swimming, fishing, and boating, with more water fun at LanierWorld, a waterpark on the beach with a plethora of water slides and its own mini-golf course.

There are many activities for the non-summer months too, such as golfing, hiking the Sawnee, zip-lining, or spending a day pampering yourself at Tranquility, a luxurious Lanier Islands spa offering.

Several superb seasonal events are also hosted at the lake throughout the year; the holiday season’s Lake Lanier Lights event is by far the most popular, attracting hordes of visitors.

Whenever you feel the need to cool off, just drive an hour to this aquatic paradise.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge

Related: Beaches Near Atlanta

10. Brasstown Bald

A little over two hours away from Atlanta sits Georgia’s tallest peak, the go-to spot for extensive, spectacular views of Georgia’s natural best and the states of Tennessee, South Carolina, Georgia, and North Carolina.

At an elevation of 4,784 feet, Brasstown Bald is a popular year-round destination—each season adds its own beauty to the views from the peak.

Avid hikers will enjoy the hike (on a paved pathway) to the tip, where an observation tower affords the best panoramic views from the peak.

This spot is a hit with the tykes, who enjoy the easy, rewarding hike and the super-fun scavenger hunt organized by the folks who run the place.

It’s also a fun way to get your kids to learn about the region’s ecology and history; the visitors center also runs many presentations on these.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Ridges Resort on Lake Chatuge

11. Mableton

Suburban Mableton sits right outside Atlanta, merely 20 minutes away and a great addition to any list of one-day Atlanta trips.

This charming town’s major draw is the historic Mable House, a period home that also houses a center for performing arts.

After touring the house, you can settle down in any of the five parks and enjoy a picnic, a lovely stroll, or some fun sports under the fine Georgian sun.

Another reason that folks head to Mableton is the Silver Comet Trail, a hiking path that follows the historic Silver Comet railroad, stretching up to the Georgia-Alabama state line.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Atlanta West – Theme Park Area, an IHG Hotel

12. Stone Mountain Park

1000 Robert E Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, GA 30083 (770) 498-5690

No list of Atlanta day trips is complete without the world’s biggest granite formation and one of Georgia’s star attractions—Stone Mountain Park.

What makes this park even more unique is that you’ll find the faces of Southern legends Robert E. Lee, Jefferson Davis, and Stonewall Jackson carved into the granite face.

Stone Mountain Park also has its own amusement park, with an array of thrilling and fun rides that may excite the young ones in the clan, from a four-story barn to a rope course.

If you find your day trip turning into an overnighter (though the park is only 30 minutes away from Atlanta, you may not be able to prise the kids away from the rides!), sleep under the stars by camping on the grounds or stay at any of several hotels around if you’re a creature of modern comforts.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort

13. Nashville

Like Gatlinburg, you’d be pushing it with a four-hour drive to Nashville, but if you’re a fan of folk and country music, you won’t mind the effort at all!

The home of some of the country’s most reputed music venues, Nashville is rightly known as the Music City and fully deserves its spot as the capital of country music in the United States.

Check out the Country Music Hall of Fame, where country music greats are honored and the musical movement evolution is tracked across the ages and the world-famous stage at the Grand Ole Opry.

The many intimate venues peppering the city’s many vibrant, individualistic neighborhoods are also worth checking out, providing a stage for many up-and-coming artists in the genre.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Hyatt Nashville

Related: Weekend Trips in Georgia

14. Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge

718 Round Oak Juliette Rd Hillsboro, GA 31038 (478) 986-5441

Sitting in the heart of Georgia and a little over an hour away from Atlanta, the Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge is a prime example of how a little TLC can nurse a barren landscape back to life.

A wasteland in the 19th and 20th centuries, thanks to all the overuse, the refuge is a well-maintained, lush space today, with thriving forest and wetland environments that are home to a variety of native flora and fauna.

Hike through the various trails winding through the property to encounter the resident white-tailed deer, beavers, turkeys, wood ducks, and the red-cockaded woodpecker, an endangered bird species.

Fishing is also permitted in certain parts of the park.

Given the diversity of its residents, Piedmont is a favorite among animal and birding enthusiasts.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Homewood Suites by Hilton Macon-North

15. Anna Ruby Falls

Anna Ruby Falls Rd Sautee Nacoochee, GA 30571 (706) 878-1448

Nestled in the depths of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, the Anna Ruby Falls is a spectacular waterfall with an adjoining recreational area.

The York Creek and Curtis Creek together form this cascade, which requires trekking up half a mile on an asphalt trail or any of the longer unpaved trails winding through the forest to reach it.

There’s also a visitors center on site, with a gift shop showcasing and selling local artwork, quick bites, and several special tours, including a popular guided stargazing activity.

Fishing fans in the group can bide their time waiting for fish to take the bait in any of the onsite creeks, while the rest of the gang can picnic and chill in any of the assigned spots.

And, the best part is, it only takes a two-hour drive to see this natural wonder.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Helen, an IHG Hotel

16. Andersonville National Historic Site

760 POW Rd Andersonville, GA 31711 (229) 924-0343

This landmark site is steeped in Civil War history, with three distinct parts showcasing different historically significant military events.

Start at the Camp Sumter military prison, run by the Confederates and the site of torturous imprisonment for over 45,000 soldiers of the Union—upwards of 13,000 inmates lost their lives to the poor living conditions.

Next, head to the Andersonville National Cemetery, now a spot where soldiers who died while serving the country are honored but formerly a graveyard where dead prisoners of Camp Sumter were laid to rest.

Round off the trip at the National Prisoner of War Museum, where all American war prisoners, across all wars fought by the country, are honored.

With a little more than a two-hour trip, you can learn vital history lessons up close.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Americus

17. Callaway Gardens

17617 US-27 Pine Mountain, GA 31822 (855) 894-0420

There’s a little something for everyone at Callaway Gardens, family, solo adventurer, or love birds!

This gorgeous 2,500-acre recreational retreat is a prime spot for fishing, hiking, biking, swimming, watersports, boating, and plain beach bumming, with several dining and shopping options also liberally sprinkled across.

It’s also a haven of natural beauty, with lovely, romantic gardens of holly, azalea, and hydrangea (a treat in full bloom), a historic log cabin, and a butterfly center housing over 1,000 butterflies across 50 species.

Some popular annual events to catch here are the Hot Air Balloon Festival, the Fantasy in Lights event, and the July 4th Beach Party.

Awe in nature’s splendor after only an hour and 17 minutes of driving.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Callaway Resort & Gardens

18. National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force

175 Bourne Ave Pooler, GA 31322 (912) 748-8888

If the impressive name doesn’t draw you in, this museum’s extensive aircraft collection from the Second World War and excellently curated artifacts might do the trick.

The museum is both a tribute to and a hub of information about the country’s Eighth Air Force, a numbered unit that served in Europe and supplied over 200,000 soldiers, 1,000 single-mission fighters, and 2,000 four-engine bombers to fight against enemies in World War II.

At the museum, you’ll see informational displays, aircraft, and artifacts from the War and read the personal accounts of the force’s soldiers.

The lovely outdoor garden is a memorial to all the soldiers of the Second World War.

It’s nearly a four-hour car ride, but for aircraft fanatics, the time will fly by.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Savannah Airport

19. Museum of Aviation

1942 Heritage Blvd Robins AFB, GA 31098 (478) 926-6870

An hour and a half away from Atlanta, the Museum of Aviation sits in Georgia’s Robins, and as the name suggests, is dedicated to showcasing different military aircraft and their stories.

The museum is run by the military (it sits close to the Robins Air Force Base) and is divided into five internal venues exhibiting aviation projects and aircraft.

You’ll find the 93 exhibited aircraft in the museum’s two hangars and all other exhibits spread across the various buildings on the premises.

What sets this museum apart is the array of aircraft representing several categories, such as helicopters, bombers, drones, and cargo planes.

A guided tour is the easiest and most time-efficient way to learn about the museum’s many exhibits.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Warner Robins AFB

20. Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Suches, GA 30572 (770) 297-3000

A long name and an even longer list of things to see and do await visitors to this nearly 867,000 acre expanse of oaks, hiking trails, and native wildlife.

The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is sprawled across eight Georgian counties and is a highly beloved tourist spot that sits just under two hours away from Atlanta.

The forest boasts over 86 hiking trails, so whatever your interest and fitness level, the forest has you covered—not to mention the several beautiful spots that line these trails, perfect for the gram.

You can also find several opportunities for other outdoor activities, such as fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, rock collecting, wildlife watching, and rafting down the Chattooga.

Other points of interest include the Scull Shoals Historic Site and the Track Rock Gap Petroglyph Site.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Blue Ridge, GA

21. Mercier Orchards

8660 Blue Ridge Dr Blue Ridge, GA 30513 (706) 632-3411

Looking for a romantic day trip outside Atlanta?

Then the 70-year-old family-owned Mercier Orchards should feature on your list of places to visit near Atlanta.

Enjoy picking fruits in the orchard with your significant other against the backdrop of the gorgeous Georgian sun, tour the apple cider brewery, and stuff yourself with the delicious baked treats made with the orchard’s own fruits.

You can also enjoy a delicious breakfast and lunch at the deli, so you’re sorted for the whole day!

You can reach Mercier Orchards within two hours by road from Atlanta.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Blue Ridge

22. Amicalola Falls

418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-8888

One of the most scenic places near Atlanta, the Amicalola is East Mississippi’s tallest cascade and a must-visit for outdoor aficionados.

This natural wonder is just 90 minutes away from Atlanta, and depending on your interest, fitness level, and available time, you can head by car straight to the top of the falls, the middle, or the bottom (be warned that you have to climb up 620 steps to get to the top!).

You could also follow the trail near the well-equipped visitor center to reach the top, with a fork somewhere in the path leading you to Springer Mountain, the southern tip of the Appalachian Trail.

Enjoy views of the mountains from the back deck, curled up in a rocking chair, or even better, get up close and personal with the surrounding greenery by zip-lining through the trees!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Forrest Hills Mountain Resort

23. Providence Canyon State Park

8930 Canyon Rd Lumpkin, GA 31815 (229) 838-6202

Known fondly as Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon”, visiting the Providence Canyon State Park should be on your list of things to do outside Atlanta if picturesque views and hiking are your thing.

The funny thing about Providence Canyon is that it is actually the (lovely) result of a mistake, created by the irregular farming methods of the 19th century.

This mistake birthed the soil-and-rock formations of the canyon, with their lovely natural orange, pink, and red hues.

There are several hiking trails in the 1,000-acre park, which let you climb along the face of the canyon, as well as a camping ground.

The park is a year-round destination, but fall affords the best colors and summer brings with it the gorgeous plumleaf azalea—this is the only spot in the world where you can see these flowers blooming in the wild.

Travel just two hours from Atlanta to see some of the most beautiful flowers in existence.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: THE FARMHOUSE

24. Charlotte

Some of us don’t have a “green” bent of mind and that’s completely okay—you can forgo the national parks and forests and head instead to the glitz and glamor of urban Charlotte.

North Carolina’s most populated city sits four hours away from Atlanta, but the city’s buzz and energy will help brush off the weariness of a long drive.

Auto and sports enthusiasts will enjoy the NASCAR Hall of Fame in uptown Charlotte, where informative, interactive exhibits tell you about the sport’s biggest legends and most epic victories.

Adrenaline junkies can spend the day at the Carowinds amusement park, riding its many waterslides and rollercoasters.

A great family-friendly spot is Discovery Place, with an indoor IMAX theater and a lovely indoor rainforest to boot!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: JW Marriott Charlotte

25. The Cherokee Forest

Elizabethton, TN 37312 (423) 476-9700

Another 4-hour drive from Atlanta that’s worth it if you love the great outdoors, Cherokee Forest is chock-full of breathtaking views, fun water activities, and hiking trails.

Sprawled across nearly 656,000 acres of Tennessee’s wilderness, this woodland was established only a century ago.

Some activities to do here include kayaking, camping, and fishing in Watauga Lake, and hiking up to Roan Mountain.

The deliciously, eternally cold Bald River Falls is an impressive cascade, plummeting 90 feet over sharp rocks—summer or winter, the water’s always cold, so swimming here isn’t recommended.

Of course, as is the perennial case with natural beauty, there are several stunning photo ops at Cherokee Forest.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Newport

26. Augusta

Every April, Augusta comes alive with teeming crowds and professional golfers aiming for gold at the prestigious Masters Tournament!

Sitting prettily on the Savannah’s banks, this golf lovers’ holy grail is pretty calm the rest of the year, but that doesn’t mean there’s a dearth of things to do.

The Augusta National Golf Club is open to golfers but is quite expensive.

For a more pocket-friendly day out, take a boat cruise down the Savannah, tour the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area, visit the Phinizy Nature Park, take a trolley tour, visit the Augusta Museum of History, or do a bit of hiking and biking at the Savannah Rapids Park.

Baseball season is just as revered as golf season—catch a game at SRP Park and experience for yourself the crazy adulation that the Augusta Greenjackets enjoy from a dedicated fan base!

Whether you want a restful or action-packed day trip, the two-hour drive is well worth it.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2Suites by Hilton Augusta

27. Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park

3370 Lafayette Rd Fort Oglethorpe, GA 30742 (706) 866-9241

Covering parts of southern Tennessee and northern Georgia, the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park was formerly a Civil War-era strategic population point.

Since Chattanooga was a primary center for railroad travel, the site where the military park sits today was deemed a gateway to all the other Confederate lands.

In 1863, the Confederate and Union soldiers battled it out for control of the site, with the latter emerging as the victors and impelling the former further south.

Today, you can learn about the spot’s rich history through informative guided tours led by rangers.

Visit with family and enjoy a terrific, informative trip about two hours from Atlanta.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Stay Express Inn Chattanooga

Whether you’re a fan of music, history, or good architecture, Macon, sitting right in the center of Georgia, ticks all the boxes.

The Allman Brothers Band Museum must be on your list if you’re a music lover, as well as the annual Bragg Jam, a music crawl spread over two days and held every July.

If you love beautiful buildings, the Grand Opera House and Hay House are must-see spots.

For art and history lovers, a stop at the Museum of Arts and Science and the Tubman African American Museum may be warranted.

Some other things to do include kayaking down the Ocmulgee, exploring downtown Macon (especially during the holidays, when it’s beautifully lit up), spending the day at Lake Tobesofkee, or biking/hiking on the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail.

As you can see, there’s a little something for everyone in beautiful Macon, and it’s just 1.5 hours away from Atlanta!

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 1842 Inn

You’d be forgiven for forgetting that you’re in the United States when you enter this beautiful little alpine village—with its Bavarian-style buildings and culture, Helen brings a slice of Germany to Americans, right down to its own Oktoberfest!

Merely an hour and a half away from Atlanta, Helen has plenty of exciting outdoor activities, such as tubing down the Chattahoochee, riding the new Georgia Mountain Coaster, and hiking through the multitude of trails surrounding Helen.

The Anna Ruby Falls is within easy hiking distance of Helen, with several viewing platforms for great vistas of the falls, as well as designated picnic spots on the banks of the river.

For a truly unique experience, try riding through town in a carriage or taking part in the annual Oktoberfest and Christmas events.

Have a blast exploring Helen’s beauty after just an almost two-hour road trip.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Helen, GA

30. Blue Ridge

Another gem of a mountain town sitting 2 hours away from Atlanta, Blue Ridge is an outdoor lover’s dream.

Try fishing for trout in the Toccoa, hike through the beautiful surrounding trails or level up the adventure by rafting down the Toccoa.

A fun experience that visitors can enjoy every fall is picking apples at the local orchards.

But what truly drives folks to this charming haven is the picturesque Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, a two-mile long train ride that takes you through the splendid countryside, with the gently flowing Toccoa keeping you company.

If you don’t want to ride the entire four hours, you can disembark at Copperhill and explore the quaint town’s many antique stalls, gift shops, and cute cafes—try the locally made ice cream and thank us later.

Related: Best Restaurants in Blue Ridge

31. Summerville

There’s something very hard to resist about mountain towns and Summerville is no exception—this mountain town should be on the top of your list if you’re seeking a slow-paced day out amidst crisp mountain air and oodles of mountain-town charm.

If you’re a history buff, start by exploring the Colonial Dorchester State Historical Park, where you can view the beautiful remnants of an era gone by.

If you’ve got little ones in the gang, the Wassamassaw Community Park, with its well-equipped playground, is worth a pit stop.

For a lazy afternoon of lounging around in the fine weather, try Azalea Park or Paradise Gardens.

Summerville also plays host to many amazing community events and festivals throughout the year, so plan a visit that coincides with any of these to experience Summerville in full form!

No need to worry about the travel time—it’s just an hour and 40 minutes away.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Coach Inn – Summerville

32. LaGrange

If making the tykes happy is the sole focus of your day trip, it rarely gets better than LaGrange.

Not only does LaGrange host one of the Great Wolf Lodge hotels with a full-fledged indoor waterpark, but it also has a range of kid-friendly annual events, such as the Azalea Storytelling Festival.

If your tykes love animals, they may adore the Wild Animal Safari Park, a drive-through animal park that sits right outside LaGrange.

The Biblical History Center and the Hills Dales Estate are landmarks in the city and are worth ticking off the LaGrange bucket list.

If you’re planning a day with family, this one-hour-away location can’t be missed.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott LaGrange

33. Bryson City

Cocooned by nature and the many adventures that this brings, Bryson City is a gateway to all kinds of outdoor fun.

For one, ride the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, with themed rides for both the young (the “Polar Express” themed ride is a must!) and not-so-young (did someone say Moonshine Car?).

The open-air cars that run during autumn are especially beautiful, affording gorgeous views of fall’s changing colors.

Bryson City is extremely close to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, which brings with it its own beauty, such as stunning views, miles of hiking, wildflower carpets, and lush foliage.

If you don’t want to spend so much time doing outdoor activities, you can always cut it short and head to the bustling downtown area to get your fill of great shopping and lip-smacking food.

Bring food or stop at restaurants along the route because the drive will take you three hours.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn Bryson City Cherokee

Athens, a Bavarian town, and now Rome—channeling Europe much?

This postcard southern town is a short drive away from Atlanta and home to all sorts of outdoor activities.

Bike, hike, or walk the Downtown Heritage Trail System which takes you by three of the city’s rivers, or spend the day in the water in Rolater Park’s swimming lake.

The city is also home to the lovely Berry College and the gorgeous campus is worth visiting.

Cave Spring is also close by, though it’s only open seasonally so always check before you visit.

But it’s not all about just the outdoors in Rome—you can have more than your fill of amazing shopping, superb restaurants, baseball games (during the season), and unique activities like navigating a labyrinth!

You don’t have to travel miles away just to get to Rome; only an hour and 25 minutes will do.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn and Suites Rome, GA

35. Milledgeville

Just a little under two hours away from Atlanta, Milledgeville is your quintessential college town—great colleges, rich history, and of course, tons of summer parties.

If you’re visiting during the summer, don’t miss the annual family-friendly Beach Bash, where residents bring the beach to Milledgeville by spreading tons of sand (we’re talking about 80-90 tons here) in the local post office’s parking lot for a day of partying!

Recover from the party (and the hangover) by lazing around on Lake Sinclair’s beach or jogging and fishing at the Oconee River Greenway.

History lovers should check out the historic district, which houses the Natural History Museum and the Lockerly Arboretum and is the starting point of the African-American Heritage Tour.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta by Wyndham Milledgeville

36. Serenbe Farms

8715 Atlanta Newnan Rd Chattahoochee Hills, GA 30268

If you’d like to spend the day on a lovely farm buying top-quality organic produce, Serenbe Farms, located in the Serenbe neighborhood, is a no-brainer.

Each Saturday in the months from April to November, the farm plays host to a thriving Farmers Market where the artisanal goods and natural produce will leave you spoilt for choice.

The live music and fun activities add to the energetic vibe, as does the warmth of the Serenbe community.

Serenbe, though only 45 minutes away from Atlanta, is a world of its own, so take the chance and explore the community while you’re here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Atlanta-Newnan

“The Walking Dead” fans alert—this one’s for you!

Visit the town that served as the backdrop for the hit television series; there are convenient Walking Dead tours that’ll take you around all the spots in the town that make an appearance on the show.

This doesn’t mean that Senoia shouldn’t be on your list if you’re not a Walking Dead fan—plenty of folks make their way here for the slow-paced life and the relaxed vibe of the city.

Small-town charm oozes out of every cobblestone in the downtown area, with its array of antique stores, amazing restaurants, and gorgeous vintage homes—you could easily spend your whole day here.

If this got you excited, then drive quickly, but not too quickly, and you’ll be there in under an hour.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Peachtree City Atlanta Hotel & Conference Center

38. Pasaquan

238 Eddie Martin Rd Buena Vista, GA 31803 (706) 507-8306

One of the more unique offerings on this list, Pasaquan may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it will definitely excite art lovers.

This impressive installation sits south of Columbus and is a folk art piece conceptualized and constructed by famed artist and visionary Eddie Owens Martin (also called St. EOM).

The installation, along with other works of art, sits on a seven-acre compound and is under the care of Columbus State University, which does a great job of preserving the work and organizing tours for visitors.

You’ll never experience anything more artsy than this attraction just two hours away.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Columbus/Near Fort Benning

39. Cloudland Canyon

122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd Rising Fawn, GA 30738 (706) 657-4050

If hiking is the name of the game and the focus of your day out, you can hardly go wrong with Cloudland Canyon—hiking trails abound at this spot.

For an easy hike, hike the canyon’s rim and be rewarded with splendid views.

If you want to challenge yourself a little, take a hike right into the canyon, where you can see two beautiful cascades—Hemlock Falls and Cherokee Falls—and make the steep climb back.

This gorgeous state park is among Georgia’s most unique and beautiful offerings, and sitting just 2 hours away from Atlanta, is a popular day destination for many active, outdoor-loving families.

No matter which spot you pick for your day trip, you’re bound to make many lovely memories, considering that these are the best day trips from Atlanta.

If you haven’t already got the car and the kids ready to head to one of these spots, what are you even waiting for?

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Trenton

Map of Day Trips Near Atlanta, GA

39 Best Day Trips from Atlanta, GA for 2024

• Chattanooga
• Rock City Garden
• Consolidated Gold Mine
• Toccoa Falls
• Lake Lanier
• Brasstown Bald
• Stone Mountain Park
• Piedmont National Wildlife Refuge
• Anna Ruby Falls
• Andersonville National Historic Site
• Callaway Gardens
• National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
• Museum of Aviation
• Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
• Mercier Orchards
• Amicalola Falls
• Providence Canyon State Park
• The Cherokee Forest
• Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
• Summerville
• Bryson City
• Milledgeville
• Serenbe Farms
• Cloudland Canyon

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Best Weekend Getaways from Atlanta

By Allison Weiss Entrekin

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

With the Smokies to its north, the Atlantic to its south, and gorgeous lakes in all directions, Atlanta is an ideal jumping off point for getaways of every kind. Kick back in a five-star inn in the charming mountain town of Highlands, or escape to a rented loft in the New-Urbanism community of Serenbe. You could also make like Carrie Underwood and head to a sprawling resort on the shores of Lake Oconee—where the country queen held her wedding. The toughest part of your next trip? Deciding which one to check out first. These are the best weekend getaways from Atlanta.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Sea Island, Georgia

(5-hour drive from Atlanta)

Among Georgia’s Golden Isles—so named for their abundant amber marshes— Sea Island has shone the brightest since 1926. The Forbes Five-Star resort and its Addison Mizner–inspired inn, the Cloister ( from $395 per night ), are home to five miles of private beach, a hunting preserve, and a sprawling Beach Club and pool complex. Golf is a big deal here: Sea Island residents Davis and Mark Love recently redesigned the classic Plantation Course (a fixture on the PGA tour) to much acclaim. During your trip, take part in decades-old resort traditions like family bingo (where players dress in their Sunday best) and seafood suppers on nearby Rainbow Island (don’t skip the hush puppies). On neighboring St. Simons Island, tour the St. Simons Lighthouse Museum , a working lighthouse built in 1872. You’ll also find a number of Revolutionary War sites, including Fort Frederica National Monument , which commemorates a British colony that fought to prevent Georgia from falling into Spanish hands in 1742.

Old Edwards Inn

Highlands, North Carolina

(2.5-hour drive from Atlanta)

Set among the rolling peaks of western North Carolina, some 4,000 feet above sea level, the four-stoplight town of Highlands is far from a secluded hamlet. Nicknamed the Aspen of the East, it attracts 200,000 visitors a year. Some come for its postcard-perfect Main Street; others for its historic Relais & Châteaux inn. Old Edwards Inn ( from $225 per night ) occupies several downtown blocks and is known for elegant accommodations, fine dining ( Madison’s is a must-try), and top-notch service. Tempting as it might be, try not to spend all your time in your room: Highlands is packed with shops, museums, and eateries worth a visit. Bardo 49 , a Southwest-inspired furniture store, is catnip for décor lovers—shop for cowhide bags and feather wreaths, a reclaimed metal work table and even turquoise jewelry. At the Bascom , Highlands’ impressive visual arts center, check out works by international artists in a six-acre former horse farm. Cap your trip with dinner at Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro . The white-tablecloth establishment has earned raves for its German-Creole cuisine for the last 27 years.

Blue Eyed Daisy Bakery

Serenbe, Georgia

(30-minute drive from Atlanta)

Jessica Puckett

Olivia Morelli

Rachel Chang

Before 2004, the 38,000 acres that comprise Serenbe (a fusion of the words “serenity” and “be”) were mostly rural farmland. Today, they are the setting of a New Urban village, complete with residences, shops, restaurants, a farm, a stable, and a luxury bed-and-breakfast known as the Inn at Serenbe ( from $240 per night ). Choose a room in the historic main house, or opt for a rented loft along the main drag. During your visit, be sure to wander the 15 miles of trails, pausing to snack on the edible landscaping that includes blueberry bushes and plum trees. Take a gentle trail ride around the grounds, or experience reflexology at the Spa . For lunch, pop into the Blue Eyed Daisy for an egg salad sandwich and a freshly baked chocolate-chip cookie. For dinner, try the Farmhouse Restaurant , known for Southern farm-to-table cooking served in the same historic 1905 building where the main inn is located. On Saturdays, the bustling Farmer’s Market is not to be missed, complete with cold-pressed juices, handmade jewelry, and organic produce.

Waynesville, North Carolina

(3-hour drive from Atlanta)

Deep in the North Carolina Smoky Mountains, two tall peaks stand side by side, like two soldiers who refuse to be separated. So close are these peaks, the gap between them isn’t deep enough to be called a pass, and locals have taken to calling it a “swag.” And in this swag lies a country inn that recently joined the prestigious Relais & Châteaux ranks; it, too, is called, appropriately, the Swag ( from $575 per night ). Upon arrival, guests are offered personalized hiking sticks and a booklet of trail options: The shortest trails are three miles long with less than 700 feet of elevation change, while the most ambitious is almost nine miles long with an elevation change of approximately 2,300 feet. Since the Swag borders Great Smoky Mountains National Park , there is hardly a car or manmade object to be seen during these hikes, and the Swag’s chef will pack your lunch in an insulated thermal backpack to enjoy picnic-style. Be sure to check out downtown Waynesville during your trip; located in the valley—about a 30-minute downhill drive from the Swag—it’s home to charming antique shops, Southern restaurants, and lively breweries.

Lake Rabun, Georgia

(2-hour drive from Atlanta)

Where do real estate tycoons, car-dealership owners, and the Alabama football head coach all have second homes? The blue-blood lakes of Rabun County, especially 835-acre Lake Rabun. Created as a power-producing lake in 1915, it is located in one of the longest and deepest valleys in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Getting here is easy, but finding a place to crash isn’t. Your best bet is the 13-room Lake Rabun Hotel ( from $174 per night ), which operates in the bones of a 1922 lodge. Expect refined decor, farm-to-table meals, and views of one of Georgia’s most beautiful lakes. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the charming shops and restaurants of nearby Clayton. Fromage , set in a historic home, serves made-from-scratch lunches (try the cranberry-flecked chicken salad) and slices of homemade cake on its wide front porch. If you want something serious to drive home with, Dogwoods Home is a place for antique furnishings and local artwork.

Infinity pool at the Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

Lake Oconee, Georgia

(1.5-hour drive from Atlanta)

When Carrie Underwood was searching for a place to hold her wedding to pro hockey player Mike Fisher, she visited The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee ( from $459 per night ). So charmed was she by the lakeside hotel, complete with its own beach and sparkling infinity pool, she booked all 257 rooms for the occasion. Thankfully, you’re likely to find at least a few vacancies here—so long as you book early. The new Fireside Rooms with private patios and fire pits are a hit, and the long-awaited family pool and Ritz Kids Center opens summer 2021. Be sure to play a round: at least 18 of the 99 holes of golf are available to guests, designed by the likes of Jack Nicklaus and Tom Fazio. And don’t return to Atlanta before driving into Mayberry-esque downtown Greensboro, just 20 minutes away. Grab a table at Yesterday Café and order a slice of buttermilk pie. It’s so delicious, Underwood bought 300 of those slices for her wedding.

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• Activities for Kids
• Spring Break

Spring Break Road Trips from Atlanta to Plan Now

Editor’s Note: As of press time, the businesses and activities contained in this story were open and allowing visitors with COVID-19 protocols in place. Please be sure to research before visiting to ensure shutdowns have not occurred. 

While exotic vacations still may not be on the itinerary for your spring break, sunny skies and warmer weather mean it’s time to plan a road trip. Whether it’s the world’s longest pedestrian bridge in Chattanooga, a barrier island with room to roam in Jekyll Island, or white water rafting and zip lining in Asheville, we can help you find the right spot for an awesome spring break. Keep reading for ideas on your next road trip, below.

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Chattanooga, Tn

Play Change into bathing suits and let the kiddos splash in the animal-themed fountains at Coolidge Park . You can drive to the park, located on the city’s North Shore, or walk across the world’s longest pedestrian bridge . Bring a blanket to picnic while you watch boaters float by on the river.

Located adjacent to Coolidge Park, Renaissance Park is a unique place to bring the dogs, have a picnic, and enjoy scenic views of Chattanooga's downtown. Renaissance Park also includes what is known to locals as "cardboard hill," where people are encouraged to bring their own piece of cardboard to ride and slide all the way down.

The Passage at Ross's Landing marks the spot where the Trail of Tears originally began. Today, the area serves as a place to honor and remember those of the Cherokee Nation with beautiful Native American Art alongside stairs which lead out to the Tennessee River.

While in Chattanooga, take a hike from one of the trailheads that are easy to access from town. For majestic mountain views, give Sunset Rock a try. Situated atop Lookout Mountain, this trail starts off on a bluff looking out over the Tennessee River Valley. You can follow the trail down the mountain or even rock climb on the mountainside bluffs.

Tour Ruby Falls is the nation's tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public. Names for the wife of the explorer who found them on accident, the falls opened to the public in 1929 and today welcomes over half a million visitors each year from around the world. You descend 260 feet by elevator into historic Lookout Mountain, explore the underground cavern, see the falls and discover this unique destination.

The Choo Choo Hotel is a beacon of history located in the heart of Downtown Chattanooga. In 1909 the Terminal Station opened as the first railway station in the South, designed in the famous Beaux Arts style. The Choo Choo Hotel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and remains one of the city’s first historic preservation projects. And, if decide not to stay at the Choo Choo Hotel, you can still swing by for a meal or drinks.

Rock City is located atop Lookout Mountain, just 6 miles from downtown Chattanooga, and is a marvel of nature featuring massive ancient rock formations, gardens with over 400 native plant species, and breathtaking "See 7 States" panoramic views. Take a journey along the Enchanted Trail, experience the magic of Fairyland Caverns and check out Mother Goose Village.

Eat The 3rd Deck Burger Bar sits 40 feet above the Tennessee River on the 3rd deck of a riverboat, and offers outside patio seating, flat screen tv's, arcade games, darts, foosball, and ping pong—in addition to a build your own burger menu.

Find creamy gelato at Milk & Honey , but don't visit Chattanooga without a stop to the MoonPie General Store , where you can pick one up (or one dozen) and enjoy the hometown's pride—a perfect combo of marshmallow, graham, and chocolate.

Feel like barbeque? Head to Sugar's Ribs for a local's take on a great rack and pulled pork.

Stay Chattanooga Downtown Hotels offer the most convenient location for access to Chattanooga’s top attractions, restaurants and boutique shops. Ride the free electric shuttle around the compact and easy to navigate downtown Chattanooga area. The Gatsby themed Read House is conveniently located in the heart of downtown and is in walking distance from the city’s greatest attractions.

Cabins in Chattanooga are perfect for family vacations or couples preferring a bit of privacy in rustic or modern cabins.  Chattanooga Vacation Rentals  currently manages over 25 cabins and homes available for rent around the Chattanooga area. The historic Pot Point Cabin on the Tennessee River sleeps up to 10 and the Trail’s End log cabin on Signal Mountain sleeps up to 12.

Jekyll Island, Ga

Play For the beach lovers, Jekyll Island offers wide, flat beaches that are particularly appealing to kiddos for their endless supply of castle-ready sand that doesn't seem to invade swimsuits and swim diapers as much as the fluffy white dunes found at the Gulf. And while many of the beaches on Jekyll Island are sure to please, don't pass up a chance to take the littles to  Driftwood Beach .

Eat While the island's developed space is limited, there are still plenty of dining options for families. Playground-side pizza at  Red Bug Motors Pizza  is served up hot and al fresco,  Zachary's River House  overlooks the Jekyll River, and  Tortuga Jacks  dishes solid Mexican food and live music nightly. Additional options can be found at the newly developed Beach Village ( The Jekyll Market —complete with a deli, bbq and ice cream options— Fuse Frozen Yogurt , and the  Jekyll Island Seafood Company , to name a few) and in the historic district.

Stay Stay at the  Jekyll Island Club Resort  the recently revitalized historic resort, for an experience that is as family-friendly as it is charming. Or, stay beachside at the new Westin Jekyll Island , perfectly situated between the beach and the market (with really stellar ice cream).

Find out more:   tinybeans.go-vip.net

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Asheville (@visitasheville)

Asheville, NC

Play Asheville’s 8 million acres of backyard offers the perfect blend of urban adventure and outdoor exploration for an unforgettable family vacation. For adventurous outdoor activities, The Adventure Center of Asheville is 5 minutes from downtown, where you can enjoy expansive views of the Asheville skyline from Asheville Zipline Canopy Adventures or hop on one of the top-end mountain bikes and learn the meaning of “flow” on an on-site trail system created and groomed for the KOLO Bike Park. Or head up into the trees at KidZip, America’s first zipline adventure designed for kids under 10.

Every Friday night in the rounded outdoor amphitheater of downtown's Pritchard Park people join together to play thundering sounds on drums, dance to the powerful rhythms, or just sit back and enjoy the show of individuality and diverse community. The Drum Circle is a free event, and anybody is welcome to join in the music by bringing their own drum.

At the Asheville Pinball Museum , pay a flat fee to play as much as you like from the collection of about 35 pinball machines. Some are even original games from the 1940s.

Tour At Asheville Adventure Co. , you can take a guided scenic float on the French Broad or a heart racing paddle down the scenic and thrilling Green River. For a glimpse at the opulence of the gilded age, spend an entire day at the Biltmore Estate to take advantage of the gardens, as well as take the house tour. There’s a farm, children’s maze, trails, horseback riding, a playground, and lots more family-friendly activities.

Eat Stop for a snack just so you can eat in a real London double-decker bus at  Double D’s Coffee and Dessert . Enjoy a cold one while kids romp in the beer garden, explore Millers Estate Garden, and jam to live music at  Sierra Nevada Brewery .

Stay The Omni Grove Park Inn has luxury accommodations, a subterranean spa, and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. There is a Hampton Inn & Suites only a half-mile from Biltmore Village and Biltmore Estate. Downtown Asheville is 10 minutes away.

— Shelley Massey

Feature photo: iStock

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Stone Mountain Park is the most popular destination in Georgia.

Hit the Road with the 10 Best Day Trips for Atlanta Families

By Joleen Pete

Published August 31, 2021 Last Updated February 11, 2024

Whether you live in Atlanta or are planning to visit, there are so many great options for day trips with kids and staycations for families. Bookmark this fun list for the next time you need a change of scenery for the day or weekend and hit the road for one of these 10 best road trips from Atlanta. And if you’re planning a road trip TO Atlanta, don’t miss this super fun guide for how to plan an epic road trip to Atlanta .

1. Alpine Helen

“It’s the charm of Bavaria in the Blue Ridge Mountains.” Alpine Helen is a little town, approximately 95 miles north of Atlanta. Spend the day exploring the great outdoors with numerous activities for all. Kayaking , hiking, exploring the corn maze, panning for gold and horseback riding are only a few of the multitude of activities available at Alpine Helen. Of course, the dining options vary as much as the activities – from formal to casual, with German offerings and kid friendly options as well.  

2. Amicalola Falls State Park

If you’re looking to spend the day outdoors then consider Amicalola Falls State Park, an 829-acre park located approximately 75 miles north of Atlanta, between Ellijay and Dahlonega in Dawsonville, Ga. Amicalola Park is home to the Amicalola Falls, one of the highest cascading falls east of the Mississippi, making it a gorgeous place to hike and picnic. There are a variety of trails of varying difficulty. Of note is a five-mile hike leading to the Len Foote Hike Inn, Georgia’s only backcountry lodge. The park is also home to Springer Mountain Summit, the southernmost start to the Appalachian Trail which begins its 2,000+ mile, epic journey northbound for Maine. Be sure to stop by the visitors center to learn about the area, pick up a map, grab a bite at the Mountain View Restaurant and let kids play at the playground. 

3. Barnsley Resort and Spa

Barnsley Resort is located just an hour north of Atlanta and definitely is a destination to choose if you want to splurge on class and style. This gorgeous “Grand Southern Estate” can keep you busy – or not. Choose a brisk bicycle ride by the lake, a horseback adventure, disc golf, canoeing or an afternoon shooting at the sporting club. Take your kids to the barnyard, kick back and relax by the pool or get pampered in the spa. There are activities for the whole family, including “Fido,” as Barnsley has been called “The best pet–friendly resort in the Southeast.”

4. Blue Ridge, Georgia

Just short of two hours from Atlanta proper is Blue Ridge, one of Georgia’s favorite mountain towns. Nestled amid unspoiled beauty, find a variety of activities for the whole family. From horseback riding to hiking and zip lining to the must-not-miss Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, this little town is bursting with beauty as far as the eye can see. Be sure to stop by Mercier Orchards for apple picking and a luscious fruit stand. You can also try the local wines in the tasting room and grab a bite in the deli.

7 Awesome Outdoorsy Things to Do with the Kids in Atlanta

Outdoor family fun in atlanta and beyond, day trip ideas, 5. callaway gardens.

Although there is plenty to do at Callaway Gardens for a day, you’re really going to want to stay the whole weekend to soak up all the fun activities available at this amazing lake resort. From a relaxing spa day or day on the beach to more adventurous activities like tubing and water skiing, Callaway can accommodate. Go inland a bit and enjoy the natural surroundings via trails, bikes or zip line. Callaway Gardens offers a variety of dining, from casual to fine, with a multitude of special culinary events for the foodie in you. Kids will love the Discovery Cafe where they can dine overlooking the water. Callaway Gardens is located approximately 75 miles south of Atlanta.

6. Downtown Atlanta

Atlanta is a metropolitan city and comes with all the trappings of such. From museums to theater, great parks, fabulous shopping and more, it will take more than just one day to experience all Atlanta has to offer. Visiting with the family? Head to Centennial Olympic Park with its iconic Fountain of Rings (you can play in it) and light show set to music. Across the street from the park, be sure to take the kids to the Children’s Museum of Atlanta to explore all things art, science, technology and more.

Art enthusiasts will not want to miss the High Museum of Art , a world-class museum that caters to even the smallest family members with special programs and exhibits. You’ll also want to check out the Center for Puppetry Arts, which presents entertaining puppet theater for young and old. Workshops and special programs are available, and be sure to visit the Jim Henson Collection at The Worlds of Puppetry Museum.

Atlanta is home to a world-class zoo, and a visit to Zoo Atlanta is sure to delight any animal lover. It is home to twin giant pandas and more than 1,000 animals from around the world.

Active families will love spending a day on the Atlanta BeltLine . The BeltLine is miles of trails and transit around the city proper, linking neighborhoods, shopping and dining. Check out the Eastside Trail, which runs from Piedmont Park to Inman Park and the Old Fourth Ward. Take your bikes, skates or just stroll along the trail to explore the amazing public art, and don’t forget to check out the Krog Street Tunnel. Stop at  Ponce City Market for lunch or a sweet treat, grab some goodies to prepare dinner or do a little shopping among the quirky shops at either PCM or Krog Street Market. This is just a sampling. There are many more things to do for a weekend of family fun in Atlanta .

7. Hillcrest Orchards

While only open a few short months a year, Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay, Ga., is one of the places to visit in fall. Pack your apple picking bags and some snacks and head out on the 90-minute trek to Apple Heaven. During apple picking weekends you can pick a variety of apples to your heart’s content, enjoy apple-laden treats fresh from the bakery and watch your kids enjoy a “day at the farm.” Kids will be able to interact with farm animals in the petting zoo, enjoy a variety of rides, watch pig races, play in mazes and so much more. Enjoy lunch in the Country Cafe, pick up some goodies in the Farm Market before heading home. 

8. Lake Lanier

The Legacy Lodge at Lanier Islands is a deluxe 1,500-acre resort located 40 miles from Atlanta and featuring top-notch activities and a wonderful spa, making it the perfect weekend retreat. If golf is your game, you won’t want to miss the award–winning Legacy on Lanier Golf Club. The kids can spend time in the pool or LanierWorld Water Park, which is loaded with water slides, beaches and other activities. Get out and enjoy the nature trails via horseback, hiking or zip lining and then choose from casual dining or gourmet farm-to-table fare. 

9. Stone Mountain Park

Stone Mountain Park is definitely worth a trip for the view alone. From its 825-foot elevation, the top of Stone Mountain offers incredible views of the Atlanta skyline, the Appalachian Mountains and beyond. Hike to the top or take the Summit Skyride cable car. Stone Mountain is loaded with other activities for visitors of all ages – from adventure golf, the barnyard, adventure hikes, museum and laser shows to a multitude of festivals and special events. The 3,200-acre park also offers a variety of dining and shopping, enabling a family to easily spend a day exploring. The awesome part? It’s only 22 miles from Downtown Atlanta.

10. Great Wolf Lodge

If you’re looking for a fun getaway with the kiddos, the Great Wolf Lodge in Lagrange, Georgia is a terrific option. The lodge-style resorts are jam packed with entertainment and activities right within their own walls. From world class water parks to camp fire stories, character encounters, camps and so much more. Mom and Dad will enjoy the unlimited WiFi and 24 hour fitness centers. Great Wolf Lodge offers a variety of accommodations, from standard to premium, which will provide a home away from home no matter the size of your family.

Joleen Pete lives outside Atlanta with her husband and their son. On the weekends they enjoy going into the city for family fun and exploration. Joleen is the family travel and lifestyle blogger behind Love, Joleen .

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15 Best Day Trips from Atlanta Georgia

• Atlanta / Georgia / In the City / North America / Outdoors / USA
• 10 Comments

These are the most popular day trips from Atlanta.

Growing up in ATL, we spent most of our time in the city, but just a short drive away, you can find yourself surrounded by lush, green forests and small historic towns. For many of these spots, we didn’t learn to appreciate them when we went as kids.

When we moved to LA, it always surprised me how many times I heard our SoCal friends mention how beautiful, lush, and green Georgia was. Funny how you learn to appreciate trees when you live in the desert, and sometimes you learn to appreciate the desert when you’re surrounded by trees.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: February 8, 2023

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• Best Day Trips from Atlanta Georgia
• Map of Atlanta Day Trips

Best Places to Stay in Atlanta

Planning checklist, 15 popular day trips from atlanta georgia.

Even if you don’t have time to travel far, it’s easy to take a quick road trip for the day and explore locally. Here’s a list we put together of the most popular day trips from Atlanta.

1. Lake Lanier, Georgia

2875 Browns Bridge Rd, Gainesville, GA 30504,  map

Distance:  53 mi / 50 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Rent a Boat, Lanier Park Beach, Van Pugh North Park  What to Eat:  Atlanta Hwy Seafood Market ,  Sherry’s Bait and BBQ ,  Atlas Pizza

Lake Lanier is a popular place for Atlantans to swim, boat, fish, or enjoy other water sports. We used to love tubing here in the summer, and you can find hiking trails and even zip line through the trees.

2. Dahlonega, Georgia

13 S Park St, Dahlonega, GA 30533,  map

Distance:  66 mi / 1 hr 5 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Dahlonega Gold Mine Museum, Cane Creek Falls, Yahoola Park What to Eat:  Bratzeit ,  Shenanigans ,  Bourbon Street Grille

Learn about the Gold Rush or even try panning for gold in this historic town. This is also the center of Georgia’s wine country! There are five vineyards and 12 wine tasting sites. Frogtown Cellars was our favorite, and I often dreamed of having my wedding here.

Local Tip: You can easily get around the Grand Canyon Village with the free shuttle bus.

See More: 13 Unforgettable Fall Activities and Pumpkin Patches in Georgia

3. Amicalola Falls State Park, Georgia

418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534,  map

Distance:  70 mi / 1 hr 15 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Hike to Amicalola Falls, Aerial Adventure Park, Amicalola State Park Lodge What to Eat:  Maple Restaurant (only spot on location), Home Restaurant, Sourwood

Climb to the top of the tallest waterfall in Georgia, which drops 730 feet and has multiple tiers. There is also a trail leading to Springer Mountain, the southern endpoint of the Appalachian Trail.

4. Athens, Georgia

280 E Dougherty St, Athens, GA 30601,  map

Distance:  73 mi / 1 hr 15 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Downtown Athens, Creature Comforts Brewing Co What to Eat:  Mama’s Boy , Last Resort Grill , Cali N Tito’s

As Georgia Tech grads, this is the home of our rivals, University of Georgia, but you can’t deny the great indie music scene and fun college town atmosphere. We used to frequently drive to Athens on Thursday nights to party all night, stop for a greasy bite at Waffle House, and head straight to class in the morning. I can’t believe we used to do that. Even if you’re not into the nightlife, it’s a great place to visit for food and find historical buildings with typical Southern charm.

5. Callaway Gardens, Georgia

4500 Southern Pine Dr, Pine Mountain, GA 31822,  map

Distance:  80 mi / 1 hr 15 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Callaway Discovery Center, Azalea Bowl, Spa Prunifolia What to Eat:  EatZ On The Corner , Oyster House , Three Little Pigs

Callaway Gardens is great for the whole family. Jacob used to visit as a kid, and the last time I went was with an ex (shh don’t tell Jacob! haha). There are multiple lakes and tons of natural exhibits. Walk through the gardens, check out the historical pioneer log cabin, or explore the LEED-certified Butterfly Center. During the holidays, they also have a light show that’s popular to go to.

6. Helen, Georgia

726 Brucken Strasse, Helen, GA 30545,  map

Distance:  92 mi / 1 hr 30 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Tubing, Anna Ruby Falls, Unicoi State Park What to Eat:  Bigg Daddys Restaurant & Tavern , Mully’s Nacoochee Grill , Spice 55 Thai

I used to visit Helen a lot during college with friends. We would go drinking and float down the river. Although there are only 430 residents, it is the state’s third most visited city.

It is the Southeast’s finest Bavarian Village giving you a glimpse of Germany. There are quaint hotels, lots of shops, and great alpine food and drink. On hot summer days, you can also float down the river in a tube!

7. Summerville, Georgia

34.4742691,-85.3655721,  map

Distance:  89 mi / 1 hr 25 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  James H. Floyd State Park, Paradise Garden, Historic Summerville Train Depot What to Eat:  Willow Tree Grill , The Crushed Tomato , Burger Shack

Step back in time in this tiny mountain town. You’ll be surrounded by hills and trees, but it still offers tons of festivals, park attractions, and friendly locals. Also, check out the Paradise Garden. It’s a huge collection of sacred works with an interesting background and reminded us of  Salvation Mountain  and Slab City.

8. Toccoa Falls, Georgia

107 Kincaid Dr, Toccoa Falls, GA 30598,  map

Distance:  93 mi / 1 hr 25 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Toccoa Falls, Currahee Military Museum, Currahee Vineyard and Winery What to Eat:  The X-Factor Grill & Cornerstone Restaurant , Shirley’s Soul Food Cafe , Bell’s Hamburgers

These falls are 186 feet tall, making it one of the highest cascades east of the Mississippi River. It is actually on the Toccoa Falls College campus but the falls are secluded in a separate area. A private path leads to the base where it opens up to an area surrounded by cliffs.

9. Blue Ridge, Georgia

152 Orvin Lance Dr, Blue Ridge, GA 30513,  map

Distance:  95 mi / 1 hr 30 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Mercier Orchards, Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Long Creek Falls What to Eat:  Harvest on Main , Mystic Mountain Hops , Chester Brunnenmeyer’s

If you’re looking to escape city life, this city in the foothills of the Appalachians is a great getaway for the day. Hop on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway to enjoy the views or explore the shops along Main Street. Whatever you decide, just take it easy and enjoy.

10. Chattahoochee National FOrest, Georgia

34.7672555,-84.1690651,  map

Distance:  92 mi / 1hr 50 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Woody Gap Recreation Area, Toccoa River Trail, Long Branch Loop Trail What to Eat:  Two Wheels of Suches , Bootlegger’s Grille , Wildcat Store and Diner

This is a dedicated wilderness area, there are miles of trails, and you can explore tons of opportunity for outdoor activities.

11. Brasstown Bald, Georgia

34.8742761,-83.8284169,  map

Distance:  102 mi / 2 hr 5 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Brasstown Bald Trail, Wagon Train Trail, Brasstown Bald Observation Tower What to Eat:  Jim’s Smokin Que , Michaelee’s Italian Life Caffe , Casa Bella Restaurante

Brasstown Bald is one of the first places we camped together. It’s the tallest mountain in Georgia at 4,784 feet and gives you amazing long-range views. On high-visibility days, you can see four states – Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee!

12. Chattanooga, Tennessee →

215 Broad St, Chattanooga, TN 37402,  map

Distance:  118 mi / 1 hr 45 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Tennessee Aquarium, Raccoon Mountain Caverns, Chief John Ross Bridge What to Eat:  Urban Stack , Milk & Honey , Public House

We visited Chattanooga often when I was a kid, and even now, it still has a lot of charm. You can take a toll along the Riverwalk, check out the attractions, or enjoy one of the many outdoor activities. Before Atlanta had their own aquarium, the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga was where all the ATLiens used to go. In the same area, you can also stop by Ruby Falls.

See More: 17+ Fun Things to do in Chattanooga

13. Georgia Guidestones, Georgia

1031 Guide Stones Road, Elberton, GA 30635,  map

Distance:  110 mi / 1 hr 50 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Georgia Guidestones, Richard B. Russell State Park, Elberton Granite Museum What to Eat:  Reinas Taqueria , Blazers Hotwings of Elberton , Home Sweet Home

Also known America’s Stonehenge, these large granite statues are shrouded with mystery. No one knows who actually commissioned the landmark, but each is engraved with ten guidelines in twelve different languages.

14. Rock City Gardens, Georgia

1400 Patten Rd, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750,  map

Distance:  120 mi / 1 hr 50 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Rock City Gardens, Ruby Falls, Lookout Mountain What to Eat:  Cafe on the Corner , Cart & Seoul , Cafe 7

I grew up visiting Rock City as a kid and still love going back for the nostalgia. Explore the natural formations (and some man-made attractions) along this 4,100-foot-long Enchanted Trail. Also, don’t forget to check out the peregrine falcon nursing and release program.

15. Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia

8930 Canyon Rd, Lumpkin, GA 31815,  map

Distance:  147 mi / 2 hr 10 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Visitor Center, Rim Trail, Observation Deck  What to Eat:  Thelma’s Kitchen , Paul’s Restaurant , The Farmhouse

Also referred to as the “Little Grand Canyon” of Georgia, Providence Canyon State Park offers some of the most picturesque views. Tones of orange, pink, and pastel red color the different layers of the canyon and make the perfect backdrop for a hike.

Bonus: Macon, Georgia (Seasonal)

450 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Macon, GA 31201,  map

Distance:  85 mi / 1 hr 15 min ( map ) Things You Can’t Miss:  Visitor Center, Rim Trail, Observation Deck  What to Eat:  The Rookery , Chico and Chang , Kudzu Seafood Company

Macon hosts the  International Cherry Blossom Festival  and is known as the Cherry Blossom Capital of the World with over 300,000 Yoshino cherry trees. The festival dates can range from mid-March to April. See the dates for the upcoming festival  here . We might have to plan a trip home to visit this year.

See More: 15 Amazing Places to See Cherry Blossoms in the World

Map of Best Day Trips from Atlanta

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Find a great deal on Atlanta hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Georgia travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .

More Resources

• Georgia and the Carolinas Travel Guide
• Rand McNally Georgia Map
• Georgia Hiking Guides

How many of these quick day trips from Atlanta have you done? Can you think of any other popular day trips?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J) , YouTube , TikTok , and Pinterest.

This Post Has 10 Comments

You know what would be cool, if you included a map with all of the locations to help people see which way things are.

We’ll work on that!

Augusta, GA 2nd oldest city in Georgia! They have a beautiful Riverwalk and you can also take a day cruise down the Augusta Canal. Of course if you’re lucky enough to get on the list for The Masters, that’s a bucket lister! Also now there is the brand New Augusta Green Jackets Baseball Stadium, a minor league park, that sits on the water. Also, there are tons of locally owned shops & restaurants as well as art galleries, historical venues and beautiful homes!

Cave Spring, GA is a quaint little town about an hour away. Antiques, food, a Cherokee cabin, a cave, and a spring nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians. And even a pool in the shape of Georgia. There are also huge arts & crafts festivals in June & December.

The Tallulah Gorge is also a beautiful place to visit in GA. It ‘s the second largest hole next compared to the Grand Canyon.

Oh yeah! Thanks, Erica. We’ve been before, and it’s gorgeous out there. :) Maybe we will shuffle some things around when we put together a list for weekend trips.

When is the cherry festival in Macon??

Hi, Jaime. Great question! It changes a little every year probably depending on when they predict peak bloo to be. For next year, the festival dates are Friday, March 16 through Sunday, March 25, 2018.

A great add to this would be Serenbe Farms!

Thanks for the rec, Erika. Will definitely have to check it out the next time we’re in GA for longer than a few days!

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These 10 day trips from Atlanta are as much fun in winter as in summer

Dec 13, 2021 • 11 min read

There's always live music somewhere in Athens, Georgia © Jennifer E Wolf / Getty Images

Sizzling with subculture, simmering with flavors, alive with green spaces and studded with iconic Civil Rights landmarks, Atlanta rewards visitors in all the right ways. But Georgia's capital is just the gateway to the myriad delights on offer in the largest state east of the Mississippi.

Georgia rolls from coastal swamps through rich, red-soiled farmlands and peach orchards to the sprawling foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, putting endless adventures within easy day-tripping reach of Atlanta. And that's not even counting the other fun-filled cities within two hours drive, from Birmingham and Montgomery in Alabama to Chattanooga in Tennessee.

With Georgia's year-round mild weather, day trips are a 365-days-a-year activity. While northern states are shivering under a blanket of snow, Georgia still has great weather for exploring, with daytime temperatures that hover around 60°F. Even the hiking is good in winter – not too frosty, and with excellent views as the hilltop forests lose their curtain of leaves.

Whether you're seeking cutting-edge art encouters, backcountry hikes, award-winning wineries, Civil Rights landmarks, legendary live music, or even a miniature mock-up of Bavaria, here is our pick of the best day trips from Atlanta.

Athens, Georgia

A beery, artsy and laid-back college town, Athens has an extremely popular football team (the University of Georgia Bulldogs), a world-famous music scene, a busy restaurant culture and engagingly diverse nightlife. The university fuels Athens' youth-oriented culture, ensuring an ever-replenishing supply of young bar-hoppers and concert-goers in the walkable downtown area. The hometown of the B52s and REM is the small town with big city spirit.

Highlights for visitors include the Georgia Museum of Art – a smart, modern gallery where brainy, arty types hang out to study while art hounds gawk at modern sculpture in the courtyard garden and a tremendous collection from American realists of the 1930s. Or head to the State Botanical Garden of Georgia with its winding outdoor paths and a socio-historical edge.

Last but certainly not least, plan your trip around a show at the legendary 40 Watt Club . Athens' most storied joint has lounges, a tiki bar and $2.50 Pabst Blue Ribbons . The venue has welcomed a generation of indie rockers to its stage since REM, the B-52's and Widespread Panic owned this town, and this is still where the big hitters play when they come to town.

How to get to Athens, Georgia:  It's only an hour and 15 minutes to Athens from Atlanta by car, and not much longer on the regular buses that connect the two cities.

North Georgia Wine Country

The Appalachian foothills north of Atlanta are an increasingly respected viticultural region, thanks to the ultra-quaffable wines produced around Dahlonega . There are more than a dozen wineries to choose from, many with breathtaking mountain views, live music or patios that are perfect for whiling away an afternoon. Pull up a stool and a spitoon in Dahlonega to sample the best of the region. Downtown Courthouse Square is an attractive mélange of wine-tasting rooms, gourmet emporiums, great food, countrified shops and foothills charm.

Wine-tasting in the surrounding vineyards is on the rise too. Frogtown Cellars  is a beautiful winery with a killer deck where you can sip libations and nibble cheese. It bills itself as the most awarded American winery  not  in California, which we can't confirm, but the wine does go down a treat with a mountain sunset. For a more low key experience, Three Sisters is a wonderfully unpretentious vineyard where Cheetos, overalls and bluegrass tunes – or posher cheeses and great views – pair just fine with the wine.

Meanwhile, Wolf Mountain Vineyards  lures a hip and trendy 30-something crowd to its gorgeous, 30-acre winery that frames epic sunsets over Springer Mountain from its tasting-room terrace. Top wines like its  méthode champenoise  100% chardonnay Blanc de Blanc and crisp and fresh Plentitude (an unoaked chardonnay/Viognier blend) are the way to go.

How to get to Dahlonega: It's a two-hour drive to Dahlonega and surrounding wine country from Atlanta. You can also get here by taking a Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) train to North Springs station and catching an Uber from there.

Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia

You might not expect Grand Canyon-style landscapes within an easy drive of Atlanta, but that’s what you’ll find at Providence Canyon . Sometimes described as Georgia’s "Little Grand Canyon," this 1003-acre state park is something to behold. Geological evidence indicates this area was once the bottom of the sea, but the canyons you can see today were formed by natural erosion after farmers dug poorly thought-out ditches through the soft sedimentary beds.

The otherworldly formations include 150ft gullies with beautiful layers of orange, red, purple and pink sediment. Visitors can explore via a variety of hikes, including an easy rim trail with spectacular views over the canyon, plus longer trails on the canyon floor. Keep your eyes peeled for resident armadillos, deer, raccoons and butterflies.

How to get to Providence Canyon State Park: It's two hours and twenty minutes from downtown Atlanta, give or take traffic.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga has charisma to spare. With world-class rock climbing, hiking, cycling and water-sports, it's one of the South's best cities for outdoor fun. It's lovely to look at too: just check out those views from the Hunter Museum of Art in the Bluff View Art District! It's also remarkably eco-conscious, with free electric buses, miles of well-used waterfront trails, and pedestrian bridges crossing the Tennessee River. It's all a far cry from the 1960s, when Chattanooga was slated as America's dirtiest city.

The city was a major railway hub throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, hence the "Chattanooga Choo-Choo," originally a reference to the Cincinnati Southern Railroad's passenger service from Cincinnati to Chattanooga, and later the title of a 1941 Glen Miller tune. The  Tennessee Aquarium  physically and metaphorically anchored downtown's revitalization in the 1990s, followed by family-friendly developments like  Ross's Landing & the Passage  and  Coolidge Park  across the river.

Chattanooga's eminently walkable downtown is a maze of historic stone and brick buildings featuring tasty gourmet kitchens, craft breweries and distilleries. Sparky neighborhoods like the increasingly lauded Southside District keep things interesting, with the  Sculpture Fields at Montague Park , Flying Squirrel  – a hip bar that has its own boutique hostel right next door – and the annual MainX24 festival.

How to get to Chattanooga: You can reach Chattanooga in two hours driving due north on I-75 from Atlanta, baring any unexpected traffic jams.

Birmingham, Alabama

This hilly, shady city, founded as an iron mining outpost, is still a busy center for manufacturing – many Birmingham residents work at Mercedes Benz USA in Tuscaloosa – but visitors are more interested in the university and college buzz and the excellent dining and drinking scene. The past also resonates strongly in Birmingham, thanks to the city's pivotal role in the rise of the Civil Rights movement.

The downtown Civil Rights Heritage Trail  begins at Kelly Ingram Park – where you can see powerful statues recalling police violence against peaceful protestors. Be sure to stop at the Civil Rights Institute to add context to your walk. The 16th Street Baptist Church is worth a visit, too; it was a gathering place for organizational meetings and a launchpad for protests in Birmingham in the 1950s and 1960s, before being targeted by a deadly Ku Klux Klan bombing in 1963.

Experience another side of Birmingham at the famous Sloss Furnaces . From 1882 to 1971, this was a pig-iron producing blast furnace and a cornerstone of Birmingham's economy. Today, instead of a wasteland it's a National Historic Landmark, a red mass of steel and girders rusted into a Gothic monument to American industry. Quiet pathways pass cobwebbed workshops and production lines that make for extremely atmospheric photos. Once a year this post-industrial playground becomes the setting for Furnace Fest , a music-packed weekend that pulls bands like Taking Back Sunday and Further Means Forever.

How to get to Birmingham: The drive from Atlanta takes two hours and 20 minutes by car; the journey is possible by train but much slower.

Helen, Georgia

This kitschy, Epcot-style Alpine playground was dreamed up in the 1960s by a few local business people seeking to revitalize their backwater town. In 1969, local businesses and carpenters got to work – with help from a local artist with German roots – transforming this former mill town into the self-proclaimed best little German town in America.

Surrounded by the bucolic Appalachian foothills, Helen is an ideal springboard for trips to  Anna Ruby Falls  and  Unicoi State Park , for hiking sections of the Appalachian Trail, or floating the Chattahoochee River. Or you can just stick around to enjoy the "Appalachian" charm at spots such as Catch 22 .

How to get to Helen: Helen is 86 miles northeast of Atlanta by car following Hwy 19 S; allow two hours.

Montgomery, Alabama

Alabama's capital is a knot of forested streets, red-brick architecture and lonely railways, attached to a few government buildings and a cobblestoned downtown. With a few exceptions, most of the main points of interest here are tied to the Civil Rights movement, in which the city played a key role.

In 1955 Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat to a white man on a city bus, launching a bus boycott led by Martin Luther King Jr, then pastor of Montgomery's Dexter Avenue Baptist Church . This action ultimately desegregated city buses and galvanized the Civil Rights movement nationwide, helping to lay the foundation for the Selma to Montgomery protest marches of 1965.

One of the country’s most important sights is just a short drive along I-85. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice is the first-ever tribute to the more than 4000 known victims of lynching in the United States. The 800 monuments each mark a county where a lynching took place, and the nearby Legacy Museum puts this awful history into modern content.

How to get to Montgomery: Allow two hours 20 minutes to reach Montgomery from Atlanta by car.

Pasaquan, Buena Vista, Georgia

Fans of unusual photo ops and outsider art shouldn’t miss Pasaquan , a unique art space near Buena Vista. After having visions in which he was chosen by “people of the future” to depict their culture of peace and love, self-taught artist Eddie Owens Martin (1908–1986) turned his mother’s 19th-century farmhouse into a psychedelic wonderland over the course of three decades. The site – which includes six buildings – is an explosive, rainbow-hued fusion of African, pre-Columbian Mexican and Native American motifs.

How to get to Pasaquan: You can drive to Pasaquan from Alanta in two and half hours.

GHS Swamp Rabbit Trail, South Carolina

Rails to Trails projects have produced beloved recreational opportunities across the US, and this 19-mile trail that runs from charming Greenville to quaint Traveler’s Rest is one of the best. Joggers, cyclists and families can be found enjoying this relatively flat, shady greenway, which links a chain of parks and green spaces. 

A walk here is a great way to enjoy the mild Georgia weather, and it's well worth the trip out of Atlanta to experience this thoroughly relaxing slice of the South. Stop at Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery to grab a picnic to munch on the way.

How to reach the GHS Swamp Rabbit Trail: The drive to Greenville from Atlanta takes around two hours 40 minutes.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

Cutesy and wildly popular, Blue Ridge was founded in 1866 as a railroad junction and its historic depot, rebuilt in 1906, still sits across from its postcard-perfect Main St. This little town draws hordes of fans in summer for its charming linear downtown studded with restaurants, bars, antique shops and locally owned businesses.

While it's hard to believe it was once promoted as the "Switzerland of the South," Blue Ridge is  easy on the eye and offers more quality distractions than other North Georgia towns. Amongst other things, this is Georgia's trout capital and fly-fishing in the surrounding countryside is a big draw year-round. The town is often considered Atlanta’s backyard – a hotbed for wealthy Atlantans to lay down roots with a second home in the mountains.

Popular day hikes around Blue Ridge include Falls Branch Falls, a half-mile round-trip waterfall hike that's part of the Benton MacKaye trail system , and Long Creek Falls, a 2.4-mile round-trip hike on a section of the Appalachian Trail. At Lake Blue Ridge, 1.5 miles from downtown Blue Ridge, you can rent kayaks and paddleboards at Morganton Point Recreation Area from April through October. 

Kids will love the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway . Starting from the historic downtown depot, this scenic-railway ride takes you along 1886-laid tracks to the quaint sister towns of McCaysville in Georgia and Copperhill in Tennessee, winding along the bank of the Toccoa River (check the schedule online).

You might also like: Top 15 things to do in Atlanta How to see the best of Atlanta for free Atlanta's best neighborhoods to spend a perfect winter break

This article was first published August 2020 and updated December 2021

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23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

Road Trip from Atlanta to Orlando, Florida

Absorb the history of Georgia on the epic road trip from Atlanta to Orlando. Discover lush green surroundings as you pass through culture-rich towns and cities or get your beach vibes driving alongside Florida's most stunning beaches to the theme park capital of the world.

The 550-mile road trip from Atlanta to Orlando takes just under 10 hours to drive. Key stops include Columbus, Albany, Savannah, Jacksonville and Fayetteville, as well as Daytona Beach, Falling Creek Falls, Ormond Beach and Paynes Prairie State Park.

To help you make the most of your adventure on this road trip from Georgia to Florida, we've set out the best routes and places to stop overnight, as well as our favorite things to see and the best time of year to make this road trip from Atlanta to Orlando.

How far is Orlando from Atlanta, and how long will the road trip take?

There are two really solid options when considering an Atlanta to Florida road trip. The quickest of the two takes you inland through Georgia and into Florida. Spanning a distance of 550 miles, you could complete this trip in as little as 9 hours and 50 minutes.

An alternative drive is our Coastal Route. Following the shore from Savannah to Daytona Beach, this option takes 10 hours and 10 minutes to drive without stopping and covers 540 miles on the road.

While you could complete this trip in as little as a single day, you wouldn't leave yourself any opportunities to stop along the way and explore your surroundings.

Given that you'll pass several towns, cities, green parks and epic beaches, you're going to want to spend a few extra days to really immerse yourself in this great trip. We recommend spending a minimum of three days on this drive, which gives you a couple of fantastic stops along the way.

READ MORE - Ultimate Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Best road trip route from Atlanta to Orlando

If you fancy driving through the heart of Georgia, passing through roads with lush green surroundings and discovering historic under-the-radar towns and cities, then you should consider following our Inland Route to Orlando.

Though part of the journey is on major highways, thanks to Georgia being a very green state, you'll still enjoy stretches of wilderness. But don't worry, there are plenty of great places you'll pass en route, including Fayetteville, Columbus, Gainesville and the stunning Falling Creek Falls.

For those road trippers who love a beach and sea view, our Coastal Route is ideal. Taking you along the coastline, you'll find famous Florida beaches as well as explore Jacksonville and Savannah, two major cities but each with individual charm.

Along this route, you'll also drive up the A1A Florida State Scenic Coastal Highway. This road offers easy access to different beaches, but as a single-lane road, it adds more to your drive time. So if you're looking for a quicker drive to Orlando, then our Inland Route might be preferable.

If you really can't decide between the two and you have some extra time on your hands, you could easily follow both routes, one to Orlando and the other on the return leg to Atlanta. That way, you'll get the best of both worlds.

How to drive from Atlanta to Orlando

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Atlanta and Orlando. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The Inland Route

For our Inland Route, take Interstate 75 (I-75) South from Atlanta. Take Exit 237A to join GA-85 to Fayetteville, a small city with a diverse community and beautiful landscape.

Follow signs for Interstate 85 (I-85) and continue to head south, passing several small towns to Exit 21 where you'll join Interstate 185 (I-185) a short stretch to Exit 10. Take GA-22 west to Exit 1 and then take GA-55 to Columbus.

Stop here to explore this great city before joining US-280 east through several towns before reaching Andersonville, a great stop if you're interested in history as it has, amongst other things, a great Civil War exhibit.

Take the exit for GA-49 South and then take US-19 to Albany. Stop here to discover what awaits you in Radium Springs, before continuing south to Thomasville, a great place for an overnight stop.

Next take US-84 East before margining with I-75 South which will take you across the state into Florida. Stop at Cypress Creek Wildlife Management Area before reaching Exit 435 and taking Interstate 10 (I-10) East to Falling Creek Falls, which is a stunning waterfall.

Pass Lake City and join FL-47 South before merging back with I-75 to Exit 387. Join FL-26 to Gainesville, before taking FL-331 south to Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park to spot the wild horses and enjoy a wildlife-rich walk.

Rejoin I-75 South to Florida's Turnpike to Exit 265, driving past Lake Apopka and several wildlife and forest areas. Continue on FL-408 East to your final destination in Orlando.

Looking to venture further? Check out our ultimate Florida road trip itinerary .

The Coastal Route

For our alternative option take I-75 South through McDonough and to Exit 212 where you can stop at Locust Grove, a small town which offers fantastic Southern cuisine.

Continue following I-75 South to Bolingbroke before taking Exit 165 for Macon, another small city with great landmarks to visit. Afterwards, get on Interstate 16 (I-16) East to Exit 67 where you'll get on GA-29 south to visit the Altama Museum of Art & History.

Get on US-1 north before taking I-16 East to Exit 157A to Savannah, a great city to explore and an ideal halfway point to stop for the night. When you're ready to leave, you'll take Interstate 95 (I-95) South and begin to follow the coast.

Follow the interstate as you cross into Florida before taking Exit 353B for a visit to Jacksonville. Leave on I-95 but take Exit 344 shortly afterwards and FL-202 East towards Jacksonville Beach.

From here join Florida A1A Scenic Byway as you drive past some of the most stunning beaches, including St. Augustine, Crescent Beach, Ormond Beach and probably the most famous of all, Daytona Beach.

From here, turn right onto Beville Road and join Interstate 4 (I-4) West the final stretch to Orlando.

Here is our guide to the ultimate road trip in Florida , if you have more time.

Best places to stop between Atlanta and Orlando

While you could drive from Atlanta to Orlando in a single day on a road trip from the star of Georgia to sunny Florida, a much better idea is to split the drive up and enjoy a couple of overnight stops along the way. With so many great towns and cities on this drive, you'll be spoilt for choice.

Of all the great hotels you'll pass, here are the ones we think you should look out for:

Modern luxury in historic Thomasville

Ideally located halfway on our Inland Route, Thomasville in Georgia is a lesser-known but fantastic overnight stop destination. Thomasville is a small city with a close-knit vibe, it's also the perfect place to get to understand the Georgia way of life.

Known to locals as the 'Rose City', from the Thomasville Rose Garden where there are over 1,500 blooms, there's a lot to explore here. Take a walk downtown and you'll find a great selection of bars and restaurants serving signature Southern dishes.

For a spot of luxury, you can't go wrong with a stay at one of the city's new hotels, the Courtyard by Marriott Thomasville Downtown . Here you can expect stylishly modern rooms and a fabulous outdoor pool, perfect for relaxing after a long day of driving.

This new hotel is situated in the heart of the historic downtown district. Being just off Highway 3, so it doesn't detract much from the journey time, it's also close to the Lapham Patterson House Historic site, which makes it easier to explore this fascinating area.

For history fans, there's the Thomasville History Center and the Victorian Lapham-Patterson House which is full of Georgian history. For something more outdoorsy, there's also a great walk to be enjoyed at the Pebble Hill Plantation.

Discover the culture of Savannah

If you're looking for a halfway point on the Coastal Route, an ideal base for an overnight stop is Savannah. Here you'll meet welcoming people, while the buildings ooze history and you'll never be far from art and culture.

As Georgia's oldest city, Savannah, has architecture showcasing its history. It's also become a place of significance, thanks to it being the location for the Forrest Gump "life is like a box of chocolates" bench scene.

As you'd expect, there's plenty of local attractions to enjoy while staying in Savannah from its Historic Landmark District, where you can enjoy a stroll through Forsyth Park to its popular riverboat cruises. As America's most haunted city, you can also enjoy a ghost trail if you dare.

As a popular city, you can find amazing hotels in Savannah. One of its best is The Marshall House, Historic Inns of Savannah Collection, a landmark in the city, in a historic building that was built in 1851.

This 4-star hotel will make sure your stay is extra special. Packed with charm, this stunning hotel offers delightful touches such as a nightly wine reception in the library, before enjoying a delicious dinner at elegant 45 Bistro Restaurant on-site.

Located in the heart of historic downtown, you can step foot out of the hotel and begin exploring sites including Ellis Square and Washington Square with minimal fuss, before continuing with your road trip feeling refreshed.

A rock star stop in Orlando

When you reach Orlando, you'll have plenty to explore in this fun-filled Florida city. Best known for Disney World and Universal, which sees tourists flock here all year round, there's a lot more to this incredible city.

From huge shopping malls, world-famous theme parks, great restaurants and thrilling nightlife, you'll also only ever be 90 minutes away from stunning beaches. There are also beautiful wildlife areas surrounding the city if you'd like to escape the bustle and bright lights.

When visiting Orlando, chances are you'll want to experience at least one theme park. For thrill-seeking road trippers, an ideal hotel is The Hard Rock Hotel which is located on Universal Boulevard and includes a pass for queue jumping at Universal Orlando Resort.

This unique hotel puts you at the center of the fun. Not only will you be located right by the famous Wizarding World of Harry Potter, but Walt Disney World Resort is also a short drive away.

The 4-star hotel has all the amenities you'd expect, including an outdoor pool, onsite restaurants and bars, modern and comfortable rooms that are all decorated with rock music-themed decor and complimentary shuttle busses, so you're only ever just a quick hop to all the fun.

Things to see on a road trip from Atlanta to Orlando

Don't be fooled by thinking that this fairly short road trip from Georgia to Florida doesn't offer much in terms of attractions along the way. In fact, there's a lot to see between Atlanta and Orlando. To help you plan your trip, we've set out some of the best bits you'll pass en route:

Both Routes

• Locust Grove, Georgia - Stop off at Locust Grove, a small typical Southern town and a great place to indulge in Southern cuisine. We recommend the French Market and Tavern.
• Macon, Georgia - Macon is a quintessential Georgian city. Expect southern hospitality as you delve into key attractions. Standout landmarks include the Native American site Ocmulgee Mounds and the Hay House, built in 1855.

• Andersonville, Georgia - If you're interested in the Civil War, a visit to Andersonville is a must. This small village takes you back in time while a museum exhibits artefacts from the Civil War era.
• Americus, Georgia - Americus is historic and cultured. Upon arrival, pop into the Americus-Sumter Tourism Welcome Center where the helpful staff can teach you about the place and what to do during your stay.
• Albany, Georgia - The Albany Civil Rights Institute documents Georgian life before the Civil Rights Movement. It's located in Mount Zion Baptist Church, where in 1961, Martin Luther King Junior inspired crowds.
• Thomasville, Georgia - Downtown Thomasville is a small historic Georgian gem. There are ample top-class restaurants.
• Falling Creek Falls - A hidden gem, this waterfall is a great stop-off to admire natural beauty. The boardwalk trail is easy to walk and not too overbearing.
• Gainesville, Florida - Gainesville has prominent nightlife. Yet, there are many picturesque parks to relax in. A unique visit is the Cade Museum for Creativity & Invention. Museum, named after the Gatorade inventor.
• Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park - Walk amongst wild horses and bison at the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. The La Chua Trail has a boardwalk over water where you may encounter an alligator.

• Altama Museum of Art & History - Examine fine art and historical items at the Altama Museum of Art & History Museum. Housed inside the 1911 Brazell House, you'll also experience the grandeur of a historic mansion.
• Savannah, Georgia - You'll fall in love with this charming city. It's full of history and you'll find plenty of things to see and do, whether shopping or exploring the historic district.
• Jacksonville, Florida - Jacksonville is a major Florida city. You'll find a range of things to do from a Zoo and Wildlife Sanctuary to the surrounding National Parks.
• Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve - The Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve is on the route, so you can stop and take a walk via one of the trails.
• St. Augustine, Florida - Wouldn't it be something to say you've visited the oldest place in the USA? A Spanish conquistador founded St Augustine in 1565. Nowadays there's still evidence, Castillo de San Marcos for example, is the oldest masonry fort in the US.
• Fort Matanzas National Monument - The coastal road passes by Fort Matanzas National Monument. An 18th-century stone fort built by the Spanish.
• Ormond Beach, Florida - Small town charm and beautiful beaches. A stop off at Ormond Beach is bound to relax. The beaches here are less crowded than most.
• Daytona Beach, Florida - Daytona Beach is famous for its motor racing and you can take a tour around the famous International Speedway. It's also ideal for a road tripper as you can drive onto the beach to soak up the sun.

Best time to go on a road trip from Atlanta to Orlando

Orlando is a tourism hotspot all year round, so you can set off on a road trip from Atlanta to Florida any time of the year. A major pull is the theme parks; Walt Disney World Resort, for example, is open 365 days a year.

While some months are quieter than others, it's still visited throughout the year where even in winter, the weather is still warm.

The summer months bring hot weather to Florida, with temperatures averaging above 80 degrees Fahrenheit. For some, it may be too hot, but many shops, restaurants, hotels and attractions are well-prepared with air conditioning. That said, you will experience a larger crowd.

The coldest month is January, but even then, the average temperature is 60 degrees. For many, this is a comfortable temperature, so the winter months don't bring drastic cold weather. Watch out for the holiday season though (between December and January) when crowds will descend upon Orlando.

The best time to visit is from March to May. This time of year, sees pleasant weather (highs of the 50s to 80s most days) and outside of the school holidays, you'll get to enjoy cheaper hotel rates and fewer tourists to contend with. Fall is another good option, though watch out for the rainy season which lasts through to Mid-October.

If you aren't concerned by large crowds, then you could time your road trip with an event or two. Orlando hosts many festivals, some of which are held in theme parks. Because of the consistently nice weather, festival organizers spread out events throughout the year such as the Kissimmee, which is held in late October.

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