Georgia, home to varied landscapes like forests, rivers, mountains, beaches, and farmlands, is a wonderful destination for a weekend getaway. This Peach State is an ideal place to escape from the hustles and bustles of the city and create memories within your budget. Here are the top 10 weekend getaways in Georgia you should visit in 2024.
10 Best Weekend Getaways In Georgia
1. Savannah
Founded in the 17th century, the city is home to several historic marvels. Immerse yourself in the culture, arts, history, food, beauty, and adventures of the place. Take a hop-on, hop-off trolley tour to learn more about the city. Looking for a picnic or a stroll? Visit the Forsyth Park. Walk along the Savannah River to shop, dine, and view the historic buildings lining the streets. Are you a beach buff? Visit the Tybee Island, one of the best destinations to rewind and relax. If you love history, you should not miss the Telfair museums. The fresh seafood of Savannah is a big treat for foodies.
2. Augusta
Augusta, often referred to as the Golf Town, has a lot more to offer than golf. Visit Augusta Riverwalk, a perfect place to go for a walk, bike ride, or boat tour. It has museums located at both ends and the Jessy Norman Amphitheater along the walkway. The path is filled with eateries serving desserts, coffees, sweets, fresh seafood, and many more. Explore the beauty of Augusta Canal on a paddleboard. If you love bird watching, you must visit Pendleton King Park, a sprawling 64-acre bird park where you can spot a wide variety of birds. It is a family-friendly destination with playgrounds and gardens and interesting activities like snail-hunting.
3. Helen
Do you love the old-style haunted thrills? Visit the Haunted House to be terrified, to scream, and have fun. Float on the river in a tube and cool off in the summer months. You also have other adventurous activities like ziplining, and mountain coaster rides to speed up your heartbeat and get your adrenaline rushing. Visit Anna Ruby Falls to appreciate the beauty of nature. Enjoy Oktoberfest, a popular festival in Germany, here in Helen without breaking the bank. Filled with music, dancing, beer, and costumes, the festival gives you a glimpse of Germany. Stroll the downtown and visit the diverse shops and restaurants. These activities make Helen one of the perfect weekend getaways in Georgia.
4. Tybee Island
The island is an ideal destination to keep you relaxed and entertained for a weekend. Watch the sun rising and watch the skies lighting up with a wide variety of hues. Go on a cruise, watching the dolphins and the picturesque sunset. Climb to the top of the lighthouse. There are about 180 steps and the view at the top is worth the climb. Take a bike tour to explore the island. The island is home to many beaches, including South Beach, North Beach, Mid Beach, Back River Beach, etc. Each one is unique on its own. You can just relax and sunbathe or go for adventures like surfing.
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5. Blue Ridge
The stunning waterfalls, vineyards, lush green forests, and live and vibrant music make this town a perfect weekend getaway. Immerse in the local scenery and culture by taking a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Relax on a tube on the Toccoa River or have your pulses racing on a raft in the Ococee River. Blue Ridge is home to dozens of flowing waterfalls. Take a ride or hike trail to explore them. Are you a biker? There are plenty of biking trails available. Hop on a bike and get ready for an unforgettable scenic ride. Enjoy zipline tours of long durations ranging from two hours or more.
6. Columbus
Stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery by taking the 15-mile Columbus Riverwalk along the Chattahoochee River. Coco-Cola Space Science Center, the space museum with its interesting and educational exhibits, is a place of fascination for people of all ages. Do you want to know how Columbus was in the 18th century? Visit The National Civil War Naval Museum. The Columbus Museum is the best spot to learn about the cultural history. The Columbus Botanical Garden will leave you in awe with its bright, colorful blooms. Enjoy a thrilling White Water Adventure on the rapidly flowing Chattahoochee River.
7. Macon
For weekend getaways in Georgia, the place is famous for its tons of cherry trees that burst into colorful blooms in March during the Cherry Blossom Festival. For weekend getaways in Georgia, explore the Amerson River Park and the downtown on foot. Visit the Tubman Museum to learn about the Afro-American culture and the Museum of Arts and Sciences to see the interactive displays with your family. Take part in the Macon Music Trail to explore the history of this town, which is famous not only for its cherry blossoms but also for its music.
8. Jekyll Island
The island has an interesting history dating back to the late 1800s. Jekyll Island was founded as a private retreat for a group of friends. Visiting Driftwood Beach is one of the best things to do on Jekyll Island on your weekend trip. They built a clubhouse. Today, it is the Jekyll Island Club Resort, a beautiful place to visit. The island itself is quite rustic, with sand and moss everywhere. Walking through the natural setting is a unique experience that you will never forget for a lifetime. Explore the natural beauty of the island on foot and bike. Learn about its ecosystem by taking a kayaking tour.
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9. Dahlonega
Dahlonega, a charming town covered in lush greenery, is known for its vineyards. Visit one of the best and taste their wines. Some of them serve food along with wine. It is a great experience having food with wine and enjoying the beautiful landscape. Go for a hike, admiring the green mountains and the rocky terrain. Lavenders are known for their soothing aroma and beautiful looks. Visiting a lavender farm during the peak bloom season is an awesome experience. Pack a picnic at Lake Zwerner, take a walking trail, and then relax for some time, admiring the beauty.
10. Lake Oconee
There is a wide variety of activities to enjoy in Lake Oconee, a huge reservoir of more than 19,000 acres and 370 miles of shoreline. You can play tennis and golf or kayak and canoe on the water. You can go jet skiing, boating, paddleboarding, and canoeing in the sparkling water of the lake. Visit the museums that tell stories about African American life in the area. Explore the downtown, taking a walking tour to learn about the history and culture of this beautiful town.
Concluding Words
Whether you are looking for a family-friendly getaway or a romantic getaway, Georgia offers plenty of options to entertain everyone. It is also a haven for outdoor lovers with whitewater rafting, jet skiing, and many more. Foodies will enjoy the classic cuisines of the area. You are assured of creating unforgettable memories with weekend getaways in Georgia. Pack your bags and plan for your next weekend’s getaway.