Southern comforts and Georgian charm go together like mashed potatoes and gravy. Things might move a little slower in Georgia, from the way people talk, walk, and cook; that doesn’t mean you’ll ever be bored, however. Georgia has lots of great things to do, outside of sampling the South’s best servings of soul food.
Visit Atlanta for some great city sights, as well as historic museums, zoos, and the world’s largest aquarium. If you’re looking to escape the urban setting for a while, go to the Cumberland Island reservation. They have wild horses that run free along the island’s coasts like a scene out of a romantic novel.
Georgia has an additional 47 state parks to explore if you’re looking for more great places to view wildlife in its natural habitat. If you’re a history buff, you’ll find plenty of Civil War monuments, museums, and memorials. Here are the top 25 attractions in Georgia that you should include in your itinerary.
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Home to tens of thousands of animals and sea creatures, the Georgia Aquarium is a fabulous place to take the whole family during your time in the area. This is known as the largest aquarium in the Western Hemisphere and provides an educational, fascinating, and exciting day out for people of all ages.
In addition to being able to see the wide variety of sea life and other creatures up close and personal, visitors can enjoy additional fun with exhibitions, events and even the 4D Theater.
The aquarium even hosts sleepovers so the little ones can enjoy a truly unique and memorable experience. There are plenty of great activities for visitors to look forward to making this an excellent choice for a great day out for the family.
Accomodation: Where to stay in Atlanta
Address: 225 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Website: www.georgiaaquarium.org
Located in the historic Savannah area of Georgia, Forsyth Park spans thirty acres and is the largest park in the district. This is a park that only provides access to attractive surroundings but also offers plenty of recreational opportunities as well as access to entertainment.
You can enjoy kicking back and relaxing as you read a book, watching the world go by, or even attend the various musical, entertainment and sports events that take place there.
At weekends you can pay a visit to the Farmer’s Market at the park and when you visit don’t forget to pay a visit to the famous Forsyth Park Fountain, which dates back to the 1850s.
Address: Drayton St and E Park Ave, Savannah, GA 31401
The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Georgia provides you with access to well over two centuries of rich and fascinating history, which can be explored in a variety of ways. You will find a range of interactive displays and exhibitions to look forward to here including artifacts, exhibits and video presentations.
You can also look forward to the immersive attractions on offer here including military documentary screenings on giant screens, simulators, and more. This is a venue that also holds a variety of events over the course of the year and provides you with access to a range of facilities including an onsite bar and restaurant.
Address: 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, GA 31903
Website: www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org
Get ready to be amazed! Found in the heart and soul of Georgia, Stone Mountain Park is a true testament to Mother Nature’s ethereal beauty.
It is more than just the mountain itself--- however, the mountain is truly a spectacular sight. It towers over everything in the area, and makes for an awe-inspiring view no matter which way you hike it.
Stone Mountain Park is also an ideal weekend getaway! It has golf, cable car rides, lodging, events, activities, and so much more to explore.
All this and more within the welcoming borders of one of the most breathtaking national parks in the state. Buy a daily pass for $15 per vehicle per day, or invest in an annual parking pass which is $40.
Address: 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Website: www.stonemountainpark.com
A trip to Jekyll Island in Georgia is a trip that you will not forget in a hurry, as this is a unique and stunning place that enables you to enjoy natural beauty, history and entertainment as well as total relaxation in wonderful surroundings.
Not only can you look forward to taking in the beautiful beach and forests but there are also plenty of events and activities to enjoy. This includes beach activities and events, which take place over the course of the year.
Summer camps are also held at Jekyll Island and those who enjoy outdoor recreation will find plenty to keep them busy. You can enjoy everything from golf and shopping to a visit to the wonderful Georgia Sea Turtle center when you visit this destination.
Address: Jekyll Island, Georgia 31527
Website: www.jekyllisland.com
Experience all the wonders of nature with North America’s largest blackwater swamp! Covering a massive 438,000 acres the Okefenokee Swamp is no short feat. It is also the northern entryway into the Okefenokee National wildlife Refuge.
This particular part of Georgia is known for massive stretches of land dedicated to the best in preserves and reservations. Here you can really embrace the wild world of nature from the water all the way to what lives in it. Keep in mind: swamps are a popular location for alligators, so always keep an eye out!
The Okefenokee Swamp Park is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. every day. For admission, rates vary based on age. For adults (12 and up) admission is $17, for children (3-11), seniors (62 and up), and active military members (ID required) it is $16. Children 2 and under are free.
Also, be sure to check with the official website for an insider look at boat tours, packages, and even a discount coupon or two.
Tours are a great idea to see it all as guides will know what to point out, what to watch for, and how to stay safe in this gigantic wildlife oasis. Guides will also be able to identify any animals, answer questions, and recommend a couple of paths to explore.
Address: 5700 Okefenokee Swamp Park Rd, Waycross, GA 31503
Website: www.okeswamp.com
Take a day on the greens! The Sea Island Golf Course is one of the best spots in all of Georgia for a game with a view. Every hole here is tailored to perfection for both functionality and beauty.
Right on the banks, patrons can see some natural beauty while they play the day away on this 18-hole wonder. It harbors some of the top instructors in the state as well as a full-fledged Golf Performance Center on site.
It has also been the proud host to three championships which just shows how coveted and praised this location is.
As such a respected attraction in Georgia, you’re going to want to plan ahead for this adventure. Check out prices and request a tee time all on Sea Island’s wonderful website.
Sea Island Golf Course is open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 2:50 p.m., however playing times are by reservation only.
Look into instructors, caddy’s, and carts to make this course one for the books. Enjoy 18 holes of golf all on one the banks of Georgia’s stunning natural beauty.
Address: 100 Kings Way, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522
Website: www.seaisland.com
Filled with natural beauty and resources as well as recreational opportunities, Chattahoochee Oconee National Forests span close to 870 acres running through multiple counties. There is an abundance of greenery to take in as well as crystal clear waters and woodland.
If you are looking for outdoor recreation you will have plenty to choose from when you head here, including picnicking, camping, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails.
This is a great way to immerse yourself in stunning surroundings and enjoy being out in the fresh air with the chance to explore and enjoy all that nature has to offer.
Address: Suches, GA 30572
Website: www.fs.usda.gov
Explore the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. One of the Georgia attractions designated as an official National Historic Landmark District features multiple buildings that are significant to understanding MLK’s legacy. Take a self-guided tour of the site to immerse into one of the greatest leaders of the American Civil Rights Movement.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site includes MLK’s childhood home, the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he preached, and his burial place, amongst other sites. Each of the sites provides lots of information about the connection to MLK while simultaneously detailing the impact of the civil rights movement.
Stop by the visitor center to explore the museum exhibitions. It’s a great learning experience about MLK that draws over half-million visitors every year.
Address: 450 Auburn Ave NE Atlanta, GA 30312
No two trips are the same to Atlanta Botanical Garden. It’s had more than 50 updates since opening in 1976. The garden includes over 30 acres of exhibits showcasing some of the most beautiful plants from around the world.
You can meander through displays at the tropical rotunda, desert house, orchid display house, high elevation house and more. In addition to a renowned plant collection, the Atlanta Botanical Garden plays host to myriad events throughout the year.
The Garden Lights, Holiday Nights display is a crowd favorite. It’s a display of one million LED lights scattered throughout the grounds during the holidays. A visit to the garden is informative and educational and will inspire you to start a small garden of your own in your home.
Accomodation: Where to stay in Atlanta
Address: 1345 Piedmont Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309
Website: www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org
Callaway Gardens is the perfect retreat destination in Georgia for rest, relaxation, and enjoying the outdoors. The resort and garden complex opened in 1952, covering 6,500 acres. The complex has many features for visitors, regardless of whether you’re staying overnight or visiting only for the day.
Located in Pine Mountain, Georgia, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to the gardens to explore the landscape. It has several features, such as showcasing native plant species and a large butterfly center. Visitors can walk the various trails around the garden to enjoy the sights. There are also biking trails.
Some of the other attractions in Callaway Gardens includes golf courses, ziplining, and an obstacle course. You’ll find Robin Lake Beach, the largest man-made, white sand beach in the world. It also hosts seasonal events, activities, and tournaments throughout the year.
Address: 17800 US Hwy 27, Pine Mountain, GA 31822
Over 1,000 years ago, Native Americans built ceremonial mounds in present-day Macon. Today, it’s one of the top Georgia attractions with more than one hundred thousand visitors who explore the preserved mounds in the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park. The park is an archaeological site to discover the various uses of the mounds and learn about the Native Americans who lived in the region.
Ocmulgee National Monument has ancient mounds used for burials, honoring elite members, or protection. The mounds showcase incredible engineering accomplishments using the natural environment to create the structures.
Visitors can walk the trails around the park to different mounds and read information plaques to learn more about them. The park also includes a visitor center with an archaeology museum inside. You can enter the Earth Lodge to get a unique look inside a mound.
Address: 1207 Emery Hwy, Macon, GA 31217
Jimmy Carter National Historic Site is one of the top attractions in Georgia that you shouldn’t miss if visiting Plains, GA. It’s the main highlight of the city, dedicated to Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the US. The site provides an intimate look at the legacy created by Jimmy Carter’s career and also where the former President currently resides.
Jimmy Carter National Historic Site is a complex in his hometown. It features several buildings – his current residence, restored childhood farm, former high school, and his presidential campaign headquarters set up in a railroad depot.
Visitors can get insight into Carter’s life and public impact by checking out the visitor center. Established in his former high school, you’ll walk through various rooms to see exhibits and also see a mini-documentary about his life.
Jimmy Carter lives onsite with his wife, so his residence is closed to the public.
Address: 300 N Bond St, Plains, GA 31780
Cumberland Island is the largest of the Golden Isles located off the coast of Georgia. Most of the island is designated as the Cumberland Island National Seashore, established in 1972 to preserve its natural features. Visitors can access the island to explore the untouched nature and sightsee some of the historical landmarks.
Cumberland Island National Seashore covers many of the island’s beaches, lakes, dunes, and marsh landscape. It’s home to diverse flora and wildlife. You’ll see lots of wild horses roaming the island. There are also historical sites, including ruins. Access is limited to 300 people at a time on the island. You can ride bikes or hike around to the various sites.
The island’s visitor center and museum are located on the mainland in St. Marys to learn more about the island’s history before taking the ferry.
Address: St. Marys, Georgia
Savannah is one of the favorite places to visit in Georgia. The Savannah Historic District is one of the most popular areas for tourists to spend time. It dates to the pre-civil war era in one of the largest, best-preserved historic districts in the US. Take a tour or hang out in the area to enjoy the unique Southern atmosphere.
Savannah Historic District is an official National Historic Landmark District. From the buildings to the original layout, you’ll get a chance to connect with the city’s past while exploring the district.
Sightseeing is one of the best things to do. The entire district is full of historical architecture preserved from the 18th-19th centuries. You’ll encounter landmarks including Chippewa Square, the First African Baptist Church, Forsyth Park, and birth homes of notable figures.
Address: 301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401
Witness one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia when you visit the Amicalola Falls State Park. Explore one of the most beautiful attractions in Georgia to experience the natural landmarks and mountainous landscape. The Amicalola Falls is the park’s main feature, but there is plenty more to see and do.
Amicalola Falls State Park is named after the Amicalola Falls, the highest waterfall in Georgia at 729-ft. Visitors can take various hiking trails around the falls to see perspectives from the top or the bottom. There is also an observation overlook and bridge crossing over the waterfall.
The park includes one of the trails connecting to the famous Appalachian Trail.
Visitors can stay overnight in the cabin accommodations located throughout the park. There is also a visitor center.
Address: 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534
Coca-Cola is one of the most famous brands in the world that originated in Atlanta, GA. Tourists can learn everything about the renowned beverage at the World of Coca-Cola attraction. It’s one of the most visited Georgia attractions that offer tours and sampling of Coke products.
The original World of Coca-Cola facility opened in 1990 and relocated in 2007 to Pemberton Place. The facility exhibits everything there is to know about Coca-Cola – learn about its history, transformation over the years, and even get a peek into the secret formula.
World of Coca-Cola offers lots of engaging activities for visitors. Check out the 4D theater experience or stop by the tasting room to sample flavors from around the world. Guided tours are available, and you might even get a surprise visit from the Coca-Cola bear.
Address: 121 Baker St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
The illuminated lights from the Fox Theatre catch everyone’s attention while driving down Peachtree Street in Atlanta. It’s a historic movie theater and performing arts venue that’s still one of the city’s prime entertainment venues.
The Fox Theatre first opened in 1929. The landmark theater has shown popular films throughout its history. It’s now a live performance venue, hosting some of the best talents in Atlanta. It hosts events from the Atlanta Ballet, Broadway shows, film screenings, and music concerts.
Check the calendar before you visit for a chance to see one of the live events. The main auditorium seats more than 4,000 people. With an upper and lower seating area.
The historical theater also offers tours to see behind the scenes and learn about its legacy.
Address: 660 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30308
Tallulah Gorge State Park is one of the top attractions in Georgia for outdoor recreation. The scenic gorge provides incredible views while hiking, biking, or boating. Visit the state park, located near Tallulah Falls, to begin one of the best outdoor adventures in Georgia.
Tallulah Gorge State Park expands over 2,000 acres. It includes several major natural landmarks, including Tallulah Falls, Tallulah River, and the Tallulah Gorge. The river carved out the gorge to create a series of waterfalls dropping over 500-ft. It’s a fun destination for kayaking, whitewater rafting, and swimming.
A hydroelectric dam controls the flow of the water. Throughout the year, it allows for full flow, while at other times, the flow is increased for seasonal rafting.
Hike around the rim of the gorge to reach the scenic overlooks for the best views.
Address: 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
Visit the Providence Canyon State Park to see one of the most exciting sights in Georgia. You’ll often hear Providence Canyon referred to as the “Little Grand Canyon,” and you’ll have to see it to understand. The canyon is the centerpiece of the park, where hiking is the best way to experience the canyon landscape.
Providence Canyon State Park was established in 1971 and now one of the top Georgia attractions for visitors. The canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia. Unlike most canyons, Providence Canyon formed from soil erosion due to bad farming techniques. It's mostly a man-made site.
Visitors can hike various trails in the park. Hike along the canyon rim to enjoy overlooks of the landscape. Trails also take you down into the canyon to wander the floor. It’s the best way to see the massive scale of the canyon.
Address: 8930 Canyon Rd, Lumpkin, GA 31815
Experience US history brought to life at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. It’s one of the must-visit attractions in Georgia. The museum opened to focus on the civil rights movement in the US and global human rights. The museum is an emotionally moving attraction that highlights civil rights in the US and the world.
National Center for Civil and Human Rights opened in 2014 in Downtown Atlanta. It has three permanent exhibits, including one dedicated to Martin Luther King, Jr. Each of the exhibits feature documentation, photographs, and other media. One of the must-do activities is the Lunch Counter experience, which creates an audio and visual experience.
The museum also hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year. You’ll find many educational programs and informative talks to further the conversation about human rights.
Address: 100 Ivan Allen Jr Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
Lookout Mountain is an impressive sight, located along the Georgia-Tennessee border. Visitors can climb to the top of the rock to enter Rock City Gardens, a unique garden developed on the summit. It’s a must-see Georgia Attraction where you have a chance to see seven states at once.
Rock City Gardens is a beautifully decorated garden landscape ideal for a relaxing walk and enjoying the sights. The garden has many decorative features. Take a walk along the rocky trail to explore the unique rock formations and see the High Falls, a man-made waterfall.
The attraction also includes two specially designed rock caves – Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village. The caves have illuminated statues inside.
Be sure to stand at the Lover’s Leap viewpoint for the best view in the garden. It offers a panoramic view for a rare chance to see seven states at once on a clear day.
Address: 1400 Patten Rd, Lookout Mountain, GA 30750
There are many free places to visit in Georgia, including the David J. Sencer CDC Museum in Atlanta. The CDC Museum is dedicated to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The museum was established in 1996 to promote prevention-based health and highlight the organization’s accomplishments.
The CDC Museum is a large museum with exhibits spaced across multiple floors. Walkthrough the exhibits on your own or take a guided tour to gain more insight from an expert guide. The museum includes permanent and temporary exhibitions, archives and hosts educational programs.
The museum is a fun activity for all ages. There are many multimedia displays throughout the building for an engaging experience.
Address: 1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30329
With as many tourists visiting Georgia Guidestones, it remains a mystery about how and why the monument was created. The monument near Elberton, GA, is a series of massive slabs with written inscriptions in multiple languages.
Georgia Guidestones is often called American Stonehenge and is the subject of many conspiracy theories. Anonymous authors wrote controversial texts about topics including population control and internationalism. It has several global languages and an ancient language. The reason for the text is unknown.
The granite slabs measure 19-ft tall. There is a ground slab on the site providing insight into the monument’s design and the languages written on it. It details that there is a hidden time capsule beneath it.
There are no other attractions in Georgia quite like it!
Address: 1031 Guidestone Rd NW, Elberton, GA 30635
Tybee Island Lighthouse is an incredible sight for anyone visiting Tybee Island. The island features Georgia’s oldest and tallest lighthouse. Visiting the lighthouse attraction includes access to the various building onsite. Visitors have a chance to climb to the top of the lighthouse and learn about the island's history.
Tybee Island Light was erected during the colonial era. It’s 145-ft tall, making it the tallest in the state. Climb up 178 stairs to reach the platform for a beautiful view of the island and ocean. After exploring the inside of the lighthouse, check out the three Light Keeper’s Cottages adjacent to the lighthouse.
The Tybee Island Lighthouse Museum is across the street. It exhibits lots of island history – from Native American tribes who thrived on the island to details about its economic growth.
The best time to visit the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum is during the sunset.
Address: 30 Meddin Dr, Tybee Island, GA 31328
