Full of natural wonders, vibrant cities, and pristine beaches, there is always a good reason to visit Georgia. But how about you enjoy it without the excessive crowds this holiday season?
You don’t have to look further to find some undiscovered destinations. We have compiled a list of 7 incredible hidden gems in Georgia to visit in 2024 so you can jump straight into the car and set off for an amazing trip.
Hindu Temple, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Lilburn
You don’t have to travel far to experience the peace and tranquility of a Hindu temple. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is the largest one of its kind outside of India and it’s located in Georgia, in the suburbs of Atlanta.
Apart from the spiritual atmosphere, it boasts unique architecture, beautifully crafted ornate carvings, and sculptures. Outside, there is a serene garden, perfect for meditation. You can participate in a prayer ceremony at 11.15 am daily. The temple also provides guided tours for groups or audio guides for individuals.
Cumberland Island National Seashore
The shore of Georgia boasts plenty of beautiful barrier islands. Cumberland Island National Seashore is the southernmost one as well as the largest one, and simply can’t be missed on any travel bucket list.
It offers 17 miles of tranquil sandy beaches and an opportunity to see wild horses roaming them freely, armadillos, various butterflies, and birds. You can explore it on a bike or through hiking trails. Both provide a different experience.
One day should be enough to see the main points of interest. But if you feel like prolonging your visit, you can stay in one of the island’s campgrounds or the more luxurious Greyfield Inn.
Stone Mountain Park
Atlanta is a lively metropolis. But did you know there are 3200 acres of natural beauty right outside in the suburbs of it? Immerse yourself in the picturesque landscape, fish, kayak, and paddle board on the lake, or hike to the summit of the granite Stone Mountain for 360-degree views of the city. You can also get there by high-speed cable car.
There are also plenty of family-friendly attractions. Walk in the treetops at SkyHike, go back to the pre-historic times at Dinosaur Explore, or enjoy a short 4D movie. So take your kids and head to Stone Mountain Park. We guarantee you it will satisfy even the most demanding members.
Ghost Town beneath Lake Thurmond
Set along the border with South Carolina, Lake Thurmond, also known as Clarks Hill Lake, is a fantastic place for summer recreation, especially if you’re into fishing. However, there is much more to that at Lake Thurmond. Under its surface, you will find a submerged town.
Petersburg was once a thriving frontier market town but was flooded to create the reservoir. On drier days, you can glimpse the remains from the shore. You can also get closer to them on a boat. Diving isn’t recommended as the lake is often murky and has some water traffic.
Chateau Elan Winery and Resort
We also have something for those who like to spend their holiday relaxing and indulging themselves with top-notch amenities. And there is no better way to do so than staying in a luxurious hotel, such as Chateau Elan Winery and Resort.
It’s located in the heart of Georgia’s wine country, not far from Atlanta. It offers a fantastic spa with massages and body wraps, exquisite dining options, and golf courses. You can stay in a comfortable room, suite, or a villa. And you can even book the whole thing for yourself for a special occasion, such as a big birthday or a wedding.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
There are more hidden gems in Atlanta. Adjacent to the popular Piedmont Park, you will find the Atlanta Botanical Garden. It’s renowned for unique plant collections, such as roses and orchids, charming displays, exhibits, and various seasonal family-friendly activities.
Reserve at least two hours to get the full experience. And if you get hungry, you can grab a bite at Longleaf. This two-level contemporary glass restaurant offers fantastic food, fascinating views of the garden, and a terrace – perfect for relaxing among the trees and basking in the sun with a drink on a nice day out.
New Manchester Mill Ruins
We will stay with the ruins for a bit longer. Nestled deep inside the Sweetwater Creek State Park, there are ruins of the New Manchester Manufacturing Company. It was built in 1849 and served for clothing production but was destroyed during the Civil War.
It’s set on the Red Trail; getting there can be challenging but manageable. Even though you can visit the site on your own, guided tours are available for about 10$ per person. That way, you can learn a bit more about the area’s history if interested plus you won’t get lost.