With the daily routine, sometimes all you need is a vacation to sit and breathe, blocking thoughts of the outside world. Whether you love sunbathing and getting that tan, hiking, or exploring cultures, Georgia is a perfect blend.
The state is located east of the Mississippi and borders the Atlantic Ocean and the Appalachian Mountains. For visitors looking for the perfect weekend getaway, here are seven-weekend getaways in Georgia to choose from, or add them all to your itinerary, because why not?
St. Simons Island
Are you all about good vibes, beaches, and what is a vacation without a tan? Beach lovers, St. Simons Island, located near the Florida border, is your destination. While guests are not relaxing on the beaches, they can take in views of the surrounding area at the beautiful lighthouse or visit historical attractions on the island.
Active travelers have plenty of golf courses and tennis courts, while those looking to unwind will discover a variety of quaint shops and oceanfront dining. The St. Simons Island Trail System is perfect for biking, while family-friendly outdoor recreation can be found at Neptune Park.
Marietta
While looking for vacation destinations, sometimes all we need is peace and quiet. Marietta is the place to visit, only 18 miles northwest of Atlanta. It is a historic city highlighted by the beautiful Marietta Square. It boasts five National Register Historic Districts with abundant scenic natural landscapes made better by its stunning mountain backdrop.
Visit the battlefields at Kennesaw Mountain or take the entire family for thrills at the Six Flags White Water Park or the Marietta Museum of History.
Athens
For sports lovers, shopping enthusiasts, and art lovers, Athens is the home of the famous Georgia Bulldogs football team, and the University of Georgia is the perfect city to explore. Only a short drive from Atlanta, catch a game at Sanford Stadium and soak in the pride the city has in its local team, where fans don their best black, red, and white apparel on game days and join in the traditional “Calling on the Dawgs.”
Art lovers can visit the Georgia Museum of Art, and live music at the Georgia Theater and Botanical Gardens. Shopping enthusiasts will also want to take the time to explore the vintage thrift shops on Broad Street or take a walk through the charming eateries and art galleries in Downtown Athens.
Blairsville
Adventure lovers, this is for you! Blairsville is located in the heart of North Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, with over 80 miles of the Appalachian Trail. It has waterfalls, creeks, rivers, captivating scenery, and great outdoor adventures.
With only a two to three-hour drive from Atlanta, you can decide to camp, swim or fish in the 18-acre Lake Winfield Scott in Suches and the 4,180-acre Lake Nottely. With plenty of hiking trails, you could choose the easy routes through picturesque Meeks Park or the challenging routes through deep gorges, mountains, and traversing streams.
Atlanta
Some people are more into exploring cities and trying new restaurants, bars, and shops. Atlanta is Georgia’s premier cosmopolitan city, perfect for those looking for a lively nightlife scene and a wealth of world-class attractions.
Visit the beloved World of Coca-Cola, Georgia Aquarium, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, or a live show at Fox Theatre or soak in the expansive green spaces at Piedmont Park. Try the top restaurants, bars, and shopping areas that will keep your itinerary full for the entire weekend.
Macon
History lovers will enjoy Macon, a strong community proud of its remarkable historical preservation in museums and cultural gems. A weekend away in Macon means visitors are nestled in one of the largest collections of antebellum churches in the South, centered around decade-old brick buildings.
Macon’s streets are perfect for capturing impressive views of the thousands of postcard-worthy cherry trees and attractions, including the temple mounds at Ocmulgee National Monument, outdoor activities at the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail, and the magnificent Italian Renaissance Revival mansion views at the Hay House.
Lake Lanier / Margaritaville Resort
Lake Lanier is a picturesque reservoir located in the state of Georgia, USA. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, it stretches across more than 38,000 acres, making it one of the largest man-made lakes in the Southeastern United States.
With over 692 miles of shoreline, Lake Lanier also beckons those seeking relaxation and nature appreciation. Its sandy beaches invite sunbathers and swimmers during the summer months, and its surrounding parks offer hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites, providing opportunities for outdoor adventures throughout the year.
Margaritaville is considered the best resort at Lanier Lake. It has a scenic waterfront haven that draws inspiration from the words and way of life of acclaimed singer, songwriter, and successful writer Jimmy Buffett. The resort offers water park, landshark landing, cruises, boating and various types of camping.
Augusta
For golf enthusiasts, Augusta, the second oldest town in Georgia, is a world-renown perfect golf destination. It is famous for its annual Masters’ Tournament on the banks of the Savannah River. Explore the city’s rich history at the Augusta Museum of History, the Augusta Canal Discovery Center, and the Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson. Immerse yourself in the city’s cultural gems, such as the Morris Museum of Art and the Imperial Theatre, and end your days soaking in the scenery of the unique wetland in Phinizy Swamp Nature Park.