Ah, beautiful Georgia. Its diverse landscape of mountains, ocean and lush farmlands has created an ideal destination for every traveler. Warm summer temperatures can be a bit overwhelming, but there are tons of ways to beat the heat in Georgia. Check out the top getaways that perfectly complement those sunny days.
Jekyll Island
From beaches with driftwood sculptures made by nature to one of Georgia’s oldest buildings, the Horton House, Jekyll Island is a visually striking getaway with tons of things to do and see. Take in the lighthouses and other age-old structures on breathtaking Jekyll.
St. Simons
Another beautiful barrier island off the Georgia Coast, little touches like “tree spirits”, aka trees with carved out faces, add a deep sense of character to the fun retreat. Pieces of Fort Frederica, an essential component in victory over the Spanish, still can be visited today.
Savannah
Some of Georgia’s best summer getaways are, of course, along the coast—and Savannah may be one of the best. Not only are the beaches beautiful, but the downtown scene is rich and vibrant, especially along the boat-lined river! The southern-style fried seafood is killer, and the number of excellent hotels in Savannah is impressive.
Blue Ridge
What’s Summer without a trip to the mountains? It’s hard to pick a favorite destination in Georgia’s rolling hills, but Blue Ridge undoubtedly tops our list. The open-air train ride is relaxing, affordable and great for all ages. Lots of local stores make up the shopping scene, and there’s plenty of awesome places to eat.
Athens
When the college kids aren’t ramping up for a big game, Athens is a funky, lively place to visit, with a surprisingly awesome music scene and interesting attractions. Quaint bed and breakfasts, a walkable downtown, and plenty of booze and tasty bites make for a great vacation for friends, couples, or foodies.
Columbus
Columbus is a serious gem too often overlooked, but there’s plenty to see and do. There’s a fantastic riverwalk lined with restaurants, live music, and art, and of course, the river itself offers a list of outdoor adventures. Zipline over the state line, raft the rapids, or just sit back and people watch. Now that’s a summer getaway.
St. Mary’s
St. Mary’s has more to offer than a super cool, interactive WWII submarine museum—but you have to go! It sets along the southern coast and isn’t too overcrowded. St. Marys is considered to be the “Gateway to Cumberland Island”, as this is the starting point of any journey out that way, via ferry.
Atlanta
Since Atlanta is an obvious and often mentioned choice with its top attractions, we will focus on its unsuspected garden scene. Cator Woolford Garden’s 39 acres are crawling with southern foliage like dogwoods and azaleas, making for the perfect place to escape at no cost. The Atlanta Botanical Gardens have events strewn along their summer calendar, and what better setting for an outdoor event? Themed garden areas are simply jaw-dropping.
Plains
Peanuts and Jimmy Carter are Plain’s claim to fame, in addition to an environment that is rich in Georgia history. Mains Street’s Historic Inn is touted as a “history lesson” itself, with rooms that are dedicated to different decades through the 1900s. Antiques, rides in vintage train cars, historically significant sites and plenty of peanut products have us falling in love with this quaint Georgia town.
Walker County
Within the 12th deepest cave in the US is a massive drop extending 1,063 feet into the earth. Who would’ve thought something as magnificent as Ellison’s cave wouldn’t be out west somewhere, but right here in the south. Needless to say, the descent alone is worth the trip to this county on Pigeon Mountain. Be aware that the Fantastic Pit is only for the experienced.
