From the mountains to the ocean, Georgia boasts many beautiful and cozy places to spend your Thanksgiving holiday. Whether you want to explore the outdoors or visit a top attraction, you’re spoiled for choice with things to do in Georgia at this time of year. On this list, you’ll find unique places to stay, cool cities, and fun ideas for your Thanksgiving vacation getaway.
Helen
Helen is an incredible place to see the last of the vibrant fall colors hanging onto the trees. Two particularly unique places to lodge offer treats and views that will take you back to simpler times.
Where to Stay: The Helendorf is a Bavarian-style hotel that’s situated along the headwaters of the Chattahoochee River. Curved, wooden accents mimic Helen’s famous German charm. Riverfront balconies facing the water allow you to sit amongst the fall foliage. Local wineries, Native American memorials, horseback riding, canoeing, fishing, mountain biking and specialty shopping for imported goods are among the numerous fall activities.
The Stovall House was built in 1837 as a farmhouse in the Sautee Valley hills and now serves as a quaint inn. Breakfast at the inn is always homemade and features organic and locally sourced ingredients. The mountain views are best enjoyed from a rocking chair on the wrap-around porch.
Savannah
Savannah’s oceanfront is a change of pace from the typical envisioned Thanksgiving haven of mountains and cabins, where you’ll find plenty of top attractions to explore. Beautiful trees still line the sidewalks, but the ocean breezes whip fresh, cool air through the city.
Sometimes, we just want something totally new to shake up the typical holiday dinner; Savannah Riverboat Cruises melds the perfect amount of tradition and change with live entertainment and comfort food aboard their Thanksgiving dinner sail. Paula Deen’s The Lady and Sons adds an ultra-southern twist to the classic meal with a menu mix of turkey, fried chicken, tomato pie, squash casserole, creamed corn, and pumpkin gooey cake.
If you’re looking for a real Thanksgiving dinner, The Olde Pink House delivers in a historic southern setting true to Savannah. Dressing, sweet potato casserole, green beans, pecan pie, and other favorites grace the menu.
Where to Stay: One of the best fall stays can be found at the Presidents’ Quarters Inn, a historic bed and breakfast in the Savannah historic district at Oglethorpe Square. Constructed in 1855, the inn boasts spacious suites, some with fireplaces and private garden-view balconies. Breakfast is freshly made to order, and afternoon hors d’oeuvres and wine are a pleasant bonus.
Dahlonega
Folks are in full swing of setting up for Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas in late November. You’ll be in this exciting city at the perfect time to experience the start of it all if you make this mountain town your Thanksgiving getaway destination.
The Smith House was established in 1899 now serving as an inviting inn and restaurant. A recovered gold mine shaft can be seen through a window inside and shines a light on the history of the area and the structure as well. The Smith House serves hearty dinners, while the country store offers homemade jams and local crafts.
Where to Stay: Forrest Hills Resort is a luxurious place to truly unwind, with lavish rooms, a day spa, horseback riding stables, two miles of walking trails, group lodges and a wedding chapel in case you’d like to tie the knot around turkey day, are just some of the amenities. Cabins are also available for a more secluded experience. Local wineries and underground gold mine tours are near and make perfect day trips. Forrest Hill’s onsite restaurant is known for cooking quite the feast for Thanksgiving.
Toccoa
Toccoa is a charming town right on the edge of the mountains. Views are spectacular, and southern hospitality is at its best, a perfect combination for the holidays.
Currahee Mountain is popular for its hiking, biking, caves, and scenic picnic areas with unparalleled views. You can also hike to Toccoa Falls, a 186-foot water feature that is 26 feet taller than Niagara Falls. The Currahee Vineyards is a family-owned winery creating award-winning Vinifera and Muscadine wines. Drink in the wine and the view.
Where to Stay: Staying at the Chateau Elan Winery And Resort is not only luxurious but extremely warm and cozy. Hit the golf course before the big meal, or relax with a treatment at the European Health Spa. The full-production winery produces Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet and Riesling grapes, which make for a gorgeous landscape, as well as delicate, delicious wines.
Atlanta
Over Thanksgiving, Atlantic Station has already come alive with Christmas Lights, while a giant tree and the Christkindl Market in Central Park are two of the big attractions. You couldn’t be in a better place for Black Friday shopping; Atlantic Station’s pedestrian-friendly streets are lined with countless big-name and small independent stores selling everything from Christmas pajamas to homemade fudge.
South City Kitchen in Midtown is a great option for Thanksgiving dinner with cool twists on typical turkey day dishes.
Where to Stay: Book a night at Twelve Midtown, Autograph Collection, a hotel located right in the shopping village; this allows you to access Atlanta’s largest ice skating rink, tons of restaurants, and lots of holiday activities.
