Welcome to my Georgia travel guide where I’ll show you the best places to visit in Georgia, outdoor adventures in Georgia, and Georgia famous landmarks. The southern state of Georgia is full of Southern charm, American history, and stunning landscapes. Since moving here in 2018, my family has loved exploring all the family-friendly activities in Georgia, my beautiful state. Though I want to keep these must-see destinations in Georgia a secret so they don’t get overrun with visitors, some of these are just too amazing to keep secret!
Whether you’re taking day trips from Atlanta or creating a Georgia road trip itinerary, here is all you you need. Join me as I share hidden gems, outdoor adventures in Georgia state parks, and some of the best things to do in Georgia there’re so many places to stop in Georgia. Whether you’re a Georgia resident or traveler, get ready to explore the best of the Peach State!
Must-See Attractions in Atlanta, Georgia
As an Atlanta area homeschool mom, ya’ll know this list is focused on the best Atlanta museums including the Atlanta art museums, Atlanta Aquarium, Atlanta Botanical Gardens, Atlanta natural history museums, and the Atlanta History Center. Discover the best things to do in Atlanta, Georgia as a family, field trip, or just Atlanta staycation. A city of culture and history, Atlanta can be a lot so start with this list of places to stop in Atlanta There’s something for every traveler.
- Carlos Museum at Emory University
- Atlanta Botanical Gardens
- Tellus Science Museum
- Dunwoody Nature Center and Playground (Free!)
- Atlanta Aquarium
- Zoo Atlanta
- Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse
- Fernbank Museum of Natural History
- Dekalb Farmers Market
- Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum
- Atlanta History Center
- High Museum of Art
~~~> If you’re looking to plan a Florida road trip, head over to this detailed post detailing all you should know for “30+ Places to Explore in Florida” that we’ve personally visited and can recommend for some Florida family adventures.
Georgia Historic Civil War Sites
Step back in time visit important Georgia historical sites while learning about Georgia’s pivotal role in the Civil War. Explore the haunting Georgia Civil War battlegrounds, the preserved forts, and the somber Andersonville National Historic Site, a former Confederate prisoner of war camp. There are even some historic sites in Atlanta that are perfect to combine with some other must-visit Atlanta destination. These historic places to visit in Georgia will offer a profound insight into the events that shaped the nation and the enduring legacy of the Civil War in Georgia. Travel intentionally and learn!
- Fort Pulaski in Savannah, Georgia
- National Civil War Naval Museum in Columbus
- Atlanta History Center for the Cyclorama of the Battle of Atlanta in Atlanta
- Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park in Atlanta
- Andersonville National Historic Site – Confederate prisoner of war camp in Andersonville
Modern Historic Sites in Georgia
Explore Georgia’s national historic sites and its rich modern history. Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park in Atlanta and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library to delve into civil rights and presidential history. See on of the best museums of Atlanta at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, highlighting Georgia’s influence on American history.
- Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site in Atlanta
- National Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta
- William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum
- President Roosevelt’s Little White House in Warm Springs
- Jimmy Carter National Historic Park in Plains
Native American Sites in Georgia
Discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Georgia’s Native American tribes by exploring the state’s fascinating archaeological landmarks. Visit significant Native American heritage sites such as the Indian mounds in Georgia at Etowah and Macon, several effigy mounds in central Georgia, and more modern sites related to the Trail of Tears. These Native American monuments are where ancient stories come to life as you uncover the legacy of Georgia’s earliest inhabitants.
- Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site in Cartersville
- Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in Macon
- Rock Eagle and Rock Hawk Effigy Mounds east of Atlanta
- Chief Vann Historic Site in Chatsworth
- Kolomoki Mounds State Park in Blakely
Hiking Georgia’s State Parks and Nature Areas
Discover breathtaking Georgia natural wonders while exploring the North Georgia mountains, chasing Georgia waterfalls, seeking out the best Georgia State Parks, or following some hiking trails in Georgia. Explore the scenic beauty of Amicalola Falls, the rugged terrain of Tallulah Gorge, and the panoramic views from Brasstown Bald. Georgia is nature, lakes, and hills. These beautiful places to hike in Georgia offer a perfect blend of adventure and nature, showcasing Georgia’s diverse landscapes and outdoor splendor.
- Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area in Lithonia
- Amicalola Falls in Dawsonville
- Brasstown Bald for Georgia’s highest point in North Georgia
- Hard Labor Creek State Park in Rutledge
- Panola Mountain State Park in Stockbridge
- Providence Canyon in Columbus
- Skidaway Island State Park near Savannah
- Stone Mountain east of Atlanta
- Tallulah Gorge – all the way East!
- North Georgia Hiking: Hemlock Falls
~~~> You know what makes kids (and drivers!) happy after a day exploring outside on a Georgia road trip?! A stop at Buc-ee’s – our favorite gas store. There are three now: Warner Robins (central), Brunswick (southern coast), and Calhoun (north of Atlanta). Learn why you should add Bucee’s to your Georgia family road trip at “21 Reasons Bucee’s Gas Station is the Best Rest Stop!”
Athens, Georgia Attractions
Only an hour-long road trip from Atlanta, this home of the University of Georgia has some of my favorite Georgia places. Discover the charm of Athens, Georgia with its blend of history, music, and art. Explore vibrant downtown, historic sites, and scenic parks, offering something for every visitor to enjoy. Did I mention there are lots of free sites in Athens?
- State Botanical Garden of Georgia (free!)
- Georgia Museum of Art (free!)
- Bear Hollow Zoo (free!)
- Southeast Clarke Park and Skateboard Park (free!)
- World of Wonder playground and park
Columbus, Georgia Attractions
Explore the rich history and beauty of Columbus, Georgia, including the Chattahoochee RiverWalk, the National Infantry Museum, and the historic Springer Opera House. Don’t miss the vibrant arts scene at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts and the Columbus Museum, which celebrates the city’s diverse cultural heritage.
- Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary – on the way south from Atlanta (free!)
- Providence Canyon in Columbus
- President Roosevelt’s Little White House in Warm Springs
- National Infantry and Soldier Museum (free!)
Macon, Georgia Attractions
Uncover the unique attractions of Macon, Georgia, where history and culture converge. Explore the ancient Ocmulgee Mounds, stroll through grand historic districts, and delve into music history at The Big House, home of the Allman Brothers Band. Enhance your visit with a trip to the Tubman Museum, showcasing African-American heritage, and experience Macon’s vibrant downtown for dining and live entertainment.
- Museum of Aviation in Macon (free!)
- Ocmulgee Indian Mounds
Savannah, Georgia Attractions
Experience the charm of Savannah, Georgia with its stunning historic squares, scenic River Street, and the lush Forsyth Park. Explore the city’s rich history at the Savannah History Museum and enjoy the vibrant arts and culinary scenes that make Savannah a must-visit destination.
- Fort Pulaski in Savannah, Georgia
- Skidaway Island State Park: trails, camping, and nature center
As our family’s journey through Georgia has unfolded over the past six years, we’ve only begun to explore the rich diversity and attractions this dynamic state offers. From historic landmarks and scenic hiking trails to cultural treasures and vibrant cities like Atlanta and Savannah, these Georgia’s top picks highlight the best of the Peach State. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure filled with must-see attractions and top things to do in Georgia!
I’ll be adding lots more of our Georgia adventures, so check back soon!
Thanks for stopping by my little corner! Here’s to your next adventure.
I’m Bobbie. As transplants from Texas, my family of six is on a mission to discover all of Georgia’s amazing places, experience amazing road trips across the United States, and create a homeschool life along the way.
Want to adventure like me? Reach out! I’d love to chat. Stop by my Instagram or Pinterest page to discover more of our adventures.
Want to work with me? I’d love to work with your destination and tourism board to help other family travelers see all you have to offer.
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