With the nicer weather, I thought it’d be nice to put together a list of fun getaways close to the city. I’ve hyperlinked them, so you can click to check them out. I hope they inspire you to get out on an adventure and have some fun!
Callaway Gardens, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: One hour, 15 minutes
This resort property near Columbus, Georgia offers lots of activities that all age ranges and group sizes can experience. We’re talking hiking, golfing, tree-top zip lining, wildlife areas, and other exhilarating outdoor activities. Coupled with its reopened spa and beautiful garden areas, Callaway Gardens is the perfect weekend trip for families of all ages and sizes.
Dahlonega, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: One hour, 30 minutes
One of the best ways to stay warm in these chilly evenings is to have a drink, and Dahlonega is the place to go to grab an extravagant one. Dahlonega’s fantastic wineries have mostly remained open, meaning that winery hopping, phenomenal mountain views, and cozy cottages await you in northern Georgia. Tastings are pretty affordable, and you can (responsibly) buy additional glasses—or bottles—of wine afterwards.
Helen, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: One hour, 45 minutes
Helen is an adorable Germantown nestled in the mountains of North Georgia. This place is ideal for celebrating Oktoberfest in the fall, but it’s a great getaway all throughout fall and winter. There’s plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy throughout your whole trip, from burning some firewood in the cabins to exploring Anna Ruby Falls.
Toccoa Falls, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: One hour, 34 minutes
Just as its name—which is a Cherokee word for beautiful—implies, Toccoa Falls is a magnificent sight and the South’s answer to Niagara Falls. A semi-hidden gem, it’s the highest single-drop waterfall east of the Mississippi, with 186 feet of swirling water that swiftly plunges into an equally gorgeous canyon and is actually 26 feet higher than Niagara Falls. Bring along your hiking shoes and a picnic lunch. There are lots of wooded spots to relax and eat while taking in the majestic falls.
Brasstown Bald, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: Two hours, 30 minutes
From atop the towering (and newly reopened) observation deck perched nearly 5,000 feet above sea level, visitors can catch breathtaking 360-degree views that, on clear days, include Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Be prepared to arrive early — only 60 cars will be allowed in the parking lot at a time. This is a favorite of mine.
Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: Two hours, 15 minutes
With more than 1,000 acres of deep, rocky canyons caused by poor farming practices in the 1800s, plus native wildflowers and vegetation, it looks tremendously cool and totally out of place in Georgia. A surefire way to experience one of the state’s most amazing natural wonders, the park should be on your summer bucket list.
Hiawassee, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: Two hours, 15 minutes
Right on the border of Georgia and North Carolina, Hiawassee is the quiet respite from city life that any nature lover can appreciate. Visitors have spectacular outdoor spaces to explore, from High Shoals Falls—a 170-acre scenic area that boasts five gorgeous waterfalls—to Bell Mountain Park, a newly formed park and historical sight with a breathtaking observation deck that gives visitors a 360-degree overlook of the surrounding lake and mountains from nearly 3500 feet up.
Augusta, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: Two hours, 15 minutes
Heading east on I-20 towards South Carolina, you’ll find Augusta, a charming city with a welcoming blend of outdoor activities, rich cultural experiences, shopping spots, and nightlife. With their annual Great AUG Picnic—a chance to enjoy the diverse eateries across Augusta—quickly approaching this weekend, now is the perfect time to get a taste of Georgia city life outside of Metro Atlanta. I’m getting very excited for the Masters coming up too!
Ellijay, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: One hour, 30 minutes
Another must-visit cabin getaway that should be on your radar is Ellijay. Without having to brave a lengthy drive, you can visit one of the area’s many orchards, witness a pig race, and explore the mountains. There are also plenty of wineries and tasting rooms worth giving a shot, so you’ll definitely be able to find some great bottles to bring back to your cabin and back to Atlanta.
