Top 25 Stunning Destinations in Georgia, USA

Cloud-wreathed mountains, vast Atlantic beaches, swamps adorned with bald cypress, and elegant historic cities, Georgia boasts an abundance of stunning destinations.

The Appalachian mountain landscapes in the north, draped in lush forests, offer serene vistas without evoking trepidation, and serve as the southern terminus of the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail.

Georgia’s coastline features a lengthy array of barrier islands, home to expansive Atlantic beaches and maritime forests that were once favored by affluent families from the Gilded Age, including the Carnegies, Vanderbilts, and Rockefellers.

This compilation encompasses five of Georgia’s Seven Natural Wonders, four of which present magnificent canyons accessible via daunting staircases. Those adventurous enough to conquer them will earn a place in the GA State Parks’ Canyon Climbers Club.

1. Savannah

In late 1864, Union Army General William T. Sherman’s March to the Sea devastated much of Georgia’s civilian infrastructure; however, Savannah successfully negotiated a peaceful surrender, preserving one of the South’s most enchanting cities.

In the two captivating historic districts, visitors can meander through cobblestone streets and elegant squares draped with moss-laden live oaks, marveling at an exceptional collection of antebellum architecture.

The Savannah Historic District maintains its original Georgian plan from the 1730s, featuring an atypical layout of over 20 central squares, which greatly enhance the city’s charm.

Historic and contemporary elements converge on cobblestone River Street, where ancient waterfront warehouses welcome a constant stream of large container ships visiting the largest port in Georgia.

2. Cumberland Island National Seashore

For expansive skies, vast ocean views, abundant wildlife, and tranquil solitude, the largest of Georgia’s barrier islands meets all the criteria.

Nestled near the Florida border, Cumberland Island is undeniably picturesque, featuring 17 miles of untouched sandy coastline.

Historically, the majority of the island was owned by the Carnegie family, and the haunting remains of their estate, Dungeness, coexist with palms and live oaks near the southern tip.

Wild horses can often be seen grazing around the historic estates and playing on the beaches. Guided tours are available for those seeking a closer insight into the local wildlife and the lives of the island’s diverse residents, both the wealthy and those who were enslaved.

Notably secluded, Cumberland Island is only accessible via ferry, and it is advisable to secure tickets well in advance.

3. Amicalola Falls State Park

Before embarking on the Appalachian Trail, hikers can find inspiration at one of Georgia’s seven natural wonders located near the trailhead.

With a height of 728 feet, Amicalola Falls ranks as the tallest waterfall in Georgia and the third highest of its kind east of the Mississippi River.

The creek cascades down a broad terrace framed by a rich hardwood forest. Four sets of trails and a strategically placed bridge beside the lower cascade provide several options to experience the waterfall.

The most gratifying, albeit challenging, option is the staircase that runs alongside the falls, offering sweeping views of the valley from the summit.

4. Jekyll Island

Two-thirds of this stunning barrier island in the Golden Isles is designated as protected natural habitat, which includes eight miles of pristine beaches.

Jekyll Island’s allure is underscored by its history as a private club, frequented by powerful families at the turn of the century, such as the Vanderbilts and Rockefellers.

Enjoy an educational tram tour of the club’s former estates, now preserved as a historic district, still echoing with the grandeur of the Gilded Age.

The long expanse of sandy coastline features the intriguing Driftwood Beach, where coastal erosion has scattered the skeletal remains of trees along the shore.

The island boasts an excellent trail network, allowing visitors to explore by bicycle beneath the towering live oaks.

Additionally, a cherished local inhabitant is the sea turtle. The island also features a rehabilitation center for injured and sick turtles, presenting interactive exhibits about these remarkable animals.

5. Brasstown Bald

To reach Georgia’s highest point, you do not need to be an adventurous explorer. Brasstown Bald, standing at 4,784 feet, is crowned with a visitor center.

The location is accessible from the parking area via the half-mile Summit Trail, or for added ease, you may opt for the shuttle bus.

The observation deck provides a comprehensive panorama of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, stretching over a sea of verdant peaks and valleys across four states, with Atlanta visible on clear days.

The visitor center features a history and science museum, in addition to a store offering local handcrafted products.

For those inspired by the vistas, trails radiate from the parking area, including the Jacks Knob Trail, a National Recreation Trail that connects with the Appalachian Trail.

6. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

Straddling the Georgia-Florida border is a vast, peat-filled swamp, home to alligators and the distinctive bald cypress, emblematic of the southern wetlands.

In addition to these iconic species, the Okefenokee Swamp acts as a sanctuary for threatened and endangered wildlife, including wood storks, indigo snakes, and red-cockaded woodpeckers.

This wilderness is preserved as a 680-square-mile national wildlife refuge. If you seek a starting point, I suggest the Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center in Folkston.

At Chesser Island, visitors have the opportunity to traverse part of the swamp along a boardwalk and ascend the Owl’s Roost Tower for a panoramic view of the expansive landscape.

For those wishing to explore the water, boat tours and canoe/kayak rentals can be found through Okefenokee Adventures, located adjacent to the visitor center.

7. Cloudland Canyon State Park

Adventurers seeking rugged terrain will find Cloudland Canyon State Park on the western slope of Lookout Mountain in Georgia’s far northwest corner. This area features a gorge exceeding 1,000 feet in depth, shaped by the Sitton Gulch Creek.

Awe-inspiring views of the canyon are readily accessible from both the parking lot and picnic area, continuing along the West Rim Loop Trail.

The trail offers multiple viewpoints of the canyon, culminating in a trek up to the plateau, where sights of nearby Sand Mountain and the city of Trenton await.

For those brave enough to descend a 600-step staircase, I highly recommend the Waterfalls Trail, which leads to two stunning cascades: Cherokee Falls and further down, Hemlock Falls at the canyon’s base.

8. Tallulah Gorge State Park

Just downstream from the Tallulah Falls Dam, the Tallulah River plunges into a breathtaking canyon that stretches two miles in length and reaches depths of up to 1,000 feet, featuring nearly vertical cliffs.

This site is among Georgia’s seven natural wonders, and despite its seemingly intimidating wilderness, exploration is made straightforward thanks to numerous staircases.

The Rim Trail leads visitors to a series of elevated overlooks, providing a clear perspective on the scale of this impressive gorge and a bird’s-eye view of six waterfalls, which contribute to a total drop of 500 feet over just one mile.

Perhaps the highlight is the suspension bridge, which soars 80 feet above the river after a long descent along a spiraling staircase that navigates through the wooded sides of the gorge.

9. Stone Mountain Park

In several locations on this list, remarkable beauty is accompanied by a complex history, which is particularly relevant at Stone Mountain, located just east of Atlanta.

Emerging from the earth is an isolated inselberg, composed of various igneous rocks, rising prominently with an elevation of 825 feet.

This striking geological formation encircles five miles at its base, and can be ascended via the Summit Skyride from the north side or a round-trip trail that approaches from the west.

During the early 1970s, the north face was marked by what is recognized as the world’s largest bas-relief carving, depicting three Confederate leaders.

Since the 2010s, there have been increasing calls for its removal. The park continues to host the Stone Mountain Laser Show Spectacular on summer evenings, showcasing a captivating display of lights and fireworks.

10. St. Simons Island

The largest of the Golden Isles offers captivating landscapes, from sweeping Atlantic beaches to golf courses and numerous picturesque landmarks.

Particularly notable is the St. Simons Island Light located at the southern end, first constructed in 1810 and subsequently rebuilt in 1872 after being destroyed by retreating Confederate soldiers during the Civil War.

Visitors can ascend the 129 steps for a panoramic view of Saint Simons Sound, complemented by a museum housed within the 1872 lighthouse keeper’s cottage.

Inland, the island’s warm climate nurtures picturesque live oaks draped with ethereal Spanish moss, while the maritime forest at Cannon’s Point Preserve showcases the area’s natural beauty, which was part of a former plantation.

Further history awaits at the Fort Frederica National Monument, which preserves remnants of a fort and settlement founded in the mid-18th century by the British to protect the colony from Spanish incursions.

11. Sweetwater Creek State Park

This beautiful tract of deciduous forest, located on Sweetwater Creek, is remarkably close to downtown Atlanta.

You can arrive here within just 20 minutes from Centennial Olympic Park, discovering landscapes reminiscent of areas further north in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The trails follow the creek and ascend through hardwoods adorned with wild azaleas, ferns, and magnolias, ultimately leading to rocky bluffs that provide breathtaking views of the rapids alongside the Atlanta skyline.

Along Sweetwater Creek, visitors can observe the atmospheric ruins of a mill that was operated by the New Manchester Manufacturing Company until its destruction during the Civil War.

The park features an award-winning visitor center that delves into the region’s history, displaying Native American artifacts, Civil War memorabilia, and exhibits detailing local biodiversity and geology.

12. Rock City Gardens

Located several miles from Cloudland Canyon, the summit of Lookout Mountain hosts a unique visitor attraction that debuted in 1932.

Utilizing the vast rock formations and expansive views at 1,700 feet above sea level, Rock City was designed as an extensive rock garden featuring 400 native plant species.

The Enchanted Trail traverses these landscaped areas, showcasing vibrant blossoms in springtime and romantic hues in autumn.

Visitors can admire a 100-foot man-made waterfall perched on the cliff, and traverse the Swing-A-Long Bridge, which spans a rocky chasm. The views from Lover’s Leap atop the cliff are awe-inspiring, whether or not the claim of seeing seven states holds true.

13. Helen

In the 1960s, faced with a dwindling lumber industry, this quaint mountain town transformed itself into a charming Alpine-inspired village.

With hipped roofs, half-timbering, and extended eaves, every building in the heart of Helen, even those occupied by national chains, resembles something right out of Bavaria.

Visitors can indulge in traditional German cuisine, while shopping for authentic Bavarian handicrafts and specialty items. Helen is more than a mere novelty; it serves as an excellent base for various outdoor experiences in the Southern Appalachians.

Nearby, the stunning Anna Ruby Falls is just one of three worthwhile waterfalls in close proximity. Additionally, hiking, horseback riding, and scenic tubing along the beautiful Chattahoochee River are all easily accessible from town.

14. Tybee Island

At Georgia’s easternmost point, a mere few minutes from downtown Savannah, lies Tybee Island, a barrier island characterized by breathtaking coastal views intertwined with significant historical landmarks.

The highlight is the five miles of expansive public beaches, all wide, shallow, and caressed by the rolling Atlantic surf.

At dawn, Tybee Pier provides a picturesque silhouette, while the iconic black and white Tybee Island Light Station at the north end dates back to 1736, although it has undergone several reconstructions since.

Dolphins are plentiful in the waters surrounding Tybee Island, and visitors can witness them playfully swimming in the wake of boats. The island also has historical significance at Fort Pulaski, once viewed as impenetrable, that was breached during a Union Army siege in 1862.

15. Preacher’s Rock

For an effortless yet rewarding day hike on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia, consider the two-mile adventure leading to a breathtaking overlook near Dahlonega.

The trailhead and parking area are situated at Woody Gap on SR 60, a segment of the Appalachian Trail cherished by thru-hikers.

Initially, hikers will traverse a gentle slope through hardwood forests, gradually transitioning to a series of switchbacks as they near the summit of Big Cedar Mountain.

When you reach the high outcrop, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of the expansive Blue Ridge Mountains. Preacher’s Rock is magnificent year-round, with delightful spring blooms and striking autumn colors.

16. Madison

One of the largest historic districts in Georgia is located in this charming small town in Morgan County. Continuous preservation efforts have successfully countered the encroachment of modern development, maintaining a strong sense of identity in Madison.

For those attracted to ornate antebellum architecture, Madison boasts nearly 100 homes from this period, a remarkable presence for a town of its size. Naturally, the town’s history includes complex narratives, enriching the experience for visitors.

A prominent example is Heritage Hall (1811), a magnificent Greek Revival residence that has been preserved as a historic house museum, offering insights into the lifestyle of Madison’s affluent society before the Civil War.

17. Sawnee Mountain Preserve

Located within striking distance of Atlanta, this 963-acre preserve protects a portion of the imposing 1,946-foot Sawnee Mountain.

The five-mile ridgeline of this peak towers 750 feet over the adjacent landscape and offers glimpses to the breathtaking foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

A favored overlook, Indian Seats, comprises a series of scenic granite ledges that can be accessed via either a direct out-and-back trail or a longer loop trail that meanders past long-abandoned goldmines.

During the summer months, consider a hike on the Mountainside Trail, which is typically less trafficked than the Indian Seats Trail and consistently shaded by the forest canopy.

18. Fort Mountain State Park

The aura of mystery surrounding Fort Mountain, a peak in the Cohutta Mountains, is heightened by a rock wall located along its summit.

The origins of this zigzagging structure, standing at 885 feet, remain unknown; it is believed to have been constructed as a defensive fortification by Native Americans approximately 1,500 years ago.

Along the 1.5-mile Summit Trail, visitors can experience many of the park’s notable features, culminating in the Fort Mountain Lookout, which offers stunning views extending deep into the Cohutta Wilderness.

On the way, hikers can explore the wall and an enduring fire tower, built during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

19. Blue Ridge

This quaint town has transformed into a vibrant mountain resort over recent decades, aided by nearby access to an extensive network of hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking trails.

On Blue Ridge’s eastern slope lies a sparkling upland lake, complemented by recreational areas, campgrounds, and marinas along its shores.

The beauty of the scenery is consistent throughout the year, peaking in autumn when the leaves metamorphose into a living tapestry of colors. Visitors can stop by Mercier Orchards, established in 1943, for apple picking or embark on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, which follows the picturesque banks of the Toccoa River to McCaysville, about ten miles north.

20. Chatuge Lake

In 1942, the Hiwassee River was dammed to create this 11-square-mile reservoir. Chatuge Lake is regarded as one of the most picturesque bodies of water in the region, framed by the misty, wooded slopes of the Southern Appalachian Mountains.

Managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Chatuge Lake boasts over 132 miles of shoreline, offering opportunities for camping, beach lounging, swimming, picnicking, boating, and fishing.

You will likely find it difficult to resist the allure of the surrounding mountains. Fortunately, you may drive to the summit of Bell Mountain for an enchanting 360-degree panorama of the picturesque shoreline and rippling peaks.

21. Atlanta Botanical Garden

Transitioning from one themed garden to another within the Atlanta Botanical Garden, situated in the heart of Midtown, easily obscures your awareness of your urban surroundings.

Interspersed with captivating works of art, these interconnected spaces facilitate experiences ranging from peaceful Japanese gardens to engaging edible plant displays, boxwood hedges, and fragrant roses.

The indoor areas are remarkable, featuring rainforest and desert plants in the Dorothy Chapman Fuqua Conservatory, which is also home to tropical birds, reptiles, and amphibians.

Additionally, the Fuqua Orchid Center houses the largest collection of ‘species orchids’ in the nation, utilizing advanced technology to simulate the unique high-elevation environment that these orchids thrive in at the equator.

A standout feature is the Kendeda Canopy Walk, extending 600 feet long and rising 40 feet above a rare stand of urban forest.

22. Providence Canyon State Park

My candidate for the most unusual location on this list is the expansive network of immense gullies carved from sedimentary rock in southwestern Georgia.

Surprisingly, the depth of Providence Canyon is primarily due to modern erosion from poor farming practices in the 19th century.

Although this fact is unsettling, it in no way detracts from the grandeur of the area, with towering shards of exposed rock flaunting a spectrum from bright white to deep red.

This beauty is further enhanced in summer, when the plumleaf azalea, the rarest azalea in the United States, adorns the landscape with its pink, white, orange, and red blossoms.

23. Vogel State Park

It is hardly surprising that many of the places on this list are situated within the Chattahoochee National Forest, given its size and the abundance of pristine mountain wilderness encompassed within its boundaries.

One such destination is Vogel State Park, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains near the base of Blood Mountain, the highest peak along the Appalachian Trail in Georgia.

As the second-oldest state park in Georgia, Vogel serves as an exemplary base for outdoor recreation amid inspiring scenery, and is perfectly positioned for excursions to attractions such as Brasstown Bald and Neel Gap, a nearby mountain pass.

During the autumn months, the woods are adorned with a variety of shades, from red to gold, drawing many visitors for leaf peeping. Hikers have a wealth of choices, with each trail offering spectacular sights, from cascading waterfalls to impressive mountain views.

24. Dahlonega

Dahlonega, a delightful town set in the foothills of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, was the site of what is often regarded as America’s first gold rush.

Following the initial discovery in 1829, the surrounding rivers and streams were inundated with enthusiastic prospectors.

A notable remnant from the gold rush period is the Old Lumpkin County Courthouse (1836), the oldest still-standing courthouse in Georgia, which now operates as a museum showcasing artifacts from the 1830s and 1840s.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the role of a gold prospector at both the Consolidated Gold Mine and Crisson Gold Mine, but Dahlonega also has another appeal to offer.

The city lies at the heart of North Georgia Wine Country, with multiple vineyards and wineries, tasting rooms, and cellars readily accessible for exploration.

25. State Botanical Garden of Georgia

While it may not have made my initial list, Athens deserves recognition as a charming city, and if I had to choose a must-see location, it would undoubtedly be the exquisite botanical garden managed by the University of Georgia.

Situated three miles south of the main campus, this area was designated for preservation in the 1960s and serves not only as a beautiful retreat but also as a vital living laboratory for research and education.

Among its various collections are native azaleas, rhododendrons, dahlias, and groundcover plants.

The Heritage Garden provides an insightful exploration of crops vital to Georgia’s history, such as peaches, cotton, and tobacco, while the International Garden offers a chronological journey beginning in the Middle Ages, featuring medicinal and culinary herbs.

As a recommendation, consider visiting in spring when the azaleas, rhododendrons, and bulb flowers are in bloom, though the garden also hosts a dazzling light display during the holiday season.