Georgia’s Hidden Gems and Must-See Sights

Georgia’s charm runs far deeper than the vibrant cityscapes of Atlanta and Savannah. If you’re yearning for a getaway that blends rich history, quirky roadside wonders, and breathtaking outdoor escapes, Georgia delivers with countless unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a local seeking weekend inspiration or planning your next family road trip, the Peach State is filled with incredible surprises that make every journey unique.

From small-town museums to centuries-old battlegrounds and secret nature escapes, this guide from the local experts at Absolute uncovers the best places to visit in Georgia that go beyond the usual tourist trail. Get ready to explore some of Georgia’s overlooked treasures and discover how easy it is to fall in love with everything the state has to offer.

Planning the Best Places To Visit in Georgia

Taking the time to thoroughly plan your route and budget for your road trip through Georgia can set you up for success. The area offers a mix of high-end resorts, rustic campgrounds, and budget-friendly places to stay, so you can customize your trip based on your desires. Gas prices, park fees, and food costs can add up, so look into passes or discount packages where available.

If you’re traveling with kids, build in time for rest and flexible stops. And for those hauling gear or traveling by RV, consider where you’ll park or store your vehicle while visiting more urban or remote destinations. With just a bit of prep, exploring the best places to visit in Georgia becomes easier and more affordable.

Best Things To Do in Atlanta

Atlanta is packed with energy, culture, and creativity. While well-known destinations like the Georgia Aquarium or World of Coca-Cola top many lists, here are a few lesser-known spots that show off the city’s soul:

• Cascade Springs Nature Preserve. Escape the bustle with peaceful walking trails, natural springs, and Civil War history tucked into southwest Atlanta.
• Krog Street Tunnel. One of the most photographed places in the city, this ever-changing graffiti tunnel bursts with raw, expressive street art.
• Swan House Gardens. Located at the Atlanta History Center, this elegant estate features manicured gardens and beautiful architecture, offering a quiet, picturesque retreat.

Places To Go in Georgia’s Smaller Cities

Georgia’s charm shines in its smaller cities and towns, where unique attractions and creative communities thrive. Each stop on this list offers something different, whether it’s history, art, or unexpected nostalgia:

• Normaltown in Athens. A lively neighborhood near downtown Athens is filled with local music, artsy shops, and delicious bites.
• Augusta Canal Discovery Center. Dive into the story of one of the South’s oldest industrial canals with interactive exhibits and canal boat tours.
• The Lunch Box Museum. Located in Columbus, this quirky collection of vintage lunch boxes and memorabilia is a colorful walk through pop culture history.

Georgia’s Best Roadside Attractions

Some of the best travel memories come from the unexpected. Georgia’s roadside attractions are often strange, charming, and full of character, making them perfect opportunities for stretching your legs and sparking conversation:

• The Big Chicken. This towering, animated chicken above a KFC in Marietta is both hilarious and iconic, a true Georgia landmark.
• The Rock Garden in Calhoun. An imaginative miniature world made of pebbles, glass, and cement that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
• Goats on the Roof. A fun stop in Tiger, where kids can feed goats who roam above the gift shop, and things like Amish furniture and homemade ice cream are sold.

Outdoor Recreation Places To Visit in Georgia

Nature lovers will find no shortage of scenic trails, peaceful lakes, and lush forests throughout the state. These outdoor gems are ideal for hiking, fishing, camping, or just soaking in the beauty of Georgia:

• Watson Mill Bridge State Park. Home to Georgia’s longest covered bridge, this park in Comer offers serene picnic areas and gentle trails along the South Fork River.
• Lake Sinclair. Popular for boating and fishing, this lake near Milledgeville is a relaxing spot for weekend getaways or day trips from Atlanta.
• Black Rock Mountain State Park. The highest state park in Georgia, with sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and vibrant fall foliage.

Historical Sites in Georgia

If you’re a history buff or someone who’s curious about Georgia’s past, there are plenty of sites where the stories come to life. These historical landmarks are ideal for families, students, or anyone eager to step back in time:

• Fort King George. Georgia’s oldest English fort, located in Darien, features reconstructed buildings and scenic views along the Altamaha River.
• New Echota. Once the Cherokee Nation’s capital, this site tells the story of the Trail of Tears and Indigenous life in the Southeast.
• Pickett’s Mill Battlefield State Historic Site. A well preserved Civil War battlefield near Dallas that offers trails, exhibits, and living history events.

Georgia Vacation Spots on the Coast

Georgia’s coastline is often overshadowed by neighboring states, but it’s home to some of the most peaceful and pristine vacation spots in the Southeast. These coastal locations offer the perfect escape for beachgoers and nature lovers alike:

• Golden Isles. A collection of barrier islands including St. Simons, Jekyll, and Sea Island, each offering sandy shores, golf, and Southern charm.
• Shellman Bluff. A quiet, tucked-away fishing village with moss-draped oaks, fresh seafood, and a slower pace of life.
• Sapelo Island’s Cabretta Campground. Reachable only by ferry, this island retreat offers primitive camping near untouched beaches and rich Gullah-Geechee heritage.

Rent RV Storage in Georgia From Absolute

After exploring all the places to go in Georgia, you may need a convenient spot to park your RV or store your gear between adventures. Absolute Storage Management offers secure storage units that come in many convenient sizes to help you stay organized and simplify your travel plans. Whether you’re looking for temporary storage or a long-term solution, we have the answer.

Start the process of planning your perfect vacation in Georgia today! Find a storage facility near you or check out our frequently asked questions for additional information.