10 Great Places to Visit in the State of Georgia
The state of Georgia is full of exciting destinations, from natural wonders to one-of-a-kind cities. Here are 10 great places to visit during your stay in the Peach State.
1. Atlanta
The state capital is an obvious choice, as it boasts a number of tourist attractions. The Georgia Aquarium is a favorite among tourists, and the only place in the Western Hemisphere where visitors can swim with whale sharks.
Other favorite attractions include the CNN Center, the World of Cola-Cola, and Centennial Olympic Park. Fans of the book "Gone With the Wind" will enjoy a visit to the Margaret Mitchell House, a museum housed inside the author's former home which tells the history of the book and the city of Atlanta.
2. Helen
This small town, located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a replica of a Bavarian village and attracts more than three million visitors each year. You'll find an abundance of restaurants offering German food and beers, along with unique boutiques and souvenir shops.
One of the best ways to see the town is by riding in a horse-drawn carriage. Visit during September or October if you want to see the town in full swing for its annual Oktoberfest event.
3. Providence Canyon
This attraction is referred to as the "Little Grand Canyon" for obvious reasons. Although its beauty may seem natural, it was actually formed by erosion from the coastal plain as a result of poor farming practices in the 1880s.
It took about 20 years for gullies to form, and those gullies eventually turned into canyons that are now 150 feet deep and 300 feet wide. In addition to magnificent photo opportunities, you can hike around the canyons and stay overnight on a backcountry trail.
4. Savannah
This historic city is known for its beautiful squares, riverfront promenade, and ancient live oak trees that line the streets with canopies of Spanish moss. Rumor has it that General Sherman decided not to burn Savannah during the Civil War because it was simply too beautiful to destroy. Regardless of whether that claim is true, the fact remains that Savannah is a true southern gem that is worthy of a visit.
5. Golden Isles
Georgia's Golden Isles are known for their stunning beaches and marshes, which are home to an abundance of marine animals. If you love to shop, be sure to check out the independent boutiques in downtown St. Simons Island.
If you prefer to immerse yourself in nature, head to Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island. Whatever you do, you'll be treated to gorgeous scenery and a laid-back beach vibe that will make you want to keep coming back.
6. Cloudland Canyon State Park
Cloudland Canyon is located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain and happens to be one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Georgia. A day trip to the park will allow you to see deep canyons, sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, caves, and woodlands.
Those who enjoy hiking and mountain biking can choose from a number of trails that vary from easy to difficult. If a day trip just isn't enough, you can stay in an on-site cottage or yurt.
7. Stone Mountain
This huge hunk of stone is a natural creation that occurred some 300 million years ago from the upwelling of magma from within the Earth's crust. Today it is a popular tourist attraction that sits just half an hour from downtown Atlanta. Visitors can climb the mountain via a walking trail, or take a cable car to the top.
The surrounding park is home to a multitude of family-friendly activities, but the biggest draw is the Laser Show, which takes place on the side of the rock during the warmer months.
8. Okefenokee Swamp
Tourists from all over the world visit this swamp to admire its natural beauty and wildlife. Visitors can take a guided boat ride to search for alligators, or paddle in their own canoe. Guests can also take a 1.5 mile train tour around the swamp and visit a mock-up of an early homestead on Pioneer Island. Be sure to bring bug spray when you visit, as the Okefenokee Swamp is filled with pesky mosquitos.
9. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
History buffs will enjoy this attraction, which is home to a battleground where more than 67,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, or captured during the Civil War. Learn more about the Battle of Kennesaw by watching a 35-minute informative video at the Visitor Center. There are more than 22 miles of walking trails on the premises, including one that leads to the top of the mountain.
10. Cumberland Island
This barrier island, which is home to wild horses, is a stunning oasis of protected beaches and gorgeous forests. Its untouched beauty is owed to the fact that it is only reachable by ferry. There is only one inn and a handful of campsites on the island, so be sure to book in advance if you're interested in staying overnight.
Whether you're looking to brush up on your history or get in touch with nature, Georgia offers an abundance of attractions to keep you busy. All of them can be enjoyed year-round, due to the state's mild climate.
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