The South offers its own style of entertainment and attractions and Georgia doesn’t disappoint. History buffs will find plenty to do in Georgia, including Civil War attractions, history and heritage museums, historic homes, tours and trails and that famous Southern hospitality.
Here are our selections for the top 10 must see attractions in Georgia.
Stone Mountain Park
One of the most visited places in Georgia, Stone Mountain Park offers the entire family 3,200 acres of year-round fun. From fantastic shows and attractions to recreational golf, to museums and art displays, fine dining opportunities as well as awesome shopping adventures, you will always find something fun and interesting to do here.
The park’s centerpiece is its mountain-like granite monolith, which features a relief carving of notable Confederates that’s larger than Mount Rushmore. Ride a cable car to the top or hike the one-mile path; either way, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Atlanta skyline.
Explore Atlanta
Atlanta, Georgia’s state capital, offers tons of fun for families. There are so many family-friendly things to do in Atlanta. This metropolitan city is full of events, activities, and attractions that are perfect for the whole family. From history to outdoor adventures and award-winning culture, you’re sure to find seasonal sensations year-round!
Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is a fabulous place to take the whole family. It is one of the most impressive collections of marine life on the planet. The expansive complex holds 10 million gallons of water and tens thousands of species, from the massive whale shark to beluga whales, sea otters, manta rays, and penguins. Visitors can enjoy additional fun with exhibitions, events, and even the 4D Theater. The aquarium even hosts sleepovers so the little ones can enjoy a truly unique and memorable experience. There are plenty of great activities for visitors to look forward to making this an excellent choice for a great day out for the family.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site
A hugely popular attraction with both national and international visitors to Atlanta, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site is a must for your itinerary. Tour his birth home and visit historic Ebenezer Baptist Church where you can hear some of his most moving sermons. Stroll around the World Peace Rose Garden or enjoy taking in the monument.
The visitor center is the place to stop for a brief orientation to the historic site, registration for a tour of Dr. King’s Birth Home, a tour of the featured exhibits, and for viewing a short film. This has become one of the top attractions for visitors to this area and it provides an inspirational, educational and fascinating experience.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
Anyone that loves color, fragrance and natural beauty will be delighted with the fabulous Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Here you will see one-of-a-kind flowers, vibrant plant displays, and the most beautiful landscapes. You will be stunned by the beauty that these exhibits. In addition to enjoying a relaxing stroll around the gardens you can also benefit from access to a cafe and a gift shop. The Botanical Gardens also host various events over the course of the year, so look out for these if you want to enjoy an even more exciting experience.
www.atlantabotanicalgarden.org
Jekyll Island
Nestled on the Georgia coast, midway between Savannah, GA, and Jacksonville, FL, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands known as the Golden Isles. From sprawling beaches to historic ruins, Jekyll Island is a beautiful blend of serenity and discovery will not forget in a hurry. It is a unique and stunning place that enables you to enjoy natural beauty, history and entertainment as well as total relaxation in wonderful surroundings. You can enjoy everything from golf and shopping to a visit to the wonderful Georgia Sea Turtle Center—Georgia’s first sea turtle rehabilitation, research, and education facility—when you visit this destination.
Savannah
Savannah has been called one of the World’s most beautiful cities. Each year Savannah attracts millions of visitors to its cobblestone streets, parks, and notable historic buildings. Family attractions include the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low (founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA), the Georgia Historical Society (the oldest continually operating historical society in the South), the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences (one of the South’s first public museums), and the Central of Georgia Railway roundhouse complex (the oldest standing antebellum rail facility in America.) And that’s just the beginning of the list!
National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center
The National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Columbus, Georgia provides you with access to well over two centuries of a rich and fascinating history. With thousands of artifacts, monuments, interactive exhibits and video presentations on display, the National Infantry Museum is one of the nation’s leading military history destinations. Visitors of all ages can experience firsthand the American Infantryman’s journey to defeat tyranny around the globe.
www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org
Anna Ruby Falls
These breath-taking falls are located in the Chattahoochee National Forest and are readily accessible for the price a few dollars and a little bit of hiking. Two creeks have created the drops from which the waterfalls cascades and those who make the short hike to the falls will be delighted that they did. The trail to the decks from which to view the falls is around half a mile from the parking area, so you don’t have a very long walk ahead of you. Of course, if you enjoy hiking there are other trails that you can enjoy as part of your day here such as the Lion’s Eye Trail. The visitor center and recreation area is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to dusk. There is a gift shop – offering local crafts and paintings.
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests
Filled with natural beauty and resources as well as recreational opportunities, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests span close to 870 acres running through multiple counties. There is an abundance of greenery to take in as well as crystal clear waters and woodland. If you are looking for outdoor recreation you will have plenty to choose from when you head here, including picnicking, camping, and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. This is a great way to immerse yourself in stunning surroundings and enjoy being out in the fresh air with the chance to explore and enjoy all that nature has to offer.
There is so much to see and do in Georgia. You’ll find pristine beaches, fun activities, family attractions, smiling faces, warm greetings, and exceptional service. Enjoy a Georgia vacation soon.
Jess
Tuesday 25th of October 2016
Oh gosh...looks like so much fun. :)
I would love for you to share this with my Facebook Group for recipes, crafts, tips, and tricks: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pluckyrecipescraftstips/
Thanks for joining Cooking and Crafting with J & J!
Lisa @ Fun Money Mom
Wednesday 19th of October 2016
I've never been to Jekyll Island or the Infantry museum but I've seen the rest and couldn't agree more with your choices! Thanks for sharing your tips with us at Share The Wealth Sunday!
Pat Fenner
Tuesday 18th of October 2016
Loved this post featuring places from my home State, but don't forget southwest Georgia, too! I wrote about some of the fun places to visit and things to do in my post here: http://patandcandy.com/field-trip-guide-to-albany-and-sw-georgia/
And thanks for sharing this with us at Coffee and Conversation, where we'll be featuring this at our party tomorrow :-)
Susan
Monday 17th of October 2016
I'm from Minnesota, but lived in the Atlanta area for almost 10 years. I LOVED it, and it warmed my heart to see your post. The laser show at Stone Mountain is not to be missed! Thanks for the smile.
Kat @anaussieinsf
Sunday 16th of October 2016
I moved to the US a little over a year ago so I'm always looking for new places to visit. Until now, Georgia wasn't really on my list at all, but now I think I really have to go. Thanks for the tips!