Georgia Road Trips and Day Trips: Exploring the Peach State

Road Trips in Georgia | Day Trips in Georgia

What Georgia is Known For: Southern hospitality, peaches, and historic sites.
Georgia’s Nickname: The Peach State
Georgia’s Official Hobby: Gardening
Georgia’s Most Popular State Park: Amicalola Falls State Park | Dawsonville, Georgia

The Peach State offers a wealth of destination for Georgia road trips with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and Southern charm. Whether you’re exploring its bustling cities, quaint small towns, or scenic byways, Georgia has something for every traveler.

Start your journey in the charming town of Dahlonega, known for its gold rush history and picturesque vineyards. Visit the Dahlonega Gold Museum and enjoy wine tasting at one of the many local wineries. The town’s historic square, filled with unique shops and restaurants, is a perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon.

Drive to Helen, a Bavarian-style village nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Helen offers unique architecture reminiscent of an Alpine town, complete with cobblestone streets and colorful facades. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy tubing on the Chattahoochee River, hiking in Unicoi State Park, or exploring the nearby Anna Ruby Falls.

Next, head to Madison, famous for its well-preserved antebellum homes and historic district. Take a walking tour of the town to admire the stunning architecture and visit the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center. Madison’s small-town charm and rich history make it a must-visit destination.

Don’t miss the coastal town of St. Marys, gateway to Cumberland Island National Seashore. Explore the historic waterfront, visit the St. Marys Submarine Museum, and take a ferry to Cumberland Island to see wild horses and pristine beaches. The town’s relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.

Georgia’s scenic byways, such as the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway, offer breathtaking views and lead to delightful towns like Clayton and Ellijay. In Clayton, enjoy the vibrant arts scene, explore Black Rock Mountain State Park, and savor farm-to-table cuisine at local restaurants. In Ellijay, known as the Apple Capital of Georgia, visit apple orchards, hike in the Chattahoochee National Forest, and attend the annual Georgia Apple Festival.

Georgia Road Trip Checklist

Before you go on any road trip or day trip its advised you prepare and get the items you need including a phone charging cable, fix-a-flat tire repair, a cozzy neck pillow and more. This all inclusive guide is a day trip checklist to make sure if your road trip goes a little too long you are still covered. Make sure to check it out!

Top Road Trip Routes in Georgia

1. The Peach Blossom Trail

Route: US-19/US-129
Cities: Dahlonega, Helen, Cleveland
Attractions: Dahlonega Gold Museum, Helen’s Bavarian Village, BabyLand General Hospital in Cleveland

2. The Antebellum Trail

Route: US-441
Cities: Madison, Eatonton, Milledgeville
Attractions: Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, Uncle Remus Museum in Eatonton, Old Governor’s Mansion in Milledgeville

3. The Coastal Escape

Route: I-95
Cities: St. Marys, Brunswick, Darien
Attractions: Cumberland Island National Seashore, Historic Downtown Brunswick, Fort King George in Darien

4. The Apple Orchard Pathway

Route: GA-52
Cities: Ellijay, Blue Ridge, Dahlonega
Attractions: Apple orchards in Ellijay, Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Dahlonega’s historic square

Best Times to Visit

Georgia’s diverse climate means there’s something to enjoy year-round. However, some seasons are particularly favorable for road trips.

• Spring (March to May): Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for road trips, especially in North Georgia’s mountains.
• Fall (September to November): Fall offers cooler weather and stunning foliage, particularly in the Blue Ridge and Appalachian regions.
• Summer (June to August): Summer is perfect for beach trips along the coast, though inland areas can be hot and humid.
• Winter (December to February): While winter is mild in the coastal and southern parts of the state, northern regions can experience snow, making it a scenic time to visit mountain towns.

Local Cuisine

Georgia’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes. Here are some must-try dishes and restaurant recommendations in smaller towns:

• Fried Green Tomatoes: Try the iconic dish at The Whistle Stop Café in Juliette, made famous by the movie “Fried Green Tomatoes.”
• Peach Cobbler: Visit Lane Southern Orchards in Fort Valley for a taste of fresh peach cobbler.
• Barbecue: Stop by Zeb’s Bar-B-Q in Danielsville for authentic Southern barbecue.
• Shrimp and Grits: Enjoy this coastal delicacy at The Crab Shack in Tybee Island.
• Boiled Peanuts: Pick up a bag of boiled peanuts from roadside stands throughout the state, especially in rural areas.

Most Unique Stays in Georgia

1. The Lodge at Amicalola Falls
   • Location: Dawsonville, Georgia
   • What makes it unique?: Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, this lodge offers stunning views of Amicalola Falls, luxurious accommodations, and easy access to hiking trails.
2. The Kehoe House
   • Location: Savannah, Georgia
   • What makes it unique?: A historic mansion turned boutique inn, offering elegant rooms, personalized service, and a rich history in the heart of Savannah’s historic district.
3. Helen Alpine Village
   • Location: Helen, Georgia
   • What makes it unique?: Stay in a Bavarian-style chalet in this Alpine-inspired village, complete with cobblestone streets, themed accommodations, and a festive atmosphere.
4. The Dillard House
   • Location: Dillard, Georgia
   • What makes it unique?: Known for its family-style Southern meals and rustic charm, this historic inn offers cozy accommodations and beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
5. The Partridge Inn
   • Location: Augusta, Georgia
   • What makes it unique?: This historic hotel blends classic Southern charm with modern amenities, offering a luxurious stay and stunning views of Augusta’s skyline.

Travel Tips

1. Plan for Traffic: Georgia’s highways, especially around Atlanta, can be very congested. Plan your travel times to avoid peak traffic hours.
2. Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of Georgia’s numerous state parks and hiking trails. Always carry water, sunscreen, and a map.
3. Historic Sites: Many of Georgia’s historic sites offer guided tours. Check the schedules and book in advance to make the most of your visit.
4. Local Festivals: Georgia hosts numerous festivals, such as the Atlanta Dogwood Festival and the Georgia Peach Festival. Plan your trip around these events for a unique experience.