Top 18 Stunning Sites to Explore in Georgia
Georgia, a state abundant with varied landscapes and numerous attractions, offers visitors unparalleled natural appeal. As a native Georgian, I've had the pleasure of exploring the state's diverse locales, from the cobblestone streets of Savannah to the bustling city of Atlanta. Based on my experiences, I've compiled a list of the 18 most beautiful places in Georgia.
- Jekyll Island
This barrier island on the Atlantic Coast, situated between Jacksonville and Savannah, offers over 20 miles of bike trails and walking routes meandering through marshes and hovering above wooden boardwalks. Visitors can participate in seasonal ranger walks to experience the area's scenic wonders or utilize binoculars for self-guided nature tours to spot an array of birds.
- Tallulah Gorge State Park
Located along the border between Georgia and South Carolina, Tallulah Falls presents natural blessings aplenty. The park's centerpiece is the Tallulah Gorge, commonly referred to as one of Georgia's "Seven Natural Wonders." The gorge stretches for two miles and plunges almost 1,000 feet deep, having been sculpted over centuries by the Tallulah River. A popular way to appreciate the gorge's beauty is by traversing the Tallulah Gorge Rim Trail.
- Cumberland Island
Steeped in history, Cumberland Island, another Georgia barrier island, presents a sense of timelessness. The 17-mile-long strip of land, which remains mostly protected as a National Seashore, is characterized by dense maritime forest teeming with live oaks, saw palmetto, sabal palms, and pines. Travelers can explore the island's numerous historic ruins and natural wonders.
- Little Grand Canyon
Providence Canyon State Park in Georgia is home to unique geological formations, such as the Little Grand Canyon, another of the state's "Seven Natural Wonders." Arizona, and Arizona-like views can be found along the Rim Trail or by taking a more adventurous descent into the deepest canyons. The 5-mile Canyon Loop Trail encircles nine canyons, making it one of the most popular hikes.
- Helen
Founded around 2 square miles, this quaint Bavarian-themed town features steeply pitched roofs, quaint cross-gables, and colorful half-timbering exuding fairytale charm. The town's proximity to the mountains provides excellent outdoor recreation opportunities, and its annual Oktoberfest draws visitors each fall for celebrations aplenty.
- Additional beautiful locations in Georgia include Rock City Gardens, Saint Simons Island, Forsyth Park, Downtown Thomasville, Callaway Resort & Gardens, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site, Macon Cherry Blossom Festival, Atlanta History Center, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Dahlonega, Atlanta Botanical Garden, and Lake Lanier. Each location showcases the state's diverse natural beauty, ranging from coastal islands and waterfalls to historic cities and unique geological formations.
References:[1] Southern Living. (n.d.). The ultimate guide to Georgia's most beautiful places. Retrieved June 18, 2023, from https://www.southernliving.com/travel/georgia/most-beautiful-places-in-georgia
- Southern Living recommends visiting Jekyll Island, a picturesque barrier island in Georgia with miles of bike trails and numerous nature spots.
- Tallulah Gorge State Park, situated along the border between Georgia and South Carolina, boasts the scenic Tallulah Gorge, one of Georgia's "Seven Natural Wonders."
- Cumberland Island, another Georgia barrier island, offers a sense of history and beauty with numerous historic ruins and natural landscapes.
- Providence Canyon State Park in Georgia hosts the Little Grand Canyon, another of the state's natural wonders, and offers hiking trails with stunning geological formations.
- The Bavarian-themed town of Helen offers fairytale charm and outdoor recreational opportunities, also renowned for its annual Oktoberfest celebration.
- Additional notable locations in Georgia include Rock City Gardens, Saint Simons Island, Forsyth Park, Downtown Thomasville, Callaway Resort & Gardens, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site, Macon Cherry Blossom Festival, Atlanta History Center, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, Dahlonega, Atlanta Botanical Garden, and Lake Lanier.
- Exploring these diverse locations reveals Georgia's unique landscapes, ranging from coastal islands and waterfalls to historic cities and unique geological formations.
