The state of Georgia boasts historic old towns, great hiking trails, white sandy beaches but where are the best places to visit in Georgia?
There’s a lot more to explore besides the state’s bustling capital of Atlanta. Here are the peach state’s most picturesque, unique cities.
Augusta, Georgia
Located on the state’s central eastern border is Augusta, Georgia’s second biggest city after Atlanta with a population that is continually rising year after year. Augusta is internationally recognized as the famous host of one of golf’s most important professional championships, The Master’s Tournament. Thousands of people gather at the August National Golf Club, considered by many to be the most prestigious and immaculate lawn in the sport. Even now, fans are assessing golf betting odds in preparation for this year’s competition at the start of April. This gorgeous venue is one of the world’s most exclusive clubs with impeccable service like you’ve never had and an atmosphere all its own.
While the city may be most celebrated for its role in The Masters, there are plenty of other things to do in the southern locale for non-golf enthusiasts as well. Augusta boasts a beautiful and diverse downtown area where the main strip, Broad Street, is filled with local art shops and businesses as well as lively restaurants which serve up traditional, southern cuisine all year round. Visitors can also walk along the city’s Riverwalk that overlooks the Savannah River. If you’re looking for a modern, yet traditional Georgia city that is rich in history and soul, Augusta should be at the top of your list. In fact, the “Godfather of Soul” himself, James Brown, was raised here in the 1930’s during the Great Depression and Second World War. Walk in the same places as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame singer while chowing down on a local specialty, the pimento cheese sandwich, and you are sure to have the full Augusta, Georgia experience.
Savannah, Georgia
The coastal city of Savannah is one of Georgia’s most visited destinations and it’s not hard to see why. From its historic churches and homes to the modern restaurant and nightlife attractions lining the iconic River Street, Savannah is one of the best cities to travel to in all of the U.S. It’s also an extremely artistic city, home to one of the nation’s best schools for creatives, the Savannah College of Art and Design.
Seeing as Savannah is the oldest city in the United States, visitors can also make a trip to the Historic Landmark district but also make sure to visit the most beautiful places in Savannah too. Savannah also attracts people from all over because of its close proximity to the Atlantic Ocean which is only a 20-minute drive from downtown. If you’re keen on a beach day, don’t forget to load up on some lunch beforehand at some of the best mom-and-pop restaurants in the city.
Athens, Georgia
Home of the Georgia Bulldogs, need I say more? This University town is home to one of the most bustling downtown areas in the entire state with a multitude of local restaurants, family-owned businesses, and live music venues. The college crowd attracts younger generations, but the city is actually quite old with a history that dates back to the Civil War era.
Some other top attractions include the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Creature Comforts Brewing, and the Bear Hollow Zoo. Of course for college football fans, don’t miss out on visiting the Bulldog’s home field, Sandford Stadium.
Dahlonega, Georgia
For our last city on the list, we’re taking you a bit more north to Dahlonega, one of Georgia’s best cities to visit especially in the fall. If you’re a lover of the mountains, this charming town will take your breath away with beautiful displays of changing leaves and an abundance of hiking opportunities on some of the best trails.
Dahlonega is also known as Georgia’s Best Wine Town as it boasts 12 wine tasting rooms and eight operating wineries. After your wine tour, why not brush up on your southern history at the Dahlonega Gold Museum and learn about America’s first gold rush site. Overall, Dahlonega mixes modern amenities with old charm, giving visitors that one and only, holistic Georgia experience.