Tourists usually flock to Georgia to stroll through the cobblestone streets of Savannah or to hike the adventurous trails of the Blue Ridge Mountains. While these destinations are great, if you look a little deeper you’ll uncover the Peach State’s hidden gems, such as the feral horses of Cumberland Island, the spooky driftwood on Jekyll Island, or the alpine-style buildings in the Bavarian town of Helen. Here are 10 irresistible tourist destinations Georgia has to offer. Come with me and I will show you the state’s real beauty.
Tybee Island
Our first destination is located off the Georgia coast. Tybee Island, a popular tourist spot, boasts a rich history and natural beauty. It’s home to one of the state’s oldest lighthouses, first lit in 1736. Between May and August, loggerhead sea turtles nest on the island’s beaches. Plan your vacation at the right time and experience one of nature’s miracles.
Jekyll Island
Drive about 2 hours and you’ll arrive at another great vacation destination. Its main attraction is Driftwood Beach, named for the abundance of driftwood that washes up along the shoreline. The beach’s “boneyard” appearance is caused by decades of erosion, with the sea encroaching upon the maritime forest. Vacationers will marvel at nature’s sculptures. Bring your camera and capture the island’s stunning scenes.
Cumberland Island
Next stop is Cumberland Island. This Georgia vacation spot is home to the only feral group of horses off the Atlantic coast. Originally brought here by humans for transportation and livestock, these once-domesticated horses now live on their own. While they are considered a non-native species, the horses take advantage of the island’s manmade roads and trails. Does anyone else hear the song “Wild Horses” playing in the background?
St. Simons Island
We’ve seen sea turtles, driftwood, and feral horses. Our next island features Spanish Moss, which hangs from oak trees. Despite its name, Spanish Moss is not technically moss, nor is it from Spain. The island’s trees are draped with the gray vegetation, giving it a unique look. Drive down the Avenue of Oaks to see the trees in their 160-year-old glory. It almost seems as if the trees are developing gray hair.
Tallulah Gorge State Park
Now we’ll travel to the mainland and visit Tallulah Gorge State Park. At two miles long and 1,000 feet deep, the park’s centerpiece, Tallulah Gorge, is one of the most stunning canyons on the East Coast. Visitors can hike the trails and capture breathtaking views from its numerous vantage points. If the Grand Canyon is too far away for a quick vacation, Tallulah Gorge State Park is the perfect introduction.
Amicalola Falls State Park
Let’s check out another state park. “Amicalola” is derived from a Cherokee word meaning “tumbling waters.” Amicalola Falls is the tallest waterfall in Georgia. Guests can enjoy the wonders of nature with lodging near the Appalachian Trail and the Chattahoochee National Forest. At the Amicalola State Park & Lodge, you can also enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities, including axe throwing, archery, and zip-lining. With everything you want nearby, it’ll be the easiest vacation you’ll ever plan.
Okefenokee Swamp
We leave the forest for this vacation spot and enter the swamp. The Okefenokee Swamp straddles the Georgia-Florida border and hosts a diverse range of plant and animal wildlife. Thousands of tourists visit the blackwater swamp through one of its four public entrances. Join a guided boat tour, rent a kayak or a canoe, or drive or walk along Swamp Island Drive. It’ll be a one-of-a-kind experience.
Providence Canyon State Park
Since we love state parks, let’s check this one out. Providence Canyon State Park is considered “Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon.” While most canyons are formed naturally, the park’s unique features were caused by erosion following poor farming practices during the 1800s. Despite human error, the park’s numerous trails bring visitors to some of the most breathtaking vistas in the state.
Helen
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen is home to some of the state’s most spectacular architecture and landscapes. Be transported to Bavaria with its alpine-style buildings and mountain backdrop. There are plenty of fun things to do, including shopping, outdoor activities, museums, art galleries, dining, and more. Experience Germany away from Germany when you visit during Oktoberfest.
Stone Mountain Park
Our last stop on our tour of the best vacation spots in Georgia is Stone Mountain Park. With over 3,000 acres, the park boasts a plethora of activities, including hiking, railroad rides, a dinosaur park, and one of the largest Confederate sculptures carved into the side of the mountain. We’ve given you plenty of options for your next vacation. Take advantage of the Peach State’s unique offerings.
