14 Most Scenic Towns in Georgia

If you love exploring, then the state of Georgia is a great destination for your next trip. The state of Georgia has everything from beautiful waterfalls to hearty southern food and a vibrant art scene. 

Georgia has breathtaking mountain scenery and relaxing beaches in the United States' southern-eastern region. Georgia is filled with incredible small towns where you'll find quirky boutiques, delectable Southern food, and a whole lot of charm.  Here are 14 of Georgia's most scenic towns.

Americus

Called the "metropolis of Southwest Georgia," Americus has some interesting historic firsts, including being the first city to get an electric street car system in the state and being the city of Charles Lindbergh's first solo flight. Americus' historic district has officially been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1976, making downtown Americus a must-see for history and architectural lovers. The city is a haven of diverse architectural styles, including Classic Revival and Romanesque. 

Several buildings of note are open for visitors, including the historic Windsor Hotel. Built in the Queen Anne Style in 1892, The Windsor Hotel welcomed several esteemed guests during its time, including then-New York Governor Franklin D. Roosevelt. Another notable local landmark is the Rylander Theater. While it may look unassuming outside, the interior has been restored to its Art Deco glory. Today, visitors can enjoy performances of the theater's rare original 1928 Moller Theater Pipe Organ, dramas, and musicals. 

Blairsville

For outdoor enthusiasts, Blairsville is a must-visit. Located in the heart of North Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains, Vogel State Park, one of Georgia's oldest and most popular state parks, has beautiful hiking trails with stunning views of waterfalls and a 20-acre lake and swimming beach. 

 While in town, the Old Courthouse Museum and the Mountain Life Museum are two great spots to learn more about Blairsville's history. Both museums have free admission, making them perfect for families. The downtown core is very walkable, has beautiful churches and old buildings, and a wide range of eating and shopping options. The downtown core has various locally owned shopping and food options, including the Book Bound Bookstore and some ice cream at the Tin Roof Country Store and Creamery.  For adult libations, Granddaddy Mimm's Distilling Co. is known for its small-batch moonshine, spirits, and beer. 

Blue Ridge

Luxury cabins in the mountains, waterfalls, wineries, craft breweries, and more, Blue Ridge has it all. With 300 miles of hiking trails and 100 miles of streams full of trout, Blue Ridge is the ideal spot for a romantic getaway or a family vacation. Visit Mercier Orchards for delicious apples, cider, and fresh baked goods. 

Take a historic trip on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway through the picturesque Appalachian foothills of North Georgia, which takes riders on a four-hour, 26-mile roundtrip journey. Starting at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge, travelers embark on a one-hour trip to the sister towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee, both situated on each state's line. 

Athens

Home of the University of Georgia, Athens is more than a college town. Athens has a thriving music scene and many fun attractions and activities, including a music history walking tour, giving visitors insight into Athens' unique sound that inspired legendary bands such as the B-52s and R.E.M. With many iconic music venues to choose from, there is never a shortage of shows. The 40 Watt Club and the iconic Georgia Theatre are just two of the city's popular music venues. 

Another popular attraction in downtown Athens is the Lyndon House Arts Center, a visual arts complex where visitors can enjoy expansive art galleries and a variety of workshops, including a children's wing. For movie lovers, Ciné, the local art-house cinema, to watch independent and international films, from festival hits to beloved classics. Or take a trip to the Memorial Park and Bear Hollow Zoo, home to many non-releasable wildlife animals, including black bears, deer, wild turkeys, river otters, and a reptile house. 

Duluth

No matter what time of year you visit, chances are there will be a festival or event of some sort happening on the Duluth Town Green. Enjoy free festivals, concerts, movies, and other entertainment organized by the city of Duluth. Check out the full schedule of events on the town's website. 

Enjoy a Red Clay Music Foundry concert, or catch a lacrosse game and cheer for the Georgia Swarm at the Infinite Energy Center. For train enthusiasts, the Southeastern Railway Museum is a must-see. 

Madison

Known as one of the most beautiful towns in the world, Madison was named one of  Architectural Digest's "55 Most Beautiful Small Towns in America in 2022." This truly authentic Southern town offers plenty to do and see and is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway. 

The Madison Farm to spend some time with a herd of Alpacas and enjoy the outdoors by walking around the 50-acre farm. For more low-impact walking that is perfect for all ages, take the Madison Historic District Audio Walking/Driving Tour. Swing by the town's Welcome Center to pick up a self-guided map. For unique gifts and souvenirs, shop at the Creative Mark in the historic town district. If you're feeling hungry, swing by Farmview Market. A neat combination of grocery store, butcher shop, cafe, and farmers market that features locally sourced farm-to-table options. 

Warm Springs

One of the biggest attractions in Warm Springs is Roosevelt's Little White House State Historic Site, a charming small cottage nestled in the pine woods near town. FDR spent time here during his four terms as president when he needed a getaway. The site has been preserved, giving visitors a glimpse into his daily life. FDR found that swimming in Warm Springs' mineral waters was therapeutic for his paralyzed legs. 

If you're in the mood for a barbecue, Mac's Barbeque & Steakhouse is a popular spot. If you are looking for an after-dinner drink, another popular local spot is Warm Springs Vineyard Winery. Take a walk through Triple B Gardens, a small family-owned and operated, Georgia-licensed nursery. 

Washington

One of the oldest towns in Georgia, Washington has tons of historic architecture dating as far back as 1780, when the town was founded. The downtown square has unique shops, restaurants, and beautiful architecture, including the historic Fitzpatrick Hotel, which was built in the late 1800s. 

Outside of town, the Broad River Water Trail flows around the area and has great paddling for any water lover. To learn more about Washington's African-American history, visit Cherry Grove Schoolhouse. One of the 15  identified surviving pre-Rosenwald one-room schoolhouses for African-Americans built on church grounds in Georgia, Cherry Grove Schoolhouse taught children from primary to seventh grade. 

Covington

Explore Covington by the town's trolley system and the local movie sets. If you're hungry, indulge in southern food at the Mystic Grill and the Bread and Butter Bakery for baked goods. You may recognize downtown Covington from the TV show Vampire Diaries, as it was the set of Mystic Falls, Virginia. Or, from The Dukes of Hazzard, Sweet Magnolias, and over 100 other productions.

For fans of The Vampire Diaries, there is a Mystic Falls Tour that covers the landmarks from The Vampire Diaries and showcases other Covington film landmarks. Other unique tours about Covington include a tour where you can learn more about the spooky side of town-a ghost tour highlighting historic sites in town.  

Dahlonega

Welcome to wine country! Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the many vineyards and wineries such as the Three Sisters, Wolf Mountain, and Frogtown Cellars. Catch a show at the Holly Theater, offering comedy, music, drama performances, camps, and classes. 

If you are looking for more family-friendly fun, explore the Dahlonega Butterfly Farm, located on 5.5 acres of land and is home to abundant wildlife and native plants, making it the perfect location for butterfly habitats. Learn the history of the town's origins as a mining site at the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site, located inside the historic courthouse in the town square. For a more authentic adventure, venture underground in the Crisson Gold Mine, which shows visitors firsthand the gold mining techniques used. After a mine tour, enjoy a wagon ride and play with pygmy goats. 

Helen

When you first arrive at Helen, you may think you're in Germany. With its old-world style towers, colorfully painted wooden houses, and cobblestone alleyways, Helen is modeled after the original European mountain towns. In the 1960s, mandated zoning was introduced, which made having classic South German style present on every building-including chain stores-mandatory. 

To get the full German-style experience, visit the town during their yearly Oktoberfest. Enjoy the fall parade, live music, dancing, and German-style food and drink. Be sure to stop by the Nora Mill Granary for grits-also known as "Georgia Ice-Cream." 

Roswell

Returning to the early days of Georgia's statehood, Rosswell's location along the Chattahoochee River makes it popular for outdoor activities and sports. If you're feeling spooky, explore the city's historic landmarks by night with a ghost tour. During the experience, learn haunting stories such as the hauntings of the mill workers' apartments and dark tales from the town's mansions. Reservations are required to book a ghost tour, but please note that this tour is not recommended for small kids. 

For family-friendly tours, check out one of the best Greek Revival Temple architecture examples, Barrington Hall. Situated on 7 acres and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you're feeling 

Valdosta

Known as the "Azalea City" due to the colorful azaleas that grow in the area, Valdosta has something going on all year long. Home of the South Georgia Film Festival, which happens annually in early March, and the Hahira Honey Bee Festival in early October.

Valdosta has adventures for the whole family, including The Wild Adventures Theme Park for its roller coasters, rides, water park, and more. For outdoor lovers, the Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area, which protects acres of wetland habitat, is a great space for walks and hikes. 

Darien

A beautiful coastal town located between Brunswick and Savannah, Georgia, filled with beautiful, historic seaside town scenery.  Take a boat tour with Georgia Tidewater Outfitters for a unique area view. Darien has many locally owned shops and stores, including Sugar Marsh Cottage, where to indulge in specialty treats like bonbons and coquilles. Dine at one of the many restaurants to get fresh seafood harvested locally. 

Established as a port town on the Altamaha River by Scottish Highlanders in the 1700s, Darien has a long martial tradition and was considered one of the great ports on the eastern seaboard by the 1860s. While in town, visit one of the many historic sites, including the Old Jail or Fort King George. 

Exploring Georgia's Richness

Georgia offers more than just bustling urban centers; it's a tapestry of experiences waiting to be unveiled. Whether it's a tranquil weekend retreat or a grand road adventure, each city, big or small, contributes to the state's unique charm and character. Dive deep into its corners, and you'll find a treasure trove of memories waiting to be made.