6 Serene Towns in Georgia for a Weekend Retreat
The beautiful state of Georgia simply bursts with great reasons for travelers to include it on their Southern USA travel itinerary. Referred to as the “Peach State” for its bountiful annual harvest of this delicious fruit, many of the best things to do here can in fact be enjoyed in the state’s many attractive smaller communities.
From the town of Blue Ridge in the Georgia Mountains to Tybee Island on the Atlantic coast, these destinations offer a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and that famous Southern hospitality. To help plan the perfect Southern getaway, here are six small towns in Georgia that stand out as ideal spots for a relaxing getaway, each bursting with charm and fun things to do.
Dahlonega
Dahlonega (pronounced “duh-laa-nuh-guh”) is set in the scenic North Georgia mountains and was the site of the first major U.S. Gold Rush in 1828, a fact that’s celebrated throughout the community. A weekend visit here should begin in Historic Downtown Dahlonega with a visit to the Dahlonega Gold Museum, Housed in a former courthouse built in 1936 overlooking the town square, highlights include exhibits relating to the Gold Rush era as well as the town’s later growth.
Prefer to have fun outdoors? Dahlonega is a great base from which to explore the Appalachian Trail and is a favored starting point for many hikers, with connecting trails crisscrossing the area that are suitable for all levels. Weekend stays can be enjoyed at reputable accommodation providers including the charming Yellow Daisy Bed and Breakfast and the historic 27 on Park Boutique Hotel & Venue.
Helen
If you’ve never experienced Europe, then a visit to the tourist town of Helen is a must-do. Modelled after a Bavarian alpine village, this unique northeast Georgia community was transformed in the 1960s from a floundering former-logging community to what is now undoubtedly one of the state’s most-visited small towns. Today, its European-themed stores sell everything from German food to cuckoo clocks and handcrafted gifts, as well as taverns and restaurants selling authentic European dishes.
If possible, plan your Helen weekend retreat to coincide with the town’s annual Oktoberfest, a celebration that draws crowds with its authentic German music, dancing, food, and, of course, a wide selection of beers. Helen also serves as a gateway to Unicoi State Park, as well as one of the state’s prettiest waterfalls, Anna Ruby Falls. European-themed accommodations can be enjoyed at the Helendorf River Inn, Suites & Conference Center, as well as The Castle Inn.
Madison
Madison is a Georgian treasure of a town that epitomizes the charm and elegance of the old Antebellum South. Widely recognized as one of Georgia's most beautiful towns, Madison is renowned for its well-preserved historic district and the many surviving examples of antebellum architecture which were spared the destruction of General Sherman's Civil War March to the Sea. A focal point for tourists is Heritage Hall, a stately home built in 1811 that serves as a prime example of Greek Revival architecture. Guided tours are available and offer insights into the lives of those who lived here along with original décor and furnishings.
The Madison-Morgan Cultural Center is another must-visit. Housed in a beautifully restored 1895 Romanesque Revival building, visitors can explore local art and history exhibits or take in a show in the theater. Those wanting to enjoy a weekend stay should check out the Brady Inn in the downtown area, or any one of the big brand hotels off the I-20, including Hampton Inn and Quality Inn.
Blue Ridge
Blue Ridge is unique among Georgia’s small towns for having not just one but two main streets. Founded along the route of the railroad in the 1880s, a rail line dissects the downtown core separating East and West Main Streets which run parallel with the tracks. Little wonder, then, that this still operating railway, now known as the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, is the town’s top attraction. This historic scenic train embarks from the town's original 1905 depot and takes passengers on a picturesque journey along the Toccoa River, through the Appalachian foothills to the twin towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee.
Blue Ridge is also popular among outdoor enthusiasts, drawn here by the promise of hiking, fishing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting adventures. The Aska Trails Area is particularly popular among mountain bikers and features a network of trails that offer beautiful views of Lake Blue Ridge and the surrounding mountains. For an authentic and romantic stay, book a room at the first-rate Blue Ridge Inn Bed and Breakfast, while the Hampton Inn by Hilton Blue Ridge offers quality accommodations overlooking the railway.
Tybee Island
Here’s one for those travelers seeking a weekend retreat on Georgia’s Atlantic coast. Handily located just a short drive from the beautiful historic city of Savannah, Tybee Island is a laid-back coastal town that’s not unlike those small towns found in Florida. Set on a barrier island at the mouth of the Savannah River, the long beach here is as perfect for sunbathing as it is for swimming, as well as jet skiing and boating.
Other attractions include the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, one of the oldest and most intact lighthouses in the United States and still in use 270 years after its construction. Up for a challenge? Then be sure to climb the 178 steps to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area. Fort Pulaski National Monument is another must-see and is a Civil War-era fortress that offers daily tours, historical re-enactments, and nature trails. Accommodations in Tybee Island are plentiful, with popular choices including DeSoto Beach Hotel and the Royal Palms Motel.
Ellijay
Ellijay’s setting in the North Georgia Mountains and its proximity to Atlanta, an hour’s drive to the south, makes it a perfect destination for a weekend break. Well-known as the "Apple Capital of Georgia," Ellijay is home to the popular Georgia Apple Festival held each October. This fun family event features a parade, an antique car show, and over 300 vendors showcasing hand-crafted goods and delicious treats. Apple orchards such as Hillcrest Orchards and R&A Orchards offer fun apple-picking experiences complete with hayrides and farm-fresh products including their famous fried pies.
Ellijay’s proximity to the Chattahoochee National Forest is a boon for hikers and bikers, with the Benton MacKaye Trail and the Appalachian Trail providing some of the most scenic routes through the park. Plan for a stay at the first-rate Ellijay River House Bed & Breakfast for its romantic views over the river and its unique “Bottle House” for great photos.
The Final Word
Georgia is an excellent choice for US travelers looking for a quiet weekend getaway in the South. In addition to being well-known for its gorgeous scenery and rich history, the “Peach State” also shines brightly when it comes to accommodations and hospitality. From the historic streets of Dahlonega and Madison to the European ambience of Helen and the scenic railway based in downtown Blue Ridge, these six serene towns in Georgia provide endless opportunities for memorable weekend retreats.
