7 Loveliest Small Towns to Visit in Georgia This Summer

Georgia is an incredible destination to visit, especially in the summertime. The state stands out with a diverse set of attractions that showcase the spirit of Southern charm and scenic beauty. When it comes to some fun in the sun, there are a number of small towns that are underappreciated. Each of these seven towns provides a different point of view on Georgia's varied landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, from Ellijay's rolling hills to Helen's German-themed atmosphere. Whether wanting to unwind in town squares rich in history or seeking the thrill of outdoor activities, these small communities make for an unforgettable summer vacation.

Helen

With its reinvented Bavarian alpine beauty, charming shops, cobblestone streets, and historic German architecture, Helen beckons travelers who want to escape to Europe without ever leaving the state. This town, which has a population of 622, is most active from May to September when the weather is warmer. Travelers who are ready to float down the historic river in this town rush to Helen Tubing & Waterpark and Cool River Tubing, which also supplies practical amenities like picnic areas, showers, and changing rooms.

Helen's downtown area is a great place for strolls among the many stores and eateries housed in German-style buildings. Visitors can purchase one-of-a-kind gifts and artwork made of hand-blown glass at The Glassblowing Shop or stop by Hofer's of Helen for freshly baked goods.

Don't miss the Georgia Mountain Coaster for a thrill on the state's only alpine coaster. On this traditional ride, everyone may feel the exhilaration through the woods as the wind rushes past on this noteworthy ride.

McDonough

Brimming with southern hospitality, McDonough, with its population of just 31,348, is home to a blend of historic sites and modern attractions. Fun Bowl Henry County is an indoor family entertainment center that offers activities such as bowling, laser tag, mini-golf, arcades, and billiards.

Just south of Atlanta, McDonough is home to Southern Belle Farm, a 330-acre working farm with seasonal events and items such as fresh produce, berries and peach picking, fall festivities, and even Christmas trees. The family-owned farm is the perfect place for a wholesome and memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Starlite Family Fun Center in this town is the ultimate destination for more family fun. It features roller skating, laser tag, a soft playground for jumping and sliding, and a huge arcade where all can win tickets for prizes. After all the excitement, visitors are welcome to indulge in delicious treats from their full-service cafe, which offers pizza, burgers, chicken, and more.

Stone Mountain

Famous for its massive granite mountain and intricate carvings, Stone Mountain, with a population of 6,552, is a vibrant attraction that all Georgia residents are known to visit. Travelers can start their adventure with The Peak Skyride, a fast-moving Swiss cable car that soars above Stone Mountain's peak and displays breathtaking views.

Take a laid-back journey on the Scenic Railroad, which runs on a full-size engine from the 1940s. The ride around the mountain showcases breathtaking views of both the iconic landmark and its scenic surroundings.

Families will particularly enjoy the prehistoric adventure at Dinosaur Explore at Stone Mountain Park, which features life-size, moving dinosaur displays. These remarkably lifelike creatures make for fantastic photo ops in the middle of the Jurassic scenery.

Buford

Inviting surroundings and exciting lakefront living come together in Buford. Housing 19,150 residents, this town has an alluring combination of outdoor activities and shopping.

The best place to shop in the area is well recognized as the Mall of Georgia, containing over 200 shops, including Macy's, Dillard's, Belk, and other major stores. There is food to satisfy any craving in this grand mall. Indulge in tasty food at The Cheesecake Factory situated at one of the main entrances of the mall, or grab a fast meal at Chick-fil-A in the mall's food court.

Visitors will discover the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center to be an attractive site with well-kept greenery. Inside are stunning displays showcasing the area's dedication to environmental preservation.

At Andretti Indoor Karting and Games, experience the surge of adrenaline, where all ages can test their skills on high-speed tracks and enjoy a variety of arcade games.

Suwanee

This town is well-known for its lovely park and exciting community activities. It is no surprise that the amphitheater, fountain, and restaurants that are close by prove Suwanee Town Center Park to be a well-liked meeting place for the city's 23,974 residents.

The area includes multiple tasty eateries like Mellow Mushroom and Tequila Mama, which are accompanied by a sizable park for an afternoon walk. The park also surrounds an outdoor stage that hosts live concerts and seasonal community events such as the annual Suwanee 5k.

At Main Event, visitors can partake in state-of-the-art bowling, laser tag and arcade games gallery of the latest interactive video games.

The town warmly invites art lovers, collectors, and anyone passing through to a celebration of art at the Suwanee Arts Center. The establishment is a stunning collection featuring works from both renowned local artists and emerging talents.

Ellijay

Ellijay was coined as the "Apple Capital of Georgia" for good reason. This tiny town of 2,018 people attracts both outdoor enthusiasts and foodies with its bounty of fresh veggies and incredible experiences.

Visitors can experience the tranquil beauty of Ellijay at Mountain Valley Farm, a peaceful rural location where they can interact with a variety of farm animals. Specialties like goat milk creams and meats are available at the market, and artisanal dairy products which are sourced locally to guarantee freshness and quality.

Popular wines from Ellijay River Vineyard are served as guests relax against a picturesque vineyard backdrop. Everyone is welcome to partake in tastings that highlight the area's history of winemaking and observe how Georgian grapes are cultivated.

All can take advantage of the opportunity to pick their own apples and other seasonal fruits at Panorama Orchards and Farms Market. The orchards are bursting with ripe produce, homemade jams, and fresh-baked goods that encapsulate Ellijay's background in agriculture.

Toccoa

Toccoa is a true hidden gem, renowned for its waterfalls and historical charm. The community's population of only 9,177 comes with natural beauty and a lively culture, qualifying as a small town with big perks.

One of the tallest free-falling waterfalls in the Eastern United States, Toccoa Falls is a highly sought-after attraction in the area. There are gravel trails that are dog-friendly and encircled by beautiful scenery and rich vegetation.

Step back in time at the Ritz Theater, a treasured landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Operated by the City of Toccoa, the Ritz Theater hosts a variety of entertainment, from classic movie screenings to live concerts and captivating theatrical performances.

Visitors have the chance to spend time in the sun while also decompressing at the Currahee Vineyard and Winery, where rolling vineyards provide summer visitors with the perfect backdrop for wine tasting and relaxation. Anyone can sample a selection of handcrafted wines made from locally grown grapes.

Plan Your Unforgettable Summer Journey Through Georgia

Everyone should be able to know about the countless possibilities of convenient summertime activities in any one of these little Georgian towns. Each community is special in its own way and has fascinating sites and friendly locals representing the Peach State's spirit. Place Georgia on the next travel itinerary for the chance to partake in one-of-a-kind beauty with a mix of exhilarating and laid-back events. This summer, tourists need to embark on a memorable journey through Georgia, as the state has a wealth of activities perfect for sunny days.