8 Small Town Getaways In Georgia Perfect For Families
If you love exploring along with your family, Georgia stands out as a state that skillfully harmonizes the small-town charm with abundant natural wonders to explore. The "Peach State" has a diverse landscape, including gently undulating hills, lush forests, and lovely beaches. From the accessible trails in Chattahoochee National Forest near Blue Ridge to the fun Summer Waves Water Park on Jekyll Island or the luxurious treatments at the Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds near Greensboro, all family members are sure to have tons of fun. These eight small towns are the perfect getaways that authentically capture the Georgian essence, Southern charm, and unrivaled natural beauty.
Clayton
European settlers in 1821 initially named Clayton "The Dividings" due to its location at the juncture of three different Cherokee trails. Thanks to its thriving farming community, Clayton is also known as the "Farm to Table Capital of Georgia." Feel free to bring the family to Sunday Diner to sample its scrumptious selection of dishes. When it's time for adventure, a whitewater expedition on the Chattooga River will be a perfect follow-up activity.
Thomasville
Thomasville is a small yet spirited town in the heart of southwest Georgia. The town boasts one of the area's finest bed and breakfast resorts: The Paxton 1884, a historic house hotel, complete with all comforts, perfect for a relaxed family stay. Thomasville's appeal lies in its historical architecture, active arts scene, and an array of antique shops. For example, Toscoga Market Place provides a great mixture of stylish, grand, and retro deals to bring memorabilia back home.
Spring is the best time to visit since Thomasville is also known as Georgia's Rose City, thanks to more than 1,500 blooms in the Thomasville Rose Garden. Moreover, locals love to celebrate this strong feat with the annual Rose Show & Festival, which has been a southwest Georgia tradition since 1922.
Greensboro
The adorable town of Greensboro showcases an array of meticulously preserved historic structures from the 1800s with the Oconee National Forest as a backdrop. Greensboro stands as a sought-after summer retreat thanks to its adrenaline-packed water opportunities in the nearby Lake Oconee.
To crown your trip, the Spa at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds is the perfect place to pamper oneself after a long day of fun exploration. While kids are having fun at the lake, tee off with a round of golf at Reynolds Lake Oconee, with more than 300 miles of shoreline and six luxurious courses.
Blairsville
Blairsville is all about the outdoor adventure. Exploring the surroundings of the town, one can discover over 80 miles of the Appalachian Trail or experience the boundless beauty of skytop views from the highest peak in Georgia, Brasstown Bald.
Running back down closer to Blairsville, Nottely Lake provides countless hours of fun for all the family. Feel free to make a splash, fish, or rent a small boat to relax, unwind, and take in the scenery. While staying in town, the Butternut Creek Golf Course is widely appreciated by locals and golf enthusiasts alike.
Athens
Home of the University of Georgia, Athens is more than a college town. It has an active music scene and several fun attractions and activities catering to the whole family. Many old-school aficionados choose the music history walking tour, which gives visitors insight into Athens' unique sound that inspired legendary bands such as the R.E.M and B-52s. With many iconic music venues to choose from, there is never a shortage of entertaining shows.
The 40 Watt Club and the iconic Georgia Theatre are just two of the city's most popular spots. Another popular attraction in downtown Athens is the Lyndon House Arts Center, a visual arts complex where guests can enjoy art galleries and a variety of workshops, including a wing for children.
Blue Ridge
If you live anywhere in the Southeast, Blue Ridge might become a recurring destination. With around 106,000 acres of surrounding Chattahoochee National Forest, Blue Ridge has a lot to give. There are also more than 300 miles of hiking trails and 100 miles of trout streams in the area. This small mountain retreat is the perfect place for a family vacation, with the nearby Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides providing an unforgettable trip on top of majestic horses to experience the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
To give the kids another blast of adrenaline, the Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge is a popular and fun activity with the breathtaking Cashes Valley as a backdrop.
Jekyll Island
This small town encompasses the entire 5,500-acre island and is filled to the brim with family adventures. Jekyll Island boasts over eight miles of soft, white beaches and a great degree of privacy amidst a beautiful, protected natural habitat. With limited development on the island, you can expect to see rampant wildlife like swooping cranes and scaly reptiles among the Southern live oaks all over the marinas.
For a unique horseback riding experience, make your way to Three Oaks Farm, where a trained guide will lead you through the lush maritime forest, the serene salt marshes, and onto the enchanting Driftwood Beach. At the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, you can find out more about the conservation work that's preserving these fascinating creatures. For a rushing cascade of fun, end your trip with a splash at Summer Waves Water Park, which features many wild slides that kids adore.
Dahlonega
Dahlonega is famed for being an essential part of Georgia's wine country, housing eight wineries and at least 12 tasting rooms where visitors can sample local wine. While adults enjoy the wine tasting, kids can attend an entertaining show at the Dahlonega Magic Theater, where the catchy magic tricks performed by Jeffini steal everyone's attention. If you seek even more family-friendly fun, explore the Dahlonega Butterfly Farm, with its 5.5 acres of land home to abundant fauna and flora, making it the perfect habitat for butterflies; it can be a wonderful experience for kids.
Georgia provides more than just bustling urban centers; it is a collection of experiences waiting to be unveiled. Catering to visitors of all ages, these small settlements are perfect places for a family day trip or a longer vacation. Whether seeking a tranquil weekend retreat on Jekyll Island, an outdoor adventure on the Brasstown Bald near Blairsville, or a music-centered venture all around Athens's exciting venues, these eight small towns contribute to the state's unique family appeal and character. So, prepare the car, forget about the overcrowded cities, and inform the family about the upcoming trip!
