The 12 Best Small Towns in Georgia For A Weekend Escape
Georgia is a fascinating state full of life in the Southeastern United States. It is the 8th most populous state, and it has many opportunities for fun, from vibrant attractions to a popping nightlife. Cities like Atlanta, Augusta, and Macon provide an endless retreat ideal for any vacation. Parallel to this, tourists flock to Georgia for its gorgeous Appalachian Mountains, which boast some of the country’s most scenic landscapes. With so much to see, Georgia’s small towns offer a great way to take in the views without the unnecessary crowds. Home to nature, history, and culture, these towns are ideal for a weekend getaway in the stunning state.
St. Simons
Starting off strong, St. Simons is an island town that any beach lover will adore. Surrounded by water, the barrier island boasts a beautiful coastline sprawling with activities and sights. One can opt for a range of pursuits to spend their weekend, ranging from kayaking in the tranquil waters to fishing along the pier. Even if you want to sit back and relax, the white sand and bustling environment make for a perfect evening of sunbathing on the beach.
As you spend your weekend in St. Simons, you will notice that the lovely town is more than just beaches and watersports. First settled by the Spanish mission of San Buenaventura de Guadalquini in the 1600s, St. Simons is intertwined with many interesting stories. Learn about these tales at historical hotspots such as Fort Frederica, St. Simons Lighthouse, and Christ Church. Perched along a winding river, the 1736 Fort Frederica was once the military headquarters of the Province of Georgia. Protecting the British colony from Spanish raids, the fort is now a monument intertwined with local history. Continue the historic weekend at St. Simons Lighthouse, a stunning museum showcasing more than 200 years of historical items. As the weekend comes to an end, hop on one of the town’s bike rentals for a lovely tour through its joyous streets!
Helen
Head inland from St. Simons to the mountain town of Helen in White County. Engulfed by the North Georgia Mountains and Chattahoochee River, the town is an abode of natural beauty. However, before the landscapes, most people are drawn in by Helen’s upbeat vibe and rich culture. Once a German settlement, the tight-knit community of just over 500 people is full of friendly faces. Amble through downtown Helen which is reminiscent of a tiny village in Germany’s countryside. Lined with German restaurants, quirky stores, and cute cafes, the possibilities are endless. For example, grab a traditional Rouladen at Bodensee Restaurant or enjoy some beer at the Old Bavaria Inn Restaurant. Plan your trip during early October to take in the hearty Oktoberfest celebrations. Fudge, beer, and dance are a few of the amazing ways you can celebrate this German festival.
After taking in the streets of Helen, head out to the surrounding paths for endless natural destinations. Ten minutes away, hiking enthusiasts strive for the challenge of Yonah Mountain Trail, a strenuous 2-mile route that crests at Yonah Mountain’s summit. At the peak, one can bask in panoramic views of Georgia’s expansive greenery. If you are not into heights, a great alternative is Anna Ruby Falls. A 15-minute drive from Helen, the picturesque waterfall is a sight to behold, surrounded by thick foliage and jagged rocks.
Athens
Athens, while not as popular as its namesake in Greece, is a beautiful college town filled with vibrance. Similar to Helen, the first thing you’ll notice in town is the lively aura palpable in downtown Athens. Filled with college students studying at the University of Georgia, there are a ton of fun places to explore. Start the morning right next to campus at Walker’s Pub and Coffee, a go-to spot for coffee, conversations, and snacks. Spend your day walking through a town adorned with its red brick buildings and quirky stores. As night falls, hit the bar scene at one of the town’s pubs, such as Allgood Lounge. Two floors of dance, drinks, and music provide for a fun night out in Georgia!
Fresh for the next day, check out some of Athen’s cultural charm during your weekend. Settled in 1801, the town has developed a booming creative scene palpable through arts and media. To this end, the Georgia Theatre and Georgia Museum of Art are two tourist hotspots in town. From flamboyant live performances and musicals to alluring paintings and sculptures, the possibilities are endless. For a more relaxing end to your weekend, check out the State Botanical Garden of Georgia. Astray from the crowded downtown streets, this garden flourishes with diverse plant life and a soothing environment.
Rome
After Athens, make the 2.5-hour drive to Rome, another Georgian town sharing its name with a European hotspot. Both these towns share many similarities, such as their rich culture, which is always open to visitors. So, continue the cultural dive with a visit to some of the town’s most popular attractions, such as the Rome Area History Center, Chieftains Museum, and Clock Tower. Those with a penchant for the past will be in awe of the Rome Area History Center, which features various exhibits on Native Americans, the Civil War, and the economy. If Native American history seemed enticing, you will surely enjoy Chieftains Museum. This 1792 home was once home to Cherokee leader Major Ridge and is now used as a historic house museum in his honor. These sites, combined with the bustling 38,000 residents in Rome, will keep you busy throughout your weekend.
As you wander further through the streets of Rome, the cultural attractions are replaced by an array of entertaining establishments. Perfect for families, there are various fun places to spend an evening in Rome. Kids will love Froggy’s Family Entertainment Center for its games, vibe, and snacks. Up for a challenge? Book a spot at Game of Throwns axe throwing to test your mental and physical skills. After the fun, drop by Georgia’s Rome Gift Shop, known for its quirky souvenirs and gifts.
Tallulah Falls
Tallulah Falls is a slice of paradise hidden away behind magnificent mountainscapes. With a population of 200 people, the tranquil town is a perfect weekend getaway for nature enthusiasts. Nicknamed "Niagra of the South," the nearby Tallulah Falls is a collection of six waterfalls second to none. Dropping hundreds of feet in the lush Tallulah Goerge, one can spend hours admiring the natural wonder. Surrounding the falls, Tallulah Gorge State Park is a treasure trove of outdoor opportunities. Centered around the 1,000-foot (300 m) deep Tallulah Gorge, thick foliage, steep cliffs, and the Tallulah River are a few sights one can appreciate. Opt for one of many activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, swimming, and kayaking, to take in the elusive wilderness. After spending your days outdoors, you can choose to camp under the stars or book lodging in town. With a relaxing environment and fun locations such as the Tallulah Point Overlook, you will have plenty to do!
Americus
The opposite of Tallulah Falls, Americus is a wellspring of small-town fun astray from natural landscapes. With a population of 16,200 and endless paved streets, this town combines urban and rural vibes for a unique experience. Drop by The Station for a delicious steak complimented with great service. Or, spend your evening at Thirteenth Colony Distillery, a local hotspot with award-winning spirits to relish your vacation. Even a simple walk through town is filled with good vibes and new friends.
When meeting new people in Americus, one topic is sure to come up: the town’s rich history. Palpable in the local historic district, one will feel like they have taken a step back in time. Whether it is the 1892 Windsor Hotel or the 1921 Rylander Theatre, tours and shows are plentiful throughout town. As you visit these locations, their unique stories will keep you hooked throughout your weekend. Specifically, Americus is one of the 29 locations where Martin Luther King Jr. was jailed as well as the site of the Leesburg Stockade incident, making for some important tales.
Darien
Combining historical value with natural scenery, Darien is a lovely destination for an exhilarating weekend in Georgia. The second oldest planned city in the state, one will notice the history seeping through the streets. Take a step back in time with a visit to the Fort King George State Historic Site. Constructed in 1721, this fort used to be the southernmost outpost of the British Empire in the Americas and now stands tall along the Darien River. If you found this intriguing, the Old Jail Art Center & Museum is another must-visit spot. Once the county jail, this building is now a wellspring of history and culture with exhibits, classes, and workshops on offer. If you get hungry during your historic weekend, Darien’s Georgia Peach World is a lovely place to end your day. Taking advantage of Georgia’s peach country, the store has everything from fresh peaches to bath and body products with peach scents.
Speak to one of the town’s 1,500 residents, and they will be sure to tell you that Darien is more than just the past. With its lovely location along the Atlantic coast, natural scenes are bound to be present. For those travelers interested in this side of Darien, Wolf Island National Wildlife Refuge is the place to be. A short walk east of town, the refuge boasts 5,000 acres of pristine and protected land. It provides shelter to thousands of animals, including loggerhead sea turtles and piping plovers.
Dahlonega
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega is a town that has it all. If you are here for the magnificent scenery, choose between a range of opportunities. The most comfortable of them all are Dahlonega’s scenic drives. For example, the 63-mile Lumpkin Union Loop showcases sights including Lake Trahlyta, Yahoola Valley, and Cane Creek Falls, all encompassed in grand mountains. Stop at Cane Creek Falls for a scenic spot to take some photos. With water rushing down 85 feet, it is a mesmerizing example of nature’s prowess. Another great way to uplift your spirits outdoors is at the Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo. Located 15 minutes from town, the animal sanctuary is full of residents such as zebra, bears, elk, alligators, etc., and even offers tours, animal encounters, and petting areas so the whole family can have fun.
While Dahlonega’s outdoor appeal is prevalent, the town is also a cultural wonderland. The site of the first major U.S. Gold Rush in 1829, there are historical remnants scattered throughout. Learn all about the mining mayhem that took place at the Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site. With exhibits, gold artifacts, stories, and events, it is a deep dive into the town’s past. If you enjoyed the museum, experience the mining past with a trip to one of the old mines; Crisson Mine and Dahlonega Consolidated Gold Mine. Located nearby, one can feel the mining experience, witness tools firsthand, and even try their hand at gold mining. As your weekend comes to an end, Dahlonega has one last surprise in store. Set in the Heart of Georgia Wine Country, plenty of wineries offer delectable drinks to end the night.
Lilburn
One hour south of Dahlonega lies Lilburn, a unique town in the Atlanta metropolitan area. This is an ideal weekend destination for people who want to stay connected to civilization. Full of paved roads lined with brick buildings, it's a miniature version of an urban metropolis. Enjoy a range of amenities and attractions such as the local mall, zoo, parks, and stores. For example, kids will love spending a day at the Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary, a zoo full of avians, monkeys, amphibians, and more. Meanwhile, religious travelers flock to the beautiful BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a white marble mandir dedicated to Hindu deities. With these and dozens of other sites, Lilburn is perfect for a short road trip in Georgia. Before you leave, be sure to check out Five Forks Antique Mall for a nice souvenir to bring back home.
Pine Mountain
Pine Mountain, also known as the “Gateway to Callaway Gardens,” is a charming town in western Georgia. Tourists from all over come to visit the beautiful Callaway Resort & Gardens. Spanning 2,500 acres, this massive resort is a fantasy retreat inside of Georgia. Attractions include walking trails, a pool, a spa, a garden, and sports areas, so you’ll never get bored. Enter a world of colorful sights at the resort’s garden which is the largest azalea garden in the world. Surrounded by vibrant flowers, thick greenery, and fresh air, it is a great place to de-stress. Or, have a blast with one of the many activities on offer, such as golfing, hiking, boating, biking, and ziplining. You can also attend one of the regular shows that take place, like "Birds of Prey," where the region’s most dominant avians showcase their talent.
That said, Pine Mountain is more than just this magnificent resort. The town itself boasts a range of outdoor areas full of fun opportunities. Animal lovers can opt for the Wild Animal Safari, a drive-through safari with zebras, bison, peacocks, and other animals. Or, spend the evening at the Dino Village theme park. Loved by kids, there are tons of dinosaur replicas with great information so they can have fun while learning.
Madison
Madison isn’t just a town; it is a trip back in time that history enthusiasts adore. The county seat of Morgan County, this unassuming town of 4,500, is more than meets the eye. Boasting one of the largest historic districts in Georgia, there is an endless array of intriguing tales and iconic destinations. Strolling through this part of town, the first thing you will notice is the neverending array of Antebellum homes. A perfect example of neoclassical architecture from the 19th century, any spot in town is picture-perfect. Hidden amongst these homes, check out sites such as Heritage Hall, Bonar Hall, and the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center. Built in 1811, Heritage Hall is a stunning mansion that showcases Greek Revival architecture. Similarly, Bonar Hall is another grand home that was once home to one of the county’s wealthiest men, John Byne Walker. If you get tired of walking around, hop on one of the guided tours to check out dozens of attractions while learning about their history.
Even if you’re not into the past, Madison is still a great weekend option in Georgia. Thanks to its influx of tourists, there are many great places to eat and go out in town. For example, Town 220 Restaurant is the go-to spot for fine dining and luxury meals. Or, have a quick bite at R+B Cafe, known for its crispy fried chicken and homemade taste.
Blue Ridge
Drive away from the antebellum homes of Madison to Blue Ridge, a gorgeous mountain town. Encircled by mountains, lakes, rivers, and streams, it is the polar opposite of Madison’s historic appeal. So, nature enthusiasts will find solace in the assortment of outdoor pursuits on offer. Start your weekend at Blue Ridge Lake, a 3,300-acre pristine reservoir east of town. With over 60 miles of charming shoreline, choose between boating, camping, picnicking, and fishing to have a blast. If you are not into getting wet, nearby hiking trails offer great viewpoints of both the lake and nearby forests. For example, head south to the Aska Trail System, which features 16.5 miles of magnificent routes. Beginners can opt for the relaxing Long Branch Loop, while experienced hikers can challenge themselves with the Stanley Gap Trail #165. If you still have energy left after all this, the Amicalola Falls State Park and Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests are within 40 minutes of town.
From the vibrant culture of Rome to the endless wilderness of Blue Ridge, Georgia is a wellspring of weekend destinations. Each town has something unique along with a quaint environment astray from urban troubles. Moreover, with great connectivity throughout, you can always extend your weekend to visit multiple small towns. So, pack your bags and get ready for a fun escape in the "The Peach State."
