The Best Small Towns in Georgia to Chill Out
When visiting the Southern United States, among the destinations that cannot be missed is undoubtedly the “Peach State” of Georgia. As a cultural and naturally beautiful hub of the region, Georgia and its towns are indeed never short of wonder and famed Southern charm. Whether taking in stunning mountain vistas and riverside beauty or learning more about American history, visiting the “Peach State” definitely has something to appreciate for everyone. Though such major cities like Savannah and Atlanta may still dominate attention, Georgia’s small towns are also most worthy of a first-hand discovery. Here, opportunities to chill out and immerse oneself in the beauty of the American South are in abundance, so wait no longer and explore these fabulous small Georgia towns!
Greensboro
Established in the 1780s, today, just under 4,000 residents call the historic town of Greensboro home. Named for an American Revolutionary General, this seat of Greene County is beautifully situated next to the expansive 19,000-acre Lake Oconee. A splendid destination to enjoy a relaxing change of pace, this lakeside community is a most special locale to simply chill out and enjoy the uniqueness of Southern charm. In addition to taking it easy along or on the water (including the Oconee River), one can also enjoy a scenic golf game at any of Greensboro’s six welcoming courses. Meanwhile, an afternoon browsing through Main Street’s cute variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, and other businesses (like the Greensboro Antique Mall) is a genuine snapshot of small-town America. So if a laid-back outing in Georgia is something you are looking for, Greensboro should definitely place high on any list of destinations.
Sky Valley
Sky Valley street in Georgia.
Georgia’s northernmost town, with just under 500 inhabitants, remains one of the State’s most naturally beautiful locales and a great place just to sit back and enjoy life. With tons of splendid valley views and panoramas of Rabun Bald (Georgia’s second-highest peak), there is indeed never a shortage of natural wonder to enjoy in Sky Valley. Add in pleasant year-round temperatures, and there is really never a wrong time to explore this community. For the athletically-minded visitor, loads of fun activities can be enjoyed at the Sky Valley Country Club. Spend your day at the golf courses, swimming pools, tennis courts, and even the croquet fields in a luxurious and welcoming setting that is perfect to take one’s mind off things. And, of course, like any small-town community, an abundance of delightful local restaurants, cafes, and shops populate the Sky Valley town center, and a casual afternoon of discovery is always an excellent way to simply chill out.
Helen
Want to experience the German State of Bavaria without leaving the United States? Then, the town of Helen is indeed the place to be! Also known as “Georgia’s Alpine Village,” Helen was founded back in 1912, and today, a modest population of just over 500 people call this most charming community home. With many of its buildings built in a southern German architectural style to emulate the look of a Bavarian Mountain resort, the cute and unique ambiance of Helen makes it a truly one-of-a-kind vacation stop. A nice little place to forget one’s worries, one can simply relax and chill in this unique European setting. Take in such popular events as the annual Oktoberfest or enjoy the excitement of the hot air balloon race in the summertime. With Helen’s vicinity to such natural wonders like the Anna Ruby Falls and the Chattahoochee River, even just a tranquil afternoon in the quiet of the outdoors may be all that is needed for a memorable, chilled-out holiday.
Blairsville
A perfect spot for the outdoors lover, Blairsville is a modest community of just over 600 permanent residents. The seat of Union County is near the border with Tennessee, where guests will find plenty of opportunities to chill out in the calm and beautiful ambiance of nature. Visit the nearby Vogel State Park for great biking and hiking trails, picnic areas, cabin rentals, and campsites. At the same time, a trek to Georgia’s highest peak, Brasstown Bald, is a challenging excursion for the avid adventurist. And with Blairsville’s vicinity to the excellent Chattahoochee Oconee National Forest, splendid mountain views and exceptional river vistas are never in short supply. Add fun cultural events back in town, like the Green Bean Festival in springtime, and Blairsville is undoubtedly a place where fun and charm are on full display.
Cordele
Cordele serves as the seat of Crisp County, but to many, it is better known as the “Watermelon Capital of the World.” A welcoming destination to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, visitors can spend their time at such places as Lake Blackshear, where fishing, boating, hunting, and camping are all great ways to escape the busyness of the big city. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts can also enjoy the Georgia Veterans State Park, which captivatingly highlights the evolution of warfare in America. Including military vehicles and weapons over a range of some 200 years, this is one immersive history museum not to be missed. And, of course, visiting Cordele would not be complete without taking in the smells and tastes of the beautiful watermelon. At the June Watermelon Festival, the tasty fruit is celebrated in a unique cultural event perfect for all ages.
Moultrie
The town of Moultrie can trace its modern history to the 1870s, where today, just under 15,000 inhabitants reside. The seat of Colquitt County and near the border with Florida, this historic place continues to give visitors a charming snapshot of the 19th century through its most inviting Commercial Historic District. With an assortment of 19th and early 20th-century buildings and landmarks still standing, including the County Courthouse (1902), a visit here is a great way to get a sense of America’s past in a relaxed and stress-free ambiance. Meanwhile, for those looking to chill out by spending time in nature, the nearby Reed Bingham State Park cannot be passed over. Here, fantastic opportunities for sailing, fishing, hiking, biking, camping, and wildlife watching ensure that all can enjoy a restful Georgia vacation.
Embrace the Charm of Georgia's Small Towns
Georgia is rightfully cherished as one of the most culturally beautiful and naturally splendid places in the Southern United States. Indeed, the “Peach State” should be on the list of any traveler who wants to experience genuine Southern Americana and make special vacation memories. While some holidays are filled with busy itineraries, others are taken to lay back and relax. These incredible small Georgia towns are thus the perfect places to chill out, leave one’s worries behind, and enjoy the scenery all around. From the “Watermelon Capital” of Cordele to the unique Bavarian framing of Helen, these and other notable towns are the ideal destinations to chill and discover the wonder of the great State of Georgia firsthand!
