Best Day Trips from Atlanta Georgia, By a Local

I am an Indian Native and living in Georgia for the past one and a half years. I live near Atlanta but I frequently visit this vibrant metropolis. I love traveling to faraway places, but I also love to break my mundane life by exploring nearby places! Luckily, Atlanta is surrounded by many incredible destinations perfect for Day Trips from Atlanta, GA to satisfy your wanderlust.

whether you love architecture, history, spring, or Christmas, there is something for you to explore! I explore new places during weekends which may often overlooked by many! I love short road trips near home. Within a short drive, you can scale scenic mountains, explore charming towns steeped in history, or relax on the shores of sparkling lakes.

28 Best Day Trips from Atlanta Georgia: By Local

Each of the following destinations is a short drive from Atlanta. I am including all the best things to do at each location. Whether you are a Georgia local or traveling from another state, you’ll find ideas in this post. Here is the list of the best day trips from Atlanta that I recommend during weekends as a day trip. 

Each of these experiences and places is within 3 hours, so you can get there, explore, and get back home in time! Make the most of your weekends by trying out one of these day trips.

Day Trips from Atlanta: North of the City

The North side of Atlanta better known as North Georgia is the most beautiful with beautiful mountain hikes, waterfalls, and awesome views, or you can visit cute charming small towns!

Amicalola Falls State Park

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 15 minutes

One of the best Day Trips from Atlanta, when I moved to Georgia was Amicalola Falls. This State Park is just an hour’s drive from Atlanta and easily be visited during the weekend. You will find a 729-foot-tall waterfall inside the Chattahoochee National Forest. If you’re visiting Atlanta or Georgia during your road trip, must include Amicalola Falls State Park in your itinerary.

I visited during May (late spring) and it was perfect weather-wise. Once you enter the Park, you have a choice of climbing the 175 stairs to the top or you can take the accessible road option to view the waterfalls. But the middle section gives you the best views rather than the top of the waterfall.

It is the perfect destination if you love hiking, waterfalls, and scenic spots along the trail. You can also choose scenic hikes inside the Park and dine at the lodge’s Maple Restaurant for good food with spectacular views. The waterfall is breathtaking in all seasons, but I recommend visiting it during the spring or fall to avoid the high temperatures and crowds.

Entry Fees: $5 per vehicle

Helen, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 1.5 hours

Helen, Georgia is one of the most colorful and adorable Bavarian-style towns nestled in the Blue Ridge mountains. The town offers unique German Culture, outdoor activities, and adventures for all.

Visit it during October for Oktoberfest to enjoy the town’s festivities or during the holidays to see it decorated for lights! During the spring, you’ll find town in the bloom, and during summer you can enjoy the water activities!

There is no bad time to visit as there is so much to do in every season, making it the best day trips from Atlanta for a reason! I have visited it during every season and still love visiting all over again! I simply love this cute town!

Here is my pick of the Best things to do in Helen:

• Stroll through the picturesque streets of downtown Helen adorned with Bavarian-style architecture, cobblestone pathways, and colorful storefronts. Enjoy shopping for souvenirs, crafts, clothing, and gifts in the many specialty shops and galleries.
• You can enjoy the mountain coaster ride, tubing down the Chattahoochee River, or ziplining for adventures.
• I have done the Hiking trail to Anna Ruby Falls and the Raven Cliff Falls which offers stunning views of waterfalls, lush forests, and mountain scenery.
• While you’re in town, make a stop at Cleveland, Georgia, to visit Babyland General Hospital, the birthplace of the Cabbage Patch Kids. Explore the museum, watch the live birth of a Cabbage Patch Kid, and shop for unique dolls and accessories.
• Sample wines from local vineyards at the tasting rooms in downtown Helen. Many wineries in the area specialize in German-style wines and traditional Southern varieties. Don’t miss the chance to try the region’s famous muscadine wine.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 40 minutes

Don’t mess up the Blue Ridge of North Carolina with the Blue Ridge, Georgia! This small town of Georgia is my ultimate favorite and I love visiting during the Fall and summer seasons. The town is pretty, it is considered one of the best mountain towns by Southern Living magazine! I prefer visiting it over the weekend while renting a cabin, but it is also perfect for a day trip from Atlanta.

My favorite Best Things to do in Blue Ridge, Georgia:

• Stroll through the charming downtown area, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, antique stores, and restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Blue Ridge Mountain Arts Association and the Blue Ridge Community Theater.
• Though it is a beautiful small town, it has a perfect attraction for me – Drive-in Theatre. You can visit Swan Drive-in Theater, one of the few remaining drive-ins in the state. It is worth stopping here to see the movie here.
• Enjoy water-based activities such as fishing, kayaking, tubing, and whitewater rafting on the Toccoa River and Lake Blue Ridge.
• With thousands of acres of Chattahoochee National Forest and hundreds of miles of hiking trails and streams, Blue Ridge is the perfect place for family-friendly hikes. The Toccoa River Swinging Bridge offers stunning views and opportunities for outdoor adventure. You can also visit the Fall Branch Falls and Sea Creek Falls for easy waterfall trails.
• Take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway up to Copperhill, Tennessee. It offers a scenic journey through the Appalachian foothills. Enjoy breathtaking views of forests, rivers, and mountains from vintage railcars. During the fall it offers amazing fall foliage views. This is a fun activity for all ages!
• Pick your own apples at Mercier Orchards during the season. You can also shop for fresh produce, enjoy homemade baked goods, and sample locally-made cider. During the spring you’ll find strawberries, cherries, and peaches.
• And lastly, my favorite – go for Wine testing. You can opt for a wine trail on your Blue Ridge Bucket list. Visit the Serenberry Vineyards or Bear Claw Vineyards near the town. I love tasting regional wines while taking in the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

Dahlonega, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 10 minutes

I visited Dahlonega this winter and loved this small charming town. The historic square is filled with interesting shops and restaurants. If you love history, Dahlonega is the best town to learn about the history of the famed gold rush! The town offers so many unique things to do and a variety of activities for your visit.

Best Things to do in Dahlonega:

• Wander through Dahlonega’s charming downtown area, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Explore unique shops, art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants housed in beautifully preserved buildings.
• The historic square is filled with interesting shops and restaurants. There’s a witchy tearoom, an upstairs shop filled with all things British, a store that will bring out the hippie in you, and plenty of good old-fashioned southern dining.
• Learn about Dahlonega’s gold mining history at the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site. You can also visit nearby gold mines and try your luck at gold panning. It is a perfect fun activity for all age groups.
• Dahlonega is part of the North Georgia wine region, so make sure to visit some of the local wineries and vineyards. Cavender Creek Vineyard and Montaluce Winery are my favorite in the town.
• One of my absolute favorite things to do in Dahlonega is to visit the Tea Rabbit’s Tea Room. They offer high-quality full-leaf teas and hot or iced hot chocolate!  You’ll also find chocolate, candles, tarot cards, and books on spirituality throughout the store. The staff is wonderful and welcoming.

Ellijay, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 30 minutes

I Must say this is one of the most charming towns in the North Georgia mountains known as Georgia’s Apple Capital! There are so many amazing things to do in Ellijay during all seasons! Be it summer night escape, fall pumpkin patches, Christmas lights, or plucking apples, there is something for everyone in this town!

Take some time to explore the shops on Main Street in downtown Ellijay, have breakfast at the beautiful Cornerstone Cafe, experience outdoor activities at Ellijay’s Carter’s Lake in summer, hike the Big Acorn Trail, go tubing and kayaking via Cartecay River Experience. Also, history lovers can check out the Tabor Museum which shows artifacts of the Civil War time. Finally, check out the delicious food in the downtown restaurants.

During the apple harvest season, visit the famous B.J. Reece Orchards and sip the Cedar, a must-do activity in Ellijay! It is the first cidery in Ellijay.

If wine tasting is your thing, visit Engelheim Vineyards, Chateau Meichtry Family Winery, and Fainting Goat Vineyards & Winery.

Blairsville, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 2 hours

Just a short two hours drive from Atlanta, you’ll find this beautiful picturesque town of Blairsville. It is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Blairsville is home to Brasstown Bald, Lake Nottely, Helton Creek Falls, Vogel State Park, and Blood Mountain. Most importantly over 80 miles of Appalachian trail with lakes, creeks, and waterfalls!

You’ll also find amazing restaurants, historic buildings, and the coolest shops in downtown. Also, don’t forget to check out Odom Spring Vineyards or Living Water Winery after all the day of activities!

Vogel State Park

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 50 minutes

One of Georgia’s best state parks and easy Day trips from Atlanta is Vogel State Park. Vogel is located at the base of Blood Mountain, the highest summit on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia! The Park is popular during the fall when the Blue Ridge Mountains transform into a rolling blanket of red, yellow, and gold leaves!

You can opt for one of the hiking trails in the park at your convenience. But the easiest is Byron Herbert Reece Trail(0.8 miles, easy) and Trahlyta Lake Trail(1 mile RT, easy along the Lake). During the Spring and Fall, hike the Bear Hair Gap Trail (4.1 miles RT, moderate) to get bird-eye views of Trahlyta Lake.

If you’re looking for another nearby waterfall hike for the whole family, check out DeSoto Falls, GA. It takes you to two waterfalls and has a beautiful picnic area.

Brasstown Bald, Blairsville

Distance from Atlanta: 2 hours, 15 minutes

Head up to North Georgia and Visit the Brasstown Bald– the highest point in Georgia. This is a must-visit if you are road-tripping through Georgia!

You can take a shuttle or take the steep but short hike (.06 miles) to the observation tower. The hike is Paved, and you will surely love the views at the end! Once you’re at the tower, you can take in the 360-degree views atop the 4,784 Bald, and maybe even see four states! They also have a fun scavenger hunt game for kids inside the tower! 

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 30 minutes

One of must add in your bucket list places to visit in Georgia – Tallulah Gorge State Park. The Park is one of the best day trips from Atlanta, especially beautiful during the fall and summer.

The Park has stunning canyons, waterfalls, and hiking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor and nature lovers. The main attraction is the Tallulah Gorge, a deep and dramatic canyon carved by the Tallulah River.

The park offers several hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, from easy to more challenging hikes. One of the highlights of Tallulah Gorge State Park is the Tallulah Waterfall that cascades through the canyon and plunges approximately 1000 feet into the gorge below. The park has several scenic overlooks where visitors can take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It is a must-visit destination for day trips from Atlanta.

If you have more time, check out the Black Rock Mountain State Park. It offers so many hiking trails with breathtaking views. You can end your day at Tiger Mountain Vineyards after hiking!

Bell Mountain, Hiawassee

Distance from Atlanta: 2 hours, 15 minutes

Located in the Chattahoochee National Forest, Hiawassee is one of Georgia’s most beautiful areas, surrounded by Appalachian mountains and Lake Chatuge. You can stroll around the Lake or go fishing, swimming, and boating. Also, there is a Towns County Recreational Beach which offers a swimming area, playgrounds, and an abundance of picnic tables to enjoy the day.

Bell Mountain offers stunning Panoramic views of Lake Chatuge and Hiawassee. It’s popular to watch the sunset from the top. The Road leading towards the top is steep, so drive carefully. There is a viewing deck at the summit and it offers 360-degree views!

One of the most stunning waterfalls in Hiawassee is High Shoals Falls, with a total vertical drop of 300 feet. You will need to hike the 1.2-mile High Shoals Trail to access it and are observation decks along the way.

Also, take a stroll through the Hamilton Rhododendron Gardens. Though you can visit the gardens year-round, it comes alive during the Spring with Rhododendron blooms. Also, it offers incredible views of Brasstown Bald, the highest peak in Georgia as well as Lake Chatuge.

Cloudland Canyon State Park

Distance from Atlanta: 2 hours

Cloudland Canyon is one of Georgia’s most beautiful and unique state parks! I love this state park for all the beautiful hiking trails, simply as there are so many amazing trails to choose from.

You can opt to hike the rim of the canyon for beautiful views. It is easily doable with Kids. If you are adventurous, do the little challenging hike down into the canyon to view two different waterfalls – Cherokee Falls and Hemlock Falls.

There are metal-grated steps on this hike, so be careful! The waterfalls are so great, it makes even the tough hike back out of the canyon worth it! 

Rome, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Rome is one of the most beautiful southern towns, and it’s just a short drive away from the ATL. The town is famous for its beautiful Berry College, and you should visit its campus.

The town holds a rich history, visit the Oak Hill & Martha Berry Museum, the downtown area, and visit the local Rome History Museum which has exhibits of Native Americans and the Civil War. If you love the outdoors, like biking or walking, the Downtown Heritage Trail System takes you along the three rivers of Rome.

Nearby in Cave Spring, you can visit the Cave Spring Cave seasonally, or take a dip in the swimming lake in Rolater Park. Rome also has great restaurants, the Rome Braves baseball team, awesome shops, museums, and even a labyrinth!

Day trips from Atlanta: South of the City

Lagrange, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour

One of the best small towns that offers the city charm, Lagrange is the best day trips from Atlanta. It is home to several musical entertainment venues, craft breweries, one of the largest collections of Middle Eastern artifacts, and world-renowned gardens.

You can wander around the downtown area to admire its old-world architecture. Don’t miss the Family-owned Solomon’s Department Store, an iconic landmark since 1932, selling popular adventure brands!

If you love biking, join the Thread- a 29-mile environmentally sensitive, non-motorized, multipurpose trail designed for walking, running, and biking along downtown squares, historic cemeteries, recreation parks, and picturesque neighborhoods! It is the perfect way to know about the town!

If you’re traveling with family or as a couple, spend your day at West Point Lake. Enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking along the lake’s shores.

Also, the Biblical History Center is one of the few places outside Israel where you can see over 250 genuine artifacts from the ancient Middle East!

One of the star attractions in Lagrange is Hills and Dales Estate, the historic home and gardens of the Textile magnate Callaway family. I recommend visiting this elegant mansion filled with period furnishings and learning more about the family’s legacy of stewardship and horticulture. Take a tour through the beautifully landscaped gardens, featuring azaleas, camellias, and rare plants.

Don’t forget to taste the wine at Nutwood Winery, nestled on a 10-acre farm surrounded by 200-year-old pecan trees! The relaxing manor-style tasting room and sprawling patio are great places to gather with friends and family. You can also visit Wild Leap Brewing Co., set in the former Westbrook Service & Tire Company building. They offer tours and tastings in outdoor settings.

Pine Mountain, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour

Located just 30 minutes near Lagrange, Pine Mountain can be combined as a weekend trip from Atlanta. It has two main attractions making it a fun day trips from Atlanta. First, there’s Callaway Gardens, a beautiful place to hike and enjoy the scenery. There’s a lake and an incredible variety of activities inside the Gardens.

The other local attraction is the Wild Animal Safari where you’ll find 65 exotic animals, bus tours, and walking paths. Between the Gardens and the Safari, you’ll have a full day before heading back to the city.

If you love hiking, fishing, and camping, nearby F. D. Roosevelt State Park covers over 9,000 acres of forest and trails.

Warm Springs, Georgia: Perfect Day Trips from Atlanta for History

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 20 minutes

Warm Springs is a quaint southern Georgia town located near Pine Mountain. Once the town was popular for its healing warm waters. But today, this adorable town is famous for its old-world charm and historical sites. Former President Franklin D Roosevelt frequently visited Warm Springs for its healing waters to find relief from his Polio.

If you love history, explore the town’s historic attractions, including the Little White House, Georgia Hall, and Historic Pools Museum. Though there is no lavish spa or anything today, the pools are empty but spring still bubbles from the ground!

If you’re traveling with the kids, visit the Warm Springs National Fish Hatchery Aquarium which gives so much education about fishes and the area is beautiful with lots of information.

If you want some fine dining, head to Bulloch Souther Restaurant or visit the Winery at the Shed for beautiful views.

Plains, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Home to President Jimmy Carter, Plains is a peaceful, countryside town, 2.5 hours from Atlanta. The town is perfect for history buffs, you’ll love to visit the Jimmy Carter National Historic Park, which includes several locations associated with President Jimmy Carter and his family, including his childhood home, the Plains High School (now a museum), and the Plains Train Depot. Train Depot is the oldest building in Plains (constructed in 1888) and served as Carter’s campaign headquarters.

Visit the famous Billy Carter’s Service Station, owned by President Carter’s colorful brother. The station has been preserved as a museum and includes exhibits about Billy Carter’s life and legacy.

You can learn about the importance of peanuts in Plains at the Carter Peanut Warehouse. This historic building houses exhibits on peanut farming, processing, and the role of peanuts in the local economy. Also, take a selfie with the goofy Smiling Peanut Sculpture, the 13-foot-tall peanut built to honor the 39th president and lifelong peanut farmer.

You can also visit President Jimmy Carter’s Boyhood Farm, where he lived from age 4 until he departed for college in 1941. As you walk along the path, stop and read the wayside exhibits at various locations. Lastly, stop at Plains Historic INN & Antique Mall for some shopping with history as the president himself built a few rooms of this Inn.

Plains may be a small town, but its rich history and connection to President Jimmy Carter make it a unique and worthwhile destination for visitors interested in American politics and culture.

Providence Canyon State Park

Distance from Atlanta: 2 hours

This is one of my top-day trip ideas from Atlanta! Why? Because it is just a very unique destination in the heart of Georgia!

Providence Canyon State Park is located just south of Columbus, and it’s referred to as Georgia’s Little Grand Canyon for good reason. Unlike the other canyons, the canyons in the park are formed due to poor farming practices, but they are still worth seeing! You can view it from the playground and picnic areas, or take the short hike down into the canyon and explore everything below.

The hiking trails are fun, fascinating, dirty, interesting, and great! Visiting this is the ultimate experience! I must say, it is one of the best day trips from Atlanta for intriguing outdoors!

Day Trips from Atlanta: Central Georgia

Stone Mountain Park

Distance from Atlanta: 30 Minutes

One of Georgia’s most visited attractions and located just half an hour from Atlanta, it is an easy day trip from Atlanta!  With more than 3200 acres, the Park offers many activities, suitable to people of every age.

The Summit Trail offers a challenging hike to the top of Stone Mountain, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Alternatively, take a cable car ride to the top of Stone Mountain on the Summit Skyride. Experience breathtaking views of the Atlanta skyline and the surrounding countryside from the mountain’s summit.

If you’re traveling with the kids, take a ride on the Stone Mountain Scenic Railroad, a historic train that circles the base of Stone Mountain. Enjoy views of the mountains, lakes, and woodlands from the comfort of a vintage train car.

If you’re a history buff, explore the Historic Square, a collection of authentic 19th-century buildings that have been relocated to Stone Mountain Park. Visit historic homes, a church, a schoolhouse, and a farmstead to learn about life in the 1800s.

If nothing interests you, drive around the Park and walk the scenic trails! Visit the Stone Mountain Grist Mill and Washington W King Bridge.

Macon, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 30 minutes

One of the Best Day trips from Atlanta is the town of Macon. For me, Macon was introduced as the Cherry Blossom Town when I moved to Georgia. It was magical when I visited it during the Spring. During the International Cherry Blossom Festival, you can enjoy the concerts, Parades, and lots of food from the vendors! This is an absolute must-do thing in Georgia!

You can stroll through Macon’s historic downtown district, filled with beautifully restored antebellum homes, historic landmarks, and charming streets lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Macon During the Spring Cherry Blossom Festival

Macon has a rich music heritage and was home to Otis Redding and the Allman Brothers. You can visit the Ocmulgee Indian Mounds and take a trip to Rose Cemetery to see the resting place of both Duane and Gregg Allman.

Fans of the band can visit The Big House Museum, and history buffs can check out the Tubman Museum, and the Otis Redding Museum!

And Architecture lovers like me, tour the stunning Hay House, known as the “Palace of the South,” an architectural marvel featuring Italian Renaissance Revival style. Explore the opulent rooms, and gardens, and learn about the history of the Johnston family.

If you love Sports, visit the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, which celebrates the achievements of Georgia athletes across various sports through interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and multimedia presentations. If you travel to Macon during baseball season, you can see a Macon Bacon baseball game. 

Greensboro & Lake Oconee

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 20 minutes

I recommend visiting Lake Oconee during the Summer to early Fall. The area is beautiful with spectacular lakeside scenery and is known for its golf courses. If golf isn’t your sport of choice, consider visiting for a water adventure. You can rent boats, jet skis, and paddleboards for an outdoor. 

It’s located near Greensboro. The historic downtown is full of antique stores, boutiques, antebellum homes, and churches. Try the craft beer at Oconee Brewing Company housed in a renovated cotton mill warehouse. If you want something luxurious, dine at the lakefront Gaby’s by the Lake at The Ritz-Carlton, a casual poolside restaurant open for lunch and dinner. 

Athens, Georgia

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 30 minutes

I came to know about this beautiful small town in Georgia from the famous Botanical Gardens. But there are so many amazing things to do in this town other than visiting the gardens. If you are a history lover like me, this town is a must-visit as Georgia’s Antebellum trail of historic Civil War towns! You can spend your whole day here or I suggest a weekend trip that won’t hurt!

Things to do in Athens, GA:

• Visit the State Botanical Gardens. They are free to visit! The garden has lots of hiking trails, art exhibits, lush gardens, and children’s playgrounds. You can see the beautiful lights during the Christmas time.
• Visit the Bear Hollow Zoo. You can see the rescued animals that call this little Zoo home. The zoo is free to visit.
• Visit the famous historic campus of the University of Georgia. Known for its football team, don’t miss the Football stadium!
• Visit the downtown Athens. You can spend your time visiting local shops and restaurants.
• Don’t miss dozens of bulldog statues located throughout the town.
• Visit the Georgia Museum of Art and numerous art galleries and boutiques that display local artists’ work.

Milledgeville

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hour, 45 minutes

This central Georgia town of Milledgeville is filled with outdoor adventures, history, and cool annual events! There is so much to do in this college town, that your problem will be deciding which to do first.

Spend a day on Lake Sinclair, soak up the sun, or rent a kayak or SUP. If you aren’t into adventure, just bike, run, or fish along the Oconee River Greenway. Explore the Antebellum Trails, or visit the historic district.

Make a day out of visiting the Lockerly Arboretum, the Natural History Museum, Georgia’s old Governor’s Mansion, or take the African-American Heritage Tour. You will not be bored during your day trip from Atlanta!

If you’re visiting in the summer, head down for the Beach Bash – an annual event where they dump 80 Tons of Beach Sand spread out for a family-friendly beach party. Sounds like a can’t-miss! 

Covington, Georgia

Covington, Georgia, is another must-see day trip destination from Atlanta. Not only is the downtown area like something out of a Hallmark film but there’s also plenty to see and do nearby.

If you are a fan of The Vampire Diaries, take the guided tours of the filming location and check out plenty of references to Mystic Falls around town.

The town is known as the Hollywood of the South, downtown Covington has been a gorgeous backdrop for more than 100 movies and television shows and its fame is for good reason. In addition to Vampire Diaries, The Originals, Heat of the Night, and Dukes of Hazzard were filmed in Covington. Take a film tour or even a haunted tour downtown. 

If you don’t care about any of those shows or going on a ghost tour, Covington is still a great option for day trips from Atlanta. Detour to nearby Mitcham Farms during spring to enjoy u-pick strawberries and plenty of strawberry slushies, donuts, and desserts. You can also visit the Fox Vineyards and winery or have brunch in the pretty setting. Check out a cool record shop or simply browse the many stores and galleries on the downtown square.

Madison, Georgia

If you’re visiting Covington, combine your trip with a visit to Madison. This charming little town is packed with art, history, and culture. It is located in the heart of Georgia’s Antebellum Trail, known for its well-preserved historic homes, beautiful architecture, and vibrant downtown area.

Fuel up yourself with breakfast at Oconee Coffee Roasters or Patisserie on Main for pastries before making your way! After that, take a stroll or guided tour through Madison’s historic district, which boasts over 100 Antebellum and Victorian homes.

Some notable homes include the Rogers House, Heritage Hall, and the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, which itself is housed in a former Romanesque Revival-style school building.

Madison is a walkable town that is perfect to wander the many shops and galleries downtown. You’ll find the work of local authors and artists at the Madison Artists Guild and Gallery.

If you love the outdoors, head to Hard Labor Creek State Park, for fishing, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, or hanging out at the lakeside beach.

Out-of-State Day Trips Near Atlanta

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Distance from Atlanta: 2 hours

Here you’ll find outdoor adventure activities, along with amazing restaurants, and charming downtown throughout the year. Chattanooga has an aquarium, an incline railway, beautiful river views, and Ruby Falls. If you’re in the area, must visit the Rock City Gardens! Everything is doable in one day as it is one of the best day trips from Atlanta.

Greenville, South Carolina

Distance from Atlanta: A little over 2 hours

Just 2 hours from Atlanta, Greenville, South Carolina is home to Falls Park, a nature lover’s paradise. You can walk to it from downtown, and it’s a great place to explore and spend the day.

Also, the downtown of Greenville is beautiful. There are so many restaurants and shops and navigation is so easy! Also, the city is walkable. If you are traveling with kids, visit the Greenville Zoo and the Children’s Museum. 

Little River Canyon Falls, Alabama

Distance from Atlanta: 2 hours

I recently discovered this beautiful Canyon with a waterfall (45 feet high) and so many overlooks along the way that carved through the sandstone bedrock and created the beautiful canyon surrounding it. It’s just a little walk from the Parking lot to view the Little River Falls.

Spring is the perfect time to visit it when the water flow is high! But during the fall surroundings make it more beautiful with fall colors.

Little River Canyon Falls Alabama & Desoto Falls

If you’re in this area, combine your trip with another waterfall adventure- Desoto Falls. DeSoto Falls is also one of the tallest (107 ft.) and most visited waterfall locations in Alabama.

There are several hiking trails in the Park which you can opt for outdoors. Also, you can hike to the base of the waterfall via the river trail. Swimming is allowed when the water level isn’t too high. This makes it a perfect summer day trip from Atlanta for a reason!

Franklin, North Carolina: Best Day trips from Atlanta in Summer

One of the most adorable towns to visit in NC near Atlanta is Franklin. Franklin is home to several historic trails and three downtown museums. There are so many amazing things to do in Franklin but the prime attraction is gem mining for native ruby and sapphire! Yes, you heard it right. Franklin, NC is rich in gems and minerals and known internationally as the “Gem Capital of the World. Visit the Gem mine for an authentic treasure-hunting experience of these precious stones!

You can explore the downtown area and visit the T.M. Rickman’s General Store(oldest general store), Whistle Stop Depot for antiques, Franklin Gem & Mineral Museum that is housed in the old Macon County Jail, The Scottish Tartans Museum (only one of its kind in the United States), old historic courthouse.

Also, the town is surrounded by smoky mountains with miles of hiking and biking trails dotting the landscape. The hiking trails include the famous Appalachian Trail & Bartram Trail line and stunning waterfalls like Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Cullasaja Falls. If you’re looking to enjoy leisurely walks, or bike rides surrounded by lush landscapes or the perfect spot for picnics, head over to Little Tennesse River Greenway for a Peaceful retreat.