Are you feeling the urge for a brief getaway from Atlanta’s bustle? You need to look no further than these fantastic weekend spots that are nearby. Everyone can find what they’re looking for, whether they want a busy city getaway or a peaceful natural hideaway. These locations are guaranteed to offer a much-needed change of scenery, from beautiful villages with small shops and restaurants to spectacular panoramic treks. Pack your bags, find a traveling companion, and set out on a memorable weekend adventure. Here are a few of the most amazing weekend getaways you can take from Atlanta, GA, to feel renewed and revitalized.
#1. Lake Oconee, Georgia
This recreational sanctuary, which is roughly 85 miles east of Atlanta, is ideal for weekend trips with lots of outdoor activities. Enjoy fishing, camping, golfing, hiking, and water sports while visiting Lake Oconee. Visitors adore this rural gem’s breathtaking beauty and peaceful ambiance, which offer year-round family entertainment. The reservoir itself has about 375 miles of beautiful shoreline that are dotted with lakeside residences, marinas, eateries, and natural landmarks such as the well-known Jumping Rock, which is only reachable by boat. Landlubbers can walk, mountain bike, and observe animals on the trails of the Rock Hawk Effigy & Trails facility.
Moreover, visitors are drawn to the surrounding town of Greensboro by its eateries, shops, and art galleries. To ensure you don’t miss any significant locations, such as various buildings from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, you can obtain a free historical walking tour brochure to read while you stroll. Staying at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, with its five golf courses and distinctive lakefront pool, which balance the regal with the rustic, is ideal for a romantic holiday in Georgia.
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#2. Augusta, Georgia
Augusta is also one of the top amazing weekend getaways from Atlanta, GA. To discover more about the region’s rich history and culture, visitors can join one of the city’s historical tours. They can also go paddleboarding or hire a mountain bike and enjoy the 34 miles of woodland trails on the Forks Area Trail System. After sightseeing, travelers can unwind by the outdoor pool and eat at one of the many excellent restaurants in the area.
Visitors will find Hyatt Place to be reasonably priced and in a prime location for access to attractions. Visitors can unwind by the outdoor pool and eat at one of the city’s many excellent restaurants after a day of sightseeing.
#3. Amicalola Falls State Park, Georgia
This large leisure area in Georgia is located just 70 miles north of the city and offers quick access to a weekend outdoor retreat. The park’s 800-plus acres are home to the biggest waterfall in the area and a number of hiking paths suitable for hikers of all levels, including a link to the southern terminus of the renowned Appalachian Trail. Visitors who enjoy the walk for its breathtaking scenery say that it is difficult but worthwhile to reach the falls. In addition, family-friendly entertainment and adventure are provided via supervised activities, including a zip line, archery lessons, and live wildlife presentations.
The summit restaurant in the park, known for its Sunday brunch and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the forest, is a great place to refuel. Travelers claim that the on-site lodging options offer spectacular views in every direction, ranging from resort-style lodge rooms and cabins to glamping and camping spots in the forest. The park is open all year round, and prior visitors report that the experience was better in the off-season due to fewer crowds.
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#4. Hotel Indigo, Athens
Visit the college town of Athens for a weekend getaway to take in the city’s youthful energy, art, outdoor cafes, restaurants, theater, and football. An eco-friendly hotel with a homey atmosphere is Hotel Indigo Athens. Hardwood floors, large windows, tall ceilings, soft bedding, and twin shower heads are features of the guest rooms and suites. The penthouse, suites, and bathrooms are all very roomy, and they all have fantastic views of the city.
View local modern art in the Hotel Indigo-Athens Gallery. A variety of fitness machines and free weights are available at the gym. Enjoy a wonderful dinner at the outdoor patio-equipped Madison Bar & Bistro, which provides regional cuisine. The rooms at Hotel Indigo Athens are reasonable and accessible if you’re searching for low-cost romantic getaways in Georgia.
#5. Greenville, South Carolina
It is easy to go across states for a weekend getaway from Atlanta. Greenville, South Carolina, is a 2.5-hour drive away. Exploring can be made much easier by renting a bike from Reedy Ride. Ride your bike along the Swamp Rabbit Trail through downtown Greenville, stopping at some of the interesting stores along the way.
Farmer’s markets are usually a terrific way to gauge a city’s energy, and the TD Saturday Market enables guests to shop like locals, pick up some fresh produce and other locally produced foods, and pack a picnic before continuing on to the Cottage Grove Vintage Market. Once you’ve done more exploration, you can visit Fells Park, where you can enjoy the waterfalls below and test your balance on a suspension bridge.
The Hampton Inn & Suites Greenville – Downtown – Riverplace is a terrific place to unwind after an action-packed day of touring. The hotel’s location is excellent, the rooms are roomy, and the hospitality is outstanding. Make sure to request a room with a view of the Reedy River. It is indeed one of the most amazing weekend getaways from Atlanta, GA.
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#6. Athens, Georgia
In the city where the University of Georgia is located, Athens, there is a lot for tourists to discover and enjoy. Visit the stunning Georgia State Botanical Garden, ride a bike on Firefly Trail, take in the artwork at the Georgia Museum of Art, and discover the Lyndon House Arts Center.
Treat your taste buds to some southern cuisine from one of Athens’ many excellent restaurants after a long day of visiting the city. With a stay at ATH|BNB The Rushmore in Athens’ famed Five Points Neighborhood, you can transform your enjoyable trip into an opulent weekend.
#7. The Partridge Inn, Augusta
The Partridge Inn in Augusta underwent a recent renovation and has a rich history; it was first transformed into a hotel in 1892. The hotel has five distinct types of rooms, each with a nice living area, antique furniture, and high-speed internet. When booking a room for a romantic break, request one with a balcony. A private outdoor pool and eating on the verandah are available to guests.
Additionally, the P. I Bar and Grill offers wonderful Southern cuisine, features an amazing Sunday brunch, and has hosted presidential banquets. There is no cover charge to sip on a cocktail, take advantage of Wednesday wine deals, and enjoy live jazz music on Friday and Saturday nights. The Partridge Inn is a fantastic choice if you’re seeking romantic retreats in Georgia.
#8. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Chattanooga is only two hours away by car from Atlanta. This multicultural city is full of southern warmth and charm, making weekend trips there exciting. When you enter another state, it always seems more like a vacation. A concert at Finley Stadium or a trip to one of the top museums, such as the Hunter Museum of American Art, are both options.
The Tennessee Aquarium or the Creative Discovery Museum are great options for family outings. The Tennessee River Park is one of the most well-liked destinations. Here, you can go fishing, canoeing, or boating, or you can just stroll along the paths and take in the breathtaking views of the river. The Tennessee River and a number of sights are easily accessible by foot from the Hampton Inn & Suites Chattanooga/ Downtown, which is in a terrific location for exploring the city.
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#9. Callaway Resort & Gardens, Pine Mountain
80 miles outside Atlanta lies the 2,500-acre property known as Callaway Resort & Gardens. There are two golf courses there, as well as a full-service spa, botanical gardens, mini-golf, and private lakes with a one-mile stretch of white sand beach. Additionally, it provides seasonal delights and unique experiences, such as azalea flowers in the spring, leaves in the fall, access to the beach in the summer, and a renowned holiday light show in the winter.
Furthermore, a network of trails, the Discovery Center with live wildlife displays and exhibitions, and a conservatory with 1,000 free-flying butterflies will all appeal to nature lovers. All ages of children enjoy the challenge of completing the three aerial adventure courses (extra costs apply), which are made up of a variety of zip lines, ladders, bridges, and other entertaining obstacles.
#10. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is another one of the top amazing weekend getaways from Atlanta, GA. A trip to Savannah will take you to a new world, and it is only a short flight (3.5 hours) from Atlanta. With its gorgeous parks and immaculately kept architecture, this lovely city is a terrific destination to explore on foot. It is full of history, charm, and romance. In addition to providing a fascinating look into the past, its historic squares are a great spot to wander and learn what Southern living is all about.
Numerous green spaces can also be found all across the city. Take a stroll around the Spanish moss-covered walks and lovely fountain in Forsyth Park. Savannah also has a ton of top-notch restaurants, exciting entertainment options, and other things to do. You can find many more excellent lodging options as well as several of the city’s top dining establishments in the center’s historic district. The city also benefits from being near a beach. A short drive will bring you to Tybee Island.
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#11. Forrest Hills Resort, Dahlonega
The Forrest Hills Resort is conveniently located an hour from Atlanta in the Georgia Mountains’ foothills. In these exceptional surroundings, couples can have a really relaxing getaway. Numerous guestrooms and apartments are available, but the secluded cabins, complete with individual hot tubs and toasty fireplaces, are by far the most romantic option.
You can go horseback riding, hiking, biking, kayaking, as well as other forms of exercise if you like. Other options include going gold-panning or visiting the nearby wineries. The Hideaway Dining Room serves meals, and you can order a picnic lunch there.
#12. Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa, Georgia
Just over 100 miles from Atlanta, in the gently undulating foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, sits the peaceful and welcoming Brasstown Valley Resort. A golf course, stables, guided trail rides, riding instruction, and specialized activities such as catered picnic excursions and hayrides are all available on the property. With its stables, guided trail rides, riding lessons, and personalized experiences like catered picnic trips and hayrides, this full-service resort in north Georgia will make equestrian fans feel right at home.
In addition, Brasstown Valley Resort, which is situated on revered Cherokee territory, provides spa services that combine traditional Indigenous healing techniques. The resort concierge can help with arranging plans to visit more restaurants and attractions in the neighborhood, including Lake Chatuge for boating and fishing and Crane Creek Vineyards for wine tasting. The lodge’s rustic fireplaces offer a cozy setting for reading or enjoying a drink of wine.
#13. St. Simons Island, Georgia
One of the largest barrier islands in the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island, is ideal for a romantic retreat. The island’s lighthouse can be explored, and other attractions include golf, deep-sea fishing, kayaking, and beach time. Consider staying at the Ocean Lodge Hotel, which offers first-rate amenities and breathtaking ocean views. The free bikes are an excellent way to discover this lovely island. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center is a hands-on learning facility with a conservation focus, and the tidewater estuaries are excellent photo locations.
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#14. Columbus, Georgia
If you’re looking for weekend getaways from Atlanta, GA, Columbus is an amazing option. Columbus is a straightforward 90-minute journey south of Atlanta on the I85. The Chattahoochee RiverWalk serves as the hub for entertainment and outdoor excursions in this pedestrian- and bicycle-friendly metropolis. Along the road, tourists can encounter top-notch museums and art galleries, top-notch dining establishments, and outdoor activities.
Rafting, kayaking, ziplining, and tubing are all enjoyable activities that can be enjoyed while the Chattahoochee runs through a succession of rapids. The National Infantry Museum and Historic Westville are both located on the Fort Benning military base, which can be reached by riding or trekking the entire length of the trail. In a former flour mill, the City Mills Hotel offers boutique-style lodging.
#15. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a charming and eccentric mountain town in North Carolina with renowned festivals, eateries, and distinctive boutiques. The Biltmore Mansion, the Bistro, and the Princess Anne Hotel are all located there. Over a million people visit The Biltmore each year, which is the biggest private residence in the country. While the Princess Anne Hotel offers a boutique atmosphere, free parking, and Wi-Fi, the Bistro serves quick bites. Breakfast is offered, and rooms have kitchenettes. Over a million people visit The Biltmore each year, which is the biggest private residence in the country.