If you've spent much time here, you know that the Peach State is an incredibly unique place. We're pretty fond of quirkiness here. From Atlanta's colorful Little Five Points neighborhood to the wild horses roaming the beaches of Cumberland Island, one thing's for sure: there are lots of weird places to go in Georgia. If you are looking for a true only-in-Georgia experience, why not spend the night a little somewhere off the wall? If you find yourself looking for the "best cabin rentals near me," we've got you covered with the spot we're featuring today. One of the state's strangest attractions is tucked away in the little city of Summerville in Chattooga County. Paradise Garden was the home of Howard Finster and is now a park and public art display devoted to his life and folk art in general. But did you know that you can actually sleep at Paradise Garden? This magically unique spot has several Airbnb properties right on site where you can spend the night in paradise. The Paradise Garden Cabins in Georgia are some of the best cabin rentals in Georgia, especially if you're looking for a unique place to stay!
If you're not familiar with Paradise Garden, this is truly one of the strangest attractions in Georgia. This is definitely not your average park! It's filled with unusual art that was crafted by Howard Finster, an Alabama-born Baptist minister who became a self-taught artist and one of the best-known Southern folk artists of all time.
Thousands of visitors flock to Paradise Garden each year, but many don't know that you can actually stay right here on the property. The museum is home to the Paradise Garden Cabins, vacation rentals that are every bit as quirky as their surroundings.
When the new year rolls around, it's in our human nature to start making plans for the next 12 months. Resolutions are made, and plans are written out: it feels like we're all deciding who we want to be and what we want to do come January. New year, new me, right? One topic that many travelers love to start to think about is getaways in Georgia to enjoy throughout the year. There are so many great vacation destinations in Georgia, and there's certainly no shortage of spots to enjoy, no matter what time of year you're planning on traveling! We have done all the work for you and picked out 12 of our favorite Vrbo properties that are just perfect for renting. Whether you're planning a single big trip or want to enjoy some of the best places to stay in Georgia each month, you're all set for a good time with any of these selections. Check out some of the best vacation rentals in Georgia:
This gorgeous mountain cabin is just outside of Blue Ridge. Its prime location right at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains means you'll get to enjoy some incredible views. I love that it's a wonderful combination of both rustic and modern. The beautiful tiered deck with a four-person hot tub makes this an ideal stay for winter. We think it's just perfect for a January visit. If your new year's resolution is to stay fit, there are plenty of nearby trails to explore!
February: Centrally-Located Modern Home in Downtown Columbus
If you ask us, Columbus is easily one of the most underrated vacation destinations in Georgia. There's so much to do in this riverfront city, no matter what you're interested in. This gorgeous recently-renovated home is centrally-located just a few miles from downtown Columbus. You're close to the city's nightlife, restaurants, and shops. You'll have no trouble finding plenty to do as you explore the historic Fountain City!
It doesn't matter what time of year it is, the mountains and valleys of the northwest Georgia area are always absolutely magnificent. Come springtime, the valleys erupt into a plethora of wildflowers and plant life. You can catch a perfect view of all this March greenery from this stunning cabin in Menlo. It's fully renovated and not far from several state parks, so there are plenty of opportunities to explore, whether you're looking to enjoy a peaceful picnic or hit the trails for some exercise and sight-seeing.
April in Georgia is a wonderful time to be outdoors enjoying the warm weather and beautiful greenery, isn't it? There's no better place to be outside than this gorgeous cabin in Blue Ridge. Surrounded by the mountains and only 10-15 minutes from the area's shops, restaurants, and attractions, you'll find everything you need at this luxury retreat.
This unique hand-carved cave house looks like something out of The Flintstones. It's certainly one of the most unique vacation rentals in Georgia! Inside, you'll find tons of natural light and incredible views. The home is located in Dade County, up towards the very top of North Georgia, meaning you've got lots of options of areas to explore. If you're into nature, it doesn't get much better than the nearby Lookout Mountain, and fans of shopping and city life will find plenty to enjoy just across the state line in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Come summer, the Georgia weather can get a little warm, so the arrival of June means it's perfect timing for this brand new cabin in Trenton. It's part of an enclave of several cabins, so if you have friends that want to travel with you, this is a great opportunity for a multi-group getaway in Georgia. The seven-acre lake is shared by all the cabins and you'll have tons of fun out on the water kayaking, swimming, or catch-and-release fishing.
Tybee Island is the perfect place to spend a gorgeous summer's day, and this top-floor condo offers gorgeous beach views and a balcony that's ideal for watching the sun as it sets over the beach. It's just a short walk to reach the beach or pool, and either make for a great afternoon of fun in the July sun.
This Union County home is so adorable and has such a cozy feel! Lake Trahlyta is nearby, so nature lovers are sure to have a blast here. The fire pit is great for roasting marshmallows on a warm August night while gazing up at the North Georgia stars.
This stylish house in Valdosta is an easy walk to the city's vibrant downtown area. This area offers plenty of local businesses to peruse, and you're also not far from Wild Adventures, a combination zoo/theme park that's perfect to visit with the entire family. This is an underrated area of the state that's definitely worth a visit.
October means the fall foliage in Georgia will be in full swing, and where better to observe it than this mountain cabin in Blairsville? The cozy interior is equipped with a fireplace for those cool fall nights, and there's also an outdoor fire pit to enjoy if you prefer to be outside. The cabin is close to a variety of trails that are a great complement to the crisp sweater weather that the Northeast Georgia mountains offer.
By November, many of us start feeling a bit stressed. The year's coming to a close, the holidays are fast approaching, and life can just feel a little extreme and overwhelming by this time of year. If you need to relax, this luxury lake retreat in Putnam County will have you forgetting all your troubles. This is the perfect getaway for a group of friends or a large family - it can sleep up to 10 people, so there's room for everyone to spread out and relax!
Need a great getaway that's the perfect blend of modern amenities and rustic charm? This Warm Springs cabin is just the ticket. It's not far from FDR State Park and Callaway Gardens, and this small town has mild winters, so you'll have no trouble enjoying the nearby outdoor attractions, even in December. Callaway Gardens is one of the best Christmas getaways in Georgia, and the lights and spectacular festivals there are perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.
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So, what do you think of our list? Which of these great getaways in Georgia is your favorite? Once you have made your selections, don’t hesitate to visit the Vrbo listing to see more pics and to start planning your getaway. These are some of the best places to stay in Georgia, so you won’t be disappointed no matter what rental you choose. Enjoy your vacation!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
