Every once in a while it’s nice to step outside your comfort zone and tackle an adventure within your home state. Maybe you have a few days free, or a long weekend where you can get out and explore. Don’t worry, we have you covered. This Georgia hidden gems road trip will take you to a handful of delightful attractions across the state that you might not even know exist. From a tucked-away dessert shop to one of the coolest museums in the south, buckle up for a wild ride as you explore these hidden gems in Georgia. One thing's for sure -- you'll want to bring your camera with you!
The entire road trip takes just over four hours of travel time, but you’ll want to carve out some stoppage along the way, too. You can find the entire itinerary for the trip here. Ready to get started?
First up on our list of hidden gems in Georgia is the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. This traditional Hindu mandir in Atlanta is one of the largest of its kind outside of India. Visitors can enjoy the one-of-a-kind architecture of the sculpted marble, but also spend the day feeling peaceful and serene wandering through the grounds. Learn more about this one-of-a-kind landmark in Georgia.
2. Fernbank Museum of Natural History - Atlanta, Georgia
No matter what age you are, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History will give you a one-of-a-kind experience both indoors and outdoors. With a wide variety of interactive exhibits, timeless artifacts, and historic fossils, it’s easy to spend an entire day here. No matter your age, you'll certainly agree that the Fernbank Museum of Natural History makes for an excellent day trip destination.
3. Decadent Dessert Bar Macon - Downtown Macon, Georgia
Decadent Dessert Bar in Macon, Georgia is one part coffee shop and one part dessert paradise. Using fresh ingredients, you’ll find shelves of desserts inside, from cakes and cookies to ice cream sandwiches and more. The next time you have a sweet tooth craving, this is the place to go. Learn more about this must-visit Georgia dessert bar.
Get a true taste of what Georgia is all about when you visit Pearson Farm in Fort Valley. This delightful farm is a hidden gem, featuring fresh peaches, pecans, and so much more. You can even watch inside as the employees wash and pack the peaches right in front of you! Learn more about this incredible local farm in Georgia that's been in business for over 130 years.
When you’re traveling south through Columbus, Georgia make sure to stop at Zombie Pig BBQ. This well-ranked barbecue spot offers award-winning ‘cue, like the fresh beef brisket that’s slow-smoked for 14 hours. Or try your hand at the slow-and-low smoked ribs which are as mouthwatering as you can imagine. Just one bite and you'll agree that Zombie Pig BBQ offers some of the very best barbecue in Georgia.
Did you know that Georgia has its own Grand Canyon? It might be smaller than the original but this little attraction packs a big punch. Hike the trails, camp at the primitive sites, and enjoy the epic views from the canyon rim. Come enjoy one of Georgia’s seven natural wonders! A trip to the Grand Canyon of Georgia is an experience you won't soon forget.
So, what do you think about this road trip to discover hidden gems in Georgia? Would this be something you're willing to tackle in one shot? Make sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments section -- we would love to hear from you! Looking for related content? We also put together a list of the top places in Georgia to take an out-of-towner. Or, if you're a local, you may just discover some new fun things to do in Georgia for yourself! Either way, your next adventure awaits.
Georgia road trips offer travelers a variety of routes and destinations to discover the beauty of the Peach State. Whether you're looking for a scenic drive down Coastal Georgia or want to explore waterfalls in Amicalola Falls State Park, these adventures will give you a unique perspective on North Carolina's diverse landscapes. Whether traveling solo or with friends, these trips are perfect for anyone looking for the best road trips in Georgia.
Route: Forsyth Park > Richmond Hill > Smallest Church In America > Old School Diner > Golden Isles Speedway > Waycross > Alma Nursery & Berry Farms >
Distance: 269 miles
Trip Time: 5 hours driving time
If you're strapped for time or cash or want to take a quick day trip, we've got a road trip for you that will take only one tank of gas. This easy route will take from Savannah to Dublin with a stop in Waycross. You'll visit Forsyth Park, stop at the Smallest Church in America, and make a quick pitstop in Alama to pick fresh blueberries.
to three beaches along the Georgia coastline. Spending under three hours in the car leaves you with more time to see all the beauty and fun things to do at each beach. You'll start your trip at Tybee Island, where you can check out the historic site of Fort Screven and its lighthouse. Then you'll make your way to St. Simons Island and end your trip at Jekyll Island, where there are campsites if you decide to spend the night.
Route: Augusta Riverwalk > Augusta Canal Discovery Center > Peggy's Restaurant > Andalusia: the Home of Flannery O'Connor > Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park
Distance: 129 miles
Trip Time: 2 hours and 37 minutes driving time
This day trip through central Georgia is perfect if you want to explore some hidden gems around the area. The two-and-a-half-hour itinerary takes you to waterside walks, canal tours, local restaurants, and our favorite, the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park.
map takes you along the US 17 highway beginning in Charleston and ending in Brunswick. Make stops along the scenic route of US 17 and have a fun day or two or three! Feel like dipping your toes in the Atlantic Ocean? Spend a day at the beach and rent a kayak. You'll even be able to check out old towns and historic districts along the way.
Route: Shirley Miller Wildflower Trail > East Palisades Trail > Sweetwater Creek State Park > Angel Falls Trail > Preachers Rock from Woody Gap
Distance: 302 miles
Trip Time: 6 hours driving time
As Georgia's warm weather starts to set in, it ignites excitement. It's practically impossible not to want to get outside and enjoy the outdoors during springtime. Nature becomes so magical this time of year, making this the perfect time to take this wildflower road trip. This journey will begin at Shirley Miller Wildflower Trail, taking you through national parks and forests and ending at Preachers Rock from Woody Gap. You'll spot all sorts of native wildflowers on this trek, a definite bucket list road trip
Route: Tybee Island > Leopold's Ice Cream > Georgia Veterans State Park > Claystone Park at Lake Tobesofkee > Macon Swirls > Cremalosa > Sope Creek Trail > Frozen Cow Creamery > Holly Creek Picnic Area > MooBears Ice Cream and Hotdogs Trackside
Distance: 515 miles
Trip Time: 10 hours driving time
advertisement
Does anything scream summertime more than swimming spots and ice cream cones? We didn't think so. Pack up the car and head on one of the best Georgia road trips! This trip starts near the Tennessee border and ends at the coast, taking you to beaches, lakes, and swimming holes, with stops at local ice cream joints along the way.
Route: Cloudland Canyon State Park > Amicalola Falls State Park > Blue Ridge Drive > Vogel State Park > Black Rock Mountain State Park > Tallulah Gorge State Park > Smithgall Woods > Red Top Mountain State Park > James H. Floyd State Park
for fall foliage. This nine-hour drive will take you on twists and turns through state parks, overlooks, and even the Blue Ridge Parkway. Our favorite stop on the trip is Cloudland Canyon in Rising Fawn, where you'll be able to see the most magical views of the fall colors for miles and miles.
Route: Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens at the Historic Bamboo Farm > Ludy's Christmas Light Spectacular > Callaway Gardens > Felix Family Christmas Lights > Lights of Life > Atlanta Botanical Garden > Helen > Fields Family Holiday Lights > TMT Farms Christmas Lights Displays
Distance: 728 miles
Trip Time: 13 hours driving time
advertisement
What better way to spend the holiday than a winter road trip to see the festive lights? This magnificent route takes you all through the state outside cities like Athens and Atlanta, and it's even close to the Alabama state lines, making it a convenient itinerary for families. You can do the whole thing or pieces, whatever suits you. One of our favorite stops is Callaway Gardens - the display has more than 8 million lights!
Route: The State Botanical Garden of Georgia > Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream > Bear Hollow Zoo > Georgia Aquarium > The 57th Fighter Group Restaurant > Cascade Springs Nature Preserve > Great Wolf Lodge Water Park
is bound to keep everyone in the group happy, with stops at whimsical attractions, themed restaurants, and more. Some notable places this three-hour road trip hits are The State Botanical Garden of Georgia, Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream, and Great Wolf Lodge Water Park. There is something for everyone on this fun-filled getaway.
Route: Providence Canyons > Georgia Aquarium > World of Coca-Cola Museum > High Museum of Art > Amicalola Falls > Tallulah Gorge State Park > Watson Mill Bridge State Park
through Georgia. The first stop is the Little Grand Canyon of the South, Providence Canyon State Park. It will also take you through some outdoor adventures and hiking trails in the North Georgia Mountains to Tallulah Gorge State Park, with chances to stop at must-see attractions in Atlanta, like the Georgia Aquarium.
takes you to all the charming small towns dotting the coastline. It begins near the border of Florida and finishes right by South Carolina. The quick drive time gives you a chance to stop at each town and check out the local boutique shops, historic sites, and beautiful parks along the route. And be sure to grab food while you're in Midway - the area is known for its seafood.
Have you taken any of these awesome road trips? We’d love to hear from you – let us know! Need more Georgia road trip ideas with outdoor adventures? Take a ride on the longest zipline in Georgia. Hikers will also love this unforgettable road trip to a swinging bridge over the Toccoa River.
Looking for even more travel inspiration? Check out this stunning footage of the Grand Canyon of the East Coast, which happens to be right here in Georgia:
If you can get just three days free for a road trip in Georgia, we've got a perfect one planned for you. This 3-day road trip in Georgia will take you to three of the prettiest beaches in the Peach State. You'll spend relatively little time in the car on this adventure and won't have to use up too much gas. It's a great way to explore some of our wonderful shorelines!
advertisement
Due to the Peach State's large size, many road trips in Georgia require quite a bit of driving. This beach road trip in Georgia will not have you spending too much time in the car at all!
The entire driving time is under three hours. We recommend taking three days for this trip so that you can adequately explore each of the beaches and surrounding areas. Check out the full itinerary on Google Maps. This is a great weekend road trip in Georgia for those who love the beach!
The first stop on one of the best road trips in Georgia is Tybee Island. Tybee Island often tops the list of best beaches in Georgia, and it's really no wonder why. This barrier island boasts wide, sandy beaches. You'll find plenty of historical attractions here, like Fort Screven and a beautiful lighthouse.
Another can't-miss spot is the Tybee Island Marine Science Center. There are some great exhibits here, and the museum offers marsh treks to get up close and personal in a "floating classroom."
Need a place to stay in Tybee Island? Take a look at this beach house with a pool and book your stay!
Get up early on day two and head out to St. Simon's Island. This is considered one of the best small-town vacation spots in Georgia. It's really no wonder why - the beach is stunning and there are plenty of nearby attractions for history lovers and nature lovers alike.
Your final day on this three-day getaway will be spent at Jekyll Island. Part of this island is an exclusive resort, but much of it is accessible to the public.
This is such a beautiful beach in Georgia, and there's even a campground if you'd like to extend your vacation to four days.
Another option on Jekyll Island is a vacation rental? Book a stay at the Kendall Cottage which has a heated pool, bikes you can use, and several additional amenities you may like. Staying here is a great way to end one of the prettiest road trips in Georgia!
Have you been to any of these gorgeous beaches in Georgia? Are there any other favorites you'd like to see added? Would you take this 3-day road trip in Georgia? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
If you plan on taking a road trip through Georgia any time soon, make sure you take a look at our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for everything you need. And don't forget to bring snacks for the road, too!
