12 Most Beautiful Places in Georgia That Will Make You Dream of the South

Georgia may not be as well known as its southern neighbor, but the Peach State is one of the top 10 most visited states in the country, thanks to its fog-draped mountains and historical heritage.

From driving through the Blue Ridge Mountains to the white-sand islands and moss-draped historic cities like Savannah, Georgia has gorgeous landscapes scattered everywhere. And with a welcoming climate and mild winters, there’s never a bad time to visit.

So get ready for some southern hospitality as you explore 12 of the most beautiful places in Georgia, USA that will make you fall in love with this diverse state.

1. Rock City Gardens Waterfall, Lookout Mountain

Rock City Gardens is a beautiful labyrinth of trails and gardens that lead to breathtaking views. One of the most iconic sights in Rock City Gardens is the beautiful waterfall known as Lovers Leap, which cascades down 140 feet (43 meters) into a pool below.

You can see seven states from a single lookout point: Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama. The hiking trails are just challenging enough to make you feel like you’ve earned that stunning view.

2. Tallulah Gorge State Park, Tallulah Falls

Located in northeastern Georgia, Tallulah Gorge State Park features six waterfalls, including the tallest, Hurricane Falls, at 96 feet. But the real highlight of this state park is its namesake gorge, which stretches two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep.

The most popular way to experience this park is hiking the 2-mile (3.2 kilometers) North Rim Trail. Otherwise, you can apply for a permit to hike down to the floor of the gorge and walk across its suspension bridge. Just be prepared for over 1,000 stairs!

3. Providence Canyon State Park, Lumpkin

Nicknamed the “Little Grand Canyon,” Providence Canyon State Park exudes fiery red and orange-colored canyons. In the 1800s, erosion caused by poor farming practices formed the canyons. Today, the park is a protected area where visitors can hike along the rim or down into the canyon floor.

The trails loop around and through the canyon, or you can hike to the backcountry sites for an overnight camping experience.

4. Jekyll Island

Tucked away on the coast of Georgia, Jekyll Island is an unspoiled getaway. Walk down its pristine beaches with twisted trunks and spot sea turtles and dolphins near its shores.

One particular beach, Driftwood Beach, is characterized by the eerie skeletons of large, weathered trees scattered across the beach. If you’re interested in history, there are also tours of the historic district to see grand mansions once owned by America’s wealthiest families.

5. Amicalola Falls State Park, Dawsonville

Amicalola Falls State Park is home to the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeastern United States, which drops 729 feet (222 meters). There are multiple trails but know that any hike to the top is a bit of a workout. You will hear the roar of the water long before you see it.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can even take on the Appalachian Trail approach trail that starts at Amicalola Falls and leads to Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the famous trail.

6. Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain

Stone Mountain Park is a seemingly randomly placed giant granite monolith, and the hike to the top is a rite of passage for locals. Once you’re at the summit, the panoramic view of Atlanta is nothing short of epic.

The park also has an impressive laser light show that’s been a family favorite for generations. Other things to add to your itinerary here would be the massive Confederate Memorial Carving or a ride on the scenic railroad. You could spend a whole day here and still not see everything.

7. Cloudland Canyon State Park, Rising Fawn

Cloudland Canyon State Park is another great spot for magnificent waterfalls that are Instagram gold. The views from the canyon’s rim are stunning, but if you’re up for a challenge, try hiking down Sitton’s Gulch Trail to the bottom of the gorge, where you can see two picturesque waterfalls.

Fall is an especially magical time to visit, with the leaves turning brilliant shades of red and gold.

8. Savannah Historic District, Savannah

No list of beautiful places in Georgia would be complete without mentioning its beloved city, Savannah.

Savannah is often called America’s first planned city. The historic district streets are lined with cobblestone and centuries-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss. You can sip coffee from city squares with architecture from the 1800s.

Stroll through Forsyth Park, take a ghost tour at night, or enjoy some of the best southern cuisine in the country.

9. The Blue Ridge Mountains

Rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic overlooks make the Blue Ridge Mountains one of the most visited spots in the USA. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway is a fun way to see the sights from the comfort of your car.

If you do want to stop, there are hiking trails that range from easy to challenging. In the fall, the foliage is so stunning it almost doesn’t look real.

10. Vogel State Park, Blairsville

Nestled at the base of Blood Mountain, Vogel State Park is one of the oldest and most beloved state parks in Georgia. The 22-acre Lake Trahlyta is perfect for a paddle, swimming, or relaxing on a sandy beach. The Bear Hair Gap Trail is a favorite hike with rewarding vistas.

11. Tybee Island

Tybee Island is the beach escape you’ve been dreaming of. Just a short drive from Savannah, this barrier island has sandy beaches, historic sites, and a laid-back vibe. The lighthouse is a must-see, and you can eat your fill of delicious seafood at local restaurants.

If you’re into water sports, there’s kayaking, paddleboarding, and more.

12. Cumberland Island

Cumberland Island is Georgia’s largest barrier island. Lay along the unspoiled beaches on this secluded island with wild horses roaming free and historic ruins all around.

To reach the island, you’ll need to take a ferry from St. Marys, Georgia, and planning in advance is a must as the island has a limited number of visitors allowed each day.

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