georgia travel photos

Photos Of Georgia That Will Make You Fall In Love With The Country

A photo tour of georgia.

The Kingdoms that make up modern-day Georgia in the Caucasus mountains leave a cultural legacy of thousands of years. While Georgia is not a wealthy state (compared to most Western European nations), it’s a land rich in dance, music, viticulture, food, and tradition. Georgia offers a diverse landscape comprising mountains, lakes, coastline, wine-growing regions, desert, and temperature rainforest all packed into a small country.

With the reputation for having arguably the friendliest people in the world, Georgia welcomes visitors with open arms. Put Tbilisi, Batumi, Kazbegi, Kakheti, Kutaisi, and Svaneti on your bucket list. Expect to see Georgia winning accolades for the best tourist destination in the world in the not too distant future.

Budget airlines are launching flights from all over Europe and Asia to Tbilisi and Kutaisi. For most people wanting to travel to Georgia , visas are not required. And to top it off, Georgia is an inexpensive place to travel. The first waves of tourists, Tbilisi day-trippers , wine-lovers , and outdoor enthusiasts have started to arrive. What are you waiting for?

Georgia is one of the most photogenic countries in the world . The mountain air, Mediterranean climate of long sunny days, colourful old world culture mixed with modern technology, and the blend of ultra-modern and soviet colonial buildings, particularly in the capital, Tbilisi, makes Georgia (the country) a photographer’s dream.

These are the pictures of Georgia that I (a very amateur photographer) captured during 5 weeks  living in Tbilisi , hiking the  mountains of Kazbegi , walking Batumi’s promenades, and sampling Kakheti’s wine region . I hope these images inspire you to visit.

If you like what you're reading and would like to see more, fuel my writing with some caffeine! Cheers

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4 thoughts on “Photos Of Georgia That Will Make You Fall In Love With The Country”

Great photos. makes me want to go immediately.

A hidden gem I want too visit

We were just there Dec 2-10. Absolutely love it!! We can’t wait to get back. The food is delicious. The people are the best. The country side is beautiful. We did not get as far into the mountains as I wanted due to the weather,, We are going back in the spring or fall next time. It’s my new favorite place ❤️

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Georgia in Pictures: 20 Beautiful Places to Photograph

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 22, 2022

There are so many pictures to be had in Georgia, from historic landmarks to the artistic ancient oak trees on the famous Wormsloe plantation. Old mills and covered bridges that are carefully preserved throughout the state maintain Georgia's vintage Southern charm.

Nature thrives in Georgia's humid southern environment – colors are vibrant in the fields and there is a thick blanket of forest trees in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The jagged rocks and scenery in the outskirts is appealing against the rushing water and waterfalls in the state parks and backcountry regions. Georgia's natural historic scene is balanced by the big city lights and energy in Atlanta, Columbus, and Savannah.

2. Oak Avenue

3. savannah riverfront, 4. stone mountain park, 5. tallulah gorge, 6. starrs mill, 7. lookout mountain, 9. centennial olympic park, 10. peach orchards, 11. brasstown bald observatory, 12. blue ridge mountains, 13. elder mill covered bridge, 14. chattooga river, 15. providence canyon, 16. georgia state capitol, 17. horse ranches, 18. coastal georgia, 19. old mill at berry college, 20. cotton fields.

The Atlanta skyline is colorful and exciting, much like the energy of the city. Since Atlanta is the state capital, there are many buildings that light up at night and a busy downtown with parks, social activity, and the iconic SkyView Ferris wheel, which is a standout feature in skyline photos.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Atlanta

One of the most beautiful places in Georgia is the 1.5-mile oak-lined avenue on the Wormsloe Historic Site that has a canopy of huge ancient oak trees reaching over the roadway from both sides. Late afternoon is an ideal time to catch the light just right coming through the trees, and display the details of the Spanish moss hanging from the branches.

The 822-acre historic Wormsloe plantation near Savannah once belonged to a colonial founder of Georgia and is now a preserved site for visitors to enjoy.

As the oldest city in Georgia, Savannah has some stunning history to photograph, but one of the best spots in the city is along the riverfront in the Historic Landmark District. The Savannah riverfront is the place to set up for shots of riverboats, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, 18th-century homes, and the quaint scene along the waterfront.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Savannah

While Stone Mountain Park is popular for tourist activities, it has thousands of acres of natural beauty to photograph and admire, from covered bridges to lakes. One of the notable features of Stone Mountain is the three-acre memorial carving in the side of the rock. The image depicts prominent Confederate leaders in the Civil War. Stone Mountain Park is located just outside of Atlanta.

The breathtaking Tallulah Gorge is one of the most spectacular places to go for images of nature. There is a diversity of natural features, from the two-mile-long gorge to waterfalls and 1000-foot-high cliffs. The gorge surrounds the Tallulah River in the Tallulah Gorge State Park in northwest Georgia.

The historic Starrs Mill near Atlanta is a historic landmark, with it roots dating back to the early 1900s. The mill sits on Whitewater Creek, where it once served the surrounding community as a grain mill, sawmill, and cotton gin. The brilliant red historic mill is nicely preserved and is a colorful image subject against the backdrop of a blue sky and running waterfall.

Lookout Mountain has many quirky visual treasures, from unusual rock formations to a seven-state view from the Observation Point at Lover's Leap and gardens. Some of the most visual spots are the dramatic High Falls waterfall and the Enchanted Trail, where there are artistic sculptures nestled into the landscape.

The city of Macon is considered the heart of Georgia because of its geographic location in the middle of the state but it also has warm, traditional Southern charm. Macon is beautiful in the spring, when 350,000 cherry trees are in bloom around the city and historic homes. The pink hue of the buds on the trees and blooming gardens are tranquil.

The Centennial Olympic Park in Atlanta is always a scenic spot, but it is especially beautiful at nighttime. The lights throughout the park are colorful and illuminated at night, the SkyWheel is spinning, and the splash pad water features create a nice aquatic effect. The park is one of Atlanta's most visual features.

The famous Georgia peach is great to capture at orchards around the state. The iconic image of a ripe orange and yellow peach on the tree is one of the most beautiful shots to get in Georgia. Other peach photography in Georgia is available at farmers markets, where you will find baskets of the ripe fruit, peach pies, cobbler, and more.

Brasstown Bald in northeast Georgia is the highest point in the state, so it guarantees spectacular views, especially from the mountaintop observatory. Enjoy panoramic views of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest that surrounds the mountain. On a clear day, you can see four states from the observation deck.

The Blue Ridge Mountain view at sunset is inspiring, especially during the springtime, when the colors in the sky are accented by the blooms of purple flowers. The mountain views that extend for many miles have a beautiful visual depth that is accentuated by the changing light at dusk. The mountain range can be seen in northern Georgia.

The Elder Mill Covered Bridge in northeast Georgia near Watkinsville is a historic wooden bridge that is nice to photograph. Built in 1897, the covered bridge is 100 feet long with intricate wooden pegs. A nice angle for a photograph is from Rose Creek below the bridge.

The Wild and Scenic Chattooga River is a phenomenal natural feature in Georgia. The whitewater rapids are stunning to capture in the summer, but the ice on the water in the winter adds an even more dramatic effect.

Providence Canyon in southwest Georgia is sometimes referred to as Georgia's Grand Canyon. The rustic orange colors and the jagged and steep rock formations give it that resemblance. The steep canyon is inside Providence Canyon State Park near Lumpkin, Georgia. There are many trails and lookout spots throughout the 1,000-acre park to get different vantage points of the elaborate natural rock formations.

The Georgia State Capitol building in Atlanta has a special visual appeal at night, when special lighting illuminates the statehouse dome and the statues on the lawn. The building is a National Historic Landmark, with historic and architectural significance.

Horse ranches outside Macon, Georgia capture some of the most tranquil and idyllic countryside in the state. The sprawling estates and ranches are eye-catching during scenic drives through the rural areas of Georgia, especially when horses are grazing in the fields.

The sand-swept dunes along the Georgia coast are especially beautiful during the morning and early evening light. Catch the Atlantic water at high tide colliding with the sand dunes and the natural environment that accents them. Locations on Georgia's barrier islands, like Tybee Island and Jekyll Island, are prime spots for this stunning ocean view.

The Old Mill at Berry College in Mount Berry, Georgia has a depth of imagery and history. The mill was constructed in 1930 and has what is believed to be the largest waterwheel in the world at 42 feet in diameter. The mill is operated on special occasions throughout the year.

Few images in Georgia are as representative of the state as the flourishing cotton fields found throughout the state. In full bloom, the cotton stalks pop with white blossoms, making the fields look like soft blankets in the Georgia countryside. The cotton-growing season lasts between 150 and 180 days.

More on Georgia

21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Georgia

Gorgeous Georgia is mostly known for being home to charming historic cities filled with leafy squares and oak-lined streets, sprawling farmlands, towering mountains, and lashings of Southern charm. It was a tough task, but I’ve managed to narrow down my favorite places…

1. Savannah

Constantly ranked amongst one of the “friendliest cities in the world”, Savannah’s colorful history attracts millions of visitors annually. Situated along the bubbling Savannah River, this strategic port city is Georgia’s fifth-largest city.

With an almost 300-year history, the host city retains its essence, with cobbled and oak-lined streets, beautiful parks, and archaic buildings.

I recommend walking down the historic 22 parklike squares in downtown Savannah or getting intrigued with the Telfair’s Academy of Arts and Sciences, South’s first public museum, this charming city is full of antique hallmarks.

A pretty and sophisticated city with funky nightlife and delicious food, this place exudes natural beauty and beautiful locales.

I suggest heading to Savannah’s Historic District and visiting the beautiful public green space complete with shaded green spaces Forsyth Park, the Mercer Williams House Museum, the famous Bonaventure Cemetery (which was featured in the 1994 novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt), the Wormsloe Historic Site and the Olde Pink House is popular for fine dining in the city.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 301 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Savannah, GA 31401
• Location Map
• Best times to visit: From March to July

My favorite highlights…

• Experiencing Savannah’s Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour and exploring the city.
• Taking a riverboat sightseeing cruise and listening to intriguing tales and historical facts about the city.
• Visiting the charming Savannah Historic District where I found museums, churches, monuments and famous forts of the Revolutionary and Civil War eras.

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2. Jekyll Island 

In my opinion, this beautiful 5,500-acre island is just a dream and is just a short drive from Savannah. It’s also been the filming location for X-Men First Class, the Legend of Baggar Vance, and The Walking Dead.

Jekyll Island, one of the Golden Isles of Georgia barrier islands, is home to over 10 miles of unspoilt beaches, including the iconic and very photogenic Driftwood Beach.

It also has a sea turtle rescue centre, acres of pristine protected land, a historic landmark, a district, leisure facilities, and over 20 miles of bike paths.

Other highlights include collecting fine historical homes, year-round events, and family-friendly activities. Some excellent hotels, resorts, self-catering cottages, and campsites are perfect for short breaks or longer vacations.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 901 Downing Musgrove Cswy, Jekyll Island, GA 31527
• Best times to visit: From September to November
• Capturing a dreamy sunset on the picturesque Driftwood Beach.
• Educating myself about the super-cute sea turtles at Georgia Sea Turtle Center.
• Cycling the scenic Jekyll Island Trail System.

3. Tallulah Falls State Park

Get drenched in the awe-inspiring beauty of one of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern US.

The gorgeous Tallulah Gorge, two miles long and neatly 1,000 feet deep, is where the Tallulah River flows through the rugged terrain with five distinct waterfalls.

I recommend hiking along the Hurricane Falls and Sliding Rock Trail, braving the suspension bridge 80ft above the rocky bottom, or kayaking in the sparkling waters with spectacular views!

• Visitor’s Center Address: Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
• Best times to visit: between March to June and September to November

My highlights…

• Hiking the stunning Tallulah Gorge Overlooks Trail. 
• Exploring the beautiful Panther Creek Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
• Checking out the Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center, the park’s well-equipped visitor center.

4. Providence Canyon State Park

Often called “Little Grand Canyon,” Providence Canyon is a must-see destination in Georgia. Its unusual geological formations, including colorful ravines and towering sandstones, make the ever-evolving landscape a perfect spot for exploration and photography.

The massive gullies caused by poor agricultural practices during the 1800s today make up for the prettiest vista. The canyon’s hued soils make for natural painting in this quaint park. You’ll find a thin layer of water along the soft-bedded, sandy hiking trails.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 8930 Canyon Rd, Lumpkin, GA 31815
• Best times to visit: From May to September
• Hiking the Canyon Loop Trail (rated easy).
• Having a picnic surrounded by canyons.
• Overnight camping at Williford Branch Camp.

5. St Simons Island

This is the largest island of the Golden Isles located off the Georgia Coast, made famous in the poem Marches of the Glynn by Sidney Lanier.

It’s a laid-back and tranquil place with quaint streets lined with moss-draped oaks, miles of beautiful unspoilt beaches, an iconic lighthouse (St. Simon’s Island Lighthouse has been a working lighthouse since 1872), a charming pier, gorgeous scenery, golf courses, museums and a great collection of shops, restaurants, biking trails, and annual events.

There are many things to do here, including tours, kayaking, walking, and biking, and a variety of accommodations are available for a beautiful spring, summer, fall, or winter Georgia vacation or a short break.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 529 Beachview Dr, St Simons Island, GA 31522
• Best times to visit: Summer
• Hiking the scenic John Gilbert Nature Trail.
• Having a day out exploring Neptune Park.
• Relaxing on the beautiful East Beach.

Located about 85 miles southeast of Atlanta, Macon is the perfect destination for Southern adventure. A pretty city with a rich history, incredible architecture, and music heritage, Macon is “Where Soul Lives”.

Hike to the area’s 17,000-year heritage at Ocmulgee National Monument, which includes a reconstructed earthen lodge, or stroll down the streets and discover the state’s largest collection of African-American art in Tubman Museum .

You’ll discover the untold stories of the Civil War at every landmark. Pay tribute to Macon’s native son, Otis Redding, at his life-size statue along the spacious avenues with art galleries and antique boutiques. Macon is a proud home to diverse cultures and architecture, and that’s why I’m such a huge fan! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 450 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Macon, GA 31201
• Best times to visit: May, October and November

My personal highlights…

• Visiting Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park which offers 17,000 years’ worth of history.
• Discovering St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, a neo-Gothic church from the 19th century.
• Watching a show at the majestic Grand Opera House.

7. Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain is a wonderful, striking mountain ridge in the state’s northwest corner. It offers truly stunning views and beautiful surroundings, and it is also the place where you can view most of the states at once.

Located 25 miles from three different states, when the skies are clear (and with a good set of binoculars handy), you can see up to seven different states if you try hard enough – visit and see for yourself! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 110 Point Park Road, Lookout Mountain, TN 37350
• Best times to visit: From August to November
• Falling in love with the seven surrounding states to the Civil War site.
• Paying a visit to the Battles for Chattanooga Museum.
• Taking a hike to Sunset Rock.

This attractive city in northeast Georgia is known for its antebellum architecture and for being the start of the Antebellum Trail of historic Civil War towns. It’s also a great destination for unique annual festivals, events, shopping, restaurants, and live music.

Highlights of this fine city include the Greek Revival mansion the Taylor Grady House , the 19th-century Church-Waddel-Brumby House, and the well-preserved T.R.R. Cobb House, the mansion of a mid-19th-century lawyer where you can see historic period furniture and exhibits.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 300 N Thomas St, Athens, GA 30601
• Best times to visit: between March and May and from September to November
• Spending the afternoon at the lovely State Botanical Garden of Georgia.
• Checking out Downtown Athens, which was filled with great restaurants and interesting independent shops. 

9. Lake Allatoona

Situated on the Etowah River, beautiful Lake Allatoona is a popular spot for campers, anglers, boaters, kayakers, and hikers seeking fun and adventure away from the hustle and bustle of Atlanta. The Army Corps manages Allatoona Lake.

With majestic vistas and starry nights, this place is full of things you’ll love to explore. Soak in some sun at Bartow Beach, nestled in a cove, or hike the Iron Hill trail on Red Top Mountain State Park along the shores of Allatoona Lake. There’s so much variety of options to fulfil your adventurous desire.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1138 GA-20 Spur, Cartersville, GA 30121
• Best times to visit: April and October
• Hiking the Pine Mountain Trail loop.
• Enjoying a swim at the secluded Bartow Beach.
• Going for a walk at the popular Red Top Mountain State Park.

Helen is a gorgeous and unique mountain town and a popular vacation spot in Northeast Georgia. It is next door to the popular Unicoi State Park.

It’s home to charming Bavarian-style buildings, over 200 speciality shops, vineyards, many mountains and forest trails, and a nearby attractive lake, waterfalls, and campsites. Popular things include river tubing, wine tasting, and the fun Georgia Mountain Coaster .

• Visitor’s Center Address: 726 Brucken Strasse, Helen, GA 30545
• Best time to visit: April
• Going for a peaceful walk in the surrounding areas of Anna Ruby Falls.
• Wandering around the pretty Unicoi State Park. 
• Having fun river tubing on the Chattahoochee River.

11. Atlanta Botanical Garden

Apart from stunning landscapes and attractions, Gainesville is a new destination for connecting beauty with the natural world. Founded in 1976, the garden has developed a robust horticulture program and one of the largest conservation nurseries.

With an informative visitor centre, outdoor gardens, a model train garden, and an amphitheatre, it hosts exciting events, art exhibitions, and educational programs. It is also home to the Canopy Walk, a 600-foot-long skywalk that provides a scenic view of the gardens below.

Also, make time to explore the rest of the city and other awesome things to do in Atalanta, including the Museum of High Museum of Art, beautiful Piedmont Park, Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, and Oakland Cemetery, the final resting place of famous city residents.

Family-friendly attractions in the city include the popular Six Flags over Georgia and the Fernbank Museum, 3D Theater, and Forest.

• Visitor’s Center Address: Atlanta, GA 30309
• Best times to visit: From March until May (weekdays are better)
• Admiring the rare collection of orchids.
• Photographing the excellent exhibitions.
• Attending the gardening tips classes. 

12. Northeast Georgia Mountains

Often referred to as the Georgia Mountains, the Northeast Georgia Mountains’ picturesque beauty, countryside, tumbling waterfalls, and gentle mountains provide a much-needed escape from the bustling city. One of the oldest mountain chains that ends in Georgia is the Blue Ridge.

Tucked in Chattahoochee National Forest, Blue Ridge offers excellent hiking, scenic drives, and farm-fresh produce. Brasstown Bald, the highest point in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is known to display the season’s first fall colors.

Hike to the top for a panoramic 360-degree view and witness the four states from the visitor center. The Brasstown Bald offers a secluded retreat with sublime views and lush forests.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 152 Orvin Lance Dr, Blue Ridge, GA 30513
• Best times to visit: From April to May and from mid-September to November
• Discovering Château Élan, a premier place that offers a golf course and a winery. 
• Visiting the folk art gallery Rocky’s Place, where I found paintings from self-taught artists.
• Paying a visit to The Farmhouse Co, which sold antiques to pet products.

13. Lake Lanier and Lanier Islands

Located in the foothills of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, this is a popular beauty and vacation and weekend destination in Georgia. People go swimming, boating, and relaxing here on its gorgeous shores.

Lanier Islands is a huge vacation resort complex in the middle of Lake Lanier, which is reachable by road from the mainland.

It offers accommodation, leisure and adventure activities, event venues, and plenty of spectacular lake scenery.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1050 Buford Dam Rd. Buford GA 30518
• Best times to visit:  September to December
• Having a ball at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Water Park which is also ideal for families.
• Trying the Paranoia Quest Escape the room.
• Having a go at Legacy Golf Course which offers 12 holes and beautiful greenery. 

14. Amicalola Falls State Park

Nestled in the North Georgia Mountains, northeast of Dawsonville is Georgia’s most visited State Park. The beautiful Amicalola Falls State Park spills down a towering bluff, falling 720 feet into a mossy forest.

Also known as “tumbling waters” in the Cherokee language, this Georgia state park was established in 1940.

Relax in the confinement of nature or hike along the most popular trails through the park. Amicalola Falls’ mesmerizing vistas and spectacular sunsets offer a friendly mountain getaway.

Play, explore, and discover various fun-filled activities at the Amicalola Falls Visitors Center.  

• Visitor’s Center Address: 280 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd, Dawsonville, GA 30534
• Peak times to visit: From June to August
• Trying the thrilling ziplines and suspension bridges
• Taking the perfect scneic shot from the top of the  Blue Ridge Mountains, one of the tallest mountains in Georgia.
• Photographing the majestic Amicalola Falls.

15. Tybee Island

Probably the closest beach to Savannah, pretty Tybee Island is one of the top-rated beaches in the US. Bursting with history and fun in the sun, Tybee Island has beautiful sandy beaches perfect for water sports and swimming.

An answer to the perfect beach vacation, a nature lover’s paradise, and the biggest catch for fishing enthusiasts, this barrier island has got you covered.

Travel back in time with the historically preserved Tybee Lighthouse and Museum . Paddle over the pristine, uninhabited Little Tybee Island for quaint camping and kayaking.

Some great hotels are on the island, so I recommend kicking back and relaxing. Tybee Island is a gorgeous, tranquil getaway for Savannah residents.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 802 1st St, Tybee Island, GA 31328
• Peak times to visit: From April to May, and from September to November
• Visiting Georgia’s tallest and oldest lighthouse the Light Station.
• Hiring a kayak and going sea kayaking.
• Enjoying a pistachio vegan ice cream at the island’s favorite ice cream spot, The Sugar Shack.

16. Callaway Gardens

A true National Natural landmark, Callaway Gardens was established in 1952. Located along the Pine Mountains, it connects visitors to nature with a beautiful collection of fauna and flora.

Featuring a variety of recreational activities, Callaway Gardens is Georgia’s authentic destination for beautiful gardens, golf, lodging, dining, and much more.

Soak up some sun at Robin Lake Beach or hike along the Pine Mountain trail. This place is full of seasonal events.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 17800 US Hwy 27, Pine Mountain, GA 31822
• Peak times to visit: March to May
• Photographing the beautiful Rhododendron Trail.
• Visiting during Christmas and seeing the Fantasy in Lights and the Christmas Village.

17. Appalachian National Scenic Trail

Also known as the Appalachian Trail or A.T., this marked hiking trail extends from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. It is about 2,200 miles long, but its exact length is rerouted or modified over time.

The hike along this trail traverses scenic woods, pastoral lands, and wildlands of the beautiful Appalachian Mountains. Established in 1937, the trail is managed by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and numerous state agencies today.

Hiding through 14 states and eight national forests, hiking the trail takes five to seven months.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 405 Vogel State Park Rd, Blairsville, GA 30512
• Best times to visit: March to May and September to December
• Discovering the stunning scenery!
• Spotting red squirrels and white-tailed deer.

18. Madison

The pretty historic district of Madison is located just an hour from Atlanta. Spared from the destruction of the Civil War, Madison is a true gem along the Antebellum Trail.

Today, as many as 100 antebellum homes have been restored. Designated as one of the state’s “Historic Heartland Cities,” this town is one of the most picturesque villages you’ll encounter.

The historical society monitors the pristine antebellum homes. Heritage Hall, Rogers House, and Rose Cottage will introduce you to Madison’s historical amenities.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 115 E Jefferson St, Madison, GA 30650
• Best times to visit: March to May
• Checking out the Heritage Hall, a beautiful landmark with an interesting history.
• Exploring Rogers House and Rose Cottage, a historical site built in the 19th century. 
• Going to The Madison Flea Market, an indoor market offering an array of products.

19. Okefenokee Swamp

This magnificent area covers over 440,000 acres and is the largest blackwater swamp in North America. It borders Florida and Georgia, and the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge and the Okefenokee Wilderness protect most of the shallow peat-filled wetland.

It was also famously home to the alligator ‘Okefenokee Joe, ‘who sadly recently passed away at 80 years of age. The scenery here includes cypress and black gum trees, upland pine forests, and scenic freshwater lakes.

There are plenty of guided boat tours, kayaking, and an AutoRoute here to fully explore the area. If you want to stay overnight, there are cottages and camping accommodations, too.

• Peak times to visit: May to June
• Going on a fascinating boat tour.
• Learning about snakes and alligators in a live setting.

20. Cumberland Island

A ferry ride of about 45 minutes from St. Mary’s will take you to Cumberland Island, Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island. This island covers approximately 36,000 acres and is part of a national park and seashore. It features unspoiled beaches, wide marshes, white sands, and a variety of wildlife.

Little Cumberland Island is connected to the main island by a marsh. With a deep history of the inhabitants and settlements, you can glimpse the Ruins of Dungeness and Greyfield Inn.

It’s also a great place if you’re an animal lover—this place is home to a band of beautiful feral horses that live and wander free on the island, which I loved! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 113 St Marys St W, St Marys, GA 31558
• Visitng the Ice House Museum, which is housed in an original ice house.
• Watching the wildlife, including ponies and feral horses.
• Visiting the ancient Greene-Miller Cemetery.

21. Brunswick

This is a great city to explore due to its scenic location on the Southeast coast, its charming architecture, its Victorian-era Old Town Historic District, the large centuries-old Lover’s Oaktree, and its links to the four barrier islands known as the Golden Isles.

Popular things include visiting the attractive marina, the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, and the Historic Glynn County Courthouse.

There are also plenty of attractions here for nature lovers, and the area is filled with abundant wildlife and scenic natural areas. The Intracoastal Waterway is famous for its pods of dolphins, and the Colonial Coast Birding Trail is perfect for twitchers! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 40 W Potomac St, Brunswick, MD 21716
• Peak times to visit: July to September
• Having a day out at the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation and learning more about Georgia’s rice coast.
• Going for a rum tasting at Georgia’s only rum distillery – Richland Rum
• Visiting the Silver Bluff Brewing Co. and trying delicious beers and tasty food.

9 thoughts on “21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Georgia”

Great list. Cumberland Island is such a relatively unknown island that I almost hate for you to let the secret out. 🙂 I love how pristine it is with only a small number of tourists visiting.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Georgia (GA) » 25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Georgia (USA)

25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Georgia (USA)

Cloud-wreathed mountains, vast Atlantic beaches, swamps with bald cypresses, and elegant old cities, Georgia has more than its fair share of beautiful places.

The Applachian mountainscapes in the north, cloaked in forest, are scenic without inspiring dread, and are home to the southern terminus for the 2,200 Appalachian Trail.

Georgia’s coastline is a long string of barrier Islands with widescreen Atlantic beaches, maritime woods once favored by Gilded Age families like the Carnegies, Vanderbilts, and Rockefellers.

My list includes five of the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia, and four of these feature epic canyons, made accessible via hair-raising staircases. If you dare to climb or descend them all you’ll qualify for the GA State Parks’ Canyon Climbers Club.

1. Savannah

In late 1864, Union Army general William T. Sherman’s March to the Sea laid waste to a lot of civilian infrastructure in Georgia, but Savannah was able to negotiate a peaceful surrender, sparing one of the most beautiful cities in the South.

In two spellbinding historic districts you mosey around cobblestone streets and genteel squares with moss-veiled live oaks, admiring one of the definitive collections of antebellum architecture.

The Savannah Historic District retains its original Georgian plan from the 1730s, with an unusual layout involving a matrix of more than 20 central squares, which now contribute so much to the city’s beauty.

The old world and modern world clash on the cobblestone River Street, where historic waterfront warehouses greet a steady flow of massive container ships serving the largest seaport in Georgia.

Be sure to check out my guide on Savannah as well!

2. Cumberland Island National Seashore

For big skies, vast oceanscapes, rich wildlife and pure solitude, the largest of all of Georgia’s barrier islands checks all the right boxes.

Right against the line with Florida, Cumberland Island is impossibly scenic, with 17 miles of undeveloped sandy coastline.

At one time almost all of the island was in the hands of the Carnegie family, and the spectral ruins of one of their mansions, Dungeness mingle with palms and live oaks near the southern end.

Wild horses can be seen grazing around the old estates and frolicking on the beaches, and you can take guided tours for a closer glimpse of this wildlife and a sense of the lives of the people who called the island home, from the extremely wealthy to the enslaved.

To underline its seclusion, Cumberland Island is only accessible by ferry, and I recommend booking well in advance.

3. Amicalola Falls State Park

Before hikers hit the Appalachian Trail in earnest they can get some inspiration at one of Georgia’s seven natural wonders near the trailhead.

At 728 feet, Amicalola Falls is the highest waterfall in Georgia, and is the third-highest waterfall of its kind east of the Mississippi.

Amicalola Creek tumbles down a wide terrace, bordered by deep hardwood forest. With four sets of trails and a well-positioned bridge next to the lower cascade, you have a choice of ways to experience the waterfall.

The most rewarding, but by far the most challenging, is the stairway that skirts the side of the falls, with a glorious view of the valley from the summit.

4. Jekyll Island

Two thirds of this magnificent barrier island in the Golden Isles is protected natural habitat, and this includes eight miles of immaculate beaches.

I think it’s a measure of Jekyll Island’s beauty that for much of its modern history, this place was a private club, attracting powerful families at the turn of the century like the Vanderbilts and Rockefellers.

You take an informative tram tour of the club’s former properties, now preserved as an historic district and still resonating with Gilded Age splendor.

On the long sandy coastline you can explore the ghostly Driftwood Beach, where coastal erosion has littered the sand with the skeletal remains of trees.

The island has a superb trail network, so you can easily get around by bike under the boughs of venerable live oaks.

Finally, a beloved local resident is the sea turtle, and there’s a wonderful center on the island rehabilitating injured and sick turtles, and presenting interactive exhibits about these creatures.

5. Brasstown Bald

You don’t need to be an intrepid adventurer to ascend the highest point in Georgia. Brasstown Bald, at 4,784 ft, is topped with a visitor center.

You can get there from the parking lot via the half-mile Summit Trail, or for extra convenience just wait for the shuttle bus.

Upstairs is an observation deck with the most comprehensive panorama of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, reaching across a sea of dark green peaks and valleys, over four states and as far as Atlanta if you catch a clear day.

There’s a history and science museum in the visitor center, as well as a store with local artisanal products.

If the views kindle a sense of adventure in you, there are trails shooting off from the parking area, including the Jacks Knob Trail, a National Recreation Trail intersecting with the Appalachian Trail.

6. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

Straddling the GA-FL line is an massive peat-filled swamp, inhabited by alligators and growing the distinctive bald cypress, both a symbol for the wetlands of the south.

As well as these iconic species, the Okefenokee Swamp is a haven for threatened and endangered wildlife, including wood storks, indigo snakes, and red-cockaded woodpeckers.

The wilderness is preserved as a 680-square-mile national wildlife refuge, and if you’re looking for a place to start my bet is the Richard S. Bolt Visitor Center in Folkston.

Here at Chesser Island you can cross a piece of the swamp on a boardwalk, and climb the Owl’s Roost Tower to appreciate the vastness of this environment.

To get out on the water, boat tours and canoe/kayak rentals are available via Okefenokee Adventures, based by the visitor center.

7. Cloudland Canyon State Park

Things get a lot more rugged at Cloudland Canyon State Park, on the west flank of Lookout Mountain in the far northwest corner of the state. Here a gorge more than 1,000 feet deep has been cut from the sedimentary rock by Sitton Gulch Creek.

You barely have to leave the parking lot or the picnic area for awe-inspiring views of the canyon, and these continue along the West Rim Loop Trail.

Taking this path, you can marvel at the canyon from several angles, before climbing up and onto the plateau, with views of nearby Sand Mountain and the city of Trenton to inspire you.

If you’ve got the energy and the nerve to descend a 600-step staircase, I strongly suggest taking the Waterfalls Trail . This brings you to two marvelous plunges, at Cherokee Falls and then a little further, at the base of the canyon, is Hemlock Falls.

8. Tallulah Gorge State Park

Just downstream from the hydroelectric Tallulah Falls Dam, the Tallulah River suddenly swoops into a misty canyon, two miles long and up to 1,000 feet deep, with almost vertical walls.

This is another of Georgia’s seven natural wonders, and what looks like a forbidding piece of wilderness is surprisingly easy to explore thanks to a lot of stairs.

The Rim Trail leads to a series of high, numbered overlooks where you can get a handle on the dimensions of this giant cleft in the landscape, and get a bird’s eye view of the six waterfalls that cause the river to drop 500 feet in just a mile.

Best of all, in my opinion, is the suspension bridge, crossing the river at a height of 80 feet following a long descent on a stairway spiraling through the wooded side of the gorge.

9. Stone Mountain Park

In a few places on my list, awesome beauty goes hand-in-hand with a painful history, and that is especially true of Stone Mountain, just east of Atlanta.

Bulging from the ground is an isolated inselberg, composed of several kinds of igneous rock and commanding the landscape with a prominence of 825 feet.

This is an amazing natural formation, measuring five miles in circumference at its base, and ready to be crested via the Summit Skyride from the north, or an out-and-back trail approaching from the west side.

In the early 1970s the north side was defaced with what is officially the largest bas-relief carving in the world, depicting three Confederate leaders.

Since the 2010s there have been growing calls to remove this work. In a long-running tradition the park has staged the Stone Mountain Laser Show Spectacular on summer evenings with a laser lighting display and fireworks.

10. St. Simons Island

The largest of the Golden Isles is an alluring place, with sweeping Atlantic beaches, golf courses, and a lot of photo-friendly landmarks.

Especially pretty is St. Simons Island Light on the southern tip, first raised in 1810, and then rebuilt in 1872 after being pulled down by retreating Confederate soldiers in the Civil War.

You can scale the 129 steps for a view across Saint Simons Sound, and there’s a museum in the 1872 keeper’s cottage.

Away from the coast, the island’s warm climate nurtures handsome live oaks, draped in wispy Spanish moss, and there’s a peaceful stand of maritime forest at Cannon’s Point Preserve, on a former plantation.

There’s more history in store at Fort Frederica National Monument, preserving the vestiges of a fort and settlement built in the mid-18th century by the British to defend the colony against Spanish raids.

11. Sweetwater Creek State Park

One of many things I love about this tract of rocky deciduous forest on Sweetwater Creek is how close it is to downtown Atlanta.

You can be here in just 20 minutes from the Centennial Olympic Park, finding yourself in the kind of landscape that wouldn’t look out of place further north in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Trails follow the creek and climb past hardwoods with wild azaleas, ferns and magnolias, to the top of rocky bluffs for views of the rapids and also the Atlanta skyline through the trees.

On Sweetwater Creek you can see the atmospheric ruins of a mill run by the ​​New Manchester Manufacturing Company and destroyed in the Civil War.

The park has an award-winning visitor center uncovering this area’s past, with Native American artifacts, items from the Civil War, and exhibits detailing the local biodiversity and geology.

12. Rock City Gardens

Several miles from Cloudland Canyon, the summit of Lookout Mountain is the setting for a one-of–kind visitor attraction that opened in 1932.

Making the most of the huge rock formations and far-reaching views 1,700 feet above sea level, Rock City was conceived as one large rock garden with 400 native plant species.

The result is something special, where the Enchanted Trail takes you through these plantings, with brilliant blooms in spring and romantic color in fall.

You’ll see a 100-foot man-made waterfall on the cliff, and cross a rocky chasm on the Swing-A-Long Bridge. The views atop the cliff at Lover’s Leap need to be seen to be believed, whether or not you can see seven states as the attraction has always claimed.

In the 1960s when faced with a declining lumber industry, this little mountain town did the only logical thing, and remodeled itself as a charming Alpine village.

With hipped roofs, half timbering and long eaves, every building in the heart of Helen, even the few occupied by national chains, looks like it could have been transplanted from Bavaria.

You can dine on traditional German fare, and shop for authentic Bavarian handicrafts and specialty products. Helen is much more than a novelty though, as the perfect springboard for experiences in the Southern Appalachians.

The magnificent Anna Ruby Falls are a few minutes away, and is just one of three worthwhile waterfalls close by. You don’t even need to leave the town to begin a mountain hike or horseback ride, or a paddling or tubing trip along the spectacular Chattahoochee River.

You may also like my guide on the best hidden gems in Georgia .

14. Tybee Island

At Georgia’s easternmost point, just a few minutes from downtown Savannah , Tybee Island is a barrier island with breathtaking coastal scenery paired with momentous man-made history.

The headline for me is the five miles of public beaches, all wide, shallow and washed by the rolling Atlantic surf.

At dawn Tybee Pier is wonderful in silhouette, while the distinctive black and white Tybee Island Light Station at the north end goes right back to 1736—although it’s been rebuilt a few times since then.

Dolphins abound in the waters around Tybee Island and you can even watch them playing in a boat’s wake on a tour. There’s compelling history at Fort Pulaski, once considered impenetrable, but breached by the Union Army’s new rifled cannon during a siege in 1862.

15. Preacher’s Rock

My recommendation for an easy but instantly rewarding day hike on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia is a two-mile trek up to a magnificent overlook not far from Dahlonega.

The trailhead and parking area is at Woody Gap on SR 60, on a stretch of the Appalachian Trail remembered fondly by thru hikers.

At first you’ll meander up a manageable slope through hardwood forest before coming to a series of switchbacks as you approach the summit of Big Cedar Mountain.

Suddenly you’ll come to a high outcrop where you can look north and admire a massive sweep of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Preacher’s Rock is awesome at any time of year, but the woods’ spring blooms are a treat, and the colors in fall are sensational.

16. Madison

One of the largest historic districts in Georgia awaits at this endearing small town in Morgan County. Diligent preservation work has helped stave off bland modern development, and ensure a sense of place in Madison.

If you’re attracted to the ornate architecture of the antebellum, well Madison has close to 100 houses from this period, which is remarkable for such a small town. Naturally there’s thorny history to grapple with, and this is part of the experience.

One accessible example is Heritage Hall (1811), a grand Greek Revival residence, preserved as a historic house museum painting a picture of how Madison’s affluent upper crust lived in the decades before the Civil War.

17. Sawnee Mountain Preserve

Another piece of upland wilderness within striking distance of Atlanta is this 963-acre preserve, protecting a portion of the 1,946-foot Sawnee Mountain.

With its five-mile ridgeline this peak is an imposing feature of the landscape, rising 750 feet over the surrounding area and also affording clear views north to the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

One beloved overlook is Indian Seats, a group of scenic granite ledges that can be reached via a direct out-and-back trail or a longer loop, passing long abandoned gold mines on the way.

If you’re visiting at the height of summer I recommend planning a hike on the Mountainside Trail, which is less trafficked than the Indian Seats Trail and is always in the shade of the forest canopy.

18. Fort Mountain State Park

I love the sense of mystery swirling around Fort Mountain, a peak in the Cohutta Mountains, and named for a rock wall along its peak.

The origin of this zigzagging 885-foot structure is unknown, but was likely built as a defensive structure by Native Americans some 1,500 years ago.

You can see many of the park’s standout features along the looping 1.5-mile Summit Trail, delivering you to the Fort Mountain Lookout for one of North Georgia’s great vistas, reaching deep into the Cohutta Wilderness.

You can study the wall along the way, and check out a sturdy fire tower, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

19. Blue Ridge

This cute town has come through as a flourishing mountain resort in the last couple of decades. I don’t think it’s a mystery, with nearby access to hundreds of miles of trails in the area for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking.

On Blue Ridge’s east flank is a sparkling upland lake, with recreation areas, campgrounds and marinas on its shores.

The scenery is a joy all year, but reaches new levels in autumn when the leaves turn. You can call in at Mercier Orchards, dating back to 1943, for some apple picking, or take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, tracing the picturesque banks of the Toccoa River to McCaysville, some ten miles to the north.

20. Chatuge Lake

In 1942 the Hiwassee River was impounded to form this 11-square-mile reservoir. I have to say, Chatuge Lake is one of the most beautiful bodies of water in the region, with the misty, wooded slopes of the Southern Appalachian Mountains setting the scene.

Managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Chatuge Lake has more than 132 miles of shoreline, whether you want to camp, lounge on a beach, go swimming, take picnics, launch a boat, go fishing, or any combination of these activities.

You’ll find it hard to resist the call of those mountains, and you may be relieved to learn that you can drive to the summit of Bell Mountain for an enchanting 360° panorama of the indented lakeshore and those rippling peaks.

21. Atlanta Botanical Garden

Hopping from one themed garden to the next, it’s easy to forget that you’re in the heart of Midtown at the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Dotted with engaging works of art, these spaces are all intertwined, so one moment you’ll be in a peaceful Japanese enclave and the next you’ll be studying edible plants, ambling past boxwood hedges in a parterre or taking the time to smell the roses.

The indoor spaces are amazing, with rainforest and desert plants in the Dorothy Chapman Fuqua Conservatory, also inhabited by tropical birds, reptiles and amphibians.

The Fuqua Orchid Center holds the largest collection of ‘species orchids’ in the country, using technology to recreate the unique environment in which high-elevation orchids thrive at the equator.

A highlight for me is the Kendeda Canopy Walk, 600 feet long and 40 feet above the rare stand of urban forest.

I have several guides on Atlanta:

• 15 Best Atlanta Tours
• 15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Atlanta
• 55 Best Things to Do in Atlanta (Georgia) (by a Local)
• 15 Best Day Trips from Atlanta (by a Local)
• Where to Stay in Atlanta – Neighborhoods & Area Guide

22. Providence Canyon State Park

My bet for the strangest place on this list is a network of enormous gullies sliced from the sedimentary rock in the southwest of Georgia.

Given the depth of Providence Canyon you may be surprised to learn that it’s mostly a consequence of modern erosion, caused by poor farming practices in the 19th century.

Alarming as that fact may be, it takes nothing away from the grandeur of this place, with its tall shards of exposed rock in a spectrum from snow white to deep red.

Things get even more beautiful at the height of summer when the plumleaf azalea, the rarest azalea in the United States, decorates the scenery with pink, white, orange, and red blossoms.

23. Vogel State Park

I wouldn’t be surprised if more than half of the places on this list could be found within the Chattahoochee National Forest, such is its size and the amount of pristine mountain wilderness within its units.

One is Vogel State Park ensconced in the Blue Ridge Mountains, near the foot of Blood Mountain, which is the highest peak on the Appalachian Trail in Georgia.

Vogel is the second-oldest state park in Georgia, and an ideal base for recreation in inspiring scenery, and for trips to the likes of Brasstown Bald and Neel Gap, a lofty mountain pass nearby.

In autumn the woods are embroidered with different shades, from red to gold, and leaf peepers account for a lot of the park’s annual traffic. Hikers are spoiled for choice, and all of the trails have something spectacular, whether it’s a waterfall or mountain view.

24. Dahlonega

A lovable town in the foothills of the Southern Appalachian Mountains, Dahlonega was the scene of what is thought to be America’s first gold rush.

After the first discovery in 1829, the surrounding rivers and creeks were filled with frenzied and overzealous prospectors.

One grand monument from the gold rush days is the Old Lumpkin County Courthouse (1836), the oldest surviving courthouse in Georgia, and now a museum loaded with artifacts from the 1830s and 1840s.

You can become a prospector at the Consolidated Gold Mine and Crisson Gold Mine, but there’s another aspect to Dahlonega’s appeal.

Namely wine, as the city is at the heart of the North Georgia Wine Country, with a multitude of vineyards and wineries, tasting rooms and cellars within easy reach.

25. State Botanical Garden of Georgia

It might not be on my list, but Athens is a lovely city, and if I had to pick one place you absolutely have to see it’s this sumptuous botanical garden managed by the University of Georgia.

Three miles south of the main campus, this space was set aside in the 1960s, and as well as being beautiful is a living laboratory vital for research, education, but also shining as a place to relax.

Among the dozen or so collections are native azaleas, rhododendrons, dahlias, and groundcover plants.

The Heritage Garden is an absorbing look at the crops most important to Georgia, from peaches to cotton to tobacco, while the International Garden is a trip through time, beginning in the Middle Ages with medicinal and culinary herbs.

My rather obvious pro tip is to come in spring when the azaleas, rhododendrons and bulb flowers are in bloom, but there’s also a dazzling light display in the holiday season.

Further reading : 25 Best Things to do in Georgia

25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Georgia (USA):

• Cumberland Island National Seashore
• Amicalola Falls State Park
• Jekyll Island
• Brasstown Bald
• Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
• Cloudland Canyon State Park
• Tallulah Gorge State Park
• Stone Mountain Park
• St. Simons Island
• Sweetwater Creek State Park
• Rock City Gardens
• Tybee Island
• Preacher’s Rock
• Sawnee Mountain Preserve
• Fort Mountain State Park
• Chatuge Lake
• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Providence Canyon State Park
• Vogel State Park
• State Botanical Garden of Georgia

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The 18 Most Beautiful Places In Georgia, According To A Born-And-Raised Local

From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the breezy barrier islands, the Peach State is full of surprises.

Growing up somewhere, it can be easy to become immune to its unique virtues. Georgia is home to sweeping farmlands and soaring mountain ranges, lush pine forests and breezy barrier islands, and even bustling cities and charming small towns . With no shortage of topographies and landmarks to explore, the Peach State won’t leave any visitor wondering about its natural appeal. 

As a born-and-raised Georgia native, I’ve explored the state and its varying locales, having spent days wandering the cobblestone streets of Savannah, climbing up the Blue Ridge Mountains, touring Atlanta museums, and biking on a beach cruiser in many a coastal town. While there’d be no way to round up every special place in the state, I’m happy to list some favorites. Here are the 18 most beautiful places in Georgia, according to a local. 

Jekyll Island

This Georgia barrier island on the Atlantic Coast—between Jacksonville and Savannah—offers more than 20 miles of bike trails and walking routes that meander through marshes and hover atop wooden boardwalks. Seasonal ranger walks allow you to experience the area's scenic wonders, and travelers with binoculars flock to walking trails for self-guided nature tours and afternoons spent spotting birds beneath the trees. 

Tallulah Gorge State Park

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Along the border between Georgia and South Carolina sits Tallulah Falls, a small town abounding in natural blessings. The biggest draw in the area is  Tallulah Gorge State Park , the centerpiece of which is the namesake gorge that has been dubbed one of the "Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia." It stretches two miles long and drops almost 1,000 feet deep, carved out over centuries by the Tallulah River. The Tallulah Gorge Rim Trail is one of the best ways to see the gorge and take in the beauty of the landscape.

Cumberland Island

Steeped in history, this enchanting Georgia barrier island feels suspended in time. Today, Cumberland Island is mostly protected land under the classification of  National Seashore . The 17-mile-long strip of land remains largely in its natural state, populated by dense maritime forest of live oaks, saw palmetto, sabal palms, and pines. Explore the many historic ruins and natural wonders scattered across the island.

Little Grand Canyon

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Also claimed as one of the "Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia," Providence Canyon State Park  is a 2,706-acre recreation area with unique geological formations you wouldn't necessarily expect to see in the Peach State. Arizona, Enjoy views of the canyons from the Rim Trail or get a little more adventurous by hiking to the bottom of the deepest canyons. One of the most popular hikes, the 5-mile Canyon Loop Trail, circles nine of the canyons.

With less than 1,000 residents, this charming Bavarian town centered on around 2 square miles is undoubtedly tiny—and feels like you're far away from Georgia. The steeply pitched roofs, quaint cross-gables, and colorful half-timbering exude fairytale charm, and Helen being so close to the mountains of Georgia offers unmatched outdoor recreation. Its annual Oktoberfest brings visitors flocking in the fall for revelry.

Rock City Gardens

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Right near the border of northwest Georgia and Tennessee, you'll find a true natural marvel of massive ancient rock formations, panoramic views, and beautiful gardens with over 400 native plant species. Rock City Gardens rests atop Lookout Mountain, and offers many ways to explore, including the 4,100-foot Enchanted Trail that highlights caves, rock formations, and more.

St. Simons Island

Georgia’s largest barrier island, which is known for its moss-hung oak trees, feels like a true escape. Beyond the quiet beaches and breezy outdoor activities, the walkable village on St. Simons Island has you feeling like a main character in a novel. Make sure to check out the scenic Christ Church Frederica , which is one of the oldest churches in the state.

Forsyth Park

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While you can freely take a walk through any one of Savannah's many city squares and parks—which pop up every few blocks, ensuring you're never too far from a green space to wander—the biggest and perhaps most beautiful in the historic district is the 30-acre  Forsyth Park , which neighbors The Savannah College of Art and Design and has a majestic fountain and lots of paths winding beneath moss-draped oak trees.

Downtown Thomasville

Robbie Caponetto

On a sunny day, there's no better place to be than walking around the cobblestone streets of downtown Thomasville—a small town in southwest Georgia—which has shops and restaurants aplenty and captures a charming town-square feeling that is hard to come by nowadays. While the town is surrounded by its signature (and utterly gorgeous) farmlands and hunting camps, you'll not need to stray far from the downtown blocks. Make sure to stop into local boutiques for wares to bring home.

Callaway Resort & Gardens

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Sprawled over 2,500 acres, Callaway Resort & Gardens is located within the town of Pine Mountain and brings visitors year-round for seasonal events, outdoor recreation, and blooming floral displays, particularly in the spring. There are miles of trails and gardens to keep you busy all day, including the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, which is surrounded by gardens and filled with fluttering butterflies.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is one of Georgia's most lush and verdant gems that stretches for 867,000 mountainous and wooded acres. On a clear day, you can see four states from  Brasstown Bald Visitor Information Center , which is the highest point in Georgia at 4,784 feet above sea level. Expect sweeping 360-degree views after a curvy, scenic drive and a short, paved path to the peak.

Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site

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About three hours from Macon, you'll find a truly unique 54-acre site—the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site —that happens to be the most intact Native American Mississippian culture site in the Southeast, featuring six earthen mounds, as well as a plaza, village site, and more. You can walk a nature trail along the Etowah River and check out artifacts of how early civilizations lived off the land and the forest.

Macon Cherry Blossom Festival

In March, around 350,000 Yoshino flowering cherry trees paint this small town pink. (Washington, D.C., by comparison, has only around 3,800 of them.) During the 10-day  International Cherry Blossom Festival,  thousands of people fill the streets of Macon to ring in spring with a parade, concerts, food and drink specials, and a giant fair. 

Atlanta History Center

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Encompassing 33 acres of gardens, historic homes, and art and culture exhibitions, the Atlanta History Center is as much as breathtaking visit for the site alone as it is for the many attractions. Run by the Atlanta Historical Society, it was founded in 1926 to preserve and study Atlanta history.

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

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The largest wetland in the South and another of the state's "Seven Natural Wonders," Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is a 402,000-acre refuge for turtles, raccoons, black bears, deer, numerous birds, and more. It is also estimated that 12,000 alligators live within the refuge, too. Visitors can rent canoes or opt for guided boat tours to take in the swamp and its many critters. 

Ian Dagnall/Alamy

Tucked in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this charming small town offers sweeping views and plenty to do, with hiking trails for the adventurous, an impressive collection of North Georgia wineries for weekend tours and tastings, and a historic town square with worn brick facades centered around a courthouse, which dates back to the state's early 19th-century gold rush. Plus, it gets decked out for Christmas, if you're ever looking for a Hallmark movie-worthy setting.

Atlanta Botanical Garden

Alison Miksch

Founded in 1976, the Atlanta Botanical Garden spreads over 30 acres adjacent to the grassy sprawl of Piedmont Park, and its footprint includes many lush gardens, walkways, and art installations. As you explore, don’t miss the Fuqua Orchid Center, where you can see one of the most diverse collections of these plants in the world (it contains over 2,000 species of the delicate blooms). Additionally, it puts on an incredibly festive display during the holiday season.

Lake Lanier

Just around 45 minutes from Atlanta, man-made Lake Lanier is as pretty as it is expansive, stretching 38,000 acres. A favorite summer destination for Georgia natives, there are plenty of activities to partake in, from enjoying a boat day or kayaking the lake's many bays and isles. Sunsets here are the epitome of the beauty of Southern lake days.

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Savannah Is the Gorgeous Southern City You'll Want to Visit Next

These 20 photos will convince you to plan a trip.

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There are very few cities in the world that have as multifaceted a reputation as Savannah. Filled with history and charm, there's an obvious elegance that exudes from the streets.

But just when you think you understand what this town is all about, it'll turn around and give you a mischievous wink.

Make no mistake that Savannah is a city filled with character: A walk downtown will show you endless squares surrounded by live oak trees and Spanish moss, charming pastel-colored townhouses, and places to eat and shop every which way you decide to turn.

But what you may not know is how eccentric this place can be. Embracing art, culture, and yes, even a little dose of misbehavior.

Savannah's Old Town Trolley Tours

An efficient way for visitors to learn about Savannah's history and culture is to hop on the Old Town Trolley Tour , where you'll be driven through the city streets by an expert guide.

Downtown Savannah

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Because of its hot and humid climate, Savannah's greenery consists mainly of live oak trees and tons of Spanish moss, as well as palm trees, which are dotted throughout the city.

Cathedral of St. John the Baptist

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Construction of this church began in 1873 and was completed in 1896, only to be destroyed by fire two years later. After years of rebuilding, the church reopened in 1912, featuring spectacular stained-glass windows and impressive architecture. It's known to be a sanctuary for anyone who walks through its doors.

Savannah City Hall

This gold-domed piece of stunning architecture dominates Savannah's historic district skyline, while its interior features a beautiful dolphin fountain. The second floor houses the mayor's office and council chambers.

Forsyth Park

The largest park in the historic district of Savannah, Forsyth Park consists of 30 acres of land, with the often-photographed fountain that serves as its focal point.

Talmadge Memorial Bridge

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The city of Savannah is also a bustling seaport, where you'll find the Talmadge Memorial Bridge spanning the Savannah River between downtown Savannah and Hutchinson Island.

Savannah Wildlife Refuge

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Established in 1927, the Savannah Wildlife Refuge is home to nearly 30,000 acres of freshwater marshes, creeks, and bottomland hardwoods. Because of the swamp-like terrain, most of the refuge is only accessible by boat.

Savannah's Skyline

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The architecture of Savannah, Georgia's fifth-largest city, is even more picturesque from above.

Tybee Island Lighthouse

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With five miles of shoreline, nearby Tybee Island is a beachfront getaway that's 20 miles from Savannah's historic district. There, you'll find the state of Georgia's oldest and tallest lighthouse.

Savannah's Riverfront

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Established in 1733, Savannah was the first state capital of Georgia and is considered to be the first planned city in the U.S. Today, it's home to nearly 150,000 residents and attracts millions of visitors each year to explore its historic roots and incredible architecture.

Savannah's Historic District

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The majority of Savannah's historic homes have been preserved and renovated, and many have been converted into museums and restaurants for the public to explore and enjoy.

Leopold's Ice Cream

No trip to Savannah is complete without stopping at Leopold's , an ice creamery that's been open since 1919. The homemade ice cream recipe has remained unchanged since the creamery opened its doors nearly a century ago.

Savannah College of Art and Design

Commonly known as SCAD, the Savannah College of Art and Design is one of the top art and design universities in the United States. The campus is scattered throughout the Historic District, and anyone visiting Savannah is encouraged to visit shopSCAD , a store that showcases art made by students that is available for purchase.

River Street

This cobblestone street is home to nearly 100 shops, restaurants, and pubs, all looking out toward the Savannah River. At night, street musicians set up shop to perform alongside the waterfront.

Pin Point Heritage Museum

Courtesy of the Pin Point Heritage Museum

Just 15 minutes from downtown Savannah, the Pin Point Heritage Museum celebrates the history and culture of the Gullah/Geechee community that was founded here by former slaves in 1896. Due to its isolated location along the Moon River, the traditional Gullah creole language, religion, stories, and recipes have been preserved for more than 125 years.

Bonaventure Cemetery

Because of Savannah's haunted history and its appearance in the popular book and movie, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil," many travel to Bonaventure Cemetery to view the larger-than-life tombs and ornate statues.

Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room

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What was once a boarding house is now a family-owned restaurant, serving up unforgettable homestyle Southern food to guests at communal tables. Be prepared to wait in line though: Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room is quite popular among locals and visitors and only serves lunch Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It's also cash-only (there's an ATM on site) and you can expect to pay $30 per person, including tax.

The Paris Market

You'll feel as if you've opened a door to another world once you enter this French-inspired store . With two stories of classic Parisian home goods and eclectic interior designs, this is the spot where you'll want to purchase all your souvenirs.

The Mercer-Williams House

Marje Cannon / Getty Images

A former residence of lyricist Johnny Mercer, the Mercer–Williams House is more notable for its other inhabitant, Jim Williams, an antiques dealer who was tried for the murder of Danny Hansford, which allegedly took place at this very home — it's also the real-life event that inspired the book and movie, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil." Tours are allowed on the ground floor, but the upstairs is off limits, adding to the home's already spooky ambience.

The Olde Pink House

Richard Cummins / Getty Images / Lonely Planet Images

Considered to be one of Savannah's greatest and most classic restaurants, The Olde Pink House offers Southern food in an upscale setting. The building is a notable landmark and its interior consists of several floors of hidden gems, such as a cozy underground tavern with live music.

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Georgia travel photos — 20+ captivating photos show Georgia is heaven on the Earth

Do you want to visit an off-the-beaten track country surrounded by beautiful mountains offering ample hiking options, tranquil landscapes, uncountable churches and cathedrals, good and cheap food and most importantly, lot of culture and the most hospitable people? Then look no further and put Georgia on your travel list! Georgians believe they have the most beautiful country and culture in the world and I can vouch for it now. Georgia nests in the Caucasus mountains and lies in the crossroads of Europe and Asia.

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The capital of the country is Tbilisi and Christianity (orthodox) is the predominant religion here which dates back to as early as the 1st century. Georgia is the third country in the world to adopt Christianity. It got its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Being a solo female backpacker, I never felt unsafe there. The country is very safe and cheap making it a backpacking paradise for nature and mountain lovers. Here are some pictures to inspire you.

More info: whereispriyanka.com

Gergeti Trinity Church

The Gergeti Trinity Church has the most gorgeous location ever. Its surrounded by beautiful mountains and just opposite to it is Mount Kazbeg which is the second highest mountain of Georgia. Going here was a dream come true. Its very inspirational and spiritual

Georgian Military Road

No visit to Georgia is complete without driving in the Georgian Military road. The views are spectacular and it has a colorful monument like this.

The Georgian Military Highway

Road blocks like this are very common in this highway!;)

Ananuri Fortress

This beautiful fortress is nested in between lush green mountains and a water reservoir which has crystal blue waters!

Stepantsminda

Stepantsminda (also known as the Kazbegi town) as seen from the Gergeti Trinity Church. What do you think? Its just too pretty!

Caucasus mountains

This is the view from the Georgian Military Highway.

Sunrise from mount Kazbegi

Snow cladded peaks of Mount Kazbegi!

Svaneti region

Svaneti is definitely one of the prettiest regions in Georgia. This is in Mestia which is the capital of the region

Ushguli – the highest village in Europe (2400m)

Yes, Ushguli is the highest village in Europe and it claims to have more cows and horses than humans. Seeing is believing!

Ushguli with its Svan towers

This is a view of the village of Ushguli from the top of a small hill nearby

Shkhara Glacier hike

Shkhara Glacier hike is stunning and can be done from Ushguli. Its 9 kms trail and is one of the most scenic easy hikes that the country has in offer

Shkhara Glacier hiking trail views

Spectacular views with melting snows around

Beautiful views around Mestia

Georgia is a hiker’s paradise and this is apicture taken in one of the hiking trails I did around Mestia

Svan towers

The Svan towers of Ushguli were built over 1000 years back

Tbilisi in the night

The old town of Tbilisi is not to be missed when you are in Georgia. Sulfur baths are a must try here

Jvari Monastery

The monastery dates back to the 3rd century and is a protected UNESCO heritage site. It nests on a hilltop from where you can get stunning views!

This is the merger of the Kura and Aragva rivers and the city of Mtskheta as seen from the hilltop of Jvari Monastery. Mesmerizing!

Beautiful Mtskheta

Svetitskhoveli Cathedral

This cathedral is huge and is an UNESCO site in Mtskheta – inspirational and very spiritual with a great history!

Rainbow in Mtskheta

Mtskheta is definitely very very pretty and this is a picture of a rainbow with the Jvari monastery in the background

Old Tbilisi city

This picture is taken from the Bridge of Peace complex.

Sky colors in Tbilisi city

cathedrals like this exist in almost every corner of the country

I did, and you will too.

Yes, I loved my visit to Georgia and to Tbilisi. The city has a lot in offer and if you go there, you will enjoy too. I promise!

Old clock in Tbilisi

The old town of Tbilisi is a must visit in the night!

Bridge of Peace in Tbilisi

Bridge of Peace gets lit up really pretty in the night and you can enjoy a walk in this bridge in the night

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Tbilisi you can refer to

• Tbilisi Evening Walking Tour
• Kakheti Wine Region Private Day Tour from Tbilisi
• Kazbegi Crazy Tour from Tbilisi
• Zoo Atlanta Admission in Georgia
• Tbilisi Private Walking Tour
• Tbilisi: Kazbegi Full-Day Group Tour
• From Tbilisi: Kakheti Wine Region, Including 7 Wine Tastings
• Tbilisi: Mtskheta, Jvari, Gori and Uplistsikhe Day Tour
• From Tbilisi: Borjomi Central Park and Vardzia
• Tbilisi: City Highlights Guided Walking Tour
• From Tbilisi: Small Group Tour to Armenia with Lunch

Read more Georgia guide here .

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Best places to visit in georgia.

With big cities, iconic small towns, picturesque mountains and a prime spot along the Atlantic Ocean, Georgia is one of the most diverse vacation destinations in the South. To help you decide which Georgia locales are most worth your time and vacation dollars, U.S. News took into account the variety and uniqueness of attractions, availability of accommodations and opinions of everyday travelers to decide the best places to visit in Georgia. Vote for your favorite places below to help determine next year's list.

Tallulah Gorge State Park

Jekyll island, callaway gardens, amicalola falls state park, st. simons island, cumberland island national seashore, tybee island, marietta, ga, columbus, ga, arabia mountain national heritage area.

The charm of Savannah is undeniable. From the early 1800's architecture to the romantic Spanish moss-lined streets to the shops, eateries and party-hard reputation of River Street, Savannah gives a nod to the past while bringing its own personality into the present. Plus, the city offers a heavy dose of laid-back Southern hospitality to match, earning it its Hostess City of the South nickname. Spend your time meandering through Forsyth Park and Savannah's 22 squares, filling up on Lowcountry cuisine or spooking yourself on a ghost tour .

If you want to feel like you're in Europe without leaving the U.S., consider taking a trip to Helen . This small North Georgia town in the Blue Ridge Mountains is modeled after a Bavarian Alpine village, so you can expect to find lots of colorful architecture, authentic German fare and fun renditions of German festivals, including an annual Oktoberfest celebration. But beyond its charming atmosphere, Helen offers all kinds of amenities, including more than 200 stores and access to local wineries, plus proximity to Unicoi State Park & Lodge's lake and hiking and bike trails.

For a look at jaw-dropping natural wonders, venture to Tallulah Gorge State Park. Located just west of the Georgia-South Carolina border in the northern part of the state, the park is home to Tallulah Gorge, which measures 2 miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. Visitors can get a bird's-eye view of the gorge from its rim or obtain a free permit to see it from its floor. Tallulah Gorge State Park also features a suspension bridge that provides fantastic views of the park's five waterfalls, plus more than 20 miles of hiking and biking trails.

The southernmost of the Golden Isles, Jekyll Island beckons to travelers seeking a quiet beach getaway. The entire island is designated as a Georgia state park, meaning conservation and wildlife preservation are top priorities. Visitors can see sea turtles, alligators and other coastal animals at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and the 4-H Tidelands Nature Center, lounge on 10 miles of pristine beaches (Driftwood Beach is one of the most photogenic in Georgia) or meander through the historic district (also known as Millionaires' Village) to see homes that have belonged to some of America's richest families, including the Vanderbilts, the Rockefellers and the Pulitzers.

A trip to Callaway Gardens is all about reconnecting with nature. Tucked away in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in the small town of Pine Mountain, Callaway Gardens features 2,500 acres of gardens, a butterfly center with 1,000-plus butterflies and more than 10 miles of bike and nature trails, among other amenities. Additionally, visitors can head to Robin Lake Beach to swim, pedal boat, paddleboard or simply soak up some sun during the warmer months. Families can also take advantage of the beach's inflatable water playground called Aqua Island.

The Empire City of the South is a hub for business (Coca-Cola, CNN and Delta Air Lines are all headquartered here) and music (rappers have long made Georgia's capital city their home), as well as a family-friendly destination with world-renowned sights like the Georgia Aquarium and Lego Discovery Center Atlanta. Atlanta also houses several impressive historical attractions, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park. What's more, the city is solidly on the foodie map thanks to the combination of cultures and traditions represented in its restaurant offerings.

Amicalola Falls State Park gets its name from the Cherokee word for "tumbling waters," so you can expect to see an impressive waterfall during your visit. The North Georgia park's namesake measures 729 feet tall, making it one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. Located in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, Amicalola Falls State Park offers hiking trails to the base and rim of the falls, as well as the 8-mile Approach Trail, which connects to the southernmost point of the Appalachian Trail. If you're traveling with kids, consider staying at the on-site lodge, which offers activities like archery, animal encounters and guided hikes.

With its sandy beaches and laid-back lifestyle, the Golden Isles' largest island invites travelers to slow down and relax. Visitors can head to East Beach to enjoy activities like shelling and fishing or make their way to one of the island's golf courses to practice their swing. Plus, St. Simons offers more than 20 miles of bike paths, many of which lead to can't-miss attractions like the World War II Home Front Museum. While exploring, keep an eye out for tree spirits: These faces were carved into the island's oak trees in the '80s by American artist Keith Jennings.

The largest and southernmost of Georgia's barrier islands, Cumberland Island National Seashore offers both a rich history and a beautiful landscape. You'll have to catch a ferry from nearby St. Marys to get here, but the journey is well worth the effort. When you arrive, you'll discover nearly 10,000 acres of protected wilderness and 17-plus miles of secluded beaches. Cumberland Island National Seashore also features multiple historical sites, such as the Plum Orchard Mansion, the First African Baptist Church and the Dungeness Ruins, that tell the story of the Carnegie family, enslaved African Americans, Native Americans and others who once lived on the island.

Situated less than 20 miles southeast of Savannah, this small barrier island has been a popular family vacation destination for more than a century. Tybee Island's miles of sandy beaches and relatively warm weather most of the year make it a prime spot for swimming, surfing and sunbathing. Additionally, travelers can spend a few hours looking for the island's 200-plus bird species. Other Tybee must-dos include climbing up the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum, the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia, and participating in educational programs at the Tybee Island Marine Science Center.

A haven for historians, this Atlanta suburb, which sits about 20 miles northwest of the city, boasts five National Register Historic Districts and a historic town square. Must-see attractions include the William Root House, Brumby Hall (home to the Marietta Gone With the Wind Museum) and Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. And no trip would be complete without catching a show at the beautifully restored Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theatre. Beyond its historical draws, Marietta has an artsy side, with sleek galleries and a monthly art walk, as well as a burgeoning food scene, including a host of buzzworthy restaurants and the Marietta Square Market Food Hall.

Best known as the home of the University of Georgia, the country's first public institution of higher education, and as a bona fide music hub, Athens in northeast Georgia makes for a lively weekend getaway . The university campus is worth a visit, as it is home to the Georgia Museum of Natural History, the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and the Georgia Museum of Art (not to mention some spirited football games). Meanwhile, downtown Athens is the place to go for trendy eats, sweet boutiques and live music venues like the iconic Georgia Theatre.

Georgia might not come to mind when you think of wine destinations, but Dahlonega is worth consideration. This northern town is often labeled the Heart of Georgia Wine Country and features more than a dozen wine tasting rooms, wineries and locally owned and operated vineyards. For a festive atmosphere during your vacation, arrive in May when the annual Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival takes place. Dahlonega is also where America's first gold rush occurred, so be sure to save time for a visit to the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site and a former mine.

Activities in this city on the Georgia-Alabama border are centered around the Chattahoochee River. Thrill-seekers can raft down the longest urban whitewater course in the world or zip line across the river at Blue Heron Adventure Park. Meanwhile, those who enjoy more leisurely pursuits can stroll or bike along the 15-mile Chattahoochee RiverWalk, which winds past historical monuments and sites like the National Civil War Naval Museum and the experiential National Infantry Museum. Follow the path to Uptown Columbus to shop at local boutiques and bookstores, take in a show or go out for a night on the town.

Featuring more than 40,000 acres of surreal landscapes, Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area offers plenty of opportunities for adventure close to Atlanta. The park captivates visitors with its monadnocks (stone outcrops), which were formed over the course of 400 million years. Spend your time hiking through the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve or walking or biking the more than 30-mile Arabia Mountain PATH. The heritage area also boasts nearly 90 geocaches for travelers to find. For those who enjoy fishing, there are numerous waterways ideal for casting a line. But remember, fishing here requires purchasing a Georgia fishing license.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Lake Lanier

Augusta, GA

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The Blog of Dimi

Georgia Travel Photos

My travel photos from Georgia. View the pictures on the following location-based albums. All images are free to download and use for any purpose, provided that you give credit.

Photos: Sarpi Border, Georgia/Turkey (2021)

Photos: Kutaisi, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Batumi, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Mestia, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Tbilisi, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Tbilisi to Stepantsminda, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Tsageri, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Ushguli, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Tkibuli Lake, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Gori, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Shatili, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Tusheti, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Telavi, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Mount Kazbek, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Stepantsminda, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Tbilisi Sea, Georgia (2021)

Photos: Lisi Lake, Tbilisi, Georgia (2021)

View more photo albums by clicking on the links contained (under the "description" section) in the pins on the map below.

Hi! I'm Dimi and this blog is my creativity's outlet. I post a wide variety of content such as my books , stories and photographs from my trips around the world, my thoughts , my music , and more. Take a minute to read about the site or start exploring it .

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• Destinations

Georgia Travel Guide

Shaped by centuries of foreign influences—Russian, Turkish, and Persian neighbors all left their marks—the Republic of Georgia feels untouched by time. Rolling green hills dotted by centuries-old churches and watchtowers reach above towering mountains to welcome hikers, bikers, and travelers of all stripes. One of the world's oldest wine producers, the spirited nation is the perfect destination to raise a glass to the good life.

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• Why Georgia
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• Useful Info

Nature of Georgia

• Natural Wonders
• National Parks

This is Georgia, one of the oldest and most beautiful countries on Earth.

Land Given by God

The legend goes like this: When God was distributing the lands to people, the Georgians were the last to show up and justified it by saying that they had been feasting, enjoying themselves and glorifying God. So God gave to them the land that he intended to keep for himself. Anyone who’s visited Georgia can say that the legend is not far from the truth. 

Ski in the mountains, then take your skis off, and several hours later, go for a dip in the sea. Walk on the snowy mountains or in the heavy rain, and then, when you’re troubled by too much sun, take off your clothes and get a tan. 

Lakes, Rivers, and More

In this small country are 26,060 large and small rivers, 860 lakes, 55 waterfalls , and 44 reservoirs. Georgia is rich in underground palaces and the caves are of interest to spelunkers.

As of now, 28 caves have been discovered in Georgia. The Prometheus cave, near Tskaltubo , is a unique part of prehistory. The Sataplia Cave, on the other hand , is the only place in the world where you will find 120 million-year-old herbivorous and carnivorous dinosaur footprints.

In New Athos, within the occupied territory of Georgia, is the unique natural monument of the New Athos cave, which is the longest cave system in the world. It is made of Mesozoic limestone and consists of numerous caverns. 

Forests, Marshes, and More

Around Georgia are many highly-esthetic, compact monuments, which have been sculpted over the centuries by nature. The unique Ispani Wetlands, close to Kobuleti , have been a part of the Georgian ecosystem since the 4th or 3rd century BCE and are of worldwide significance. They are the most untouched and only filtrating wetlands in the world, and even now attract the attention of many scientists and visitors.  

Georgia’s nature is renowned for its geographical and biological diversity. In addition to the mountains, it has all types of forests and thousands of local species of flora and fauna. 

Georgia’s nature is diverse in animals, including, caucasian red deer, roe deer, wild boar, rabbits, and squirrels. As for predators, there are brown bears, wolves, badgers, lynxes, wild cats, and foxes. The mountain fauna is protected within the Greater Caucasus mountains. Many animal species that are widespread in Georgia are rare in the rest of the world and have been added to the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). 

Waters and Climate

There are more than 2,000 mineral and hot water springs in Georgia, along with therapeutic mud sources. Many of them are close to popular balneological resorts. 

Despite its small land area, Georgia contains nearly all the climate types that exist on Earth. The warm, humid, subtropical climate of the Black Sea in western Georgia, continues through the dry, continental climate of the valleys of eastern Georgia, and ends with the permafrost and glacial zone of the Caucasus Mountains. 

Among countries with a temperate climate, Georgia is one of the richest in plant life. More than 4,100 plant species make up the local flora (with around 6,350 species found in the Caucasus). Around 21% of those, or around 900 species, are endemic (600 to the Caucasus and 300 to Georgia). The endemism of genera is also high in Georgia, with 16 endemic and sub-endemic genera. The Goderdzi Petrified Forest, a unique natural monument in Ajara, is a noteworthy must-visit. 

Georgia is one of the centers of development and diversity for plant cultures. Grapevines, cereals, fruits, and many other notable varieties have been developed. Georgia’s biodiversity is a “living monument” of the natural and cultural heritage of the country, whose study, protection, and restoration are of great importance to all humankind. 

6 things only Georgia locals know

Jul 20, 2024 • 4 min read

On your trip to Georgia, prepare for the pollen and get ready to embrace small talk with strangers Boogich / Getty Images

I can still hear my parent’s voices after we moved to the state of Georgia when I was a child. They couldn’t believe the way Southerners pronounced DeKalb County (the L is silent), and that was only the beginning of the way things sound different in the Peach State. 

After spending most of my life living in and around different parts of the state, I now call myself a true Georgia peach. I’m astute in our cultural and conversational ways. I’ve helped colleagues from other parts of the country adjust to living in Atlanta , and given a few lighthearted pointers about our local words and phrases.

Here are the six most important things you should know before visiting Georgia, especially if it’s your first time in the state. 

1. Pack plenty of lightweight clothing 

There’s a reason why those of us who live in Georgia prioritize linen, cotton and other lightweight fabrics, especially in the summer months. Average temperatures dance in the lower 90s (Fahrenheit), but locals are quick to tell you, “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity.” Around 70% humidity is the average for the state. If you’re not used to what that may feel like, “soupy” is a great adjective to describe the feeling of Georgia’s humid summer air. If you visit during the summer , plan to drink plenty of water – it’s necessary to fight heat exhaustion.

Outside of summer, temperatures and humidity levels are much more mild and pleasant.

2. Don’t forget your allergy medicine 

If you’re planning to visit in spring, prepare for allergies, or at least the occasional sneeze. Cities throughout the state have landscaped public areas with too many male trees and not enough of their female counterparts, so many parts of Georgia get covered in pollen. If you see a yellow coating of dust, you’ll know it’s springtime in Georgia, when most locals hope for rain to wash it all away. Even if you’ve never really experienced allergies before, sometimes the intensity of the pollen here can affect you. 

3. We love y’all and bless your heart

Travel across the state and you’re likely to come across a number of different southern accents, but there are a few phrases that are universal no matter where you visit. The most common colloquialism is the contraction of “you” and “all.” Use it and y’all will see how it comes in handy. (If I were talking to someone from Georgia, I’d combine “y’all” and “will” to say “y’all’ll,” but that’s an intermediate level of southern speak, so we’ll save more of that lesson for another day.)

Pay close attention if someone tells you, “bless your heart.” Depending on their tone and the context, this could mean they truly wish the best for you, or that they’re showing you sympathy. However, a slight change in tone changes the intent; it could also be used to say they think you’re stupid. 

4. Some local name pronunciations are unexpected

I shared how my parents were surprised by the pronunciation of DeKalb County many years ago. There are many more counties, cities and street names with unexpected pronunciations. For example, Houston County in middle Georgia is not pronounced the same way as the city in Texas. The “Hou” is pronounced as “how,” so Houston sounds like “How-ston.”

Even the way locals pronounce the name of our capital city, Atlanta, is a little different than other parts of the country. Most people in metro Atlanta will drop the second t (some drop both), so the city is pronounced more like “Atlanna” or “Alanna.” Most people will know you’re a visitor by the way you pronounce these names. No one expects you to know these – just make sure you don’t say “Hotlanta.”

5. Acknowledging strangers is common

What do you do when you’re walking on a sidewalk and pass by someone walking in the other direction? In many parts of Georgia, the customary thing to do is to make eye contact with them and give a nod or smile. Some people will take the greeting a step further with a quick verbal greeting. None of this is intended to stop or even slow down your stride; it’s all done in passing.

This is one of the ways Georgia residents express southern hospitality, but there are many ways you could encounter this while visiting the state. A stranger could start a friendly conversation with you while waiting in line. Or if passersby perceive you need help, such as if you’re having car trouble or a flat bike tire, some people will stop to offer assistance.

None of these examples are universal, especially in the cities. But if you do run into a stranger who offers a friendly hello, don’t think it’s strange! It’s part of Georgia’s local culture.

6. You’ll never be too far from a Waffle House

My last tip won’t make or break your trip, but it is an observation many people who aren’t from Georgia find amusing. Georgia is the land of Waffle House . The first one opened in 1955 in Avondale Estates, Georgia, so we naturally embrace our home state’s diner. We also have more than 400 of the restaurants in the state. Get off any highway exit in Georgia, and you’ll probably spot a Waffle House, or even two.

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Investigators piece together a puzzling portrait of the shooter who sought to assassinate Trump

After conducting more than 200 interviews and combing through his phone and internet search history, federal investigators have pieced together an early portrait of the man who sought to assassinate former President Donald Trump: Thomas Matthew Crooks was an intelligent, unassuming loner, who expressed an interest in guns and was far from outspoken about politics.

But the emerging profile of Crooks nearly a week after the shooting has left authorities puzzled about a motive for his assault and has had investigators speculating that his intentions may have been less politically motivated and more about attacking the highest-profile target near him.

The investigation remains in its early stages, officials caution. Still, in some ways, Crooks seems similar to the dozens of other young men who’ve wreaked havoc across the US with high-powered assault-style rifles in recent years. He had few close friends, he would often go shooting at a local firing range, and he didn’t seem to display strongly held views that would suggest a politically driven assassination, according to CNN interviews with law enforcement and a review of notes from a briefing to Congress.

In addition to the former president, Crooks had searched online about President Joe Biden and had photos on his phone of other prominent figures from both parties. He searched for the location of Trump’s rally as well as the upcoming Democratic National Convention, the briefing notes say, and discovered that Trump planned to appear just an hour’s drive away from his home in the Pittsburgh suburbs.

That suggests Crooks may have been looking to carry out a high-profile shooting, and the Trump event’s proximity and timing offered the most accessible opportunity, federal officials have speculated.

“Even though he didn’t get his primary target, the shooter was successful in a lot of ways because he got closer to doing something no one has done in decades,” one federal official told CNN, referring to the assassination of a presidential candidate.

It remains unclear if Crooks intended to carry out a much larger attack and started with Trump because that was the way to gain the most notoriety.

Crooks had also  searched for information  on another recent mass shooter who shot and killed four classmates at a Michigan high school in 2021. The web searches about that shooter, Ethan Crumbley, are consistent with what law enforcement officials have seen in other mass shooters who research people they wish to emulate, in part, as a way to form their own idea of how to do something bigger, the federal official said.

But there are also significant differences between Crooks’ behavior and that of a typical mass shooter. On the day of the attack, Crooks appeared to have been specifically targeting Trump – not aiming at the crowds in an attempt to kill as many people as possible. While he had an improvised explosive in the trunk of his car, it’s not clear if he planned to set it off to kill people or as a distraction.

Kathleen Puckett, a former FBI behavioral analyst who worked on the case of the “Unabomber” Ted Kaczynski, said that Crooks also appeared to have less firepower than many mass shooters, who often carry multiple weapons and wear body armor.

“It didn’t look to me like he was ready for an assault,” Puckett said, while noting the limits of publicly available information. “It looked to me like he was taking a window that he saw a vulnerability in where he felt that he was unobserved to the extent he could get off some critical shots.”

In addition, unlike other mass shooters who often leave behind writings to explain their attacks, authorities have thus far recovered few clues, in Crooks’ bedroom or online.

That is frustrating experts who are trying to piece together his mindset – and raising comparisons with Stephen Paddock, the gunman who killed 60 people in Las Vegas in 2017. Nearly seven years after America’s deadliest mass shooting, investigators still do not know why Paddock pulled the trigger.

Like the Las Vegas massacre, “this may be a situation where the more we know, the less we understand about the exact reason why,” said Juliette Kayyem, a former assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security and a CNN national security analyst.

Crooks’ family members told investigators he did not openly discuss politics, and evidence recovered at his home shed no further light on his political values or ideology, according to a readout shared with CNN that details a briefing that FBI and US Secret Service officials gave lawmakers Wednesday.

Related article Trump’s team wasn’t told about reports of suspicious person before rally shooting, sources say

Mary Ellen O’Toole, a former FBI profiler, said that based on the evidence assembled so far, she thought that Trump’s rally was “very appealing” to Crooks in part because it “fell in his backyard.”

“This gave him incredible attention and catapulted him to a point where I think that’s why he chose this,” she speculated.

Still, Puckett called lone offenders – who largely remain invisible before attacks – “one of the prickliest problems out there” for law enforcement, and warned against a rush to find simple answers about Crooks’ motive.

“Whatever his story turns out to be, it’s not going to be simplistic, I don’t think – it’s going to be more complicated,” Puckett said. “You don’t want the simplistic version. You want every detail you can find.”

CNN’s Scott Glover, Allison Gordon and Holmes Lybrand contributed to this report.

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Microsoft, CrowdStrike outage disrupts travel and business worldwide

The problem was traced to an update by security company CrowdStrike, which said it had fixed the issue Friday morning.

A defective update to an obscure piece of security software knocked out computer systems around the globe Friday, causing widespread disruptions to travel, medical care and businesses of all stripes while revealing in stunning fashion the fragility of a world economy built on shared technology.

Airline passengers were stranded at airports as thousands of flights were canceled. Hospitals closed their doors to patients expecting routine appointments. Shoppers encountered self-checkout terminals showing the notorious Blue Screen of Death that pops up when Windows fails. Even the organizers of the upcoming Paris Olympics reported impacts to the delivery of uniforms.

The problem traced to an update issued for Windows computers by security firm CrowdStrike, the company said in a blog post. The company said at 6 a.m. Friday the problem had been identified and fixed, but by that point the effects had rippled around the world.

The effects of the outage were a reminder of how the global economy is dependent on computer systems that are vulnerable to everything from attacks by sophisticated hackers to bungled software updates. But while the problems were widespread, there was an element of randomness at play, too, depending on which companies in any given industry made use of the defective system.

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CrowdStrike chief executive George Kurtz said he was “deeply sorry” to anyone affected by the global outage during an appearance Friday on NBC’s “Today” show and vowed to “make sure every customer is fully recovered.”

Many CrowdStrike systems are recovering and will soon be operational, Kurtz said, but “it could take some time for some systems that won’t automatically recover.”

The company’s problems follow a string of computer security incidents and service outages in recent years that have disrupted online services. Bruce Schneier, a security technologist who teaches at the Harvard Kennedy School, said the latest problem shows how brittle parts of the online world have become as companies have chased efficiency while sacrificing resiliency.

“This is one of hundreds of companies you’ve never heard of that are essential to the functioning internet,” Schneier said. He compared the situation to a house built in such a way that nailing a picture to the wall puts it at risk of collapsing.

CrowdStrike’s software is widely used around the world by businesses seeking to defend themselves from hackers. The problems Friday affected only computers running Microsoft’s Windows operating system, CrowdStrike said, leaving Apple computers and those using Linux unaffected.

While Windows is the operating system for hundreds of millions of personal PCs, it also runs on the computers behind the scenes that are vital to the operation of airlines, digital payment systems, emergency services call centers and other organizations.

Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella said in a post on X that his company was working with CrowdStrike and Windows users “to provide customers technical guidance and support to safely bring their systems back online.”

CrowdStrike said in the blog post that the faulty file implicated in the more widespread outages had a timestamp equivalent to 12:09 a.m. Eastern time Friday. An unrelated Microsoft outage Thursday also caused problems.

Some of the most visible early effects of the outage were at airlines. Budget U.S. carriers Frontier and Sun Country disclosed in the early hours of Friday that they were experiencing disruptions, and the problems spread to major airlines and affected airlines overseas.

By 6:30 p.m. more than 4,400 flights had been canceled worldwide. Of that, more than 2,700 were flights operating into, within or out of the United States, according to FlightAware.com , an online flight-tracking website. More than 40,000 flights were delayed worldwide, with delays affecting more than 10,000 flights originating or ending in the United States.

United Airlines said the outage impacted several key systems: those used for checking in customers, calculating aircraft weight and operating call centers.

In the United States alone the impacts were similar to what might be expected during a major snowstorm. And even as airlines reported getting operations back up and running Friday morning, problems in the aviation system can take hours to fully resolve as crews and aircraft are left in the wrong cities.

John Cox and his wife found themselves spending more than a day at Reagan National Airport as they tried to get a flight home to North Carolina.

A technical issue Thursday evening prompted major airlines including Delta to delay service and reroute passengers. Then their 10:17 a.m. Friday flight to Charlotte was pushed to Saturday at noon. “It completely derailed our plans,” Cox said, slumped on a seat by the entrance of the airport.

“We’re going to end up spending a lot more money hanging around in D.C. than if we were back at home,” Cox said, before reclining in his seat and sighing. “There should be some compensation for the immense inconvenience that so many people are enduring.”

By Friday morning it had become clear that the effects were reaching a large number of industries and affecting government agencies.

The effects on medical providers stretched from the United States to Israel, with doctors losing access to electronic medical records and some hospitals postponing elective procedures.

Mass General Brigham, a nonprofit that operates one of the largest hospital systems in Massachusetts, said on its website that it was canceling all “non-urgent visits” at its hospitals and clinics Friday. The organization said its emergency departments remained open and were providing care for urgent appointments and procedures.

Alison Baulos said her father, Gary Baulos, was scheduled to have heart surgery Friday at Baptist Health Hospital in Paducah, Ky., but got a call at 3:30 a.m. that the procedure was canceled due to the outage.

Her father, a 73-year-old former Navy Seabee and AT&T technician, had just been diagnosed with eight blockages and an aneurysm, she said, and had spent Thursday night at a hotel close to the hospital.

“The doctor said he can’t be too active, he can’t raise his hands above his head,” Alison Baulos said. She said her father is taking it in stride. His reaction to the cancellation, she said, was, “all right, since we’re already out here I guess we can go to IHOP for breakfast.”

Danielle Carzell, a 35-year-old Atlanta resident, was scheduled to have her hip replaced Friday, a procedure she’s eagerly anticipated for months. Born with a genetic condition — her hips are “like mismatched puzzle pieces,” she said — she’s in constant pain and hoped the surgery would relieve it. But after waiting for hours at Emory St. Joseph’s Hospital, she was told the procedure would have to be rescheduled due to the outage.

“I have no idea when I’m going to be able to get my surgery now,” she said. “I have a 5-year-old that I just want to play with, and this outage is just ruining everything.”

Even in a sector that has suffered debilitating blows this year — notably the hacks of claims processor Change Healthcare and health system Ascension — experts were surprised by the scale of the impacts Friday.

“I was stunned to see this kind of ripple effect,” said Chris Cummiskey, a cybersecurity expert and former Department of Homeland Security official. While CrowdStrike is often seen as the gold standard in cyber protection, he said this event may call for reviewing their internal practices.

“You don’t want to hit one button and have this kind of worldwide meltdown occur,” Cummiskey said.

Television news stations in several countries were knocked off the air. In Australia, the outage left ABC News unable to deliver its usual evening news update. Instead it showed a special report on the disruption at Sydney airports.

Some emergency services also reported problems. The Alaska State Troopers reported that, starting at 9 p.m. Thursday local time, 911 call centers statewide were not working correctly. Service was restored around 4 a.m. Friday when dispatch centers switched to analog phone systems or partnered with dispatch centers that had not been impacted, according to the Alaska Department of Public Safety.

Federal officials scrambled to assess the situation and provide assistance. Anne Neuberger, a security and technology adviser to President Biden , said her day began on a call with the White House situation room at 4 a.m. as the government sought to determine the effects on its own systems and critical parts of the economy.

“It highlights both the degree to which our economies, our national security are now digital and interconnected in a fundamental way,” said Neuberger, speaking on a panel at the Aspen Security Forum in Colorado.

A White House official said that Biden himself was briefed on the outage and that the administration was in touch with CrowdStrike and affected entities. The White House will get “sector by sector updates throughout the day and is standing by to provide assistance as needed,” the official added.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in an interview on CNBC Friday that he expected airlines, ports and freight companies to be largely back on their feet by Friday. But he said the episode should prompt some soul searching about the vulnerability of the country to even seemingly minor technical problems.

“We’re certainly in a new era in terms of these risks,” Buttigieg said. “I think there will be a huge amount of after action assessment, after the dust settles and things get back to normal.”

Hannah Ziegler, Jeff Stein, Aaron Gregg, Adela Suliman and Julian Mark contributed to this report.