10 Best Tourist Attractions in Georgia

Last Updated: July 16, 2024 | Travelmoo Diary

Georgia is a diverse state, making it a particularly attractive destination. Among the tourist attractions in Georgia are the stunning mountain scenery of North Georgia and fascinating natural features like Lookout Mountain and the Okefenokee Swamp, the romantic squares of historic Savannah, and the dazzling modern architecture of Atlanta.

Whatever your interests may be, there are plenty of fun things to do in Georgia for the whole family. From beautiful beaches to one of the world’s largest aquariums, and prestigious antebellum homes and historic sites that illuminate life and events from prehistoric times to the civil rights movement of the late 20th century, Georgia offers a wealth of experiences.

Plan your visit to the “Peach State” with this list of top attractions in Georgia.

1.Ushguli

Ushguli

Ushguli is a collection of small villages located in the highlands of the Caucasus mountain region of Svaneti. After nearly five years of continuous world travel, I can confidently say that Ushguli is one of the most incredible places not only in Georgia but in all of Europe.

A dozen ancient watchtowers guard the entrance to this dreamlike UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by sharp and commanding mountains.

Here, for a small fee, there is still an opportunity to spend a night with a Svan family, where you will likely be served a delicious dinner and plenty of wine, with the sound of a fire crackling in the background. I generally don’t say “must-see” for anything, but I will make an exception here: if possible, Ushguli is a must-see place in Georgia.

Keep in mind, you can only reach Ushguli from Mestia via a single rough road by 4×4 or by a four-day trekking on foot, but I promise it’s worth the journey.

2. Atlanta Botanical Garden

Atlanta Botanical Garden

The 30-acre Atlanta Botanical Garden, located in the heart of Midtown Atlanta near Piedmont Park, has emerged as a stunning destination. This four-season attraction always has something in bloom, from vibrant spring bulb displays to colorful autumn foliage, and its various indoor gardens transport you to tropical climates at any time of the year.

The Fuqua Orchid Center, showcasing a rich display of orchids in various shapes and colors, is a must-see spot. It features a lofty Orchid House that showcases fascinating botanical diversity from the cloud forests of the Andes. Surrounding a vast indoor waterfall are rare bromeliads, ferns, hanging vines, and tiny orchids, with many rare plants thriving in the tropical Rotunda.

Outside, there’s an edible garden and an outdoor kitchen where fruits and vegetables landscape as plants. The Rose Garden stands atop its list, boasting a late spring and again late summer, and the Hydrangea collection is one of the Southeast’s best, with water plants.

The Japanese Garden includes a tea house, waterfalls, ponds, bamboo, small Japanese maples, and a moon gate that frames like a frame for a bright annual flower garden.

2. Hike through Chattahoochee National Forest

Hike through Chattahoochee National Forest

The Appalachian Trail, a lifelong goal for dedicated long-distance hikers, begins in the vast national forests of North Georgia as part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This forest is named after the Chattahoochee River, which originates here, and features over 450 miles of hiking and recreational trails.

The trails are suitable for all skill and experience levels and lead to park attractions such as Anna Ruby Falls and Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia. You can drive within 0.6 miles of the summit and then take a walking path to reach the viewing platform.

Among the forest’s over 2,200 miles of rivers and streams, about 1,367 miles are trout streams, making fishing one of the most popular activities here alongside hiking. The area is also popular for camping, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and picnicking.

4. Uplistsikhe Ancient Cave City

Uplistsikhe Ancient Cave City

Just an hour away from Tbilisi and a few kilometers from Gori, you will find the astonishing cave dwellings known as Uplistsikhe (sometimes spelled “Uflistsikhe”).

As one of Georgia’s oldest settlements, the “cave city” of Uplistsikhe was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Kartli. It is fascinating because it was later a place where Christians and pagans lived together.

If you travel to the western part of Georgia, Uplistsikhe becomes a great attraction suitable for a long journey break. Alternatively, you can take a Georgia history day trip from Tbilisi, stopping at Gori along with Uplistsikhe, where you can visit the fortress and the birthplace of Joseph Stalin.

5. Callaway Gardens

Callaway Gardens

Callaway Gardens is a serene and nature-rich place located in the southern foothills of the Appalachians. Situated at Pine Mountain, this fully-equipped retreat attracts over 750,000 visitors annually.

The resort features a spa, lakes, a butterfly conservatory, a golf course, and the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center. There are paths suitable for hiking and biking, including the 10-mile Discovery Bike Trail known for guiding guests through the gardens. Overall, Robin Lake Beach, the world’s largest man-made white sand beach, is also part of the resort’s attractions.

6. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

In the southwest of Forsyth, just 11 miles (18 kilometers) away, lies the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. A beautiful spot for exploration in Georgia, the refuge features accessible islands with Okefenokee swamps, cypress trees, and wetland habitats.

The refuge hosts various wildlife including alligators, raptors, bears, and bobcats. The swamp is particularly known for its association with the elusive Okefenokee shiner, with rich biodiversity and ancient human history, evidenced by artifacts prepared for residents and interested settlers.

7. Savannah

Savannah

Savannah, a highly southern city, attracts thousands of tourists annually with its picturesque Victorian architecture, cobblestone streets, moss-draped oak trees, and serene pathways. Leading on Georgia’s Atlantic coastline, Savannah is the state’s oldest city, blending history, elegance, and natural beauty.

Wandering through the historic district’s gravel roads unveils beautiful old mansions and scenes of historic sites, offering glimpses and tours. It features lovely parks, towering bamboo, Victorian homes, and significant landmarks. Another tourist draw is Factor’s Walk, a restored series of historic warehouses, now featuring charming shops, galleries, and distinctive restaurants.

8. Kutaisi

Kutaisi

Kutaisi, despite facing economic challenges in the past decade, has emerged as a cool city where maritime Batumi has experienced growth. However, this ancient city, which could be described as a Greek word, has also succeeded as Georgia’s developed tourism center.

Consequently, nearby David the Builder Airport brings many cheap flights to Kutaisi every week from all sides of Europe, and several hostels and competitive short-term apartment rental markets are available here. Kutaisi is not only located within the country (though it is more clearly based on Tibet or Batumi) but has been seen as rich in natural mysteries and various attractions, such as Martvili Canyon, Okatse Canyon, Gelati Monastery, and two surprising religious remains of parity, Tskaltubo and Chiatura.

9. Explore Rock City on Lookout Mountain

Explore Rock City on Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain, located at the border between Georgia and Tennessee, was the site of a Civil War battle but is now best known for its nature park along the rocky ridge. Established in 1932 and popularized by over 900 barn signs in 19 states, the park features trails through rock formations and across a swinging bridge to Lookout Point.

On exceptionally clear days, points in seven states can be seen from the top of the sheer cliff. Along the winding trail through the formations, visitors can explore gardens, stone bridges, narrow passages between massive rock faces, art installations, a mushroom-shaped balancing rock, and other attractions.

10 .Swim and Play on Tybee Island

Swim and Play on Tybee Island

Barrier Island Tibi, located near Savannah, stretches more than three miles long with pristine, sandy beaches washed by gentle waves, attracting tourists. Building forts with saws and axes on Tibi Island is just one of the many enjoyable activities.

You can take a boat tour to see dolphins, learn to surf at North Beach, explore the wildlife-rich salt marshes of Little Tibi Island on a paddleboard, kayak around the small Cockspur Island Lighthouse, and enjoy panoramic views of the island from atop the historic Tibi Island Lighthouse.

If you want to add a bit of culture or history to your vacation, you can explore galleries to find local artists’ work or visit Fort Screven’s 19th-century gun batteries and the Tibi Island Light Station and Museum.