Things to do & places to visit in Georgia, United States

While Atlanta is the anchor and capital of Georgia, you can aim in any direction to find distinctly different regions – from the tail of the Appalachians in the North to the rolling Piedmont hills and on down to the seaside marshes in the East. Atlanta lays claim to the state’s number one attraction – Stone Mountain State Park. They say it best - “Serious fun. Endless adventure.” Just 15 minutes from downtown, the world’s largest exposed granite dome is surrounded by 3,200 acres of natural beauty and stimulating activities for every member of the family – sky rides and hiking paths, laser shows and pedal boats along Stone Mountain Lake. Golfers tee it up, while red foxes dash across the fairways in a state where the Masters Golf Tournament creates revered green-jacket memories every year. It’s a long downhill ride down to historic Savannah, a ‘stone’s throw’ from the Atlantic and a virtual step back in time to Southern architecture and stately squares. St. Simon’s and Jekyll Islands offer barrier island beauty and a wonderful combination of outdoor activities, historic sites and artistic culture. Originally the private winter playground of wealthy northeasterners, Jekyll Island stretches along 10 miles of coastal beaches and inland marshes. Cycling and walking paths wind under moss-laden oaks, and a tour of Millionaire Village takes you back to those Cornelius Vanderbilt and J.P. Morgan days. The kid-friendly Summer Waves Water Park adds man-made fun to natural water sport activities. Coastal golf courses and sophisticated St. Simon’s Island appeal to moms, dads and vacationing couples.

Georgia #14 destination in United States 2023. The average rating score is 4.50 based on 312.0k traveler reviews, of 2.961 attractions. Timezone: America/New_York, current date and time: Saturday, April 27, 2024, 4:34.

Top things to do (32)

Top destinations in Georgia 100

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Savannah Historic District (14.3k reviews)
- Beautiful walk
Historic Sites • Historic Walking Areas

Savannah's picturesque historic district brings the traditional southern atmosphere to life. See more..
5.0 Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (9.724 reviews)
- A must see in Savannah!
Spent < 1 hour Religious Sites

The oldest Roman Catholic church in Georgia. See more..
5.0 Historic Savannah Theatre (3.301 reviews)
- Great place to experience a fabulous night out in a historic setting
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Theaters

This is a great place to see an entertaining show in a historical setting that has had people like Oscar Wilde, WC Fields, Barrymore, and many others grace its stage. I went with my mom and sister to see Legends Live On - what a fantastic show! There weren’t too many seats together to a Saturday show when we purchased tickets on Friday so I recommend checking out their schedule and getting tickets early. There are a lot of bars and restaurants in the area as well for pre or post show. See more..
5.0 Anna Ruby Falls (2.845 reviews)
- Worth the Hike
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Waterfalls

This is a short half mile paved hike. It does have a steep incline near the end, so we recommend pacing yourself. The falls are beautiful and definitely worth it. We did see a large age range hiking. I personally would not recommend this for toddlers, as there are steep drop offs on the sides of the trails. Though we did see several toddlers. I also would only recommend strollers or wheelchairs for those who are physically strong to push up a steep incline, or who plan to take breaks on the way up. There are benches along the path.There is a nice gift shop and friendly staff on the premises. It probably took us 30 minutes to hike up, view, and hike back down. They do charge $5 per per adult. See more..
5.0 Rolling Thunder River Company (2.625 reviews)
- The Best of Times
River Rafting & Tubing

If you’re looking for an amazing time rafting with friends or family, I can’t stress enough how much I recommend Rolling Thunder River Company in GA. I took my boyfriend and our closest friends for his birthday. They were able to accommodate our group of 7 to stay together, they were clear about us all needing a certain footwear ahead of time so we were all prepared. They were extremely knowledgeable and my friends and I felt extremely safe out there. We also had the most AMAZING guide, Nessy! He knew exactly what to do at all times, he kept us all laughing, and he truly made our trip the best it could be. They also take such great photos of your party and sell them for a very reasonable price. Thank you so much RTRC and Nessy!! Shout out to Quiznos too for the extra pic we got :) See more..
5.0 National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center (2.276 reviews)
- Great trip for our church Outing
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums • History Museums

The National Infantry Museum emphasizes the values that define the Infantryman, as well as the nation he protects: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. It preserves and displays one of the greatest collections of military artifacts in the world, but it is a museum of people, not things. As a visitor, you will meet the Infantryman face to face and join him on his journey. You will come to understand why an Infantryman does what he does, why he puts himself in harm’s way in defense of an idea and you will leave transformed, just as the Infantry transforms the man into the Soldier. The 190,000-square-foot museum opened in June 2009 on a 200-acre tract of hardwoods and pines just outside the gates of the Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence. See more..
5.0 National Center for Civil and Human Rights (2.153 reviews)
- Must see in Atlanta
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Art Museums

The National Center for Civil and Human Rights in downtown Atlanta is an engaging cultural attraction that connects The American Civil Rights Movement to today's Global Human Rights Movements. The Center features four immersive and thought-provoking exhibit spaces, including a continually rotating gallery of items from The Morehouse College Martin Luther King, Jr. Collection, where visitors can view the personal papers and items of Dr. King. The Center also provides designated event spaces and educational programs inspiring visitors to join the ongoing dialogue about contemporary movements for human rights around the world. 3/2/2020 - Closing at 3pm (Last ticket at 2pm). See more..
5.0 Congregation Mickve Israel (1.196 reviews)
- From the Old World to the New World
Saturday: Spent < 1 hour Religious Sites

The third oldest Jewish congregation and the only neo-gothic Jewish sanctuary in the U. S. We offer tours that include our historic sanctuary and museum with many historic artifacts including two Torahs written in the 1400's (probably the oldest in the U.S.). We host services every Friday & Saturday Shabbat and Jewish holidays. See our website for calendar of events. See more..
4.5 Georgia Aquarium (23.6k reviews)
- Excellent aquarium
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Aquariums

Georgia Aquarium contains more than 70 amazing habitats, with thousands of marine animals such as whale sharks, manta rays, beluga whales, and more. Don’t miss out on the animal encounter programs, where you can get up close and personal with dolphins, penguins, and sea lions. Take on a shark cage dive, or scuba dive in the Ocean Voyager exhibit. Catch a show at the 4D theater, check out the virtual reality simulator, and even have an overnight sleepover. Combine your visit to the aquarium with other top attractions and enjoy additional discounts with the Atlanta CityPASS. You might also want to visit around Halloween or the holidays for special themed activities or presentations. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Forsyth Park (8.995 reviews)
- Beautiful on a Sunny Day
Spent < 1 hour Parks

In Charleston...it's the Pineapple Fountain, but when in Savannah it is the Forsyth Fountain, the signature piece in the huge Forsyth Park. It was a beautiful, sunny, mid 70's day in March when we wandered this park for the first time. So many places to sit, relax, and enjoy nature. Unfortunately, about a week before we arrived there was a 27 degree killing frost which did affect the Azaleas...which are everywhere in the park (and in Savannah in general). The unopened buds were not affected, so we did see some beautiful flowers of many different colors. There are many Live Oaks with hanging moss-that are clearly very old, and have experienced a lot in their lives. It was our pleasure to experience this beautiful park on a gorgeous day!! See more..
4.5 Historic River Street (8.198 reviews)
- A Highlight in Savannah with Shops, Bars and Restaurants
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The highlight of a visit to Savannah is spending some time on River Street. Lined with shops, bars and restaurants, it’s a nice place to visit day or night. There is a path offering a pleasant walk along the river with views of ships traveling up or down the Savannah River. Nightlife scene was more lively near City Market on the Saturday night we visited. See more..
4.5 Bonaventure Cemetery (6.725 reviews)
- Just Amazing
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Cemeteries

Bonaventure Cemetery was developed on the historically-significant site of Bonaventure Plantation. The peaceful setting rests on a scenic bluff of the Wilmington River, east of Savannah. The site was purchased for a private cemetery in 1846 and became a public cemetery in 1907. Citizens and others can still purchase interment rights in Bonaventure. This charming site has been a world famous tourist destination for more than 150 years due to the old tree-lined roadways, the many notable persons interred, the unique cemetery sculpture and architecture, and the folklore associated with the site and the people. The entrance to the cemetery is located at 330 Bonaventure Road and is the largest of the municipal cemeteries containing nearly 100 acres. The cemetery is open to the public daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. . The main office of the Department of Cemeteries is located in the Bonaventure Administrative Building at the entrance. See more..
4.5 Atlanta Botanical Garden (5.138 reviews)
- Holiday Lights at Atlanta Botanical Gardens
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

Step into a world of magic and serenity at the Atlanta Botanical Garden, where features like the Fuqua Orchid Center treat visitors to a rare collection of high-elevation orchids never before grown in the southeast. See more..
4.5 Fox Theatre (4.455 reviews)
- Gorgeous Architecture with poor orchestra seating!
Saturday: Spent 2-3 hours Architectural Buildings • Theaters

Recently restored to its original gilded look of the 1920s, the Fox Theatre features "Mighty Mo," a classic Moller organ with over 3,600 pipes. The lavish theatre currently hosts Broadway musicals, comedy shows and dance companies throughout the year. See more..
4.5 Rock City (3.676 reviews)
- Peak View
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Lookouts

Located atop Lookout Mountain, Rock City is a true marvel of nature featuring massive ancient rock formations, gardens with over 400 native plant species, and breathtaking "See 7 States" panoramic views. See more..
4.5 Tybee Island Beach (3.644 reviews)
- Tybee Beach
Beaches

The beaches on Tybee are quite beautiful with deep stretches of white sand with sand dunes as their backdrop. The water is reasonably clear, suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Generally, the slope from shallow to deep water is gradual, so the kids can have a wonderful, safe time too. If you don't stay at a facility on the beach where parking is free, plan to pay $3.50 per hour during your time you spend at the beach. Also, you are not allowed on the sand dunes! See more..
4.5 Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site (3.488 reviews)
- From start to finish—- this tour is Tull of interesting information about Dr. King.
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites

Start at the visitor center and then work your way around the three main sites in this historic park: the home in which the leader of the Civil Rights movement in America was born, the church where he preached and the memorial site where he is buried. A major Atlanta attraction, the park draws some 500,000 visitors each year. See more..
4.5 Olde Pink House (3.048 reviews)
- We loved The Olde Pink House
Saturday: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM Historic Sites • Mysterious Sites

The Olde Pink House is a must restaurant to put on your agenda when visiting Savannah! Delicious food, Excellent staff. Fantastic atmosphere. The shrimp and grits appetizer was scrumptious as was the rest of our meal. They have a vocalist who sings for birthdays, anniversaries and other occasions. And when we talked to her in the hall, she asked our favorite singer and she then proceeded to sing one of Aretha Franklin’s songs right there! Phenomenal. We highly recommend going down to the tavern bar where there is live music starting at 7:30 pm. The atmosphere is cozy and relaxing down there and just away from everything! See more..
4.5 Driftwood Beach (3.043 reviews)
- Driftwood Beach Is Very Enchanting at Sunset
Beaches

Visited the beach both during full sun light and again at sunset and sunset is definitely much better. The play of light and the contrast between water, sky, twilight and the dead trees are views that is only comparible to that of Namibia in my mind. One of a kind and a must for those into photography. Excellent visit, recommend. Easy to get to from the road. See more..
4.5 Fort Pulaski National Monument (2.697 reviews)
- Great fort!
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Historic Walking Areas • Monuments & Statues

Fort Pulaski National Monument has one of the best preserved nineteenth century masonry fortifications in the United States. It was also the site of a major artillery duel during the Civil War that saw the first major use of rifled artillery in battle. You can tour the fortress, see living historians bringing the past to life, or watch an artillery demonstration that really immerses visitors with the sights and sounds of conflict. The monument however, is more than just a fort. We have over 5000 acres of pristine saltwater marsh, one of the largest concentrations of marsh along the coast of Georgia. Combine that with miles of trails and you have a great way to get away from our cultural history and surround yourself with the natural beauty of Cockspur Island, the heart of the monument. See more..
4.5 Tybee Island Light Station And Museum (2.657 reviews)
- Informative and interactive with free parking
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums • Lighthouses

The Tybee Island Lighthouse was built in 1773 and is the oldest Lighthouse in Georgia. An entry ticket allows you to see the Lighthouse, the Head Keepers Cottage, the 2nd Assistant Keepers Cottage, the Summer Kitchen and the Tybee Island Museum across the street. The Lighthouse is CLOSED TUESDAYS, Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day, St. Patrick's Day (or the day of the Savannah St. Patrick's Day parade). See more..
4.5 Mercier Orchards (2.496 reviews)
- Glorious way to spend your day
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Farms

We are an orchard nestled in the North Georgia Mountains. Open all year long, We aim to provide family orientated, and educational fun for all ages! We offer U-Pick on many seasonal fruits, a bakery featuring fried pies, a restaurant, and a unique shop. We are closed New Years Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. See more..
4.5 Piedmont Park (2.385 reviews)
- Afternoon stroll
Saturday: Spent 1-2 hours Parks

This 185-acre park, home to the Atlanta Botanical Gardens and to summer festivals, is also popular with joggers. See more..
4.5 The Old Sorrel Weed House Museum & Tours (2.365 reviews)
- Review of 10 o’clock ghost tour
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 11:30 PM Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings

The Sorrel- Weed House operates Historic Savannah Tours and Haunted Ghost Tours in Savannah. Our purpose is to educate the public on the rich neoclassical Greek Revival architecture of the Sorrel- Weed House and the the famous architect Charles Cluskey who designed it, along with and the cultural history of antebellum Savannah Georgia. A focus is also maintained on Civil War Savannah, and the role of Brigadier General Moxley Sorrel CSA. Moxley served under General James Longstreet and wrote "Recollections of a Confederate Staff Officer". We also operate Haunted Ghost Tours in Savannah, as The Sorrel- Weed House was featured on Ghost Hunters with Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson in 2005, HGTV "If These Walls Could Talk" in 2006, the Travel Channel in 2010, (the Most Terrifying Places in America) and Ghost Adventures with Zak Bagans, Nick Groff and Aaron Goodwin in 2014. In January 1940 - The Society for the Preservation of Savannah Landmarks opened the Sorrel- Weed House to the public. The name of their exhibit was "The Society for the Preservation of Savannah Landmarks Presents a Loan Exhibit of furniture and fine Arts 18th and 19th Centuries at the Sorrel-Weed House on Madison Square. Jan-April 1940" They were founded in 1939 and eventually became the Historic Savannah Foundation. 1954, The Sorrel-Weed House was designated a Georgia State Landmark. It was one of the first houses in Georgia to receive this honor. 2005- The Sorrel Weed House opened to the public for Historic House Tours and Haunted Savannah Ghost Tours. 2010. The Sorrel Weed House was designated a Museum in the State of Georgia. See more..
4.5 Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters (2.341 reviews)
- Excellent tour
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • History Museums

Built as a beautiful Regency style mansion in 1819, the Owens-Thomas House, along with its adjacent gardens, carriage house, and slave quarters, allows visitors to explore the complicated relationships between the most and least powerful people in the city of Savannah in the early 19th century. Only a seven-minute walk from Telfair Museums’ other two sites, this historic home offers a completely different experience. Telfair Museums’ Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters has paused all docent led tours indefinitely due to COVID-19. Guests may independently navigate the historic home with an audio tour available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or our website. See more..
4.5 Georgia Sea Turtle Center (2.321 reviews)
- phenomenal experience......
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas

Learning about not just sea turtles but the entire coastal environment is definitely worth the trip. We enjoyed the entire outing but had a real treat as we got to watch them wrestle one of the larger sea turtles out of its tank and transport it to the "clinic" for lab work. Try to visit during feeding time and watch some of the turtles who know exactly when they are to be fed start to raise a ruckus demanding their food (one was swimming around and returning impatiently to the area of his tank where he knew he would be fed and splashing water every which way demanding attention (read food). Our visit was cut short due to an appointment but that did not stop us fr/ returning and spending another hour or so visiting the center. See more..
4.5 High Museum of Art (1.960 reviews)
- Must See Art Museum
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

This stunning, porcelain-enameled building was designed by famed architect Richard Meier and is rivaled only by the art inside. Featuring American, European and African art, as well as decorative art and photography, the High Museum boasts a permanent collection of over 11,000 pieces, many of which can be viewed from different levels of the four-story, glass atrium. See more..
4.5 Wormsloe Historic Site (1.869 reviews)
- Great experience!
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • State Parks

A breathtaking live oak avenue leads visitors one mile down a colonial road to a vistor center, where they can watch short historical film, tour a museum, and browse a gift shop. A walking trail leads to the 1737 tabby ruins of the oldest remaining structure in the Savannah. Trails meander past scenic marsh views to the Colonial Life Area, where costumed interpreters provide living history demonstrations in the afternoons, weather permitting. Five more miles of nature trails are available for those who are more adventurous. See more..
4.5 Colonial Park Cemetery (1.774 reviews)
- Worth a visit
Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Cemeteries

The city's oldest cemetery, with family plots dating back to the 1700s. See more..
4.5 Juliette Gordon Low's Birthplace (1.613 reviews)
- Troop tour & program
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites

The Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace is Savannah's first Registered National Historic Landmark. Enjoy a guided tour, tracing the arc of Juliette Gordon Low's life and the Movement she founded that continues to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. See more..