The 9 Best Atlanta Day Trips For a Fun Getaway

Struggling to plan a long vacation? Craving even a day away to recharge and enjoy a well-deserved change of scenery? Whether you’re an Atlantan or just visiting the Big Peach for a few days, you’ll find plenty of incredible destinations less than 4 hours from the city, ready to be explored.
From majestic mountains and scenic coastlines to charming small towns and sprawling vineyards, the options for leisure and adventure in just 24 hours are virtually endless. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to plan a fun day trip from Atlanta with family, friends, your significant other, or even your furry baby—this is it.
Here are 13 of the best day trips from Atlanta, Georgia, for an unforgettable getaway.
Stone Mountain Park

Distance from Atlanta: 30 min
Stone Mountain Park is perfect if you’re looking for day trips from Atlanta with kids. The park is a classic family entertainment destination and has been for 63 years. It encompasses over 3,200 acres of outdoor adventure opportunities and some of Georgia’s most-visited family-focused attractions.
Arrive early and start the day with an invigorating hike up the 1.3-mile Walk-Up Trail to the summit of Stone Mountain, where you’ll be rewarded with some pretty incredible vistas. For a more relaxed plan, jump in the Summit Skyride, the scenic cable car, or hop on The Scenic Railroad for a picturesque five-mile journey around the mountain.
History buffs at your party would love Historic Square and its collection of 18th- and 19th-century Antebellum and Plantation buildings and live demonstrations. Rest your feet while lunching lakeside at Commons Restaurant, or pack a lunch for a picnic. Then, decide if you want to go kayaking, fishing, biking, or golfing next.
Explore the kids’ attractions, including the Dinosaur Explore Exhibit, the Dinotorium, and the miniature golf course for more lighthearted fun. And don’t miss their seasonal events and festivals! The daily parking pass is $20 per car, giving you free access to the park’s recreational and historical areas. The attractions have additional costs.
Helen, GA

Distance from Atlanta: 1.5 hrs
Nestled in North Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, only 92 miles northwest of Atlanta’s core, lies the charming Bavarian-style village of Helen, GA. If you have 24 hours to spare, head to this tiny alpine town (a tad over two square miles) and be transported to Europe.
Stroll through Helen’s cobblestone streets lined with traditional German architecture, shop from local boutiques, and stop by one of the local eateries serving authentic German delicacies. You can also grab a pint at the Alpine Brew Deck or take a relaxing tour through one of the nearby vineyards and finish the experience with a wine tasting. Remember to have a designated driver!
If you are road-tripping with adventurous company, the Chattahoochee River offers tubing. You can also hike to Anna Ruby Falls to see the famous cascade of these twin waterfalls. Families will enjoy exploring Helen on board The Alpine Express Train, which is a fun experience for everyone, and there’s no reservation needed. Dogs are welcome!
Callaway Gardens

Distance from Atlanta: 1.5 hrs
Just about an hour and a half south of Atlanta, in the lovely town of Pine Mountain, GA, the Callaway Gardens may turn into a memorable day trip. Get in the car, and in under 2 hours, you’ll arrive in one of the most beautiful woodland gardens in Peach State.
Callaway Gardens spans over 2,500 acres of lush vegetation and floral specimens like azaleas, lakes, and woodlands. The Callaway Resort & Gardens is also on the premises. During your visit, you may explore the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, home to over 1,000 butterflies, or rent bikes to traverse the 10-mile Discovery Bicycle Trail. The gardens also host seasonal events like the Summer Family Adventure and the Fantasy In Lights holiday display.
To get there, take I-85 South from Atlanta, then the I-185 South toward Columbus, and follow signs to Callaway Gardens. Callaway Gardens’ general admission is $30 for adults and $20 for children, and they include access to the Virginia Hand Callaway Discovery Center, the butterfly center, the memorial chapel, the azalea bowl, Robin Lake Beach that opens during summers, the walking trails, and the Discover Bicycle Trail. While certain areas of the gardens admit pets, call first in to learn about the specific details.
Blue Ridge, GA

Distance from Atlanta: 1.5 hrs
Blue Ridge blends outdoor recreation and small-town charm in the heart of North Georgia, only 90 miles north of Atlanta. You can quickly get there via I-575 near the intersection of Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina.
With lush forests, majestic waterfalls, and serene lakes, this town makes one of the best day trips from Atlanta if you love nature. Southern Living Magazine even recognized Blue Ridge, GA, as one of the South’s Best Mountain Towns back in 2020.
Looking for some great outdoor action? Hike to gorgeous Fall Branch Falls or kayak on the Toccoa River. For a more laid-back plan, hop on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for a picturesque journey along the river; it is incredibly stunning during the fall.
Or pay a visit to family and veteran-owned Mercier Orchards, one of the most extensive apple orchards in the Southeast. You can pick your own fruit and enjoy a glass of cider there.
The town is filled with family-friendly restaurants, shopping opportunities, and cozy cabins where you can unwind if you decide to extend your trip. Whether you are visiting with your family, partner, or group of friends, Blue Ridge is the place to create long-lasting memories or just escape the buzzing of city life.
Chattanooga, TN

Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs
Chattanooga, Tennessee, is just 2 hours north of Atlanta if you want to take your road trip aspirations out of state! In honor of its nickname, “Scenic City,” Chattanooga combines outdoor fun, rich culture, and stunning scenery, which lures visitors everywhere in the South.
During your 24 hours in Chattanooga, TN, some must-do activities include visiting Lookout Mountain, where you can wander through the enchanting Rock City, ride the historic Incline Railway, and take in the breathtaking views from Ruby Falls, home to the tallest underground waterfall in the nation. For a more active excursion, hike on local trails or rent a kayak and paddle along the scenic Tennessee River.
Those on a chill family day trip from Atlanta can take the children to see the freshwater and ocean exhibits of the Tennessee Aquarium and have a pleasant stroll along the Chattanooga Riverwalk, a coveted area in the city filled with stores, restaurants, and public art.
Don’t miss the Walnut Street Bridge for stunning views of the city.
Tallulah Gorge State Park

Distance from Atlanta: 1.5 hrs
Tallulah Gorge State Park is a constant in most lists of “best day trips from Atlanta, GA,” for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are many reasons for this. Open year round, this 2,689-acre Georgia state park is adjacent to Tallulah Falls, and features a stunning canyon spans two miles and drops nearly 1,000 feet, offering dramatic views and challenging trails.
Hike the North and South Rim trails for incredible overlooks, or cross the suspension bridge for a heart-pounding experience. If you’re feeling brave, grab a permit to hike to the gorge floor (unavailable on water release days). Additional activities you can practice here in your 24-hour visit include mountain biking, fishing, picnicking, rock climbing, and even whitewater rafting. The park charges $5 per vehicle to stay the day.
Tallulah Gorge State Park is also one of the best day trips from Atlanta in winter. Not only do the cooler temperatures make hiking the gorge’s trails more enjoyable, but the views remain stunning, and the crowds are smaller during the cold season.
For additional fun during your day trip, go check Tallulah Falls! The town has shopping opportunities, dining options like Overlook BBQ, and a unique country Southern atmosphere you and your loved ones would enjoy.
Lake Lanier

Distance from Atlanta: 1 hr
Less than an hour from Atlanta heading north, is Lake Lanier, Georgia’s largest lake stretching across 38,000 acres with 700 miles of scenic coastlines, perfect for family-friendly water-based fun. Plan your day trip preferably in spring (March to May) or summer (June to August) for warmer water temperatures, but consider there will also be higher visitor counts.
Whether you’re visiting with the whole family, your gang, your partner, or solo, get ready to enjoy the sandy beaches, water sports (you can rent paddleboards or kayaks), boating, or cool off at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, the seasonal water park. For adrenaline-pump action, try jet skiing or wakeboarding as well.
Parking is plentiful at the lake, but some areas charge a fee. Before jumping in the car, pack towels, swimsuits, sunscreen, and a bagged lunch to have a lakeside picnic to make the most of the day. Want to try the local cuisine? Restaurants like The Twisted Oar on Buford, GA, or Pig Tales on Lake Lanier offer mouthwatering food with patio access and live music. Consider staying until sunset—the views are spectacular.
Serenbe

Distance from Atlanta: 45 mins (32.5 miles)
Serenbe is a tranquil destination for couples and families seeking a calmer escape from the hustle and bustle of ATL. This picturesque New Urbanist community, designed with sustainability and wellness in mind, is located southeast of downtown Atlanta in the Chattahoochee Hills farmlands.
Serenbe’s charming hamlets, inspired by the timeless allure of English villages, house a vibrant community of around 650 residents who take pride in their harmonious blend of nature, art, and thoughtful living.
Daytrippers can enjoy a relaxed afternoon strolling Serenbe’s cobblestone streets filled with homes of various architectural styles (quaint brick townhomes and Craftsman-style residences among them). You can also hike its 20 miles of scenic trails to discover hidden creeks and streams, old mills, and waterfalls.
Your country adventure won’t be complete without a farm-to-table lunch at one of the local restaurants. The Farmhouse at Serenbe is praised for its fried chicken and fresh seasonal veggies. Dedicate your remaining time to exploring local boutiques and art galleries, go on a horse ride, and visit the Serenbe Animal Village at The Inn to feed baby goats. It’s a perfect plan if you travel with the little ones.
Getting to Serenbe is a breeze via I-85 South. Serenbe’s peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly road trip, or a solo retreat. If you go on weekends, visit the local Farmer’s Market or go on a Farm Tour.
Dahlonega, GA

Distance from Atlanta: 1.5 hrs
Around 65 miles north of Georgia’s capital is the mountain town of Dahlonega, known for being the site of the first major U.S. Gold Rush and the crown jewel of Georgia’s Wine Country, so there’s no doubt this place, which has rightfully earned the title of “Wine Tasting Room Capital of Georgia.” is one of the best day trips from Atlanta, GA, for adults.
You can plan ahead to visit any of the eight wineries and twelve wine-tasting rooms in Dahlonega. Each winery provides a distinct experience, whether is guided tours and tasting to vineyard explorations.
Top options include Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery, renowned for its award-winning wines and panoramic mountain vistas, Kaya Vineyard and Winery, home to some of the best wines in the Southeast, and Montaluce Winery & Restaurant, offering delicious dishes and forest hiking.
Wondering what else you can do in Dahlonega, GA? Explore the Gold Rush locations, including the Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site, Consolidated Gold Mine, or Crisson Gold Mine. And don’t leave without strolling through the historic town square, lined with one-of-a-kind boutiques, art galleries, and local shops perfect to bring home some souvenirs.
Conclusion: Day Trips From Atlanta GA

As you can see, there is no shortage of locations near Atlanta where you can go on an adventure or relax and unwind, even if you only have one day to travel. These are some of the best day trips from Atlanta, Georgia, to inspire your next escape if you’re craving.
From majestic mountain towns and serene lakes to charming small towns bursting with history and character, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re craving outdoor adventures, scenic drives, or a cozy getaway. So pack your bags (or just your snacks), round up your crew, and hit the road—your perfect day trip awaits just a short drive away.