Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, I had the best of both worlds! I got to experience city life but also had access to incredible nature and scenery within a short drive. There are several bucket list destinations just hours away from the city. Over the years, I’ve taken numerous weekend trips from Atlanta and didn’t ever have to get on a flight! A few hours drive and I am in a whole new city. Check out my list of the best weekend getaways from Atlanta!
Weekend Getaways from Atlanta
1. Helen, Georgia (1.5 hour)
Helen is a Bavarian-styled village just an hour and a half north of Atlanta near the Blue Ridge Mountains. You’re immediately transported to Germany as you step into this charming town!
While you’re in town, make sure to get sweets at the many German bakeries around town and eat at authentic German restaurants such as Bodensee and Hofbrauhaus. Helen is simply a great place to walk around! Shop at the many unique boutiques in town, go mini-golfing, and eat to your heart’s desires.
The actual town itself is small, but there’s plenty to do around Helen as well. During the warmer months, Helen is a great place to go tubing! If you’re up for more adventurous activities, go zip-lining to experience the North Georgia mountains from a different perspective. Or go on a drive on the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway which is one of the most scenic drives in Georgia. There are also plenty of hiking opportunities off the 40-mile road as you wind through curvy mountain roads including Dukes Creek Falls, Raven Cliffs, and Hogpen Gap.
Helen is a great weekend getaway from Atlanta that is perfect for couples, friends, and families alike!
2. Chattanooga, Tennessee (2 hours)
Just two hours away from Atlanta, Chattanooga is a great city to explore for a weekend. While you’re in downtown Chattanooga, walk along the 13-mile paved riverwalk that gives you access to restaurants, parks, and other attractions. Or if you prefer to see the city from a different view, take a riverboat cruise down the Tenessee River!
Some of the can’t miss attractions in Chattanooga include:
There’s also a great food scene in Chattanooga. Start your day at Rembrandt’s Coffee House and grab a quick bite or beverage before starting your riverwalk. Or if you want a full meal, grab some Italian at Tony’s Pasta Shop and Trattoria or head to Scottie’s On The River to enjoy a riverview with your meal. Feeling something sweet? Head to Clumpies Ice Cream Co.
If you enjoy beer, there’s a great brewery scene in Chattanooga as well. Some of the most popular breweries in Chattanooga include Chattanooga Brewing Company, Oddstory Brewing Company, Hutton & Smith Brewing Company, Naked River Brewing, Heaven and Ale Brewing Company, and Five Wits Brewing Company.
Feeling outdoorsy? There are some great hikes near Chattanooga that lead to swimming holes and beautiful waterfalls! Check out these beautiful hikes: Desoto Falls, Lula Lake, Foster Falls, and North Chick Blue Hole.
There’s truly something for everyone in Chattanooga!
3. Greenville, South Carolina (2.5 hour)
Greenville is such a fun weekend trip from Atlanta! It is less than a 2.5-hour drive and there are lots to do in this city. Downtown Greenville is a vibrant scene! It is a great destination for eating, shopping, and fun entertainment. It is a very pedestrian-friendly city with wide sidewalks, outdoor plazas, and al fresco dining options. The atmosphere in Greenville reminds me much of Europe!
There is plenty of nature to be found in the city as well with its tree-lined Main Street and its famed Falls Park on the Reedy in the center of town. Can you believe there’s a waterfall in the middle of downtown! Plus, there’s an award-winning bridge that connects the downtown area of Greenville. Watching the sunset from Liberty Bridge was one of my favorite things I did in the city. I love the general, relaxed atmosphere around the city. You’ll see people out enjoying life, strolling along the river, taking their pups on a walk, picnicking in green spaces, and engaging in good conversation. There’s great reason Greenville has been named one of the best cities to live in the US!
4. Asheville, North Carolina (3.5 hour)
Asheville has been consistently ranked as one of the best cities to visit in the US and rightfully so! This city has everything one could ask for: great food scene, numerous breweries, scenic nature, and a lively downtown. I felt like I got the perfect mix of nature and city during my weekend getaway to Asheville.
A getaway to Asheville from Atlanta also makes a great road trip as I made plenty of stops along the way. Some of the scenic spots I stopped at include Devils Courthouse, Graveyard Fields, and Looking Glass Falls. There are also plenty of other hiking opportunities around Asheville including Bridal Veil Falls Trail, Black Balsam Knob Hike, Craggy Gardens Pinnacle Trail, Max Patch Hike, Mount Pisgah Trail, Mount Mitchell.
If you’re a food lover, you’re going to love Asheville! There are so many great places to eat. Some of the local favorites include Rocky’s Hot Chicken Shack, Biscuit Head, White Duck Taco Shop, Chai Pani, Red Ginger Dimsum & Tapas, and Chestnut.
And…if you’re a beer lover, you’re definitely going to love Asheville 🙂 There are over 30 breweries in Asheville! It’s a great place to try some new beers or revisit old favorites. The most popular breweries include Wicked Weed Brewing, Highland Brewing, Burial Beer Company, Hi-Wire Brewing, and Thirsty Monk Brewery and Pub.
While you’re in Asheville, don’t miss out on visiting one of the most beautiful homes in America: the Biltmore! The Biltmore was built by George Vanderbilt in 1889 as a family retreat and home and later opened to the public in 1930. Come experience the elegance and grandeur of the Biltmore by taking a tour of America’s largest home.
You can’t go wrong with a getaway to Asheville!
5. Nashville, Tennessee (3.5 hour)
Did you know the famed Music City is only three and a half hours away from Atlanta? Nashville is truly a living juxtaposition. It is a big city yet gives all the small-town vibes. It’s the hometown of country music yet it is a bit of Rock-and-Roll as well. The city is a great place to go out on the town yet there are quaint and quiet spots to experience all the Southern charm. Nashville is a bit of everything.
While you’re in Nashville, you have to check out the music and entertainment scene. You can find free live music at the Honky Tonks in lower Broadway in Nashville. Plus, you can find all genres of music at a variety of venues all around town. If you’re looking for other forms of entertainment, there are shows that fit your mood! Whether you’re looking for a comedy club or theatre show, Nashville has it all!
Nashville is always a good time and a great place for a fun friend’s’ getaway!
6. Savannah, Georgia (4 hour)
Savannah, Georgia is consistently ranked amongst the best towns to visit in America, and there is no surprise why! With romantic moss-draped trees, cobblestone streets, and beautiful houses, Savannah is a very picturesque town. Not only is it one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited, but also one of the best food cities.
I’ve been to Savannah more times than I can count, but there’s a reason I keep going back! Here are some of the spots you cannot miss in Savannah:
- Wormsloe Historic Site: This is one of the best photo spots in Savannah with an iconic avenue of live oaks and Spanish moss leading up to a historic site!
- River Street: This street is filled with restaurants, pubs, boutiques, and specialty shops! Plus, as the name implies…it is right along the Savannah Riverfront and offers amazing views.
- Forsyth Park: Located in the historic district of Savannah, Forsyth Park is the oldest and largest public park, spanning over 30 acres. This green space is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike with from picnicking with friends to simply strolling through the park.
- Chippewa Square: A must visit if you’re a Forrest Gump fan 🙂
- Leopold’s Ice Cream: Leopold’s is a staple in Savannah! If you’re in Savannah, you have to go to Leopold’s for ice cream.
A trip to Savannah means beach time as well since Hilton Head Island and Tybee Island are both short drives from the city. It gives you the best of both worlds as you can experience a beautiful and historic Southern town and also get to relax by the beach.
If you’re looking for the best places to eat in Savannah and the best photo spots, check out my detailed articles on Savannah below:
Savannah is the perfect getaway for couples and friends a like!
7. Gatlinburg, Tennessee (4 hour)
Gatlinburg is the perfect mountain getaway! This town nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains is full of fun entertainment, amusement parks, and tons of outdoors opportunities. It is great for families, friends, and couples!
Book a cozy cabin and head up to Gatlinburg to spend time in the mountains! Go into town for fun attractions such as laser tag, arcades, mini golf, escape rooms, and more. Some of the most popular spots in Gatlinburg include:
- Dollywood
- Gatlinburg Skylift Park
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
- Anakeesta
- Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster
- Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway
There’s also plenty of outdoors opportunities in Gatlinburg as it is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park! Go on the Applachian Trail, wander through a field of wildflowers, or hike to many of the waterfalls in the area. If you love the outdoors, then Gatlinburg is for you!
The mountains are calling and you must go!
8. Golden Isles, Georgia (5 hour)
The Georgia Golden Isles is one of the most underrated places in the US! With pristine beaches and diverse ecosystems and wildlife, the Golden Isles is a place of serene and captivating beauty. It is comprised of four barrier islands, St. Simons Island, Little St. Simmons, Sea Island, and Jekyll Island, and it is a great place for a relaxing getaway!
Not only are the Golden Isles rich in history and culture, there are world-class resorts and amenities found on each of the islands as well. If you’re a history buff, here are some places you have to check out: Fort Frederica, Christ Church, St. Simon’s Light Museum, Horton House, Jekyll Island Club. And if you’re a nature lover, don’t miss out on these spots: Driftwood Beach, Georgia Sea Turtle Center, 4-H Nature Center, and Horton Pond.
I’ve visited the Golden Isles several times and always enjoy coming back to this beautiful area. For a detailed guide on the Golden Isles including places to stay and places to eat, check out my article here!
The Golden Isles should be on everyone’s travel bucket list!
9. Charleston, South Carolina (5 hour)
Rich in history and culture, Charleston is a great weekend getaway from Atlanta. This southern town has a lot of charm and beauty and it is certainly a very picturesque place! There is plenty to do all over Charleston and it is the perfect romantic destination.
Starting with the outskirts of Charleston, there are several spots you have to visit! One of the most unforgettable places I’ve ever been is located north of Charleston and it is called Cypress Gardens. I highly recommend visiting and renting a rowboat for a self-guided tour through the cypress trees! If you’re a fan of the Notebook, then you’ll immediately recognize this place. You should also stop at the Angel Oak Tree to admire the 500 year old massive sprawling tree. There are other gardens in this area worth visiting as well including Magnolia Plantation and Gardens and Boone Hall Plantation and Gardens.
Within the city, there are several must visit locations! The best way to see Charleston is on feet as the historic district is very walkable. Broad Street, King Street, and Chalmers Street are some notable streets full of boutiques, shops, and restaurants. Be sure to head south of Broad Street to see beautiful homes and historic mansions! Two parks you should visit in Charleston are Joe Riley Waterfront Park and White Point Garden. Stop by the Historic Charleston City Market to shop at the 200 year old market, and you have to visit the famed Rainbow Row of course!
You can also visit the beach while you’re in Charleston! Folly Beach is a fun area with lots of restaurants and attractions. It is a very popular spot for visitors! If you’re looking for a quieter and more remote beach, check out Kiawah Island. It’s not established hence it is not as crowded here as Folly Beach.
Charleston is the perfect romantic getaway and its charm is why people keep coming back year after year!
10. Rosemary Beach, Florida (5.5 hour)
Would you believe me that one of the most beautiful beaches in the US is located just over five and a half hours from Atlanta? Rosemary Beach has some of the bluest waters I’ve ever seen. It is north of the popular Panama City Beach, but it attracts a very different crowd. It is much quieter in Rosemary Beach and the perfect beach getaway.
If you’re looking to spend time at the beach, then Rosemary Beach is the place for you. The town is super chic and charming with European styled architecture! Plus, there’s great restaurants and shops all around town. It is a great place to get some sun, take a stroll, and lay on the beach.
I highly recommend renting a bike to explore the nearby towns of Alys Beach, 30A, and Seaside as well! These beachside towns are also great to visit and easily accessible through a bike path. The bike ride is very scenic and takes you through colorful streets and beautiful homes right on the beach!
Some of my personal favorite food spots in this area that you should check out include:
- Thomas Donut and Snack Shop
- Amici 30A Italian Kitchen
- La Crema Tapas and Chocolate
- Amavida Coffee Roasters
- Beach and Brew on 30A
- Coastal Dune Co.
- Great Southern Cafe
- Seaside Airstream Row
If you’re wanting to venture from the beach, Eden Gardens State Park is also a beautiful place to visit.
Rosemary Beach is one of my favorite spots in the US and it is perfect for a girls trip or romantic getaway!
LIKE THIS POST? SAVE IT ON PINTEREST!
