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How to plan an epic road trip to atlanta.

It’s always time for a road trip, y’all. As the B-52s sing, “I’m headin’ down the Atlanta highway.” Whether you’re traveling to Atlanta for a weekend getaway or passing through as a stop on your way to the beach or another neighboring city, you’ll want to check out these ideas for an epic Atlanta road trip. This ultimate Atlanta road trip guide includes information on how to prepare for your trip, where to stay in Atlanta, what to pack, see, do and eat.

Prepare for Your Trip

It’s time to prepare for your epic road trip to Atlanta. Find out where to stay, what to pack and how to get ready for your trip.

Where to stay in Atlanta

Being a major city and home to one of the busiest airports in the world, Atlanta has plenty of hotels to suit every preference and budget. You can easily search hotels based on neighborhood if you want to stay close to the highway or a specific locale. 

Looking for a luxury hotel? Atlanta has several incredible ones including Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta, Waldorf Astoria Atlanta Buckhead and The Ritz-Carlton Atlanta. View them all with our hotel guide . Staying in the area for a while? An extended stay may be a good option for you. Looking for a pool? Check out the best hotel pools in Atlanta . Families with younger children might find our list of kid-friendly hotels helpful.

What to pack

Bring your masks and check the latest COVID-19 protocols for Atlanta as well as the places you’ll be visiting and staying. Don’t forget sunscreen, umbrellas and rain jackets for sporadic summer showers and rainy days. Get into the spirit with Atlanta-themed road trip snacks like Coca-Cola beverages, boiled peanuts and peach-flavored candies. Be sure to sync up some Atlanta artists on your playlist, too.

Driving Distances to Atlanta from All Directions

I-85 south into atlanta.

Greenville (2 hours 15 minutes), Charlotte (3 hours 58 minutes), Raleigh (6 hours 20 minutes)

Stops along the way: 

• NASCAR Hall of Fame, Charlotte. Learn about the legends of the sport, immerse yourself in the history through exhibits and interactive experiences.
• Chimney Rock State Park, Chimney Rock, N.C. Take in show-stopping views, take a hike, say hello to animals. Try rock climbing.
• Consolidated Gold Mine, Dahlonega, Ga. Go underground. Try your hand at gemstone mining. Pan for gold. 
• Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain, Ga. Climb the mountain or hop aboard the Summit Skyride. Play a round of golf. Visit the covered bridge. Grab a bite. 

I-75 South into Atlanta

Chattanooga (2 hours), Knoxville (3 hours 15 minutes), Nashville (4 hours)

Stops along the way:

• Rock City Gardens, Lookout Mountain, Ga. See seven states. Walk the Enchanted Trail. Visit Fairyland Caverns.
• Cloudland Canyon, Rising Fawn, Ga. Explore 3,500 acres on bike, on foot or on horseback. Try disc golf. Go geocaching or fishing. 
• Tellus Science Museum, Cartersville, Ga. Look up in the planetarium. Tour fossil and mineral galleries. Let the little ones explore My Big Backyard. 
• Big Chicken in Marietta, Ga. It’s a Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant, but the really big chicken is a local landmark as in, “Go to the Big Chicken and take a right.” 

I-75 North into Atlanta

Savannah (4 hours 30 minutes), Jacksonville (5 hours), Tampa (6 hours 22 minutes), Orlando (7 hours 15 minutes) and Miami (10 hours)

Stops along the way in Florida and Georgia:

• Kennedy Space Center, Merritt Island, Fla. Visit the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame. Salute the unsung heroes in Mission Control. See the Rocket Garden.
• Ghost Tour of St. Augustine. Are there really ghosts in St. Augustine? Climb aboard the bus and find out. 
• Savannah. Stroll through Forsyth Park. Check out the architecture. Visit the waterfront.
• The Varsity, Atlanta. It’s the worlds largest drive-in restaurant and an Atlanta tradition. Hot dogs, fries and fried pies for dessert. 
• Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, Atlanta. Dr. King was born here on Auburn Avenue. Tour his birth home. Sit it a pew at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church and hear one of his sermons.
• Atlanta Botanical Garden, Atlanta. It’s bloomin’ lovely, right in the heart of Midtown. Walk among the treetops. Visit the orchid center. It’s 30 acres of green space. 

I-20 East into Atlanta

Birmingham (2 hours 12 minutes)

Stops along the way in in Alabama and Georgia:

• Talladega National Forest, Brent, Ala. Detour to Cheaha State Park in Delta, Ala. Near the visitors’ center, enjoy scenic mountain view from the overlook. Nearby, can you spot Big Foot? 
• Sweetwater Creek State Park, Lithia Springs, Ga. Have a picnic, enjoy a hike and wade in the waters. Watermill ruins look familiar? Movie buffs might enjoy knowing it was a film location for “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier.” 

I-20 West into Atlanta

Augusta, (2 hours 22 minutes)

• Lake Oconee, on the Oconee River near Greensboro and Eatonton, Ga. Splurge at the nearby Ritz-Carlton Reynolds. 
• Hard Labor Creek State Park, Rutledge, Ga. There’s biking and birding and fishing and hiking, swimming and geocaching.
• Little Five Points, Atlanta. Exit onto Moreland Avenue and stop for a bite to eat at eclectic East Atlanta Village. Continue on Moreland to Little Five Points and take a photo at iconic Junkman’s Daughter or the giant skull that marks the entrance to The Vortex.

Things to See and Do

You’ve arrived. Welcome to Atlanta. Here’s an epic roundup of all the things to see, do and taste .

Visit Atlanta’s top attractions and landmarks

For awesome Atlanta locations for your Instagram pics, don’t miss our ultimate guide to Atlanta landmarks . You’re sure to stumble across a few of your own as you explore this amazing city. Atlanta is home to beautiful, eclectic neighborhoods full of public art and hidden treasures, quaint shopping, galleries and excellent restaurants. In addition, there are a handful of things that are uniquely Atlanta that you should be sure to explore. 

Atlanta offers a treasure trove of history and culture, with its roots dating back nearly two centuries.  Top historical spots to visit include Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park , Atlanta History Center , Oakland Cemetery and Margaret Mitchell House .

If you’re looking for popular attractions that the kids will love, don’t miss World of Coca-Cola or Georgia Aquarium located just steps from each other Downtown. Or take a tour of Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame for an up-close look at the world of college football. Across the road, see The Spectacular Olympic Rings sculpture at Centennial Olympic Park and the Fountain of Rings (please note that the park is partially closed for renovation).

Save 45% with Atlanta CityPASS

Planning to visit several attractions? Check out Atlanta CityPASS for some big savings at top Atlanta attractions. 

Itineraries and guides

Whether you’re spending one day in Atlanta or planning a week-long vacation, check out our self-guided itineraries to family fun or Atlanta’s must-see attractions .

Want a little more guidance? Join a safe, professionally led tour for insider tips and in-depth history.

There are several options for Atlanta tours depending on your interests. Foodies will love Atlanta Food Walks while sports enthusiasts may prefer a tour of Mercedes-Benz Stadium , home to Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United, or Truist Park where the Braves hang their bats. Atlanta offers a variety of guided tour options from walking to specialized vehicles. Learn about them here .

Parks and outdoors

Atlanta is truly the City in a Forest with plenty of natural areas to enjoy the great outdoors and catch a breath of fresh air. Atlanta is home to many public parks, but you won’t want to miss Midtown’s Piedmont Park , 200 acres of green space housing hiking trails, green lawns for a variety of sports, a swimming pool and playgrounds for the little ones.

Located next door, is one of Atlanta’s crown jewels, Atlanta Botanical Garden , which adds another 30-acres of lush foliage, gardens and botanical displays in addition to special events. Of course the natural beauty hardly ends with these two locations. Take a look at favorite parks and gardens for the full offering.

Kid favorites

Like many large cities, Atlanta offers something for everyone, and this includes kids of all ages. Teens and tweens might enjoy one of these 12 activities , which, of course, include a trip to Six Flags over Georgia that even younger kids will love. Six Flags offers not only the traditional thrill rides but a fun water park, too. Depending on the season, you may be able to take in a ball game at Truist Park or visit the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame. The youngest visitors would probably love spending time at the Children’s Museum of Atlanta for some hands-on playtime or stopping at Center for Puppetry Arts to view puppets from around the world including the collection of Jim Henson puppets, costumes and props. 

Prefer to spend time outside with the kids? We’ve got that covered, too, with these 8 outdoor adventures .

For couples and friend getaways

Looking for a place to get away with friends or for a romantic getaway? Atlanta comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene . There is plenty to choose from whether it’s dancing, music or a delicious meal. Beer lovers will find a variety of local brews and cool breweries to visit and those who love to get outside will enjoy these restaurants with bars and patios .

Couples can find ways to carve out a little time for themselves with our ultimate list of date night ideas – many of which would be fun for groups or a weekend getaway without the kids.

Planning a bachelorette party or girls’ trip? We love these ideas for the ladies . Really need to chill out and relax? Consider these relaxing weekend retreats to help you recharge.

What to Eat

Where to start? Barbecue, Southern, innovative? Atlanta’s Food Story is one that is as down to earth as a Varsity hot dog, as varied like the countless international options on Buford highway and as innovative as the talented, resilient neighborhood locales. Kids and adults love King of Pops (gourmet cold treats on a stick). Grab one at the window on Elizabeth Street or find them all over Atlanta. Atlanta is synonymous with soul food, barbecue, fried chicken, sweet tea and famous and up-and-coming chefs . Foodies may want to dive deeper and tick a few boxes on the 25 iconic Atlanta dishes list or take a cruise down Buford Highway known for its vast array of diverse culinary offerings from Central America, Mexico, Korea and much more.

Searching for a healthy portion of comforting soul food? You’ve come to the right place. Atlanta is home to some famous soul food eateries .

Food halls 

We’re not talking the junior high cafeteria of your youth. Atlanta is home to some topnotch eateries in revamped “food halls” like Krog Street Market and Ponce City Market , both renovated historical buildings now home to popular cafes and restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Is everyone in your party in the mood for something different? These food halls as well as Sweet Auburn Curb Market and Chattahoochee Food Works are great options as you can indulge your taste buds in a variety of cuisines like Vietnamese, Mexican, soul food, sushi, bakery items, seafood, confections, Italian, coffee, vegan and even more. Each location offers a communal dining area where you can mingle with locals and tourists while enjoying the vibe. 

Share your adventure

Don’t keep your vacation a secret. Share your best photos and stories with your family and friends, and tell the world how much fun you had on your Atlanta road trip. Don’t forget to tag us on social media @DiscoverAtlanta #DiscoverATL.

Thanks for coming. See you next time.

• Roadside Attractions
• Small Towns
• Hall Of Fames
• National Parks
• Theme Parks
• BILL’S BOOKS
• Meet Bill On The Road

South Walton is full of charming neighborhoods located along Florida’s scenic 30A highway and 26 miles of stunning beaches with beautiful white sand and turquoise colored water. Find a spot that suits you to spend your vacation – whether it’s at the sprawling Sandestin Resort, or a rental home at one of South Walton’s 16 quaint communities.

Travel Time: 5 hours / 310 miles

2. Hendersonville, North Carolina

One of the most beautiful small towns in North Carolina is known for its mountain views, close proximity to waterfalls, a wide variety of locally owned restaurants, and even its own Pinball Museum downtown. Hendersonville is also one of the top spots in the USA for apple orchards with a chance to pick your own fresh fruit at numerous farms around the area starting late in the summer and throughout the fall. Renowned poet, Carl Sandburg owned a home here that visitors can tour through the National Park Service.

Travel Time: 3h 10m / 180 miles

3. Nashville, Tennessee

What’s not to love about Nashville? (Okay, maybe rush hour traffic.) Music City USA is hopping these days! Even if hanging out at a honky tonk isn’t your thing, Nashville is home to top notch attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame, Johnny Cash Museum, and the world-famous Grand Ole Opry – which is also the longest running radio broadcast in history. One museum not to miss is the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum – a truly underrated collection of artifacts and exhibits that pay tribute to the guys and gals playing the music!

Travel Time: 4h / 258 miles

4. Macon, Georgia

If you’re a lover of music history, Macon has given us some of the biggest names of all time! Take a tour of Capricorn recording studio, hang out where Little Richard used to play the piano, grab a photo with the Otis Redding statue, and visit “The Big House” where The Allman Brothers lived and wrote some of their biggest hits. Macon has some amazing restaurants and southern food as well!

Travel Time: 1h 25m / 83 miles

5. Greenville, South Carolina

Known as one of the friendliest towns in America, Greenville has an incredible downtown that includes Falls Park, an urban green space with waterfalls and bike trails. The Swamp Rabbit Trail is one of the best biking trails in the south and extends over 22 miles from downtown to neighboring Travelers Rest. You can grab a beer, lunch, or even fresh produce along the way at one of the many shops and restaurants that line the path.

Travel Time: 2h 18m / 145 miles

6. Amelia Island, Florida

Amelia Island is one of the best kept secrets on the eastern coast of Florida. The island has a really cool historic district and lodging like the Florida House Inn that can put you right in the middle of all the action. Be sure to check out the oldest bar in Florida, Fort Clinch State Park, and don’t forget to grab a bite at Tasty’s – a delicious fast food joint that opened in 2011 with amazing burgers and shakes!

Travel Time: 5h / 356 miles

7. Brevard, North Carolina

Brevard is known as the “land of waterfalls” in North Carolina with easy access to the Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Forest, and Gorges State Park. Each spot has multiple waterfall hikes, many of which are easy to navigate. Brevard is a great spot to enjoy outdoor recreation of all types – including kayaking, mountain biking, or maybe even fly-fishing. Be sure to look for the famed white squirrels that Brevard is known for! You might see them running around the local college if you look carefully!

Travel Time: 3h / 168 miles

8. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge has been a family friendly gateway to the Smoky Mountains for decades. You can enjoy shows, ride Go Karts and mountain coasters, and of course – enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and all of its beauty. Unlike Gatlingburg, Pigeon Forge is a bit more spread out making it slightly easier to get around. It’s also home to Dollywood – the award winning theme park owned by Dolly Parton. If you’re an RV owner, consider staying at the new Margaritaville RV Resort & Lodge .

9. Gulf Shores, Alabama

Some call it the “redneck riviera” but Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are terrific places for a getaway with so much to do for any age group. Of course, if sitting by the beach and watching the waves is all that you want – you can’t beat the white sand and beautiful blue water that awaits you. Be sure to take a bike ride through Gulf State Park and try some amazing barbecue at Hog Wild BBQ.

Travel Time: 5h 27m / 348 miles

10. Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge

If you already live in Georgia, you know how great the state parks are and Amicalola is certainly no exception. Located in Dawsonville, the park sits in the middle of the Chattahoochee National Forest. The focal point, Amicalola Falls is a 729 foot waterfall that ranks as the highest in the state. The park’s lodge is first class with cozy rooms , meeting space, and fire places for those chilly fall and winter months up in the mountains.

Travel Time: 1h 30m / 70 miles

11. Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is one of the best weekend road trips from Atlanta! While it’s best known as the place that Elvis Presley called home – Memphis has so much other music history. Sun Records also discovered Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Roy Orbison to name a few. B.B. King has ties to Memphis and don’t forget blues legend, W.C. Handy. Beale Street is a great spot for drinks and live music while the National Civil Rights Museum is a must-see collection of exhibits that’s based around the Lorraine Motel where Martin Luther King Jr was killed in 1968.

Travel Time: 5h 30m / 390 miles

12. Covington, Georgia

Covinginton is one of the fun road trips from Atlanta if you’re looking to get out of the city. If you’ve seen shows like  Dukes of Hazard, The Vampire Diaries ,  In The Heat of the Night , or  The Walking Dead  – you’ve seen Covington. That’s a small sampling of the more than 100 different productions that have used the town square, local neighborhoods, and of course the iconic courthouse downtown as backdrops for the small, and big screen.

In addition to TV shows, Covington has some iconic film history as well. Twelve Oaks, a fictional home used in the film Gone with the Wind, was based off of a mansion in Covington. ( Pictured above) Staying a night a the Twelve Oaks Bed & Breakfast is a must for any movie buff!

Travel Time: 40m / 35 miles

13. St. Simons Island, Georgia

Located off the coast of Georgia, St. Simons Island is one of the most beautiful road trips from Atlanta. The island offers a quaint community with a slightly more relaxed, quiet setting than places like Savannah with the same moss draped oaks that line the streets. You can meander around the downtown shops and diners or check out one of the many local bike paths. You can also tour the St. Simons Lighthouse which was rebuilt in 1872 after being destroyed in the Civil War.

Travel Time: 4h 30m / 315 miles

14. Destin, Florida

The Emerald Coast has become one of the most popular road trips from Atlanta for good reason – it’s beautiful! There’s also so much going on it’s impossible to keep track. All of the family friendly fun in addition to every restaurant you can imagine and of course – stunning white sand beaches and gorgeous emerald green water. Wander over to neighboring Fort Walton Beach for more shopping and dining options. Oh, and be sure to grab some fresh fish at Dewey Destin’s Seafood Restaurant!

Travel Time: 5h / 314 miles

15. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Home of the award winning Tennessee Aquarium, Chattanooga is a lovely Tennessee getaway for families or couples. You’re near the iconic Rock City Gardens as well as Ruby Falls. Take a ride on the Lookout Mountain Incline and of course – catch a glimpse of the Chattanooga Choo Choo! Visitors can actually stay the night on board one of these historic train cars!

The city has really grown and become a terrific tourist spot. It’s perfect for any road trips from Atlanta.

Travel Time: 2h 7m / 118 miles

16. Bryson City, North Carolina

You can’t visit Bryson City without taking a ride on the scenic Great Smoky Mountain Railroad and hiking to some of North Carolina’s most beautiful waterfalls. Don’t miss the waterfall loop that will take you to at least a dozen of them in one hike. Nearby, check out Mingo Falls in Cherokee, North Carolina. Bryson City has a cool downtown with stores and restaurants, or check out lodging at Bryson Village where you can have a kitchen of your own to prepare meals!

Travel Time: 2h 50m / 164 miles

17. Oconee, South Carolina

What’s not to love about chasing waterfalls, enjoying nature and outdoor recreation, and small town charm? Oconee County, South Carolina is an easy road trip from Atlanta. It’s the perfect spot to escape the busy city life and enjoy some peace and quiet. Enjoy hiking trails or a pontoon boat exploring one of the areas beautiful lakes. Check out Lake Jocassee, named one of National Geographic’s Top 50 “Best Places Left on Earth”.

Travel Time: 2h / 124 miles

18. Helen, Georgia

This is an all-around family-friendly getaway and one of the classic road trips from Atlanta. Helen will make you feel like you traveled all the way to Germany! Check out the nearby state park for beautiful outdoor recreation and get your fill of sweets from the many candy stores in town. Helen also has the only alpine roller coaster in Georgia!

19. Huntsville, Alabama

Huntsville has quietly become a top-notch tourist destination and one of the favorite road trips from Atlanta! Starting with its ties to NASA and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center. For decades, this is where kids from across the country have visited to attend “space camp” – but now there are many reasons to visit this hip Alabama town. The views in northern Alabama are stunning and you’ll find plenty of outdoor recreation, a growing foodie scene, and a beautiful botanical garden.

Travel Time: 3h 15m / 180 miles

20. Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville is a gateway to the Smoky Mountains for sure but it can certainly stand on its own as a first class college town. This is one of my favorite road trips from Atlanta! Its downtown is easily walkabout with great restaurants, a historic theater, and fun sculpture garden mixed in-between. The World’s Fair Park is a must-see and you’ll need to take a ride to the top of the Sunsphere for a 360 degree look at the town from high above. Just avoid visiting during a football game weekend as this place is packed with visitors cheering on their beloved team.

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The 21 Best Road Trips from Atlanta, from Popular Destinations to Little-Known Gems

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Atlanta is such a destination on its own, you might not realize how much of a jumping off point it can be for other sightseeing adventures. Turns out, there are a ton of must-experience destinations within driving distance of The Big Peach. With Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, and the Carolinas all within your radius, let’s just say there is *a lot* of ground to cover. 

From charming small towns in Georgia to picturesque state parks and bustling cities like Nashville, Charleston, and Orlando, you can find destinations for any vibe or occasion. Buckle up and scroll on to find the best road trips from Atlanta. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip, a weekend getaway, or a longer vacation, there’s something on this list for you.

15 Charming Small Towns in Georgia

1. Chattanooga, Tennessee

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs
• Where to stay: Blue Ivy Modern Mountain Home (from $163/night), The Edwin Hotel, Autograph Collection (from $500/night)

A two-hour drive from Atlanta, Chattanooga makes an excellent weekend destination. You could spend an entire weekend exploring Chattanooga’s River Walk alone, with miles on end of restaurants, shops, and bars. There are also museums, tours, river cruises, and an aquarium that is not to be missed. But if you visit in fall, when the foliage is in full force, you must take one of the trails up to Lookout Mountain for an Instagram-worthy photo opp.

2. Augusta, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs and 15 mins
• Where to stay: Private Oasis (from $105/night), The Partridge Inn Augusta, Curio Collection by Hilton (from $175/night)

Walk up and down Broad street, wandering in and out of local galleries, cafes and small shops. In the summer, make sure to check out the Riverwalk and have lunch at one of the many restaurants along the scenic Savannah River. Fun fact: Augusta is actually the second-oldest town in Georgia (after Savannah) and is home to many classic buildings and monuments.

3. Greenville, South Carolina

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs and 30 mins
• Where to stay: Downtown Suite (from $80/night), The Westin Poinsett (from $309/night)

If you’re looking for a bustling small city with eclectic boutiques, beautiful galleries, and unique dining experiences, add Greenville, South Carolina to your travel list . Now known as “ that Greenville,” it is one of the fastest growing cities in America and is attracting more visitors each year. There’s always something going on in downtown Greenville, so you can’t go wrong no matter what time of year you visit—simply head to Main Street and join the fun.

4. Blue Ridge, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 1 hr and 30 mins
• Where to stay: Riverfront Cabin (from $171/night), Grand View Cabin (from $153/night)

You don’t want to miss Blue Ridge in the fall, when the mountains are alive with color and the temperatures are starting to cool off. Hop aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for a four-hour journey along the Toccoa River and through the North Georgia Countryside where you can take in all the charm this town has to offer. Don’t feel like sitting? Walk around historic Main Street or spend the day at a local orchard instead. 

5. Lake Lanier, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 1 hr 
• Where to stay: Beautiful House on the Dock (from $349/night), Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge (from $335/night)

For a quick escape from Atlanta, check out Lake Lanier. Located in Gainesville, Georgia, just one hour North of Atlanta, Lake Lanier is a summertime getaway that will keep the kids busy and the adults happy. Visit the Olympic Park, home to a public beach and a public boat launch, along with a picnic area and access to beginner classes for rowing or paddling. If you’re traveling with kids, spend at least one day at the Water Park at Margaritaville .

6. Birmingham, Alabama

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs and 15 minutes 
• Where to stay: Condo with a View (from $243/night), Elyton Hotel, Autograph Collection (from $359/night)

Birmingham has a significant place in Civil Rights history as the city where Martin Luther King, Jr. wrote his letter from prison. There is no shortage of museums, galleries and attractions, with some of the most noteworthy being the Birmingham Museum of Art, the McWayne Science Center and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. And while you’re at it, add the Birmingham Botanical Gardens to your itinerary—and if you are with kids, don’t miss the Birmingham Zoo.

7. Helen, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs and 45 minutes 
• Where to stay: Glamping in the Valley (from $105/night), Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Helen, GA (from $359/night)

Chock-full of hiking trails and water activities, Helen is for adventurous travelers who want a break from the hustle and bustle of Atlanta. You can also check two state parks off your list, with Smithgall Woods State Park and Unicoi State Park (where you could easily spend an entire weekend ziplining, kayaking, paddle boarding and more) both located in Helen. Visit Anna Ruby Falls for jaw dropping views or embark on a longer hike to the stunning Raven Cliff falls. And if you’re lucky enough to visit in the summer, make sure to go tubing down the Chatahoochee River for an unforgettable experience. Then head to Main Street for shopping, eating and more.

8. Orlando, Florida

• Distance from Atlanta: 6 hrs and 15 minutes 
• Where to stay: 6-Person Condo Near Disney (from $105/night), Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando (from $444/night)

Orlando is so much more than just Disney World (although, that’s certainly a can’t-miss). A longer trip from Atlanta, Orlando is still doable by car if you want to make a longer vacation out of it—see: Universal Orlando, Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, etc. Since Disney can get pricey, if you’re looking for deals, we suggest heading out there in the spring (March through May), so you can nab lower prices for hotels and lodging while still getting some good weather.

9. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

• Distance from Atlanta: 4 hrs 
• Where to stay: Condo with Mountain Views (from $156/night), Bearskin Lodge On The River (from $304/night)

Plan a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and make Gatlinburg your homebase. You will want at least a day or two at the park, but you can easily fill another couple days exploring Gatlinburg’s local distilleries, downtown area and hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Don’t miss the Gatlinburg Sky Lift Park, an open-air chairlift ride to the top of an 1,800-foot overlook with views of the Smoky Mountains. (Might be time to work on your fear of heights.)

10. Charleston, South Carolina

• Distance from Atlanta: 5 hrs 
• Where to stay: Cozy Downtown Suite (from $156/night), The Spectator Hotel (from $340/night)

Charleston may be a longer drive from Atlanta, but the juice is well-worth the squeeze with this one. Make it a long weekend and spend your time slowly perusing the cobblestone streets, indulging in the city’s signature eats ( from fresh-caught seafood to smoky barbeque) , and simply basking in the Southern hospitality. The historic downtown is dripping with charm and full of colorful buildings, gorgeous boutiques and delicious restaurants. The French Quarter and the Charleston Harbor waterfront also belong on your Charleston travel itinerary. 

11. Asheville, North Carolina

• Distance from Atlanta: 3 hrs and 30 minutes
• Where to stay: Moroccan-Inspired Bungalow (from $257/night), Princess Anne Hotel (from $353/night)

There are so many great things to do in Asheville , and it’s only a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Atlanta. From national forests and wildlife preserves to swanky hotels, salt caves and vineyards, there’s truly something for everyone. It’s also home to the Biltmore Estate, America's largest privately-owned residence (which you can tour while you’re there). Whether you’re spending your day immersed in nature or you’re touring the local breweries, you won’t regret making the trip to Asheville.

12. Athens, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 1 hr and 30 minutes
• Where to stay: Beautiful Townhouse (from $156/night), Peaceful Getaway (from $195/night)

Athens is one of the best college towns in America and is home to historic buildings, great bars and a tailgate experience that is not to be missed (if that’s your thing). The University of Georgia is reason alone to visit this small-but-bustling town, and even if you’re not the biggest college sports fan, there’s nothing quite like a UGA football game. The downtown area has great restaurants and boutiques and is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

13. Nashville, Tennessee

• Distance from Atlanta: 4 hrs
• Where to stay: Printers Alley Loft (from $425/night), Noelle Hotel (from $755/night)

You could spend your entire trip doing nothing but eating your way through Nashville , and it would still be worth the four hour drive from Atlanta. Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, Husk and Biscuit Love all belong on your list. That said, it’s called Music City for a reason—and the music scene is *not* to be missed. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and take in the rich history Nashville has to offer. Country and bluegrass not really your thing? You just wait and see: by the time you leave this city you’ll be tapping your foot and tipping your cowboy hat. 

14. Brasstown Bald Mountain (Blairsville, Georgia)

• Distance from Atlanta: 2 hrs and 15 minutes
• Where to stay: Cozy Cabins (from $115/night), Lucille's Mountain Top Inn and Spa (from $509/night)

Brasstown Bald Mountain is located just over two hours North of Atlanta, in Blairsville, Georgia. This hike is strenuous and not for the faint of heart, but once you make it to the top you’ll be at the highest point in Georgia, where you can see all four bordering states. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can also take a scenic drive to the top of the mountain along steep, winding roads with beautiful lookout points along the way. 

15. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

• Distance from Atlanta: 5 hrs and 45 mins
• Where to stay: Oceanview Condo (from $425/night), Hilton Grand Vacations Club Ocean Enclave Myrtle Beach (from $203/night)

Especially beautiful in the summer, Myrtle Beach is a lovely destination for a week-long vacation from big city. Aside from the beach, other must-see attractions are Ripley’s Aquarium, the Hollywood Wax Museum and the SkyWheel, now a full-service destination with its 200-foot observation wheel, miniature golf course, ropes course and snacks. The city has plenty more to offer from restaurants and bars to a slew of activities and events throughout the year. But summer is definitely when the magic happens.

16. Pine Mountain, Georgia

• Where to stay: Tiny Cabin (from $425/night), Chipley Murrah Bed & Breakfast (from $120/night)

Best known for the Callaway Gardens , Pine Mountain, Georgia is a quick and easy 90 minute drive from Atlanta. Callaway Gardens is open all year long, but if flowers are your thing, spring is arguably the best time to visit, when the azaleas (pictured) will be in full bloom. That said, the fall also offers gorgeous foliage (particularly on the 18-hole golf courses) and a festive pumpkin festival. Along with the two golf courses and extensive gardens, you can also check out the lake, the butterfly house, and the birds of prey exhibits.

17. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

• Distance from Atlanta: 4 hrs and 30 min
• Where to stay: Ocean View Top Floor (from $120/night), Luxurious Beach Front Stay (from $150/night)

You’ll fall in love with the wide beaches and gorgeous landscape of Hilton Head Island.  Summer is peak season to visit if you want to spend your days on the beach, but, honestly, Hilton Head is beautiful any time of year—and a winter trip means a calm escape with thinner crowds. There are plenty of public beaches, and most resorts also have pools. Harbor Town and Shelter Cove are both great places for shopping, eating and exploring. For those who like being active on vacation, Hilton Head is also full of paths for walking, biking or running.

18. Savannah, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 3 hrs and 45 mins
• Where to stay: Historic District Garden Apartment (from $145/night), Airstream (from $117/night)

In need of a romantic getaway? Savannah is the place to go. Less than a four hour drive from Atlanta, this city has so much to offer--including all the Southern charm you need in a romantic getaway . Savannah is rich with history and you could spend entire days walking through the town, stopping at Bonaventure Cemetery, Forsyth Park and taking in the 19th-century houses that have been transformed into museums or spooky enclaves. For a one-of-a-kind experience, be sure to sign up for one of Savannah’s famous ghost tours and then enjoy a meal at The Olde Pink House.

19. Stone Mountain, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 30 min
• Where to stay: Tranquil Mid-Century Cabin (from $90/night), Stone Mountain Manor (from $239/night)

If you just want a quick dose of nature and fresh air, Stone Mountain Park is the place for you. Just a quick 30-minute drive from Atlanta, this is one of the best day trips you can take from the city. There’s a gorgeous view of the Appalachian Mountains from the top of the summit, and you can also see downtown Atlanta—best of both worlds! We recommend visiting in September when the leaves are just starting to change and you can also witness the Yellow Daisy Festival. 

20. Lumpkin, Georgia

• Where to stay: Charming Country Home (from $200/night), Lake House Near Eufaula (from $209/night)

Just over two hours from Atlanta is a small town called Lumpkin, Georgia—and if you’ve ever heard of it, it’s likely because of Providence Canyon State Park. Often called “The Little Grand Canyon, Providence Canyon is a gorgeous state park with jaw-dropping views.  

21. Golden Isles, Georgia

• Distance from Atlanta: 4 hrs and 30 mins
• Where to stay: St. Simons Beach House (from $399/night), Charlotte's Beach Chateau (from $319/night)

Between Savannah and Jacksonville, the Golden Isles of Georgia are made up of St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island, and they make wonderful destinations for family getaways (especially in the summer months), with a ton of events taking place from June through August. Each island has beautiful beaches, but St. Simons in particular is a must-visit. There are activities year-round from horseback riding and golfing to kayaking and paddleboarding. There are also a number of different museums, theaters, parks and trails.

15 Drop-Dead Gorgeous Georgia Islands Right Off the Coast You Have to Visit ASAP

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54 Perfect Day Trips from Atlanta

BY Atlanta Magazine - August 22, 2018

Photograph by Growl

From surreal folk art environments to glitzy hotels, from secret gardens to town squares, here are our favorite quick escapes—all within 200 miles of Atlanta.

Edited by Betsy Riley with contributions from  Mary Logan Bikoff , Steve Fennessy , Mara Shalhoup , Matt Walljasper , Myrydd Wells , Thomas Wheatley

• Take a zombie tour in Senoia
• Splash at the 100k square-foot indoor water park at LaGrange's Great Wolf Lodge
• 2 holy places to explore
• See 7 states from Lover’s Leap at Rock City
• 24 hours in Birmingham
• Bring a friend (or 8) to LaPrade’s Marina on Lake Burton
• 2 venues to discover the best in indie music
• Meet 2 peafowl at Andalusia, the Milledgeville home of Flannery O’Connor
• 3 secret gardens in Georgia
• Discover 200 years of pottery at the Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia
• 2 great places to see a show
• See the 46,991 artworks at Howard Finster's Paradise Garden
• 24 hours in Chattanooga
• 3 things to do with kids in Dahlonega
• Visit 2 national-quality museums in Cartersville
• Visit 6 fun Minor League ballparks
• 3 places to see white columns
• 12 festivals worth the drive
• Explore 7 colorful acres of folk art at Pasaquan
• Taste medal-winning wines at Tiger Mountain Vineyards
• 24 hours at Barnsley Resort
• 5 stops for auto buffs
• Burn calories hiking to the top of Kennesaw Mountain

Tags Andalusia Cartersville Dahlonega day trips Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park Madison Paradise Garden Pasaquan Rock City Senoia Serenbe Playhouse travel

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Perfect USA Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

Last updated: April 17, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 57 Comments

One of the trips in the US that we had always wanted to do was a “Deep South” road trip. We think the USA is the perfect country for road tripping in, and we’ve already done a number of road trips here, including iconic Route 66 , the Pacific Coast Highway , and the Oregon Trail.

The Deep South was a part of the USA that neither of us had fully explored, so we decided to spend five weeks crossing five states to find out what it was all about. Read on for everything you need to know to plan your own perfect USA Deep South Road Trip, including what to eat, what to see, and where to go!

Where is the Deep South of the USA?

First things first. If you’re going to road trip somewhere, you should probably know where it is, right? Well, the Deep South of the USA is usually defined as covering the following states: South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana.

This Deep South road trip itinerary covers a road trip across all five of those states, covering key sights and attractions along the way. We’ve personally done this itinerary, and can definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a fantastic road trip across America’s Deep South.

Why Should You Visit the Deep South of the USA?

The Deep South is a fascinating part of the USA, a land with its own culture and history. The people are known for their friendliness, the food is legendary (so are the portion sizes!), and there is a huge amount of history here to learn about, from the native peoples through to the American Civil War and civil rights movement.

There are lovely old towns, stunning wilderness areas, sumptuous plantation homes, spooky old cemeteries and fun events – like the world famous Mardi Gras parades. To be honest there’s something for everyone. And what better way to experience all of this than by taking a classic road trip across the Deep South?

We’d argue there isn’t a better way. So let’s take a look at our idea of a perfect Deep South road trip itinerary.

Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

This is a one way road trip itinerary. We find this makes the most sense for this road trip, as it saves you driving all the way back to the start.

If you rent a car for the trip, be aware that most car rental providers charge a one-way fee. As is often the case with our road trips, we booked our hire car directly with Enterprise who offered the best value for our trip.

We can also recommend comparing prices across a range of providers using a website like Discover Cars . If you decide to rent an RV, then we recommend Motorhome Republic to compare and book.

The timings below are for a three week trip, however you can adjust the days to suit your own schedule, and we have some suggested itineraries in the section on timing further on in the post.

Days 1-3: Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is the perfect place to start this road trip. It has a food scene that is one of the best in the country, and there is a lot to see and do here – plus the airport is fairly large, so it’s easy to get to.

We’d suggest spending at least two days in Charleston. Spend some time exploring the downtown area – a good way to do so is to take a carriage ride through the historic part of town.

There are also a number of museums and old houses that are worth visiting, including Charleston Museum – the oldest in the US, and the Old Slave Mart Museum , which will help you learn about a darker part of US history.

If you’re interested in naval or military history, the USS Yorktown at Patriots Point is well worth a visit – a retired US aircraft carrier which you can lose a whole day exploring. A trip out to Fort Sumter is also well worth it – this was where the first shots were fired in the American Civil War.

You’re going to be encountering a lot of civil war sights and information on this road trip, so starting with Fort Sumter will get you up to speed quickly. You can get your tickets for Fort Sumter in advance here .

If you’ve got time, I’d also suggest heading out of town and visiting some of the old plantation homes around Charleston.

We visited four of these, and can definitely recommend adding at least one to your itinerary. There are four within a twenty minute drive of the city: Magnolia Plantation , Boone Hall Plantation , Middleton Place Plantation and Drayton Hall .

See our complete guide to the Charleston Plantations for more information and to help plan your visit.

For more on Charleston, take a look at my detailed guide to visiting Charleston , which has everything you need for getting the most out of your stay. We can also recommend the Charleston Tour Pass (also check price here ) for saving money on attractions in the city.

Where to stay in Charleston : We’ve stayed in and can recommend both the Mills House Wyndham Grand and the Francis Marion Hotel . Other recommended options are the Days Inn by Wyndham , the NotsoHostel and Barksdale House Inn .

Days 4 – 6: Savannah, Georgia

The oldest city in Georgia, Savannah has a totally different vibe to Charleston – and there’s plenty to see and do here as well.

For that reason, you’ll want to spend at least a day or two in Savannah. I’d also suggest on your way down that you take the time to pop out to Botany Bay Island – there’s a beautiful beach here full of driftwood trees that is worth visiting.

Once you get to Savannah, you won’t be short of options for signt-seeing, eating and drinking. From learning about the town’s history and the civil war and civil rights movement at the Savannah History Museum , through to taking a trolley tour and exploring the beautiful waterfront, you’ll find your days full in no time.

If you’ve got time, we also recommend heading out of town to Tybee Island – an old seaside resort, where you’ll find a lengthy beach and historic lighthouse. On the way there, you’ll also be able to visit the civil war era Fort Pulaski , and the excellent Oatland Island Wildlife Centre , home to everything from mountain lions to birds of prey.

Finally, don’t miss the incredible Bonaventure Cemetery , and, as you head out of town, we also suggest visiting Wormsloe Historic Site . Read more about what to see and do (and some great food ideas!) in Savannah in our Savannah guide .

Savannah also has a pass that can save you money, the Savannah Tour Pass (compare price here too), which is worth looking into if you plan on visiting some of the attractions it covers.

Where to stay in Savannah : We stayed in and can recommend the  Quality Inn in downtown Savannah. Other options to consider include the Olde Harbour Inn , The Alida , and the Fairfield Inn & Suites .

Days 7 & 8: Atlanta, Georgia

Next stop on our Deep South road trip is the capital city of Georgia – Atlanta.

If you have time though, I’d recommend taking the time to head a bit further south of Savannah to Jekyll Island. There’s a beautiful driftwood beach at the north end of the island, perfect for watching the sunset or sunrise, and the island itself has a relaxed laid back feeling.

Then, rather than the interstate, cruise up the quieter country roads from Brunswick to Macon, and the onto Atlanta.

Atlanta is the capital city of Georgia, and has a definite city feel. We didn’t spend a lot of time here, but we did visit the World of Coca Cola , where we learnt all about the history of this iconic soft drink (and drank a lot of it too!).

Other highlights in Atlanta include the Georgia Aquarium , the Atlanta Zoo , CNN Studio Tours , the Centre for Civil and Human Rights and the Fernbank Museum of National History .

If you’re planning on visiting a number of these locations, we recommend checking out the Atlanta CityPass , which can save you over 40% on ticket prices.

Once you’re done with Atlanta, it’s time to head to a new state – Alabama!

Where to stay in Atlanta : Options to consider in Atlanta include the AC Hotel Atlanta , Loews Atlanta Hotel ,  the Springhill Suites by Marriott and the Clarion Inn & Suites .

Days 9 & 10: Birmingham, Alabama

The Civil Rights movement in the USA existed across the nation, but many of the key events in the march towards equal rights for all happened in Alabama.

One of these events was the bombing of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church, which killed four African-American girls, and injured at least 14 others.

It was also the home of the Birmingham Campaign , one of the key movements that focused the attention of the country, and the world, on the civil rights movement.

One of the best places to learn about these events is at the excellent Birmingham Civil Rights Institute , which forms a part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument , alongside other key civil rights locations in the city.

These include the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park, both of which are just over the road from the Institute, as well as the Bethel Baptist Church and the A.G. Gaston Motel.

As well as learning about Civil Rights, Birmingham has a number of other attractions. This was a major mining town and there are a number of sights you can visit to learn about this history. The old Sloss Furnaces , now a National Historic Landmark, offer an insight into the industrial past of the city.

You can also head to the top of Red Mountain, home of the Sloss Mines, where the ore for the furnaces was mined. Today, the mountain is topped by a giant statue of the Roman god Vulcan – the largest cast iron statue in the world. This statue is the symbol of the city, and from the top of the hill you can get a wonderful view of the city and surrounds.

Finally, before continuing your adventure, a food recommendation. We ate a lot of great BBQ across the South, and Saw’s BBQ in Birmingham was definitely among our favourites. If you like BBQ – check them out.

Where to stay in Birmingham : Options to consider in Birmingham include the historic 3* Cobb Lane B&B , the 3* Redmont Hotel and the 4* Elyton Hotel . For more budget options, consider the Red Roof Inn or the Quality Inn & Suites , just be aware that these are a short drive out of the city centre.

Days 11 & 12: Montgomery, Alabama

Heading south from Birmingham now, and our road trips takes us to Alabama’s state capital – Montgomery. Again, there’s a lot to see and do here.

We really enjoyed visiting the free Museum found in the Alabama Department of Archives and History , which took us through a whole history of the state, from the native people through to the civil war, civil rights movement and on to modern day Alabama.

Just opposite this is the First White House of the Confederacy, also worth a visit, which was where the President of the Confederate States was based during the period of time that Montgomery was the capital city of these states in early 1861.

There are some other fascinating museums in and around Montgomery if you’re feeling like learning. There’s the Mooseum , which will teach you everything you didn’t know about the beef industry.

Then there’s the Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum , found in one of their former homes, which, as the name suggests, is all about the life of Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald – Scott being particularly famous for penning the Great Gatsby .

Finally, there’s the excellent Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts , showcasing fine art from both American and International artists.

Don’t worry, there’s more to Montgomery than museums of course. We loved visiting Chris’ Hot Dogs , a staple Montgomery diner, which has been serving up classic American fare since 1917!

Finally, there are some lovely locations just to wander. Montgomery has some wonderful historic districts that are worth exploring on foot, and the riverwalk area (also home to the visitors information centre), is a pleasant spot for a stroll.

Where to stay in Montgomery, AL : Accommodation options to consider in Montgomery include the Lattice Inn , the Red Bluff Cottage B&B , the Hampton Inn & Suites . Nearby budget options include this Red Roof Inn and this Extended Stay America .

Day 13: Selma, Alabama

From Montgomery, it’s a short trip across to Selma, which is well worth visiting. We had recently seen the movie Selma when we visited, which had helped with some of our understanding of the importance of this town.

It was in Selma that the famous Selma to Montgomery march took place, with marchers including Dr. Martin Luther King. The march met with violent resistance on Edmund Pettus Bridge on a day that became known as Bloody Sunday, and was unable to continue.

The march was attempted again two days later, but again was forcefully stopped. Finally, on the 21st March 1965, the march was allowed to proceed, and made it all the way to Montgomery, arriving on the 25th March 1965.

Today, Selma is worth visiting to get a feel for the town where these key civil rights events took place. You can walk across the bridge, visit the National Voting Rights Museum & Institute , and the Selma Interpretative Centre, to get eye witness accounts and first hand information on the civil rights movement.

Once you’ve finished seeing Selma, our next destination will be Mobile, but we definitely recommend taking the 20 minutes to drive out to the Old Cahawba Archaeological Site .

For five years, from 1820 to 1825, Cahawaba was the state capital of Alabama. This is hard to believe today, as the town is entirely abandoned, known instead as Alabama’s most famous ghost town. Some buildings have survived, and it is eerie to drive or walk around what was once a large town that is now silent.

Where to stay in Selma, AL : Selma is a relatively small town so there is not a huge choice. This Holiday Inn Express Hotel is the best rated of the options available.

Day 14: Mobile, Alabama

Time to head for the coast now, and the last stop in Alabama – Mobile. In Mobile you’ll notice that famous style of French architecture that the old quarter of New Orleans is famed for, this is because Mobile was the original capital of French Louisiana. It was subsequently colonised by the British and then the Spanish, before joining the United States in 1813.

Again, there’s a lot to do in Mobile, with plenty of museums, historic attractions, parks, not to mention restaurants and bars. However, our real interest in visiting Mobile was to learn about the roots of the Mardi Gras Carnival, because it was in Mobile that the first organised Carnival celebrations took place, leading to the huge parades and celebrations that we now associated with Mardi Gras in the south.

We were in Mobile for their Mardi Gras festivities, and very much enjoyed seeing the night time parade. We also visited the Mobile Carnival Museum , which is a great way to get up to speed with the history of the Carnival in the USA.

Where to stay in Mobile, AL : Good central options in Mobile include the Candlewood Suites , Hampton Inn and Suites and the Forte Conde Inn . Value options a little way out of the city centre include La Quinta by Wyndham and Wingate by Wyndham .

Days 15 & 16: Biloxi, Mississippi

From Mobile, it’s time to leave Alabama and head west, into Mississippi. I’ll be honest – time constraints meant that we didn’t have time on our trip to do a lot of sight-seeing in Mississippi. Which is a shame, because this is a state with a lot to offer, and it’s somewhere we fully intend to return to.

On the route across to Louisiana we mostly just drove through, but we think if you have time, you might want to add in some sight-seeing in Mississippi.

Most logically, the city of Biloxi falls on the route and is a good stopping point.

Other highlights of the route include the INFINITY Science Centre – a 72,000 sq foot NASA visitor and science museum which forms a part of the John C. Stennis Space Centre. If you like space, rockets and science, this is a must visit.

After Biloxi, you’ll be crossing the border and into Louisiana, the final state of your deep south road trip!

Where to stay in Biloxi, MS : There’s a wide range of great value accommodation in Biloxi, including several casino resort hotels. These can be fantastic value if you resist the temptation to gamble. Some examples include the Golden Nugget and the IP Casino Resort and Spa . There’s also a good value Suburban Extended Stay just outside the city.

Days 17 & 18: Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Baton Rouge is the State Capital of Louisiana, and again, there’s plenty to do here to fill two or three days of exploring and eating time.

A highlight for us was a trip to the State Capitol building . This incredible construction towers over the city, and you get incredible views from the top floor – plus you can visit the House of Representatives, and the State Senate, to see politics in action.

Whilst you’re at the State Capitol, you should also visit the old Baton Rouge Arsenal, originally a powder magazine, and now a museum about its history. Capitol Park Museum , which covers a full history of the state of Louisiana, is also well worth a couple of hours of your time at least.

Other highlights of Baton Rouge include the castle-like Old State Capitol Building , which has a stunningly beautiful interior, the Old Governors Mansion , and the USS Kidd – a naval museum on an old warship anchored in the Mississippi.

For more information on what to do on your time in Baton Rouge, including advice for visiting during Mardi Gras, check out our post on the top Things to Do in Baton Rouge .

Between Baton Rouge and New Orleans, along the mighty Mississippi river, is the famous “river road”. This was once home to hundreds of plantation homes and some of the wealthiest people in the country, who made their money predominantly growing sugar cane and through slave labour.

Today, a small number of these plantation homes survive, mostly as visitor attractions. There are a good many to choose from, all of which offer a slightly different experience to the visitor, including some which let you stay overnight.

Helping you choose which one to visit is a post in itself – thankfully Jess has already written one. Check it out for the definitive guide to the Plantations of the Louisiana River Road , based on our experiences visiting 12 of these plantations.

Where to stay in Baton Rouge, LA : We stayed at the very central Hampton Inn and Suites in Baton Route. Other options to consider include the Holiday Inn Express Baton Rouge , the 4* Watermark Baton Rouge and the Hotel Indigo Baton Rouge . For budget out of town options, try Sleep Inn South , Microtel Inn & Suites or SureStay Plus .

Days 19 – 21: New Orleans, Louisiana

Last stop on our epic road trip across the Deep South of the USA is New Orleans . Famous for its huge Mardi Gras celebrations, there is a lot to see and do here – so much so that we happily spent a week exploring the city.

Of course, if you want to experience a huge Mardi Gras, then New Orleans is the place to come. The parades are massive, the crowds are gigantic, and the atmosphere is tough to beat.

We had a lot of fun visiting New Orleans during Mardi Gras and would happily recommend it. That said, there is a lot more to the city than Mardi Gras.

We suggest visiting Mardi Gras World to get a handle on the carnival, heading to the French Quarter to admire the beautiful old balconied buildings, eating Beignets at Café Beignet , sipping coffee at Cafe du Monde , and taking a tour of one of the old cemeteries.

We also took a river boat cruise on the steam powered riverboat the Natchez , which was a wonderful way to end our Deep South adventure.

For more on what to see and do in New Orleans, check out our guide to visiting  New Orleans during Mardi Gras , which has lots of information on activities, plus advice on visiting during Mardi Gras.

We can also recommend the New Orleans Pass to save money on attractions in the city.

Where to stay in New Orleans, LA : There’s a huge amount of choice in New Orleans, although if you visit during Mardi Gras, expect prices to be high. Some options for you to consider are: Bourbon Orleans Hotel , La Quinta by Wyndham , Hotel Mazarin , Hotel le Marais and French Market Inn .

Deep South Road Trip Itinerary Map

Here’s a map of the above route to help you plan your own trip.

Well done – you made it! And so did we. Now, let’s answer some questions you might have, and then cover some practicalities for your trip.

How Long Does a Deep South Road Trip Take?

We spent five weeks road tripping from Charleston to New Orleans, although we spent almost a week at either end, and we travelled fairly slowly, taking our time and really savoring the adventure.

We’d suggest that a two week deep south road trip would be the minimum amount of time we’d recommend, and if you have time, try to stretch it to three weeks so you can fit more in.

As an example of how each of these might look, we have put together suggested timings for a two week deep south road trip itinerary and a three week deep south road trip itinerary below.

2 Week Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

• Days 1 & 2: Charleston, South Carolina
• Days 3 & 4: Savannah, Georgia
• Day 5: Atlanta, Georgia
• Day 6: Birmingham, Alabama
• Day 7: Montgomery, Alabama
• Day 8: Selma, Alabama
• Day 9: Mobile, Alabama
• Day 10: Biloxi, Mississippi
• Days 11 & 12: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• Day 13 & 14: New Orleans, Louisiana

3 Week Deep South Road Trip Itinerary

• Days 1 – 3 : Charleston, South Carolina
• Days 4 – 6 : Savannah, Georgia
• Days 7 & 8 : Atlanta, Georgia
• Days 9 & 10 : Birmingham, Alabama
• Days 11 & 12 : Montgomery, Alabama
• Day 13 : Selma, Alabama
• Day 14 : Mobile, Alabama
• Days 15 & 16 : Biloxi, Mississippi
• Days 17 & 18 : Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• Day 19 – 21 : New Orleans, Louisiana

Of course, there’s a lot more to see in all the states we’ve mentioned, so you could easily extend this itinerary for as long as you wish!

When to Visit the Deep South

We visited in January, when the temperatures were pleasant for the most part – although we did experience light and brief snowfall in Birmingham, Alabama! We’d definitely suggest Winter or Spring / Fall would offer the most reasonable temperatures. In the summer this part of the USA gets very hot and humid, which can make sight-seeing uncomfortable.

If you’re interested in attending the Mardi Gras festivities, these vary in timing as they are based around Shrove Tuesday, a religious date which changes every year. It usually falls somewhere in February or March.

If you’re not interested in Mardi Gras, it’s best to avoid cities that celebrate it during this time, particularly places like New Orleans, Mobile and Baton Rouge, as accommodations will be both expensive and hard to find.

What to Eat in the Deep South

Fair warning, don’t come to the Deep South expecting to lose weight. Portions are large and the food is definitely waist expanding.

There are a lot of foods to try, but some of our favourites were:

Gumbo – A soup which can be made with seafood or meat and is either cajun or creole in style

Jambalaya – A Louisianan rice dish mixed up with various meats, usually including smokey sausage

Fried Chicken – No round up of Southern food would be complete without mentioning fried chicken. Usually battered, this is an absolute must-try when journeying through the south. We had it presented in all kinds of forms, from the classic no frills fried chicken, through to fried chicken on waffles with bacon and maple syrup. Amazing.

BBQ – Of course, the Deep South doesn’t have a monopoly on BBQ (Texans in particular would have something to say about this I suspect), but the origins of BBQ are definitely in the south. Different regions have different BBQ sauce styles, with the classic meat being pork.

Grits – I’d never had grits before visiting the Deep South, and was I missing out! Served generally as an accompaniment, they are made from ground corn which is boiled. Tastier than they sound!

Where to Stay in the Deep South

There are a lot of lodging options in the USA, truly something for pretty much every budget. On our trip, we did a mix of motels, hotels and AirBnB stays, generally booking online using booking.com as we found that was cheaper than turning up at the property.

Often we’d arrive at hotels and ask if they would price match, but we were usually told by the reception staff to book through booking.com for the best deal! So we did.

For your convenience, here are direct links to all the city pages on booking.com that we used for our deep south road trip. Each section of the article also has recommended lodgings.

• Baton Rouge
• New Orleans

Practicalities for your Deep South Road Trip

Travelling in the Deep South of the USA is relatively easy. People are generally friendly, you can ask for help, and the infrastructure is good. There are a few things to be aware of, so here’s a run down of some of the most important.

The USA uses a 120 Volt electrical system, which means if you’re coming from Europe you need to check if your equipment is supported. Most laptops and phone chargers will work (the adapter will have 100 – 240V marked on it), however high powered items like hair dryers and travel kettles may not. You can buy voltage convertors, but these tend to be heavy – my advice would be just to pick up a cheap version of whatever it is you need in the country from somewhere like Walmart.

The plugs are for the most part a narrow two pin plug, if you’re coming from abroad you’ll need a travel adapter . See more on travel adapters and how to choose one for your trip in our guide to the best travel adapters .

I also advise travelling with a power strip – often motels / hotels don’t have enough outlets to charge all those gadgets we travel with. Something like this would be good.

Internet Access

Internet access is relatively easy to find in the US. WiFi networks can be found at most bars, restaurants, cafes and hotels, and there are also free networks in some public areas. So getting online isn’t too hard.

If you need to be permanently online with data on your phone, you have a number of options. First, check if your cellphone provider has some form of overseas roaming policy. If the prices are unreasonable, you have a number of other options.

First, if your phone is unlocked, you can pick up a SIM card locally. One of the better value deals in the USA I found was the Straight Talk plan, which offers 5GB of data for $45, and can be picked up at any Walmart. There are lots of other PAYG options to choose from, see an overview here .

For more information on the various options you have for getting online, see our complete guide to getting online when you travel .

Health / Insurance

The USA has a great healthcare system, with the huge caveat that it’s mind-bogglingly expensive. I cannot stress the importance of good travel insurance enough that will cover your medical fees if the worst should happen.

Depending on where you live in the world there are numerous travel insurance companies, so do shop around for a good policy.

We have a full guide to travel insurance for UK travellers here.

Safety Tips

The USA is a safe country to travel in for the most part, however, sensible precautions should apply. Don’t leave valuables alone or in plain sight, especially in parked cars. Take advantage of the safe in your hotel or motel. Don’t travel with large amounts of cash – use your credit card or debit card instead, and just keep small bills for tips and instances where cards aren’t accepted.

Be aware of your surroundings, particularly if travelling alone or in an unfamiliar neighbourhood. Check with locals, like your AirBnB host, if there are neighbourhoods to avoid.

Finally, take a look at your governments travel advice page for the latest information that may apply to you – for example, the UK Foreign Office has some helpful information for travellers to the USA here , which applies to both UK and non UK nationals.

The USA uses the US dollar bill. These are all green, and come in seven denominations – $1, $2, $5, $20, $50 and $100. They are all the same size, with only the number and illustration being different, so they can be a little hard to get used to at first. There are also coins, running from 1 cent through to $1.

Credit cards are widely accepted, and are usually the easiest way to pay. At gas stations in particular, it’s most common to pay at the pump with a credit card rather than at the till.

One thing to be aware of – prices in the USA are usually displayed without sales tax or tip included. Sales tax varies state to state, from 0% to around 10%. This is something to keep in mind, especially in restaurants, as everything on the menu will be a bit more expensive than indicated once tax is added.

Tipping is also a part of the culture in the USA, especially in the service industry. Tips average 15%, but can vary between 10% and 20%. You can either add the tip to the credit card, or leave cash. It’s always helpful to have some $1 bills for tipping purposes.

For an idea of how much to budget for a road trip like this, see our guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA .

Driving in the USA is quite easy – the roads are large, well-signed and the vehicles are usually automatic which gives you less to worry about.

There are definitely a few quirks to be aware of though if you’ve not driven here before – things like turning on a red light and the rules at STOP intersections. It’s a lot to cover, so I wrote a whole post on tips for driving in the USA which will answer all your questions.

Otherwise, take a look at car rental prices here to compare the best deals from a number of providers and get yourself booked for your adventure!

Further Reading for your Deep South Road Trip

We’ve written a fair amount about travelling in the USA , plus we have some resources that we think you will find useful for a trip like this. These are:

• A guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA
• Tips for Driving in the USA
• A comprehensive guide to the River Road Plantations of Louisiana
• City guides for New Orleans , Baton Rouge , Savannah and Charleston
• For more road trip inspiration, take a look at our two week California road trip , our two week  Route 66 itinerary , our Pacific Coast Highway guide , our 1 week Route 66 itinerary , and our two week Las Vegas, Grand Canyon and California road trip itinerary
• This is my South – a travel blog focused on what to see and do in this part of the world
• Lonely Planet’s guide to Louisiana and the Deep South
• Our guide to the best Airbnb Alternatives , to help you get the best lodging, whatever your budget
• Looking for more road trip inspiration? Check out our guide to the world’s best road trips for more ideas!

And that pretty much sums up our post on the perfect USA Deep South Road Trip! Have you ever done a trip like this? Anywhere you’d suggest adding to the itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!

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Lee & Sue says

1st January 2024 at 9:44 am

Hi guys…

We really enjoyed reading about your trip… We are doing a trip in April 2024 for 3-4 weeks but we are starting in Dallas Texas & possibly finishing in Miami (Haven’t fully decided yet)…

I have one question that hopefully you may be able to answer… With car rental, say we Start in Dallas are we able to return the vehicle to a totally different place & is there anything we should know about this ??? I’m in my mid 50’s & this will be a new experience for me…

Laurence Norah says

1st January 2024 at 4:05 pm

Hi Lee & Sue

You can definitely book a hire car one way. The only thing to be aware of is that pretty much every car rental company we know of does charge a fee for this, known as a one-way fee. This fee varies by company and where you are returning the car to. Some very popular routes don’t always have a fee (for example we once did a trip from Las Vegas to San Francisco and there was no one way fee when we did it), but that’s the exception.

The fee is normally displayed at the end of the booking process, and you should just be aware the rental car comparison sites don’t always include this fee. So it’s best to get a quote direct to ensure the fee is included.

I hope this helps, have an amazing road trip and let me know if you have any more questions!

Stewart says

1st November 2023 at 11:04 am

Excellent post on a Southern road trip, just wanted to saw we found it very helpful!

1st November 2023 at 1:20 pm

Thanks very much Stewart, I hope you have a great time!

James Messenger says

22nd May 2023 at 5:11 am

May 2023. My wife and I followed your guide virtually to the letter. Starting with Charlestone. We skipped Atlanta due to time. And you were spot on with all your destinations. However for future travellers. Skip Mobile totally. Very little to see and for us a total bust as we arrived on Saturday. On Sunday & Monday most museums, houses and tourist sites are closed. The city Trolley Tour of 90 minutes doesn’t operate those two days. We went to Visitors Centre at 1pm for guidance. It never bothered to open. After 12 days Road Trip this was the most severely disappointing city. We hope this is the only let down as we continue for another 20 days on our 9th US Road Trip.

12th June 2023 at 7:05 pm

I’m delighted to hear you guys have had a great time in following our Deep South road trip itinerary! Interesting to hear your feedback on Mobile, I am sure that will help other travellers. I hope the rest of your adventure also went well 🙂

Safe travels!

Michelle says

14th September 2021 at 6:15 pm

Hello, a friend and i are driving from CT to TX and back all along the south and middle states on way home. CT, NY, PA, WV, KY, TN, Alabama, Miss, Lousiana, Tx. We are looking for places that are not just the tourism attractions, but the places that are a WOW experience – views etc. from PA to TX is there any places that you would say are you have to go to…. Thank you in advance for any guidence on this.

I am looking forward to staying in an amish comunity – yes i am sure it is touristy but they are truley facinating.

17th September 2021 at 11:27 am

Hi Michelle!

Wow, that sounds like a fantastic road trip! I have to be honest that I’ve not visited the first states on your list in sufficient depth to be able to give solid recommendations. For Alambama I can definitely recommend Huntsville, it’s an awesome town with tonnes to do (see our guide to things to do in Huntsville here ). There are also some excellent civil rights trail stops in AL, including in Birmingham, Montgomery and Selma. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park outside Selma is really interesting as well. Further south you can learn about the history of Mardi Gras in Mobile, although you might have crossed into Mississippi by then. In Louisiana, Baton Route is definitely worth some time exploring, and the river road plantations along the way into New Orleans are definitely worth visiting.

I can definitely recommend Amish country. My wife is from Ohio and we’ve visited Amish country a number of times. The food is always a highlight of a visit 😀

Have an amazing trip, let me know if I can offer any further insights!

Jon parker says

15th July 2021 at 6:42 am

Hiya, could I do a Deep South trip over 3 months using a backpack, travelling without a car? Would look to travel from end October for 3 months, what would the weather be like?

15th July 2021 at 11:42 am

You certainly could do that, the locations mentioned in this deep south itinerary are all linked by Greyhound bus, so that would be achievable. The weather is definitely cooler at that time of year, particularly around November and December. In Alabama we were there in January, and we had a few flakes of snow and the temperatures were just above freezing. However it can warm up a bit more. I’d definitely dress warmly though!

Have a safe trip!

Kristin Arnone says

27th May 2021 at 3:26 pm

Hello – I have loved reading several of your itineraries and have gotten several great trip ideas these past few days! Where is the lovely plantation located that is in the photo at the beginning of this Deep South Road Trip article? Thank you so much!!!

28th May 2021 at 1:23 pm

Hi Kristin! That’s Oak Alley Plantation 🙂 You can read all about it in our blog post all about Oak Alley here 🙂

Jessica L Chann says

29th January 2020 at 8:21 pm

Thank you for sharing! These are all fantastic cities. I must admit I am sad to see Tennessee get left off of the list. Nashville and Chattanooga are two amazing cities to visit! Also North Carolina deserves some love! Nothing like the mountains!!

30th January 2020 at 7:29 am

Hi Jessica!

My pleasure. I agree, there are some wonderful stops not on the list – unfortunately I couldn’t include everywhere. Seems I will have to make another itinerary!

Carolyn says

8th July 2019 at 12:27 am

Hey! Great article. I would have loved to read more on your site, but the ads were super frustrating. I know writers have got to make a living, but I actually found it very difficult to read because videos were playing and graphics were flashing beside and at the bottom of my screen.

9th July 2019 at 3:39 pm

Hi Carolyn,

Thanks for your feedback! Unfortunately there are few ways for us to monetize the site beyond ads, most people aren’t willing to pay for content on the internet these days, so the ads are the only option we really have to pay the bills and allow us to travel and write about destinations. We’re not massive fans of ads either, but it’s just the reality. For the ad unit at the bottom you should be able to press the “X” to close it out at least.

Johan Lupander says

20th May 2019 at 10:07 am

Very informative and a great help in planning for a visit in early 2020!

The price advantage for an European in arriving and departing in/from the same airport (ATL) is compelling but naturally means a round-trip itinerary. Your trip suggestion does not include the up-river area Baton Rouge – Natchez – Vicksburg. Any particular reason why?

20th May 2019 at 10:33 am

Hi Johan – thanks very much!

It’s largely just a question of time – there are large chunks of every state that have been left out, such is the nature of a road trip across states. We’re often just as happy spending weeks exploring one state as we are travelling between them. The trip certainly isn’t meant to be prescriptive though, feel free to adjust to your own interests 🙂

23rd April 2019 at 2:17 pm

Great little guide to the South! My girlfriend are from the UK and I are planning a road trip in September-October (six weeks total). Right now our plan is to do it in 2 legs (a Western states leg and a Southern States leg).

Perhaps something like this….

1st leg: Hire RV in San Francisco, then…..Yosemite – Death Valley – Las Vegas – Grand Canyon – Monument Valley – back to Las Vegas (to drop off RV and fly out).

2nd leg: A bit more undecided at the moment. I’ve got some friends just south of Nashville so would like to visit them for a couple of days. But would also love to see New Orleans so perhaps makes sense to fly into there from Vegas and work our way up? I’ve been to Memphis, Nashville and Knoxville on a previous trip so perhaps keen to see some other places with good food and music in the south! Also thinking perhaps better to hire a car in the south and stay in motels, as could be more economical/easy than RV-ing everywhere?

We fly out from New York at the end of the 6 weeks so will plan to spend at least 2-3 days there at the end.

Any advice would be welcome!

Thanks Miles

23rd April 2019 at 2:27 pm

First, thanks very much!

So your first section sounds great, it’s an itinerary that is very popular and is something we hope to write about soon on our blogs 🙂

For the second leg, I’d say flying in NOLA makes sense, and then you can build your itinerary around what you are most interested in. There are lots of cities and attractions (as you can see from this itinerary), and you won’t have any problem filling in your route.

I would say that for this stretch it will likely be more economic to rent a car and stay in budget motels rather than renting an RV. RV’s are great, but they are pretty expensive to rent, and then you often have to pay for campsites anyway. So it makes sense out in the west as there are many areas where you can camp, but in more populated areas it is less logical I think.

I hope this has helped a little bit at least 🙂

23rd April 2019 at 2:34 pm

Hi Laurence,

Thanks a lot for the speedy reply. And you’ve confirmed what I was thinking already, which is great! Just one more question. Do you think 6 weeks is fine for this sort of itinerary?

Thanks again Miles

23rd April 2019 at 3:06 pm

I’d say so yes. Of course, the more time you have the more you can see (the States is a big place!) but you will definitely be able to see a lot in six weeks for sure!

Jeremy says

8th March 2019 at 7:32 pm

Hey, just a quick correction to the Montgomery section of your trip. Cahawba was only the capital city temporarily from 1820 until 1826 – not for over 100 years. Huntsville was the first temporary capital after Alabama became a state in 1819 (200 years ago on December 14 of this year), then Cahawba (as I said, until 1826), then Tuscaloosa until 1846 which is when it moved to Montgomery in an attempt to have the capital be a more centrally located city in the state. Love the blog, My wife and I are heading to Savannah for our anniversary this year and thanks to your blog, we are going to take a couple of extra days to go to Charleston. I’ve been there but it was long ago and I had forgotten how beautiful it was. Thanks.

8th March 2019 at 7:44 pm

Hi Jeremy! Thanks for the information, I’m not sure how I got that so wrong – I must have misread a date somewhere along the line. I’ve updated that. Interestingly, some sources say that Selma was the state capital from 1825 – 1826, wheras others seem to indicate it went from Cahawba to Tuscaloosa. Anyway, I have corrected it in the post to be more accurate! Thanks again, and have a wonderful trip – we loved Charleston, and we hope you do too 🙂

Richard Sullivan says

12th February 2019 at 2:25 pm

This all looks very interesting indeed. I am hoping to do a family road trip, either deep-south, or West to East coast. But blimey, the food does not look at all appealing! Gosh is all food either brown or covered in cheese in America?

12th February 2019 at 5:29 pm

Hi Richard,

Definitely not – there’s pretty much everything you could imagine, from healthy options to more cheese covered dishes 😉

I’m sure you’ll find something you enjoy

Keith & Ann Garner says

21st January 2019 at 12:36 pm

Hi Laurence & Jessica Love your web page, we live in the UK and are thinking of planning a trip to the south for two weeks and looking for advice for the best route to take for us to see the most interesting places. We are thinking of going in May is this a good time? We are planning to arrange the trip ourselves, rather than an agent so is it wise to book hotels/motels or airbnb in advance here in the UK. Any advice would be much appreciated.

many thanks

Keith & Ann

21st January 2019 at 1:12 pm

Hey Keith and Ann,

Thanks very much. It’s a fantastic trip and we’re sure you’ll have a great time. May is a great time for this trip, temperatures will be pleasant but not unbearable, likely in the 20C – 30C range.

For your hotels, I would say that generally you will be ok not to book far in advance at this time of year, the only exceptions would be if there any any events happening in any of the locations you are headed to that you need to be aware of. I can’t think of any off the top of my head. May should also not be too busy in general, so availability should be reasonable. We have not normally had a problem just booking a day or two in advance on trips like this, but if you prefer peace of mind and greater choice, then you can always book in advance. One idea is to book using a platform like booking.com at properties that allow for cancellation, and then you can switch it up as you go if you prefer, whilst having a fallback option.

Have a fantastic trip, and do drop by and let us know how it goes – either here, or in our facebook group 🙂

https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelloversandphotography/

7th January 2019 at 12:04 am

I found your blog, while I was trying to figure out where to go for my 50th birthday. My wife said that we can go anywhere I want, as long as we stay inside the USA. We have up to four weeks, of vacation, ready to go. But we do have two elementary age children. So the trip will have to be between mid June and late August. Over the past 12 years, we’ve taken road trips to West Virginia, across the Northern states. Traveled all around the Mid-West (Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, and Kentucky). Road trips down the Oregon and California coasts, And we’ve spent a week (give or take a day or two) in each of the following: Hawaii, Miami, New York, Washington D.C, Las Vegas, Phoenix and San Francisco. But I’ve never spent any time in the Deep South. After reading your blog, that may change. You made the Deep South sound like a great place to go with our kids (especially since I’m into American history). The only part I’m worried about, is its weather and the humidity. We’ll be coming from the Seattle area, where the weather and humidity is the exact opposite from the South. So the Summer weather, kind of worries me.

7th January 2019 at 11:16 am

The south is definitely a wonderful place to travel, but you are correct, that time of year is more challenging when it comes to the weather. It’s hot and humid, and it’s also the rainiest time of the year! There are some upsides though – it tends to be less busy, and hotel rates are better! It’s going to be a personal decision of course, I’d say if you do go just make sure to prepare with lots of sunscreen, loose clothing and a hat 🙂

Have a great trip wherever you go!

Larry Spielman says

5th January 2019 at 8:51 pm

Wow, what a gift to discover your post! You have expanded my vision of the deep south. We have visited Charleston, Alanta, and Savannah and loved these locations. Planning this summer going from San Antonio to Mobile with extended time in New Orleans. Obviously we need to plan more time in the Mobile area. Any other words of wisdom for us?

5th January 2019 at 10:30 pm

Thanks very much 🙂 We were in Mobile during Mardi Gras, and we can definitely recommend a visit to the Mardi Gras Museum which is very good. However, we didn’t see much else during our time there. We were also just in San Antonio, I’m not sure if you’re from San Antonio or just starting there, but we did just publish a guide to San Antonio as well 🙂 Of course, if you’re from San Antonio I’m sure all this will be familiar to you!

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/things-to-do-san-antonio-texas/

Have a great trip!

5th January 2019 at 11:35 pm

Thanks – we will check out your suggestions, flying into San Antonio, train to New Orleans, then rent a car for Alabama. Thanks again.

5th January 2019 at 11:41 pm

My pleasure! Sounds like it’s going to be a great trip 😀 Let us know if you have any more questions!

Connie Fidler Glassford says

17th November 2018 at 4:47 am

I’ve been to a number of cities on your list and loved them all. My town Fairhope, across the bay from Mobile is a gem.

Larisa says

2nd November 2018 at 3:36 am

Great read as we are planing to come over in Dec next year for a road trip as a family of five and we need to do as much research as possible! Our itinerary will be ideally a 7 night Cruise from Galveston then Houston-Lafayette-Slidell-Tallheusee-Orlando-Savannah- Montgomgery-Jackson-Dallas and back to Houston. Excuse the mis-spellings.!

3rd November 2018 at 9:01 am

Sounds like an awesome trip Larisa!

Sherryl Rivers says

10th October 2018 at 7:32 pm

You can also head to the top of Red Mountain, home of the Sloss Mines, where the ore for the furnaces was mind.

You can also head to the top of Red Mountain, home of the Sloss Mines, where the ore for the furnaces was mined.

*****Ore was MINED…not MIND******

12th October 2018 at 3:41 am

Fixed! Thanks so much 🙂

David Shows says

15th August 2018 at 1:11 pm

As a Mississippian who grew up in Long Beach (next to Biloxi) and living in North Carolina let me complement you on your excellent choices. You nailed Charleston and Savannah, two of my favorite towns. For ship watchers, Savannah is one of the busiest ports in the United States, part of a railroad corridor that stretches across the U.S. to San Diego.

I’ve also lived in Mobile and Montgomery and they are two hidden gems. Montgomery has live music on the weekends and a Baseball park built on top of an old confederate barracks. Dauphin Island is near Mobile and it has miles of white sand beaches. If you are a seafood lover btw, I would try our oysters on the the Gulf Coast, in my very prejudiced opinion, some of best tasting anywhere. They can be fried, in a broth, or you can have them char-broiled, cooking in the half-shell with garlic.

I grew up two blocks from the beach, even moved back after Camille, and love the Gulf Coast beaches, where you can get a sunrise and a sunset! On the Coast we have a small town vibe but we have visitors year round, and there are two big military bases in Gulfport and Biloxi that contribute to the big net we cast.

Thanks for the great article! As we say on the Coast, don’t be a stranger! Come back when you can!

15th August 2018 at 8:23 pm

Thank you very much David, it’s always wonderful to hear from a local that we’ve managed to put something together that showcases their part of the world 😀 We certainly do want to come back sometime soon for the amazing food & people, not to mention all the scenery 🙂

12th August 2018 at 11:41 pm

We spent two weeks driving from California to visit the deep south. We stopped in New Orleans, Tallahassee, Savannah, and Charleston. We drove the backroads through deep Georgia and it was amazing! The people in the deep south are straight out of a character novel. They are warm and friendly and some of them say the quirkiest things! The food is phenomenal!! I gained 5 pounds over our trip and I do not regret one bite! We visited in July and the humidity definitely takes some getting used to but after about 3 days, my skin seemed to love it. The architecture, history, plantations, and culture are beautiful and fascinating. The cicadas and the sounds of the insects were truly magical and the lightning bugs!! Seeing the lightning bugs was definitely on my bucket list! So beautiful, like little twinkling fairies. We originally made the trip because we were considering moving out there in 2 years. After the trip, we pushed up our move to next year. We completely fell in love with the deep south. It was everything that I had hoped it would be!

13th August 2018 at 9:05 pm

I am so pleased that you had a wonderful time. The food really is amazing isn’t it? And you are so right about the people. Love that you are moving there a year early too – I hope it all goes well for you!

Have a great journey

Vanessa Perumal says

24th June 2018 at 12:30 pm

Such generous sharing thank you. From New York where would you start your road trip please

24th June 2018 at 10:45 pm

Hey Vanessa – are you thinking of flying from New York or driving? It’s quite a long drive from New York (11 or 12 hours straight driving), so you might prefer to fly to Charleston and start there 🙂

Martha Mason says

26th April 2018 at 7:39 pm

I’m born and raised in Alabama – with a few sojourns in California, New York and Chicago. If you come to Alabama again, make sure you hit Fairhope, a quaint, beautiful town across Mobile Bay from Mobile, AL. If you come this far, also visit Gulf Shores on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico – one of the secrets we keep from beach lovers so it stays pretty and white.

I enjoyed your article on the deep south trip and although I’ve been to all of the places you mentioned, your info. will send me back to those places again better informed.

26th April 2018 at 7:42 pm

Thanks Martha! We’re actually going to be in Alabama this September most likely, visiting Huntsville and some of the space related sights 🙂 Not sure how much time we have, but I’ll definitely keep your tips in mind – thanks very much!

Stephanie says

16th March 2018 at 12:04 pm

Wow this is awesome! I work in the school system So unfortunately summer is the only time my boys and I can travel. We live in Charlotte so we will hit the road this summer. I’ll be sure to prepare for the unbearable heat! We will have about 3 weeks! Thank you for sharing!

16th March 2018 at 4:30 pm

My pleasure, and thanks Stephanie. I’m sure you’ll be fine and are probably used to the heat anyway 🙂 Have a fantastic trip – three weeks is the perfect amount of time for it 😀

9th March 2018 at 8:03 pm

Just wondering how many days total did you spend on this trip:) thanks

9th March 2018 at 8:06 pm

Hi Susy 🙂 We spent five weeks doing the trip, but we spent a week of that in New Orleans at the end. For the suggested itinerary, we’d suggest a minimum of two weeks, and ideally three weeks if you can spare the time. You can see more in this section of the post: https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/usa-deep-south-road-trip-itinerary/#How-Long-Does-a-Deep-South-Road-Trip-Take

11th February 2018 at 6:24 am

Thank you so much for this really informative itinerary! My boyfriend and I are doing a deep south road trip this summer and you’ve given us some great ideas which move away from the typical cities.

11th February 2018 at 10:51 am

My pleasure – have a really wonderful trip and do shout if you have any questions!

Melissa says

25th January 2018 at 8:20 pm

I LOVE THIS! I live in Hawaii, but doing a Road Trip around the South is on my bucket list. Thank you so much for the info and suggestions.

26th January 2018 at 12:39 am

Thanks Melissa! Have an awesome trip when you do it – we sure did 😀

Linda Aksomitis says

26th February 2017 at 5:22 pm

Love your article. There are so many of my favourite deep South destinations on it. As a Canadian, I need to get my Gulf Coast “fix” on a regular basis.

Laurence says

27th February 2017 at 2:48 pm

Thanks Linda! And we still feel there’s so much more to see down here 🙂

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15 Best Weekend Trips from Atlanta Georgia

• Atlanta / Georgia / In the City / North America / USA

Looking for a weekend getaway from Atlanta? Here are the best spots to go!

I was born and raised in Atlanta and can’t say I’ve spent that much time exploring Georgia or even outside Greater Atlanta. If you live somewhere for so long, it’s easy to take a place for granted and assume you’ll just get to it later. We’ve been there.

To give you some inspiration to get out and explore, we’ve put together a list of best weekend trips from Atlanta. Just a short drive away, you can find yourself surrounded by lush, green forests, small historic towns, and even beaches. 

If you are really limited on time, check out our  15 Most Popular Day Trips from Atlanta , which are even closer. You can always make them weekend getaways too!

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More resources, 1. chattanooga, tennessee →.

Distance:  118 mi / 1 hr 46 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Ruby Falls, Rock City Garden, Tennessee Aquarium What to Eat:  Maple Street Biscuit Company ,  Public House Where to Stay:  Find hotels in Chattanooga

Chattanooga has a ton of charm. We visited often when I was a kid, and I have fond memories of the Tennessee Aquarium, Rock City, and Ruby Falls.

Even to this day, the attractions are fun to explore and there are many outdoor activities in the area too. Regardless of your interest, there is plenty to keep you busy over a weekend.

See More: 17 Fun Things to Do in Chattanooga TN

2. Asheville, North Carolina →

Distance: 208 mi / 3 hr 25 min ( map ) Can’t Miss Attractions:   Biltmore Estate , Looking Glass Hike, Foundation Walls What to Eat:   49 Best Places to Eat in Asheville Where to Stay:  The Best Places to Stay in Asheville

Asheville has a bit of everything! There’s an amazing food scene, craft breweries to quench your thirst, beautiful outdoor landscapes, fun murals and art to track down. Our last family trip was to Asheville during the holidays.

See More: 101 Things to Do in Asheville NC

3. Augusta, Georgia

Distance:  145 mi / 2 hr 10 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Augusta Canal, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, Augusta Museum of History What to Eat:  Frog Hollow Tavern ,  Jackie M’s & Son ,  Abel Brown Where to Stay:  Search hotel deals in Augusta

Most well known for The Masters, Augusta is Georgia’s second oldest city. It definitely draws golfers from all over the world but is a great spot for weekend getaways.

With plenty of food options, eat til you can’t walk anymore, check out the growing arts and theater scene or catch a concert.

4. Blue Ridge Parkway

Distance:  164 mi / 2 hr 55 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Fall Foliage, Tons of Stops Along the 469-Mile Road What to Eat:  Haywood Smokehouse ,  Buttered Biscuit ,  The Sweet Onion Where to Stay:  Find hotels near the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is an amazing spot for anyone who loves the outdoors. There are beautiful hikes, fishing, and camping.

If you don’t like being outdoors, you can enjoy the beauty without getting out of the car on the scenic drive. Don’t forget to check out all the amazing spots the drive takes you through.

5. Charleston, South Carolina →

Distance:  305 mi / 4 hr 40 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Our Charleston Bucket List What to Eat:   49 Best Places to Eat in Charleston Where to Stay:  Hotels in Charleston

Charleston is one of my favorite cities close to Atlanta. It’s the oldest and second largest city in the state. I love the cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and beautiful architecture. On top of that, there are amazing rooftop bars and delicious seafood!

See More: 101 Things to Do in Charleston SC

6. Destin, Florida →

Distance:  315 mi / 5 hr 10 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Henderson Beach State Park, Destin Harbor Boardwalk, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park What to Eat:  McGuire’s Irish Pub ,  Boshamps Oyster House , Louisiana Lagniappe Where to Stay:  Hotels in Destin

If you’re looking for clean, white sand beaches, Destin is your spot! Spring Break will bring party-ers to town but much less than some of the neighboring beaches. Though I prefer to stay longer when we drive down to the panhandle, we’ve done it for a weekend before.

See More: 17 Unforgettable Things to Do in Destin FL

7. Great Smoky Mountains NP / Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Distance:  196 mi / 3 hr 50 min ( map ) What to Do / See:   Great Smoky Mountains NP , Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park, Sky Life What to Eat:   Crockett’s Breakfast Camp ,  Delauders BBQ ,  Pancake Pantry Where to Stay:   Search for nearby Hotel Deals

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the closest national park to Atlanta and the most visited in the US. Fall is one of the busiest times with everyone enjoying the foliage, but there are plenty of spots to explore. 

Although touristy, Gatlinburg is a popular spot to set up home base and also gives you more options for attractions and restaurants.

See More: Complete List of National Parks by State

8. The Golden Isles: Jekyll Island, St Simons, Little St Simons, Sea Island

Distance:  322 mi / 4 hr 40 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Driftwood Beach, Fort Frederica National Monument What to Eat:  Southern Soul Barbeque , Driftwood Bistro , Halyards Restaurant Where to Stay:  Search for Hotels in the Golden Isles

Located on the Georgia coast are four beautiful islands: St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. Pristine marshlands fill the landscape accompanied by beautiful beaches. Each island brings its own character. On one hand, Jekyll Island is popular with families, on the other, Little St Simon is privately owned and only 32 people can stay there at a time.

9. Greenville, South Carolina →

Distance:  145 mi / 2 hr 15 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Swamp Rabbit Trail, Greenville Zoo, Liberty Bridge What to Eat:   Takosushi ,  The Trappe Door ,  Thomas Creek Brewery Where to Stay:  Greenville Hotel Deals

Find waterfalls, hike beautiful trails, or fly down a zip line in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Greenville has something to offer year round. You can also find one-of-a-kind shops, art galleries, museums, and attractions for the whole family.

See More: 13 Absolutely Amazing Places to Eat in Greenville SC

10. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Distance:  281 mi / 4 hr 5 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Coastal Discovery Museum, Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, Hunting Island State Park What to Eat:  Lucky Rooster ,  A Lowcountry Backyard ,  Skull Creek Boathouse Where to Stay:  Hilton Head Island Hotels

Look for starfish, sand-dollars, and sea turtles at the beach, or spend your day on the golf course, biking, or kayaking. There are beautiful resorts and hotels set amongst spectacular scenery.

11. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Distance:  362 mi / 5 hr 30 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, Myrtle Beach State Park What to Eat:  Johnny D’s Waffles and Bakery , Eggs Up Grill , Simply Southern Smokehouse Where to Stay:   Search Myrtle Beach Hotels

Myrtle Beach has sixty miles of beautiful sandy beaches. Bask in the sun or play in the water. If you need a break from the sun, there are a ton of live shows, endless shopping, a lot of great restaurants.

12. Nashville, Tennessee →

Distance:  250 mi / 3 hr 45 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  9 Awesome Things to Do in Nashville What to Eat:  Peg Leg Porker ,  Hattie B’s Chicken ,  Biscuit Love Where to Stay:  Nashville Hotel Deals

Nashville is the country music capital! Catch an amazing live show on Broadway, see the Country Music Hall of Fame, or try some Nashville hot chicken. Also, there’s a full-sized replica of the Parthenon in Centennial Park.

See More: 9 Awesome Things to Do in Nashville Tennessee

13. Savannah, Georgia

Distance:  248 mi / 3 hr 30 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  Savannah Historic District, Oatland Island Wildlife Center, Fort Pulaski National Monument What to Eat:  The Olde Pink House ,  Savannah Seafood Shack , Treylor Park Where to Stay:   Hotel Deals in Savannah

Explore Savannah on a kayak, ride a carriage around town, or hop on a historical bus tour. If you’re a bit more daring, take a walking ghost tour. Savannah is a quintessential southern town with so much southern charm.

14. Birmingham, Alabama

Distance:  147 mi / 2 hr 15 min ( map ) What to Do / See:  McWane Center (Aquarium and Science Exhibits), Birmingham Museum of Art, Ruffner Mountain Nature Center What to Eat:  Bamboo on 2nd ,  El Barrio ,  Saw’s Soul Kitchen Where to Stay:   Search for Hotels in Birmingham

Birmingham is currently the largest city in Alabama and is where history meets present day. Even though the city is relatively young, it has a lot of historical significance that you can learn more about in their museums.

If you’re a sports fan, be sure to check out the nation’s oldest baseball stadium. If you’re looking for colorful photo spots, check out the rainbow-lit tunnel ( map ).

15. Orlando, Florida →

Distance:  442 mi / 6 hr 15 min ( map ) What to Do / See:   101 Things to Do in Orlando What to Eat:  Cafe Tu Tu Tango ,  Christner’s Prime Steak & Lobster ,  Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa Where to Stay:  The Best Hotels in Orlando

Our parents own a timeshare down in Orlando, so we’ve been going at least once a year ever since I was a kid. Even as adults, we’re still big fans of Disney.

Obviously, there’s Disney World and the Universal Parks, which can keep you busy in and of themselves, but there’s plenty around town if you’ve already been.

See More: The Ultimate Orlando Bucket List

Map of the Best Weekend Trips from Atlanta

More Weekend Trips from Atlanta

• Adairsville, GA (61 mi / 55 min /  map )
• Lake Oconee, GA (77 mi / 1 hr 20 min /  map )
• Pine Mountain, GA (78 mi / 1 hr 10 min /  map )
• Suches, GA (80 mi / 1 hr 30 min /  map )
• Americus, GA (143 mi / 2 hrs 25 min /  map )
• Cherokee, NC (161 mi / 2 hrs 45 min /  map )
• Tybee Island, GA (265 mi / 4 hrs /  map )
• Winston-Salem, NC (320 mi / 4 hrs 50 min /  map )
• Alys Beach, FL (300 mi / 5 hrs 10 min /  map )
• Pensacola, FL (324 mi / 4 hrs 55 min /  map )
• Oxford, MS (331 mi / 4 hrs 55 min /  map )
• Amelia Island, FL (356 mi / 5 hrs 15 min /  map )
• Durham, NC (382 mi / 5 hrs 45 min /  map )
• Memphis, TN (391 mi / 5 hrs 45 min /  map )
• Raleigh, NC (405 mi / 6 hrs 5 min /  map )
• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Atlanta hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Georgia travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Save money on attractions with CityPASS .
• S is for Southern – a Guide to the South from Absinthe to Zydeco
• Rand McNally Easy to Read Georgia Map
• 60 Hikes within 60 Miles of Atlanta
• Hiking Waterfalls in Georgia and South Carolina
• Georgia Beer Cap Map

How many of these weekend trips from Atlanta have you done? Can you think of any other weekend trips you’ve done?

Did you enjoy this post? Pin it for later

See More About Atlanta

101 THINGS TO DO IN ATLANTA

BEST FREE THINGS TO DO IN ATLANTA

25 MOST POPULAR INSTAGRAM SPOTS IN ATLANTA

15 AMAZING DAY TRIPS FROM ATLANTA GEORGIA

THE ULTIMATE ATLANTA FOOD BUCKET LIST

DIY WALKING DEAD TOUR OF ATLANTA

“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

Follow on Instagram (E + J) , YouTube , TikTok , and Pinterest.

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

15 Fun Georgia Road Trips For Your Bucket List

February 17, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you looking for a fun Georgia road trip to add to your bucket list? Then look no further! This list is full of amazing road trips around the beautiful state of Georgia.

Whether you want to visit coastal cities, try the best food in Georgia, or get lost in the mountains, there is a perfect road trip on this list for you. Georgia is a beautiful Southern state known for peaches and Coca-Cola. But there is more to the state than that.

Georgia has a rich history that has made for some very unique destinations. It is also located near the Blue Ridge Mountains and the has a beautiful Atlantic Ocean coast line. You can drive from the West to the East and experience wildly different landscapes, activities, and even dining.

The Peach State is home to some amazing food, spooky haunted buildings, beautiful landscapes, and even its own little Hollywood. You just have to know where to look.

Monticello to Senoia

If you’ve ever wanted to experience a slice of small-town Georgia, then the small towns in Georgia road trip is the perfect way to do so. Start off your trip in Monticello, which was once a major cotton town. Continue on to what is easily one of the cutest small towns in the South , Helen.

In Helen, enjoy the Bavarian-style architecture and take the time to explore one of the local vineyards. Next head to the charming town of Blue Ridge, which is named for its close proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Finish your trip in Senoia, which is a quaint historic town just 35 miles south of Atlanta.

Haunted Georgia

• Colonial Park Cemetery
• Devil’s Bridge
• Central State Hospital
• Tennga Motel

Start your Haunted Georgia Road Trip in one of the most haunted cities in the South, Savannah . There you’ll walk through the historic and spooky Colonial Park Cemetery. Next on your trip, head north to the Devil’s Bridge in Cochran. It is there that Satanic Cults were rumored to perform rituals.

After exploring Devil’s Bridge, continue heading north to the Central State Hospital. The Central State Hospital is a large abandoned asylum that is said to be haunted by its former patients. End your haunted road trip at the Tennga Motel in the extremely small town of Tennga. If you go at night, you may be able to spy a few lonely ghosts haunting the abandoned motel.

Amicalola Falls to Toccoa Falls

• Amicalola Falls
• Panther Creek Falls
• Tallulah Falls
• Toccoa Falls

Start your Georgia Waterfall Road Trip at Amicalola Falls, one of the top rated waterfalls in Georgia. While at the State Park, there are a total of seven waterfalls you can view. Next make your way to Panther Creek Falls, and on the way there you will pass a few other waterfalls you can view.

From Panther Creek Falls, continue on to Tallulah Falls. In the Tallulah Gorge State Park there are a total of six waterfalls you can hike to that flow into the gorge. Finish your trip at Toccoa Falls, which is actually on the campus of Toccoa Falls College. If you are looking for hiking adventures, the Georgia Waterfall Road Trip is a must-do.

Savannah to the Golden Isles

• Tybee Island
• the Golden Isles

The coastal Georgia road trip is all about exploring the best coastal cities in Georgia. You’ll start your road trip in Savannah where you can find a ton of things to do . From there head south to Tybee Island and explore the local lighthouse.

Continuing south, you’ll stop in Riceboro and Darien, two amazing coastal cities. After leaving Darien, you’ll want to stop in Brunswick for a bite to eat and then continue on. You’ll end your trip in the beautiful Golden Isles where you can tour a sea turtle center or even go shrimping.

North Georgia Mountains

• Cast & Blast Inn
• Downtown Blue Ridge
• Dawsonville

For your road trip through the North Georgia Mountains, you’ll want to start your journey in Dahlonega. While there explore Georgia’s wine country with a winery tour or stop at the Smith House. Make sure to check out some of the Best Things To Do In Dahlonega!

Continue North to the Cast & Blast Inn where you can learn how to go fly fishing from a professional.

From the Cast & Blast Inn you’ll head west into Downtown Blue Ridge. It’s a charming mountain village that is home to pure mineral springs. Continue your journey by heading south and making sure to stop into Ellijay, another charming mountain village. Finish your trip in Dawsonville where you can explore Amicalola Falls State Park.

Georgia National Parks Road Trip

• Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park
• Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
• Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park
• Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

If you want to see some of the best National Parks in Georgia, then start your road trip in Northern Georgia at the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. There you can view two of the Civil Wars’ most important battle sites. From there, continue south to the Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

Near Kennesaw there are two other National Parks that you should take the time to check out. One of them honors the late Martin Luther King Jr. and the other overlooks the Chattahoochee River. Continue south on your drive to the Ocmulgee Mounds National Park and learn about the Native American tribes that once called the area home. Finish your trip at the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site where you can tour his former home, school, and more.

Covered Bridges of Georgia

• Watson Mill Bridge
• Poole’s Mill Covered Bridge
• Concord Covered Bridge
• Auchumpkee Covered Bridge

Most people think covered bridges only exist in New England, and that’s just not true. On the Covered Bridges of Georgia road trip, you’ll begin your tour at the Watson Mill Bridge. It is one of the largest covered bridges in the state and one of the most popular. As you make your way to Poole’s Mill Covered Bridge, there will be several other’s you can admire.

From Poole’s Mill, continue on to the Concord Covered Bridge. The Concord Covered Bridge has a unique Queen-rod design that makes it the Georgia-covered bridge with the highest amount of traffic. Finish your Covered Bridges of Georgia road trip at the Auchumpkee Covered Bridge. It’s not open for traffic, but you can get a close up view of it and it’s the perfect way to end your adventure.

Epic Nature Road Trip

• Okefenokee Swamp
• Stone Mountain Park
• Providence Canyon
• Radium Springs

Start your exploration of Georgia’s epic natural world at the Okefenokee Swamp. At almost half a million acres, it is considered to be the largest swamp in the US. Continue Northwest where you can make stops in Savannah, Tallulah Gorge State Park and Amicalola Falls State Park. Your next stop will be Stone Mountain Park.

There you’ll find a beautiful large lake and picturesque views. Head South to Providence Canyon. Providence Canyon is a soft-walled canyon made of red clay and loam and it makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a mini Grand Canyon. Finish your road trip at Radium Springs. There you can look into crystal clear water and explore the landscape.

Abandoned Places Road Trip

• Dungeness Ruins
• Harville House
• Atlanta Prison Farm
• New Manchester Manufacturing Company

Some of the places on this list are also awesome stops if you want to do the Haunted Georgia road trip at the same time. Start out at the Dungeness Ruins in St. Marys. There you can walk amongst the ruins of a once beautiful mansion. From there, travel to the Harville House. The Harville House is a beautiful abandoned mansion hidden on Harville Road.

Next, you’ll venture into Atlanta to take a look at the Atlanta Prison Farm. The Prison Farm is a bunch of abandoned warehouses on private property, so you’ll have to legally admire it from afar. But the buildings are covered in unique graffiti and overgrown plants. End your trip at the New Manchester Manufacturing Company to view the pre-Civil War cotton Mill that burned down shortly after the Civil War.

Cherry Blossoms from Macon to Atlanta

• Macon International Cherry Blossom Festival
• Waddell Barnes Botanical Gardens
• Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival
• the Governors Mansion

If you want to experience Cherry Blossom season in Georgia, you’re going to want to spend most of your time in Macon. The city of Macon hosts an International Cherry Blossom Festival every year. It is also home to the Waddell Barnes Botanical Gardens where you can view Cherry Blossoms during blooming season.

Outside of Macon, you’ll want to travel to Conyers. Conyers is another city in Georgia that hosts a Cherry Blossom Festival. It’s not as big as Macon’s, but its still a must attend for any Cherry Blossom lover. Finish your tour of Georgia’s Cherry Blossoms at the Governor’s Mansion in Atlanta.

Georgia’s Fall Foliage Road Trip

• Cloudland Canyon State Park
• Vogel State Park
• Moccasin Creek State Park
• Black Rock Mountain State Park

Georgia in the Fall is a beautiful time to visit. If you want to drive around looking at Fall foliage, start your road trip at Cloudland Canyon State Park. Cloudland Canyon is one of the biggest State Parks in Georgia and has plenty of vantage points to allow you to enjoy the foliage. Continue on to Vogel State Park where you can admire the beautiful Fall colors against the lake.

From there head to Moccasin Creek State Park. It is one of the smaller State Parks in Georgia, but it has some beautiful views. You’ll be able to admire the Fall leaves against the backdrop of waterfalls, Moccasin Creek, and more. Finish your road trip at Black Rock Mountain State Park. It’s the park with the highest elevation, so you’ll get some amazing birds-eye views of Georgia’s beautiful Fall foliage.

Lighthouses of Georgia

• Tybee Island Lighthouse
• Cockspur Island Light
• Sapelo Island Lighthouse
• St. Simmons Island Lighthouse

There are four lighthouse in Georgia, and on this road trip in Georgia you’ll get to see them all. In Northern Georgia, you’ll start your journey at the Tybee Island Lighthouse. It is near Savannah and is one of the most popular lighthouses to visit in Georgia. Continue South to the Cockspur Island Light. It’s the smallest lighthouse in Georgia and it’s unique because it sits alone in the water.

From there, head to the Sapelo Island Lighthouse. It is a classic red and white stripped lighthouse and is actually the oldest brick lighthouse. End your trip on the Southern tip of St. Simmons Island. There you’ll find the large white stone lighthouse that was used during the Civil War, and after being burned down was rebuilt.

Georgia’s Antebellum Trail

• T.R.R. Cobb House, Athens
• Eagle Tavern Museum, Watkinsville
• Heritage Hall, Madison
• Hay House, Macon

For lovers of Antebellum Architecture, the Antebellum Trail is one of the best weekend road trips through Georgia. You’ll start your journey at the charmingly pink T.R.R Cobb House in Athens. It was once home to one of the authors of the Confederate Constitution. Next, learn a bit of history at the Eagle Tavern Museum in Watkinsville. Built in the 1700’s, visitors can experience what life would have been like in Watkinsville.

Continue on to Heritage Hall in Madison. It is one of the finest Antebellum homes in Georgia from a time when cotton made slave owners wealthy. Now, you can tour the home and learn about it’s famous owners and the slaves who built it. Finish your road trip through Georgia’s Antebellum architecture at the Hay House. It is a beautiful Italian Renaissance Revival mansion in Macon and available for tours.

Georgia Foodies Road Trip

• Big Pie in the Sky, Kennesaw
• Heirloom Market BBQ, Atlanta
• Sublime Donuts, Atlanta
• The Crab Shack, Tybee Island

You’ll start your foodie journey in Northern Georgia at the Big Pie in the Sky in Kennesaw. There you can take on the challenge to devour their famous 11 pound pizza. Next, head to Atlanta where you’ll find the next two ultimate foodie destinations.

The Heirloom Market BBQ is famous for its combination of Texas-style and Korean BBQ. It is a one-of-a-kind BBQ spot that you must visit in Atlanta. Next head to Sublime Donuts where you can enjoy unique donut flavors and sweets. Finish your foodie road trip on the coast at Tybee Island. There, dig into a classic Southern seafood feast.

The Georgia Film Enthusiast Road Trip

• Crawfordville

In recent years Georgia has become the Hollywood of the East Coast. It is a popular filming location for so many production studios, and even Marvel films have been made there. Start your journey through the stars in North Georgia in Atlanta. This is one of the biggest spots for filming in Georgia and has been the backdrop of movies from ‘Driving Miss Daisy’ to the ‘Blind Side’.

Next head to Crawfordville where you can reenact scenes from ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ and check out the Taliaferro County Historical Society’s exhibits on local filmmaking. Continue on to the small town of Monticello where movies like ‘Fried Green Tomatoes’ filmed in the Whistle Stop Cafe. Finish your film tour in Savannah. Savannah is one of the most popular filmmaking destinations and has been the backdrop of over 85 films, from ‘Forest Gump’ to ‘X Men: First Class’.

Have you explored any of these fun Georgia road trips? If not, you definitely want to make sure you add one, or even a few, to your Georgia travel bucket list. If you have gone on one of these awesome road trips, we’d love to hear about it in the comments!

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Atlanta to Great Smoky Mountains Loop Road Trip

From big-city attractions to america's favorite national park and all the fascinating stops on the way..

Wind your way on this hilly and curvy road trip from Atlanta’s big-city attractions to America’s favorite national park, Great Smoky Mountains. On the way you’ll stop at sites that made history and have Instagram-worthy views. Plus, you can check another drive off your bucket-list before reaching Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg, Tenn., a great gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can do this trip on a long weekend, but we recommend you spend at least a week to make the most of this adventure at a leisurely pace.

Start: Atlanta, Ga.

Start your Atlanta to Great Smoky Mountains Loop Road Trip in the “Big Peach,” Atlanta, Ga.

Atlanta is a city full of culture, history, music and a burgeoning foodie scene.

Jump on the Peachtree Trolley for a 90-minute trolley ride through the heart of the city. Designed to be reminiscent of Atlanta’s transportation in the early 20th century, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time – with the modern convenience of air conditioning of course.

Next up, visit the World of Coca Cola. Here, you’ll get a tour of a bottling plant, which is slowed down to give visitors a better look at the process. You’ll learn about Coke’s history and cultural impact and taste their products from all around the world, the classics and new products that are being tested at the Taste It! area. Overwhelmed by choices? Fan favorites include Fanta Pineapple from Greece and Guaraná Kuat, a Brazilian drink that tastes similar to ginger ale with a hint of berry.

Atlanta played a big role in the Civil Rights Movement and was home to activist Martin Luther King Jr. Give yourself at least two hours to visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park. Tour the house where King was born and the Ebenezer Baptist Church where he served as a reverend and pay your respects at his grave. Make sure to stop by Freedom Hall to learn more about the Civil Rights Movement before you continue your journey.

You’ll need to fuel up before hitting the road and in Atlanta, there’s no shortage of good food. In the South, declaring you’ve found Atlanta’s best barbeque amounts to fighting words. We won’t tell you B’s Cracklin’ BBQ is the best, but the out-the-door line speaks for itself. Pitmaster Bryan Furman raises the heritage-breed hogs he roasts over split oak and pecan logs himself. Make sure to try the Carolina Mustard Style BBQ Sauce B’s is famous for. It’s a sweet and tangy blend of mustard and, of course, Georgia peaches.

If barbeque isn’t your thing, head to Buford Highway, an eight-mile stretch of road near the city center that’s packed with more than 20 international communities serving dishes from around the world in restaurants and markets. Or, you could head to the original Waffle House which is located just outside of Atlanta in Avondale Estates. Just remember, while it may be called Waffle House, ordering hash browns is the pro move. Make sure to check the menu so you’re ordering in the correct lingo. Author’s choice? Scattered, covered and smothered.

Ocoee Country

The land in Southern Tennessee is crisscrossed by rivers, carving their way through gorges and around mountains. This area, known as Ocoee Country after its biggest river, is 60% national forest. It’s a remote and rural outdoor lover’s paradise with hiking trails, whitewater rafting and fishing galore. In between vast chunks of nature, charming small towns dot the landscape offering delicious food, local brews and unique lodging. Here are seven of our favorite things to do in and around towns like Benton, Ducktown and Copperhill , Tennessee.

Lake Fontana Dam and Marina

If you haven’t fallen in love with the Appalachian Mountains yet, this stop will have you convinced. An hour west of the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, the Fontana Dam is part of the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area and is the tallest dam east of the Rockies. It creates Fontana Reservoir, with over 200 miles of shoreline and 10,000 acres of water to explore.

Start at the Visitor Center and join a ranger-led tour from the observation deck to learn more about the surrounding area.

If those stellar views have you eager to hit the trails, consider checking out one of the world’s most famous hikes: the Appalachian Trail. While this through-hike stretches from Georgia to Maine and takes months to complete, you can get a taste of what drives these hikers by venturing as far as you like on the trail and then heading back to the dam.

If you’d rather find some solitude, catch a pontoon boat shuttle at the Fontana Village Marina and explore Fontana Lake’s North Shore, which isn’t accessible by motorized vehicle. Miles of pristine trails await, as well as excellent fishing.

Back at the Marina, rent a pontoon boat, canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the water. The Fontana Village Resort, home to the Marina, also offers a variety of lodging and dining options.

Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg, Tenn.

Pigeon Forge /Gatlinburg, Tenn. is the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With the Dollywood theme park, a Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum and more, Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg is quite the tourist attraction, but don’t let the hullabaloo fool you. The area’s best feature is its natural beauty.

Hop on the Ober Gatlinburg aerial tramway at Parkway and LeConte Streets and soar high above the treetops to see the beautiful vistas. Have lunch at the Seasons of Ober Restaurant for more great views.

When you research the Pigeon River, you’d think it was designed with all levels of white-water rafter in mind. The upper Pigeon offers an exhilarating Class III rapid trip, while the lower river is calmer, offering those who would rather take in the peaceful scenery than get their blood pumping, a chance to float gentle rapids and swim in calm swimming holes. There are several rafting companies based in Gatlinburg that offer trips on the Pigeon.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Adventure awaits in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Work your way through the park from Tennessee to North Carolina, stopping for your picks from our Top Things to Do list. Staying near the park for a couple of days? Here’s our plan for the best 48-Hours in Great Smoky .

Think Pink When you board one of Pink Adventure Tours’ signature pink Jeep Wranglers, you’ll soak up more information than you thought possible on your Smoky Mountains tour. Catch a tour from Pigeon Forge .

Drive the Tail of the Dragon

You may want to opt for the rental car upgrade as this route includes a thrilling drive. The Tail of the Dragon on the Tennessee/North Carolina state line might just be the most exciting road you’ll ever drive. This adventure is not for the faint of heart. Eleven miles of tight curves, some with banked turns will leave you breathless. This road is a favorite of sports car enthusiasts and motorcyclists and has been featured on the British car show, Top Gear . Start at Cheoah Dam in Robbinsville, North Carolina and drive Hwy 129 north to Deals Gap Motorcycle Resort. Cheoah Dam is home to “Fugitive Bridge” which was featured in the 1993 movie The Fugitive starring Harrison Ford. Stop at Deals Gap to stretch your legs before beginning the true Tail of the Dragon, Hwy 129 north to Tabcat Creek Bridge. There are no intersecting roads or driveways on this stretch of the highway and no semi-trucks are allowed, making it a drive without exterior distractions so you can keep your eyes on the road. Photographers may line the route, snapping photos of your vehicle on the road. Check out www.killboy.com after your drive to see if you were featured and to purchase a copy of your photo.

Franklin, North Carolina

Don’t let the 4,233 population number fool you. The tiny town of Franklin , North Carolina and the surrounding region are chock full of hidden gems. Quite literally. In the mountains outside of town you’ll find 10 active, locally owned and operated gem mines where you can sift through buckets of dirt for rubies, sapphires and other precious gemstones.

Then, there are the waterfalls. Set aside an entire day to drive the 61-mile Mountain Waters Scenic Byway through Macon County and you’ll find plenty of them. The most popular stop along the way is Dry Falls where you can park at the top of the 75-foot-tall waterfall and peer down at it from an accessible overlook.

The world-famous Appalachian Trail runs through Franklin at mile 110 and each spring the town sees an influx of northbound thru-hikers on their way from Georgia to Maine. While the 2,190-mile trail is too much of an adventure for most of us, you can still get a taste of the AT on the 5-mile roundtrip hike to Siler Bald.

End: Atlanta, Ga.

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Beautiful Georgia Coast Road Trip: Best Stops from Savannah to Jekyll Island

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: January 20, 2022  - Last updated: January 30, 2024

Have you ever done a Georgia Coast road trip? No?! Well now’s your chance and you will love it! A road trip along the Georgia coast is rather surprising, as it’s not a big long beach like doing a California Coast road trip or a Florida Gulf Coast trip . But it’s awesome!

For us, this is a regular trip that we do several times each year and find new stops with each jaunt. The Georgia Coast road trip is good in any season, so pack the car, get some snacks and have an adventure! If you have any questions or need more tips, please leave a comment or send us a note !

A lot of people ask us about living in the South and how to get the best of both beaches and history. Doing a road trip from Florida to Georgia is the perfect way to get the full experience. A road trip from Atlanta is an option too, but that’s a bit more complicated. Here’s the scoop though for having an incredible coastal Georgia road trip including Tybee Island, Savannah and the Golden Isles.

Get my book, The Road Trip Survival Guide , to help create a memorable vacation!

Getting to the Georgia Coast

If you’re not familiar with the map of the East Coast, you may think that Atlanta is super close to the beach, but it’s not. Savannah actually isn’t even a beachfront city, but it’s pretty close. So, how do you get to the beaches of Georgia? While heading to the coast is one of the best road trips from Atlanta, it’s not the best way to get to Savannah.

This Georgia Coast road trip map shows the route, drive time from Atlanta to Savannah, and road trip stops from Jacksonville northward.

Flying to Savannah, Georgia

This is the easiest way to get to the Georgia Coast. Fly into Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) direct from more than 20 airports in the USA. If you’re coming from Denver , Dallas, Chicago or New York , you’ll have lots of options. Also, there are direct flights from Minneapolis (MSP) which means that you can get to Savannah from nearly anywhere.

Flying to Jacksonville, Florida for a Georgia Coast Road Trip

Flying into Jacksonville, FL (JAX) is also an option. Located less than a half hour from the Florida-Georgia border, flying into JAX is another great way to start your Georgia Coast road trip. Add a few days to explore Jacksonville , Jacksonville Beach , Saint Augustine or the Florida springs and you have a truly winning vacation plan.

Scenic Route to Savannah, Georgia

The Atlanta to Savannah drive is a fun one. The distance between ATL and Savannah is about 270 miles , so it’s not just a quick jaunt. You can go two different ways: the scenic route through North Georgia or the main freeway. 

I love doing the Georgia waterfalls road trip and doing the many hikes in gold country, but if your goal is having a Georgia beach vacation, you may want to skip it.

After you land, drive from Atlanta to Savannah along I-16, making a stop in Macon, GA. It’s about a four hour drive. You could also go via I-20 through Augusta, GA, which would give you lots of interesting Civil War sites to visit.

Ultimately though, the fastest way to start your Georgia Coast road trip is by flying into Savannah or Jacksonville, FL. Unless you have ridiculous stopovers to those airports, you’ll nearly always save time and money by flying into SAV or JAX. You can also start this road trip after driving the coast from the north stopping at beaches in North Carolina and into South Carolina before coming to Savannah.

When is the best time to do a Georgia Coast Road Trip?

Of course summer is the best time to do a road trip on the Georgia Coast, but fall is really perfect. Due to the warm climate, visiting Coastal Georgia in fall means that you’ll have pretty nice weather still with pleasantly warm beaches.

Mid to late spring is also really great for any Georgia road trip. For driving down the coast, you’ll be getting the start of the sunshiny weather and still will be missing the summer crowds. The water doesn’t warm up much until around May, so doing a spring trip might be a bit chilly if swimming in the ocean is one of your goals.

Note: Coastal Georgia is subject to the Atlantic hurricane season, but it’s rare that a named storm actually makes landfall. Summers do bring tropical rains though, but it’s usually short lived.

Winter on the Georgia coast is wet. It’s not even slightly crowded, except for people visiting Savannah over the holidays. Expect rain and wind December through March. We’ve been in February, April, July, October and November and April – October have definitely been the best weather-wise.

Georgia Coast Road Trip Stops and Sights

Unlike driving Florida A1A all along the coast, doing a Georgia Coast road trip is NOT along the beach. Because Georgia’s barrier islands are so undeveloped and protected, there isn’t a coastal road.

The route to Savannah (or from) is mainly along I-95 which leads all the way to Miami. You can drive on state highway 17 for a portion of the road trip, but even then it crosses 95 or joins it. If you drive the 17 you’ll be able to easily make stops at road side points of interest, and you’ll have a chance for easy wildlife watching.

Jump to our 6 Day Georgia Coast Itinerary

Fun Things to Do in Savannah

Savannah really is a highlight, if not THE highlight of a Georgia Coast road trip. Between the history and the live oaks dripping with moss in the parks and squares, it’s magical. There is great food around every corner and since downtown is considered an entertainment district, you can stroll the streets with a cocktail in hand.

See our full guide to the Best Things To Do in Savannah!

Savannah has several museums including the Telfair Museums and SCAD’s museum. And of course several historic homes are available for touring too. Something fun that’s popular, and we have them in our hometown of Saint Augustine , is ghost tours. Being a historic city, of course it’s got stories…

Book a historic walking/food tour or ghost tour here !

Explore the Historic Districts and Parks

If you’re spending a few days exploring Savannah, the city itself, it’s best to get familiar by walking on foot. The Historic District, Historic District South, and the Plant-Riverside District are each beautiful and fascinating. You’ll find that there are so many great places to eat in Savannah ; you’ll want to eat your way around the city.

Spend a day wandering aimlessly through the historic district and enjoy taking photos and relaxing in any of the 24 public squares and parks. Being the first strategically planned city in the USA, the grid of the historic streets is easy to explore and every block offers a unique and beautiful view of Savannah life.

Some of our favorite Savannah squares to visit include:

• Telfair Square
• Orleans Square
• Oglethorpe Square
• Columbia Square
• Whitefield Square
• Troup Square

As you wander, respect the privacy of the residents of Savannah and do not trespass or impact their day-to-day. Sitting on a step here and there is okay, but posing on people’s porches or knocking on their doors IS NOT.

Also make time to visit Forsyth Park, one of the most wonderful places to see in Savannah. Much larger than any of the other 24 squares in the city, Forsyth Park is the heart of neighborhood life in Savannah. We actually have an apartment just off Forsyth Park and love spending weekends there!

Enjoy the live oaks, flowers, and artist tables and performers in Forsyth Park and you’ve got a winning afternoon plan. Check the city’s website for current events at Forsyth Park.

See our Complete Guide to Forsyth Park!

Enjoy Factors Walk and Plant Riverside District

The historic area along the Savannah River is really fun and beautiful. Of course it’s a bit touristy with the riverboat cruises going out from River Street, but it’s still fun and historic.

Check out riverboat cruise tours here!

Be sure to read the historic plaques on buildings and the captions on statues. The Riverside District was the center of the cotton trade in the 1800s, so there is a lot of history, including both the slave trade AND the Underground Railroad.

Tip: try to get on a tour with Savannah Underground Tours to learn about abolition and the Underground Railroad in Savannah.

Also on the river is the JW Marriott Plant Riverside, and it’s incredible. Found in the renovated old riverside powerplant, the JW Marriott is full of art, gems and fossils on display for the public. Amazing, large amethyst geodes and dinosaur fossils are all around. And the JW Marriott lobby collection includes an enormous replica of an Amphicoelias fragillimus, the largest dinosaur ever found.

Finish out the day on the riverfront with rooftop dinner or drinks at any of the many bars and restaurants along River Street or Factors Walk. The Topdeck is great for a 270 degree view of Savannah.

Savannah Historic Sites Not to Miss

Just outside of downtown Savannah is Wormsloe Historic Site. It’s a part of the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites ( get the annual pass ). Wormsloe is a beautiful place to visit. What it’s most famous for is the mile and a half live oak tree tunnel.

Besides the live oaks, there is a small museum about the original structures built around the property, several trails through the forest and into the marsh, and also living history demonstrations. Other historic sites have more to offer in terms of sights and activities, but the incredible live oak tree tunnel all by itself is worth the visit.

Check the Wormsloe Historic Site website for up to date information and happenings at the park.

Another must-visit spot is the Bonaventure Cemetery : the prettiest cemetery in Georgia. It’s not far from downtown Savannah so it’s easy to add to your Georgia Coast road trip. Visit Bonaventure on the way into or out of town. It’s not walkable from the downtown area, but if you are bringing or renting bikes, it’s an easy ride.

If you’ve seen Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil the Bonaventure Cemetery will look very familiar. The bending trees and Spanish moss paired with the centuries old ornate tombs are really dramatic to see. Don’t go looking for the Bird Girl sculpture from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil though, because it’s not there. It’s in the Telfair Academy (Telfair Museums) in Savannah .

Best Beaches on the Georgia Coast

As I said, Georgia isn’t like Florida when it comes to beaches. The Georgia Coast road trip route crosses marshes and rivers to get to the beaches. The drive from Atlanta to Savannah will have you aching for a day at the ocean, so continue just a half hour past the city for the first beach stop on the Georgia coast.

Tybee Island Beaches

Tybee Island is considered “Savannah’s beach” and rightly so. As you continue on your Georgia Coast road trip, hit up Tybee Island for it’s unique lighthouse (it’s not round, but its shape is an octagon), relaxed vacation vibe and beautiful beaches.

What I love about the beaches of Tybee Island is how active the surf is. Living in Florida, we have a pretty far walk out to the bigger waves for body surfing and boogie boarding. At Tybee Island, the waves crash pretty close to shore, but still with enough shallows that families can have swimming time together.

Tip: watch for sea turtles when you’re visiting Georgia beaches in the summertime. Swimming at Tybee Island in July we saw a loggerhead sea turtle swimming right by us, so know that you’re sharing the water with wildlife.

Beaches on Tybee Island:

• North Beach / Tybee Beach Point
• Mid Beach / Memorial Park
• Tybee Beach at the Pier
• South Beach / Chatham Ave Beach

BE AWARE OF PARKING RULES . Because Tybee Island is also a residential place, there are parking restrictions. Also, there are paid parking lots and street-side parking, so check the posted signs before leaving your vehicle. You can’t do a Georgia Coast road trip if your car gets towed away…

Sapelo Island Reserve Beach

Visiting the Sapelo Island Wildlife Management Area and Blackbeard National Wildlife Refuge isn’t just something you happen into. You need to plan it. If you want to visit and explore Sapelo Island, including the pristine Georgia beaches, you need to arrive early in the day and take a boat from the visitor center onto the island.

The ferry to Sapelo Island is a tour, and you’ll need to bring your own snacks, drinks and bug repellent. But once on the island it’s amazing. You’ll find beaches, the red and white striped Sapelo Lighthouse (much like the West Quoddy Lighthouse in Maine ) and wildlife.

TOUR DETAILS: because Sapelo Island is protected, visiting means taking the ferry (25 minute crossing) and then doing a guided bus tour of the island and its sights. You do get to get on and off the bus but it’s limited to approved areas. Confirm on the website that it’s a tour day and CALL FOR RESERVATIONS.

St Simons Island Beaches

I love St Simons Island for lots of reasons, but its chill beaches are really key to a fun visit. At the south end of the St Simons is the shipping area, so you won’t want to access the water there, but as you head north, from the beach at the King and Prince Resort to the Beach at Gould’s Inlet, you’ll find calm waves and at low tide, flat, fine sand stretching into the surf.

Beachfront hotels aren’t very common on the Georgia Coast, so if your road trip need a few nights ON the beach, St Simons is a good place to do that. Jekyll Island has beachfront hotel options too.

Jekyll Island Beaches

Georgia beaches are so unique to each other. Your Georgia Coast road trip takes you to Jekyll Island next. Here you’ll find several nice beach parks, from the south end at St Andrews Beach to the super cool Driftwood Beach. There is a bike path that goes along a good portion of the beach, so ride and take frequent breaks to enjoy the waves.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Part of the National Parks system, Cumberland Island National Seashore is another place that’s tricky to get to. Like Sapelo Island, you have to take a ferry to get to it and then you’re limited with your transportation options. Once on the island though, it’s beautiful.

Read our full guide to visiting Cumberland Island National Seashore!

To make sure you have enough time and get your money’s worth, be sure to catch the FIRST ferry to the island and that you can catch the LAST ferry back (or the 2:45pm boat if you’re okay with shortened beach time). The facilities on Cumberland Island are minimal, so don’t arrive expecting the glamor of Everglades National Park or the services of Glacier National Park . This is a rustic park.

Note : there are water filling stations several spots on the south end of the island, which is where you’ll be for 90% of your visit. And there are a few bathrooms besides at the dock.

Highlights are the pristine Georgia beaches you can swim and beachcomb at , the ruins of the Dungeness Mansion and the wild horses. Yes, wild horses!

Like up in Assateague or Chincoteague, Virginia there are feral horses roaming Cumberland Island. They clearly are often fed by visitors, but cool just the same. They do come very close and YOU are the one responsible for maintaining a safe distance.

Plan to bring bikes onto the island if you can, or you can rent them. To see all of the sites it’s a lot of ground to cover. Ideally camping for a night or two would be perfect to explore on foot, but that’s not an option for many, so bringing bikes to Cumberland Island is the best bet. There is also the Lands and Legacies Tour , which can be booked in advance.

Get up-to-date sailing and fare information for the Cumberland Island Ferry here!

Georgia History Road Trip Stops

You can’t swing a dead cat on a Georgia road trip without it landing someplace historic. And that’s why we love doing the road trip on the Georgia Coast. From Tybee Island to the Florida-Georgia border you’ll find British colonial history, Civil War history, the Underground Railroad, prohibition and more.

One of the best road trip ideas from Florida to Georgia is to stop at each historic fort along the way. Or plan a road trip to Jekyll Island visiting plantation and military ruins. So many great road trip themes you can choose from!

Old Fort Jackson in Savannah

Just outside of downtown Savannah on the way to Tybee Island is Old Fort Jackson . We loved this place so much. We’ve been to lots of forts and done lots of living history demonstrations and Old Fort Jackson is a winner!

Yes, Dry Tortugas National Park is amazing and beautiful and Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is fun with kids, and the living history at Colonial Williamsburg is awesome, but Old Fort Jackson is subtle and wonderful. We really enjoyed how unique this pre-Civil War era fort is and the musket and cannon demonstrations were great.

Entrance to Old Fort Jackson is included if you have the Georgia State Historic Sites pass, otherwise it has an entrance fee per person ($9/adult and $5/child). Check the Old Fort Jackson website for any current events and schedule.

Visiting Fort Pulaski National Monument on Tybee Island

If you haven’t been to Dry Tortugas and won’t be able to visit the Florida Keys anytime soon, Fort Pulaski National Monumen t is a great option to add to your Georgia Coast road trip. A HUGE brick fortress with a lighthouse and a moat, Fort Pulaski is pretty cool.

Located on Cockspur Island (basically Tybee Island still), Fort Pulaski isn’t far off your Georgia road trip route. Visiting with kids is fun and one of the most educational fort sites we’ve visited. The Junior Ranger packet is pretty complex, but as long as you’re interested in history and love attention to details, it’s a breeze to complete.

Wander the fortress walls and tunnels, watch for wildlife in the marsh and do the nature trails to the edge of the island to get the full experience. The small Cockspur Island Lighthouse has been under renovation in 2021, but when it’s finished is an easy walk from the visitor center.

Tip : use your America the Beautiful National Park Pass here!

Georgia History at Fort Morris and Fort McAllister State Historic Sites

I know, another fort to visit. There are just so many of them! One of the great things about planning your stops on a Georgia Coast road trip is that you DON’T have to do every single one. For example, both Fort Morris and Fort McAllister are along the route but you can skip one or both of them.

Both of these forts are Georgia State Historic Sites so are covered by the pass. They are very similar in that they are ruins of forts with earthen coverage. The live oaks and historic exhibits are cool and interesting, but they aren’t as intriguing as Old Fort Jackson or Fort King George.

Top Pick: Fort King George Historic Site

We LOVE Fort King George Historic Site. And it too is included with the Georgia State Historic Sites pass. Seriously, that pass pays for itself in a few days.

Fort King Georgia is very different from any of the other forts we’ve included in our Georgia Coast road trip plan. Fort King George is mostly reconstructed with a few historic ruins, like there are some mill ruins and a cool old cottage. Dating to the 1700s when England and Spain fought all the time, Fort King George is a great example showing how construction and technology changed over time.

There are nature trails, cool fortress buildings, a museum and even a dock to watch for alligators from. Be prepared with bug spray. Fort King George is located directly in the Georgia marsh and there are lots of flies and mosquitoes depending on the weather. The visitor center even posts a warning about the bug activity level for the day.

Note: the mosquitoes really are no joke. We encounter intense mosquito activity when we do bioluminescent kayaking in Florida , and the bugs in the Georgia marsh sites are very comparable.

There are also seasonal kayak and canoe rentals available at Fort King George. If you choose to go paddling, be sure you’re prepared to prevent bug bites.

Exploring Beautiful Brunswick, Georgia

Despite many Georgia Coast road trips, somehow we kept on skipping Brunswick. Never again! Brunswick, Georgia is a beautiful town complete with public squares, parks and fountain. Beautiful 19th century architecture can be seen all over the historic downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.

Walk down Newcastle Street to find local galleries, the really beautiful old city hall, small squares and lots of restaurants. Visit Hanover Park and Square to enjoy live oaks, flower gardens and a beautiful fountain. Pop over a few blocks to check out the Lovers Oak. Wow! What an enormous tree!

Outside of the historic downtown is our favorite stop in Brunswick, and one we’ve made several times now: the Pinball Palace . An awesome collection of vintage pinball machines and other 80s video games (I swear they’re straight from an old Pizza Hut) the Pinball Palace is perfect for the inevitable rainy afternoon. Pay by the hour for unlimited play.

Best Road Trip Stops in Georgia’s Golden Isles

We’ve done several vacations JUST to the Golden Isles of Georgia. There is so much to do and relaxing around the islands is so easy. The Golden Isles are comprised of Jekyll Island, St Simons Island, Little St Simons Island and Sea Island. Brunswick connects them all, but it’s not an island (so cool though!).

FYI, if you are up for a really fun idea, bring your bikes or rent them on the island to get around everywhere. Biking on St Simons Island is really fun and with great bike paths, it’s easy to do. Also, the island is super flat which is perfect for biking. And this is, what I think is, the epicenter of Georgia Coast kayaking !

Fort Frederica National Monument on St Simons Island

The first stop, since we’ve been talking about so many forts is Fort Frederica National Monument . It’s interesting because it’s mostly ruins and is just pretty to wander through. As you explore Fort Frederica, you’ll walk down used-to-be streets ogling huge live oaks and checking to see if the oranges are ripe yet.

There are some cannons, fortress ruins, the ruins of an 18th century two story barracks building and more. Our kids enjoy doing the scavenger hunt around the Fort Frederica grounds. It’s a great way to keep them interested is engaged.

Climbing the St Simons Island Lighthouse

We visit as many lighthouses as we can. We love lighthouses ! The St Simons Island Lighthouse is a great one for getting a slice of history and a beautiful view. It’s not too tall, at just 104 feet (129 steps). The St Augustine Lighthouse has 219 steps, so this one is pretty easy in comparison.

Plan around a hour or more to do the maritime museum and lighthouse, and then if the weather is nice do the walk along the waterfront path. The village of St Simons is right near the lighthouse too, so it’s easy to walk to any number of dinner places when you’re done.

Hunting for Spirit Trees Around St Simons Island

Another wonderful feature of St Simons Island is its spirit trees. All around the island there are live oaks with faces carved into them. Over the years, the tree bark has grown around the faces of many of the St Simons Island tree spirits , but searching for them is still a fun Georgia Coast road trip activity.

The biggest and most well maintained spirit tree is the large mermaid named Cora by the visitor center. If you’re not down for a cross-island scavenger hunt, visit Cora and call it good.

Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island 

Wildlife education, and in particular sea turtles, needs to be a part of visiting the Georgia beaches. Loggerhead, green, hawksbill, Kemp’s ridley and leatherback sea turtles all make their egg laying nests on east coast beaches, with coastal Georgia having hundreds of sea turtle nests each year.

Visiting the Georgia Sea Turtle Center on Jekyll Island is a must for both learning and seeing turtles up close. In addition to the exhibits, there is also an observation window where you can watch the doctors at the facility do check-ups and sometimes operate on sea turtles.

Pay a visit to the holding tanks and listen to the caretakers talk about turtle health and safety. This is the perfect place to inspire kids to develop a love of nature and an understanding of human impact.

Explore the Ruins and Trails at Horton House and Pond

The Georgia Coast road trip includes a lot of ruins of houses and forts. While other parts of the South have many well preserved structures and historic sites, Georgia’s have often been hit hard by war or weather. The Horton House on Jekyll Island is an example of that.

Built in 1743 the remains of the Horton House make for a beautiful backdrop as you head into the woods on the nearby trail, but there’s not much left to it. Across the street is a small historic cemetery and then through the woods you’ll find Horton Pond.

It’s a nice stop, and the live oak forest is beautiful to walk through.

Favorite Eats on the Georgia Coast

I don’t love writing about food, but it really is an integral part of travel, particularly in a place like Coastal Georgia. So here’s what Imma do: tell you some great things to watch for and then give you my picks for places we’ve enjoyed on the Georgia coast across our many road trips.

Georgia Coastal Dishes to Try

Peaches. Actually, there’s a lot more to enjoy than Georgia peaches.

You can’t talk about Coastal Georgia cooking without talking about the low country boil. When you’re doing a Georgia Coast road trip, you’re driving through the “low country.” A low country boil is a combination of local seafoods and corn, served as a basket or platter. It’s ALWAYS too much food for one person, but it’s delicious.

Another dish to watch for is blackened fish. This is popular in Florida too, but in Georgia for some reason it tends to run spicier. Commonly served on a hoagie in the style of a po’boy, blackened fish tends to be whatever the local catch is, rubbed with lots of herbs and seasonings and then grilled or sautéed up.

Grits and gravy is good too. Mmmm. My favorite grits and gravy is at the St Augustine Fish Camp in our town, but I’ve had it several places in Georgia too and it’s always good. Expect the gravy to have some sort of ham in it, and to be thick, just a bit more thin than the grits it’s served on.

Hushpuppies. Yum. Do you like cornbread? Do you like biscuits? Then hushpuppies are for. Basically cornbread balls that are fried, hushpuppies are a southern staple. If you can get them with jalapeños in them and served with honey butter then you’ve really hit to Georgia eats jackpot!

The last delicious Georgia food to watch for is roasted pecans, candied or as pralines. Pecans are BIG in the South and it’s easy to find candied pecans almost anywhere, whether it’s a gas station or a roadside stand.

Restaurant Recommendations on the Georgia Coast

When we’re looking for restaurants, we look for local options that have fresh cooking and characterize the area. Our picks for restaurant recommendations on the Georgia Coast exemplify that. We’ve included some favorite spots from Savannah too, as Savannah is a primary destination for a Georgia Coast road trip.

Starting in Savannah and heading south on the Coastal Georgia route, here are our favorite places to eat in the Savannah area:

• Pirate House – Savannah, good coastal food in a historic house (and it’s funny too)
• Corleone’s Trattoria – Savannah, Italian food that’s really delicious and great with kids
• Treylor Park and Hitch – Savannah, local food with several locations
• Driftaway Cafe – Savannah, near Wormsloe Historic Site

And moving onto Tybee Island restaurants:

• Sundae Cafe – Tybee Island, get the chicken fried chicken. OMG
• Salt Island Fish and Beer – Tybee Island, name says it all
• Savannah Praline Company – Tybee Island, pecans and much more

Favorite restaurants in the Golden Isles :

• Echo St Simons – St Simons Island, at the King and Prince Resort but so very delicious, get Eggs Coastal for breakfast
• Gnat’s Landing – St Simons Island, Red Fern Village area, great blackened catch of the day
• Moo Cow Ice Cream – St Simons, main village area, local ice cream made on site in the old service station
• Zachary’s Riverhouse – Jekyll Island, just off the water with great hushpuppies
• I ndigo Coastal Shanty – Brunswick, love the outdoor seating being loomed over by a huge live oak, great Caribbean flare

Of course there are more great restaurants, but after several visits to the Georgia Coast, these are our top picks. If you find some places you love, share them with us and we’ll give them a try!

6 Day Georgia Coast Road Trip Plan

Here is a plan for 6 days of Georgia beaches and historic sites. Have fun, drive safely, and make this plan fit with whatever YOUR travel style is!

Day 1: Arrive in Savannah

Drive from Atlanta to Savannah or fly directly into Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport (SAV) to begin your road trip. Enjoy strolling River Street and Factors Walk. Enjoy a riverboat cruise on the Savannah River or have dinner at the historic Pirate House. If you like, get an adult beverage for your evening and walk through the historic district or find a beautiful public square to relax in .

Day 2: Explore Savannah Historic Districts

Today’s the day to pick a museum and enjoy. The Telfair or Savannah History Museums are both worth a visit. Walk either Liberty or Bull Streets visiting the many squares, eventually making your way to Forsyth Park for ice cream and appreciating the city.

Drive or bike to Bonaventure Cemeter y for a walk through the historic burial ground. If you drove, nearby Wormsloe Historic Site is an easy add-on. End the day back in town visiting the galleries of the JW Marriott Plant Riverside and then a rooftop dinner or drinks. Book a ghost tour for the complete Savannah experience.

Day 3: Tybee Island and Coastal Georgia Forts

Rise and shine and head to Old Fort Jackson before it’s too hot out. Enjoy some living history or wander the fort on your own. Next stop is Fort Pulaski National Monument for even more Georgia Coast tales and education. Move onto Tybee Island for lunch and then climb the Tybee Island Lighthouse.

Wrap up the day with sunset on the beach and a nice walk to dinner. Tybee Island is very chill, so expect the southern “relaxed” approach to dinner time.

Day 4: Georgia Low Country

From Tybee Island take your Georgia Coast road trip southward, making stops at Fort McAllister or Fort Morris (I’d pick Morris) unless you’ve booked a trip out to Sapelo Island to enjoy one of the most pristine Georgia beaches. When you’re ready to move on, visit Fort King George Historic Site to tour the reconstruction or go paddling at high tide.

End the day with an arrival at your Golden Isles hotel or vacation rental. Staying on St Simons or Jekyll Island will give you the option of being beach front, but staying in Brunswick is more central for the next few days’ activities.

Day 5: Enjoy St Simons Island

Begin your day with renting bikes on St Simons Island. This will make it both fun and easy to get around. Ride out to Fort Frederica and then make your way to the beach. Bring lunch with you or head back into the Village for food. In the afternoon, climb the lighthouse and then do the scavenger hunt around the island to find the many spirit trees.

End your day on St Simons with a nice dinner at Echo or a mellow low country dinner at Gnat’s Landing. It’s been a long day, so get some good rest tonight.

Day 6: Brunswick and Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island has an entry gate, so the earlier you head to the Island the better. Start with a visit to Horton House and do the nature trail to Horton’s Pond (watch for gators!). From here, visit Driftwood Beach for some of the largest, most beautiful washed up logs in the southeast. Grab some lunch and then make your way to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.

Head to Brunswick for your last evening in the Golden Isles. Plan to get your pinball on at the Pinball Palace (it really is a must) and then head to historic Brunswick for dinner. Enjoy walking around the old neighborhood and Hanover Park at sunset.

BONUS: Cumberland Island National Seashore

Book your ferry tickets in advance for this adventure. You need to book tickets TO Cumberland Island and then separate tickets FROM the island. If you’re not bring bikes or camping on Cumberland Island, plan to visit the Dungeness Ruins and the beach, watching for deer and wild horses. This is plenty to do in a day and will make for a beautiful, memorable trip!

I hope you have a great time on your Georgia Coast road trip. Whether you’re driving from Atlanta to Savannah and then doing it or if you’re driving up from Florida, you’ll enjoy the history and beauty with every turn.

Wednesday 13th of April 2022

One of my favorite Savannah locales is Jekyll Island. You will undoubtedly appreciate the seashore and a variety of activities. Include some of this in your schedule.

Saturday 11th of December 2021

Savannah Georgia really has some of the best beach destinations in the country! I'm really going on a beach tour there on my next visit! This blog is really helpful and Jekyll Island is certainly on top of the list for me!

Jessica papillon

Sunday 1st of August 2021

Love Savannah Plan to do st Simon and Jekyll islands soon

Monday 2nd of August 2021

Yay! If you're short on time, you can easily break this route up into two trips, even though it doesn't cover a ton of ground. Doing Savannah and the historic coast sits and then doing the Golden Isles is a great way to split it.

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President Joe Biden arrives in Atlanta to campaign, deliver Morehouse College commencement address

President Joe Biden has arrived in Atlanta on Saturday for a weekend of events.

The president will arrived at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport just after 12:15 p.m.

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He plans to hold a campaign event, but details on the event have not been released.

Triple Team Traffic says there are rolling closures across Atlanta as Pres. Biden’s motorcade moves, including Ga. 400, I-75, I-85 and the connector. They suggest using I-285 as an alternate route.

RED ALERT Atlanta: Presidential motorcade is moving again causing rolling closure. This is impacting GA 400/sb, I-85/sb, I-75/sb and I-75/85/sb. Use I-285. #ATLTraffic — Triple Team Traffic (@WSBTraffic) May 18, 2024

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Driving from Atlanta to Providence - Road Trips Forum

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Driving from Atlanta to Providence end of June. Plan to do it in two days, with an overnight stop. Any suggestions where? Thanks!

5 replies to this topic

Staunton VA is cute and would be about halfway, assuming you're going up I-81.

Agree a good stop. I have a friend who lives in metro Atlanta and drives up to see family in Rhode Island a couple of times a year. Their stops are along I 81 in Virginia.

Do you want a place with things to do or a place to just get a hotel and eat and sleep? Staunton would be about the halfway point. About an 8 hour drive both days. Maybe a bit more the 2nd day.

It depends on route you take…

If you go 81/84 path thrn northern Virginia along 82 ( Staunton, Harrisonburg)

If you go 95 route ( northern Virginia area near DC ( Fredericksburg- Springfield- 95 in Maryland)

I always take the I-81 route and try to get as far as possible the first day so that the 2nd day's drive is shorter, so I usually try to get up to Maryland, at least, but sometimes as far as Wilkes-Barre, PA.

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Summer travel boom: 82% of Americans plan to get away in 2024

Get ready for a summer filled with adventure and exploration. As Memorial Day weekend approaches, signaling the official start of summer travel season, Americans are buzzing with plans to explore, relax and make lasting memories.

The Vacationer’s yearly summer travel and trends survey has dug up some insights into what vacationers have in store for the upcoming season.

An impressive 82% of adults in the United States — more than 212 million people — are planning to travel this summer. While this number is slightly lower than last year, it still demonstrates a strong desire to get away. Among these travelers, 42% plan to embark on multiple trips.

Despite a slight decrease in intention to travel by plane from last year, with 52% planning to fly at least once this summer, international travel is gaining popularity. Nearly 25% of Americans are ready to stamp their passports, with adults between 18 and 29 being the most likely to embrace this trend. In contrast, only about 10% of Americans over 60 have similar plans.

Domestic travel continues to be the top choice, with 57% of respondents opting to explore the beauty and diversity within the United States.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Explore Charleston (@explorecharleston)

More than 75% of adults surveyed are revving up to hit the road this summer, with folks aged 45 to 60 leading the pack — nearly 85% in this age bracket intend to take a road trip. Although many Americans will take shorter drives — less than 100 miles or less than 250 miles — more than 33% will take a road trip more than 250 miles from home. Approximately 5.82% will journey more than 1,000 miles.

When it comes to the busiest weekends for travel, the Fourth of July takes the lead at 30%, followed by Memorial Day at nearly 22% and Labor Day at 19%, with 54% opting for none of those times. Respondents could choose all dates that applied, so percentages did not add up to 100.

So whether you’re dreaming of sandy shores, bustling city streets or quiet countryside getaways, just know you won’t be alone whether you’re on the road or in the air.

About the Author

Avery Newmark covers travel, health, events and trending news for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With a dual background in film production and journalism, Avery came to the AJC after working as a video editor. She enjoys film photography and live music in her free time. Reach her at [email protected].

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Road Trip from Orlando to Atlanta

If you're thinking of visiting the warm and modern southern city of Atlanta then a road trip from Orlando is the perfect way to arrive in style. Maximize the experience as you travel from the Sunshine State to make it a trip of a lifetime.

The 440-mile road trip from Orlando to Atlanta will take you 6 and a half hours to drive, passing cities like Gainesville, Ocala, Valdosta and Macon, and landmarks such as the Museum of Aviation, Lane Southern Orchards and High Falls State Park.

The route passes by many scenic state parks, wildlife sanctuaries, museums, and more. So keep on scrolling to find all the details you need to make your trip from Orlando to Atlanta a journey that you're sure to remember!

How far is Atlanta from Orlando, and how long will the road trip take?

The road trip from Orlando to Atlanta is 440 miles long and will take you about 6 and a half hours, without considering the detours you'll take for sightseeing, relaxing, eating, and more.

The route will take you through the warm and pleasant state of Florida and the valleys of the Blue Ridge Mountains to arrive in Atlanta.

While you can cover the distance within a day if you powered through the drive, you decided to take a road trip for a reason, so it's ideal to take the drive slow and explore all the fantastic sights the route offers.

If you decide to break up the trip into a couple of days, you'll truly get to discover the many attractions along the route.

Along the way you can visit the Florida Museum of Natural History, Stone Mountain Park, Wild Adventures Theme Park, Spanish Springs Town Square, learn more about the diverse landscapes of the South, and even get a taste of famous warm Southern food at the any of the well-known eating joints along the way.

It'll be a trip that will fulfil your mind, heart, stomach, and soul!

Best road trip route from Orlando to Atlanta

You can follow two distinct routes while on a road trip from Orlando to Atlanta.

The most direct route passes through central cities like Gainesville, Ocala, Valdosta, Macon to reach the destination. It takes around 6 hours 30 minutes and covers 440 miles.

There's plenty to explore and enjoy along this route. It's primarily an interstate drive with slight detours onto state routes when you stopover at some of the attractions you'll encounter en route to Atlanta.

You can also take a slightly longer trip which follows the coast of Florida and Georgia until Savannah and then heads inland to reach Atlanta.

If you wish to take the coastal route, it adds approximately 70 miles and an extra hour and 15 minutes to your journey.

How to drive from Orlando to Atlanta

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Orlando and Atlanta. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The Direct Route

You'll begin your trip by taking the ramp onto Florida Route 408 West, then exit onto Florida's Turnpike. Heading towards Ocala, you'll follow this road for about 45 miles.

Along the way, you'll pass Palatlakaha River Park, which is a great place to stop for a short hike through a stretch of Florida's beautiful wetland, and Denham Lake.

You'll then merge with Interstate 75 North, which is the road that'll take you right to your destination.

On this stretch of the drive you'll pass The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park, Manatee Springs State Park, Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History, The Annette Turner Center for the Arts, and more.

After about 150 miles on Interstate 75 North, you'll enter Georgia, the Peach State.

If you're planning on visiting Macon, the I-75 takes you right into the city and back out again to carry on your journey northwards. Or to bypass the city, join Interstate 475 North before you reach Macon, then merge back onto the I-75 when the roads meet up again.

After a final 50 miles stretch on the Interstate, you'll want to take Exit 246 to drive into Capitol Avenue in Atlanta, where there's so much to discover, learn about, and experience.

The Savannah Route

Leave Orlando on Interstate 4 which takes you to Interstate 95. You'll follow the I-95 as far as Savannah, passing by Daytona Beach and Jacksonville which are both great places to stop if you want to enjoy some time on the beach before heading inland.

If you're stopping in Savannah, Interstate 16 takes you right into the heart of the city. When you're done exploring, simply follow the I-16 out of the city again and follow it all the way to Macon.

As you pass through Macon the I-16 merges with the I-75 which you'll follow north for the last stretch of the journey into Atlanta.

Best places to stop between Orlando to Atlanta

If you choose to break up your trip into two to three days, you'll have several places that you can stay in, wind down from the drive, and explore while you're visiting!

Explore the attractions in Gainesville

One of the iconic Florida cities on your way from Orlando to Atlanta is Gainesville, home to a plethora of diverse state parks, scenic landscapes, museums, and urban forests.

You'll pass through the city about one-fourth of your way along the Direct Route, making it a great place to stop if you start your drive late in the day after work and want to get an early night in before a whole day of driving.

Perfectly located in the city's heart, Sweetwater Branch Inn offers charm, character and a warm welcome . Set in a delightful building with colorful gardens and its own outdoor pool and hot tub, you'll also find a fantastic breakfast here should you want one after a full day exploring the city.

Gainesville's bars and restaurants are a short walk away, as are the Matheson Historical Center and the Historic Thomas Center.

Some of the city's other landmarks are situated away from the downtown area, but Kanapaha Botanical Gardens and Florida Museum of Natural History and Butterfly Rainforest are a short and easy drive away from the Inn.

Soak up some history in Savannah

If you're planning on taking the longer route, Savannah makes the perfect place to stop. It's roughly at the half way along the journey and with its stunning coastal landscapes, tree-lined squares and rich history the city is well worth exploring.

For a stay in the heart of the historic district that really lets you get a feel for the city, McMillan Inn is the perfect choice . The immaculate design in this hotel will make you feel like you've taken a step into a bygone era!

Situated opposite Forsyth Park, where you'll find the city's most famous fountain, the McMillan Inn offers opulent rooms with fireplaces and period antiques, with the opportunity to experience a piece of the city's rich history firsthand.

If you need to cool down after day on the road or seeing the city's sights, you'll find an outdoor pool in the Inn's charming courtyard.

While you're in town, make sure to check out Thomas Square which is well known for its history and architecture. Or take a trolley bus tour of the city for an introduction to the stories that built modern Savannah.

Immerse yourself in the sights of Atlanta

Georgia's capital city is known for its iconic sports teams, modern take on Southern hospitality, impressive music heritage, and more.

As you arrive at your ultimate destination after a fantastic road trip through Florida and Georgia, you should stay at the Hotel Midtown Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton to truly soak in all the city offers .

With a stylish entrance, sleek designs and some spectacular city views, as well as a fitness center, spa and pool, it's a great place to unwind and relax while you're in Atlanta.

The hotel is located in the heart of the city, and you'll be close to landmarks such as Woodruff Arts Center, Atlanta Botanical Garden, World of Coca-Cola, Piedmont Park, and so much more.

You should also make sure to explore natural marvels just outside the city - they're well worth the drive. At the Stone Mountain you can hike or take the cable car to reach the peak for an incredible view, or take a walk by the Chattahoochee River.

Things to see on a road trip from Orlando to Atlanta

While you're on a road trip from Orlando to Atlanta, there's so much to see, experience, and learn about, especially with the plenty of State Parks sprinkled along the route. Though there are several places to visit, here are some of the top attractions you can't miss:

Direct Route:

• Spanish Springs Town Square - A well-known area in The Villages, Florida, the square is home to several boutiques, art venues, live music, stores, etc.
• Appleton Museum of Art - A contemporary art museum located in Ocala, it is home to several art exhibits, objects, and sculptures that will intrigue all audiences
• Fort King National Historic Landmark - A military fort near the city of Ocala, the monument is named after Colonel William King, who was the first governor of the West Florida region
• The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park - Surrounded by two canyons, you'll get a chance to rappel, zipline across nine different courses, as well as go horseback riding.
• Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History - One of the most famous museums in Florida, it is located near Gainesville, and amongst many excellent interactive exhibits, it is home to a butterfly garden
• Rainbow Springs State Park - A peaceful state park near Gainesville with campgrounds, unique foliage, a river, and more
• Manatee Springs State Park - Though a minor detour from the route, this state park has a clear-water spring that is known for West Indian manatees, which you can interact with via scuba-diving
• Ichetucknee Springs State Park - Located in Fort White, this state park is home to a long scenic river (where you can go snorkeling, tubing, and on other adventure excursions), and also spot wildlife if you're lucky
• Wild Adventures Theme Park - Located in Valdosta, this is one of the most loved theme parks in the region as it combines water rides, animals, and rollercoasters to give rise to paradise!
• Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area - A 13,000-acre area located in Georgia, it is an educational wildlife area with a recreational lake and other diverse landscapes
• Lowndes County Historical Society and Museum - A museum founded back in 1967; it is home to several fine exhibits that tell the history of Valdosta and its ancestors
• The Annette Turner Center for the Arts - A local art center in Valdosta with several galleries that put up changing exhibitions, support local artists, and has a gift shop
• Lane Southern Orchards - The perfect place for a Southern food feast, this store and café has a buffet and also sells organically grown pecans and peaches, the gold of Georgia

Savannah Route:

• Kennedy Space Center - Take a detour as you head out of Orlando to explore NASA's fantastic visitor center on Merritt Island.
• Daytona Beach - Unsurprisingly, this city offers you stunning, wide beaches with views stretching out over the ocean. Visit the famous Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, stroll along the pier, or for something different, check out the world famous speedway track.
• Jacksonville - Another opportunity to get your feet wet, with more sensational beaches, as well as the famous Jacksonville Zoo, the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens, and the Museum of Science and History.
• The Golden Isles - These beautiful barrier islands south of Savannah are the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle, with wide sandy beaches, coastal wetlands and luxury golf resorts.
• Savannah Historic District - Take your time to explore the museums, churches, mansions and monuments dotted around Savannah, or visit monuments and forts of the Revolutionary & Civil War eras.
• Forsyth Park, Savannah - Take a stroll past the famous fountain in this beautiful city park.
• Thomas Square, Savannah - A historic neighbourhood boasting beautiful period architecture, shops, restaurants and bars.

Both Routes:

• High Falls State Park - An expansive 1,050-acre state park in Jackson, Georgia, with scenic waterfalls, a lake (with boating excursions), mini-golf, and more
• Museum of Aviation - Located just south of Macon, Georgia, this US Air Force museum is home to plane models, a flight simulator, interactive exhibits, and more
• Stone Mountain Park - Spread across 3,200 acres, this iconic state park is home to a natural wonder that stands at 1,050 feet tall with other outdoor activities

Best time to go on a road trip from Orlando to Atlanta

While you can go on a road trip from Orlando to Atlanta during any month, your experience in some months is bound to be different than in other months.

Atlanta summers can be too hot to handle, with average high temperatures reaching 85 degrees and higher from June through August. Room rates hike up in summer too, so it might not be the ideal time to visit.

This means that, for many travelers, the optimal time to visit Atlanta is in the spring, while the weather is dry but temperatures still sitting pleasantly in the 70s.

You'll be able to explore the city and also partaking in some of the many events that take place in the town during this time, like the St. Patrick's Day Parade, Atlanta Film Festival, and Atlanta Dogwood Festival.

The fall is also considered a great time to visit, with the changing colors of the foliage and several outdoor events. However, expect frequent rain and maybe even hurricane warnings during this time.

Additionally, the time from June to November is considered official hurricane season in Florida, so it's best to build in some flexibility if you need to take the trip at this time of year.

No matter what month you plan your trip, be sure to stop over at as many state parks, museums, diverse landscapes, and restaurants as possible, soak in all that the places along the route and Atlanta has to offer, and make it a road trip that you're bound to remember.

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Atlanta United Equinox Seven Atlanta United squads will take the pitch on Saturday, May 18 as a part of the Atlanta United Equinox. The day’s slate kicks off with Atlanta United’s U-17 squad facing off against Orlando City’s U-17s at 9 a.m. ET and can be streamed HERE . Atlanta United’s First Team will then take the pitch against Nashville SC at Geodis Park at 1:45 p.m. ET before Atlanta and Nashville’s Unified Teams face off following that match. Atlanta United will be hosting a live stream for the Unified match and can be found HERE . ATL UTD 2 will round things out against Huntsville at 8:00 p.m. ET. Atlanta United’s U-15s, U-14s and U-13s will also play during Saturday’s Equinox.

Scouting Report Huntsville City FC comes into the match hungry for a result as the Alabama side currently sits last in the Eastern Conference without a win and the lowest point total in MLS NEXT Pro this season (0-5-3, 3 points). Midfielder Jonathan Bolaños will be a player to keep an eye on as he leads Huntsville’s offense, having scored three goals in seven appearances while also leading the squad in key passes with 20. On top of Bolaños, Atlanta will also look to contain Brennan Creek’s chance creation, as the 25-year-old has recorded three assists so far in 2024.

Last Time Out ATL UTD 2 is returning to the pitch after a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Carolina Core FC on Wednesday, May 8. Atlanta dominated the match on the stat sheet, having outshot the North Carolina side 16-6 and forcing a club record 15 corner kicks. Canadian midfielder Noble Okello scored his first goal of the season in the 31st minute after Erik Centeno darted up the right flank and whipped in a ball for Okello to get off a right-footed volley over Carolina’s defense. Carolina Core struck back quickly, capitalizing on quick and unexpected chances and equalized in the 43rd minute before taking the lead in the 47th. Despite Atlanta’s efforts, the home side could not find the back of the net in the second half.

Head Coach Steve Cooke received two yellow cards in the match, meaning he will be suspended for this weekend’s match. Assistant Coach Jose Silva will stand in his place on the sideline.

Previous Meeting Atlanta United 2 holds a 1-1-0 (W-L-D) record against Huntsville City FC, with the last meeting between the two sides ending in a 2-1 away victory over Huntsville on September 10, 2023. Atlanta’s Machop Chol and Jackson Conway found the back of the net, with Conway’s goal coming in the 96th to clinch the win for Atlanta.

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President Joe Biden arrives in Atlanta to campaign, deliver Morehouse College commencement address

ATLANTA — President Joe Biden has arrived in Atlanta on Saturday for a weekend of events.

The president will arrived at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport just after 12:15 p.m.

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He plans to hold a campaign event, but details on the event have not been released.

Triple Team Traffic says there are rolling closures across Atlanta as Pres. Biden’s motorcade moves, including Ga. 400, I-75, I-85 and the connector. They suggest using I-285 as an alternate route.

RED ALERT Atlanta: Presidential motorcade is moving again causing rolling closure. This is impacting GA 400/sb, I-85/sb, I-75/sb and I-75/85/sb. Use I-285. #ATLTraffic — Triple Team Traffic (@WSBTraffic) May 18, 2024

On Sunday morning, Pres. Biden is set to deliver Morehouse College’s commencement address.

His presence during Morehouse’s commencement ceremony has not been without some controversy.

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A small number of student and faculty members held a protest march on the Morehouse College campus Friday to criticize the war in Gaza and the president’s visit.

“I definitely understand from a political aspect why he is coming, but from a human and moral level, it makes no sense for the college to invite him or give him an honorary degree,” Morehouse student Anwar Karim said.

Morehouse College President David Thomas made clear that disruptive protests during the graduation ceremony will not be tolerated.

“What we won’t allow is disruptive behavior that prevents the ceremony or services from proceeding, in a manner that those in attendance can partake and enjoy. So for example, prolonged shouting down of the president as he is speaking,” he said. “If faced with the choice, I will cease the ceremonies on the spot if we were to reach that position. But this will not be a place where there will be a national photo op of individuals being taken out of the Morehouse campus in zip ties by the police authorities.”

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