day trips from woodstock ga

Day trips from Woodstock, GA

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Woodstock, Georgia is located at latitude/longitude coordinates 34° 6' 5" N  /  84° 31' 9" W

The 11 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Georgia

Marisa Roman

A New Jersey native with over 15 years of writing experience, Marisa has studied at both New York University and Florida International University. She has lived all over the country, including a decade stint in South Florida. Marisa is well-versed in exploration as she travels a good majority of the year in her self-converted Sprinter van. Her articles have been featured in various notable publications over the years, she has a published collection of short stories, and three completed screenplays under her belt.

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Life is always busy, but hopefully, from time to time, you are able to plan some fun things to do in order to explore the great state of Georgia. Between waterfall hikes, swimming holes, and farmers markets, Georgia is always chock-full of fun things to do during the summer, or any other season, with the entire family. So, the next time you’re wondering to yourself, “Where are some of the best day trips near me?” we have 11 of the best day trips in Georgia listed below. You’ll want to experience each of them.

1. The Rock Ranch

2. Red Clay Resort

3. Gibbs Gardens

4. Magnolia Springs State Park

5. Panther Creek Falls

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6. the georgia ice cream trail.

7. Tybee Island Beach

8. Lake Lanier

9. The East Palisades Hiking Trail

10. Zipline Canopy Tours

11. Abernathy Greenway Park

How about that for one heck of an itinerary? Have you ever experienced any of these fun day trips in Georgia? If so, please feel free to share your experience(s) with us in the comments below. Can you think of any other day trips in Georgia that are worth experiencing? If so, please feel free to share those with us as well. No matter where the road takes you, make sure you’re well-fueled for adventure. To help you do just so, we’ve compiled the ultimate list of road trip snacks .

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay during a weekend in Georgia this summer, especially something on the romantic side, then check out this romantic waterside cottage .

The Romantic Waterside Cottage In Georgia That’s Just What You Need For A Weekend Away

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Where are a couple of places to visit with kids on a rainy day in Atlanta, Georgia?

Places to visit with kids on a rainy day in Atlanta, Georgia:

• World of Coca-Cola
• Ready Set FUN!

What fun things are there to do with kids in Georgia? Fun things to do with kids in Georgia:

• Visit the Georgia Aquarium
• Hike through Rock City
• Camp at Stone Mountain

What do you do with kids in Georgia without spending money?

Things to do with kids in Georgia without spending money:

• Go on a kid-friendly hike
• Discover hidden waterfalls
• Explore Georgia's underrated state parks

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Weekend Trips From Woodstock-Georgia - A Weekend In

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Day Trips and Weekend Getaways Near Woodstock, GA

You’ve heard before (and we’ll continue to keep you updated!) about all of the wonderful perks of living in a new home near downtown Woodstock . Our new construction homes are within walking distance of fabulous restaurants, boutique shopping, and so many live entertainment options. But if you’re willing to get in your car and go for a little drive, new home buyers will also discover a world of relaxing and exciting daytrips and weekend getaways close to home.

Places to Visit from Your New Home in Woodstock

Living in Cherokee County means easy access to the North Georgia mountains. There are towns and cities of all sizes within an easy drive, and each one has its own unique community and attractions.

Blue Ridge : Just 53 miles and barely one hour north of Woodstock (straight up I-575 – it doesn’t get any easier!) is a small city known for its arts community, craft breweries, and scenic railway. Blue Ridge hosts numerous outdoor festivals each year (Trout Fest in the Spring is a can’t miss for fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts alike!), and no trip is complete without a stop at Mercier Orchards. No matter the season, there’s something freshly picked or freshly baked, and it’s all good.

Dahlonega : About the same distance away, but slightly east lies the deceptively bustling town of Dahlonega. The small city was the site of the first major gold rush in the US, and there are plenty of opportunities to experience the fun yourself, from old mine tours to panning for gold. If you’d prefer to sit and enjoy mountain vistas while sipping wine, Dahlonega is still the place for you. The town is home to some of Georgia’s best and prettiest wineries (the views from Wolf Mountain Vineyards are worth the trip).

Helen : Keep driving north, and you’ll find one of Georgia’s most unique towns – Alpine Helen – clocking in at about an hour and 45 minutes from our new construction homes in Woodstock. A visit to Helen can give you a glimpse of Germany without leaving the state. Helen is a Bavarian Village, complete with cobblestone walkways, quaint shops and hotels, and authentic Alpine cuisine (including a delicious bakery and can’t-miss candy shop, for those with a sweet tooth). If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind getaway, Helen is for you.

Smokey Mountains : No list of must-see mountain attractions near Woodstock would be complete without Smokey Mountain National Park. It’s bit further of a drive (just shy of three hours from Woodstock to the Oconuluftee Visitor Center right inside the park), but if you’re looking for hiking, mountain scenery, and clean fresh air, visit the Smokies. Love nature but not quite ready to commit to an overnight stay? The park entrance is also just ten minutes from Harrah’s Casino in Cherokee, North Carolina.

At Rezide , we love building homes in Woodstock because this city not only offers so much, but it’s near so much. Stay tuned for a future post on nearby romantic getaways and suggestions for being a tourist in your own town. If you’re looking to live within walking distance of downtown Woodstock, we’d love to show you the new homes we’re building! Give our real estate agent, Patti Bachtel, a call at 404-483-1814 to learn more.

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Top Things to Do in Woodstock, GA

Places to visit in woodstock, tours in and around woodstock.

Woodstock Ghosts, Murder & Mystery Tour

90-Minute Narrated Sightseeing Trolley Tour in Atlanta

Atlanta Sightseeing Bus Tour

Atlanta's Black History and Civil Rights Tour

Self Guided Food and Mystery Picnic Date in Roswell

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Atlanta CityPASS®

City Lights Atlanta Night-Time Tour with Photos & Dinner Stop

Civil War & Battlegrounds Tour of Atlanta by Private Car Service

Skip the Ticket Line: World of Coca-Cola Admission in Atlanta

Top attractions in woodstock.

Other Top Attractions around Woodstock

What travellers are saying

• Olde Rope Mill Park
• The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta
• Reformation Brewery (Woodstock)
• Dixie Speedway Inc
• Berry Patch Farm
• Little River Trail
• Woodlands Playground

Day Trip to Woodstock

This historic railroad town is on the fast track to summer fun.

In 1912, a railway depot was built in Woodstock, Georgia functioning as a passenger and freight depot. It wasn’t until 1929 that the City of Woodstock paved Main Street. Today, the depot and tracks still stand, but much has changed in the once-small agricultural town. The rail town is now a bustling center for shopping, dining and such attractions as the Noonday Creek Trail, Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater and the Woodstock Farmers Market.

Situated right in the middle of the gorgeous Blue Ridge mountains of North Georgia and the ever-growing Atlanta cityscape, the city of Woodstock offers easy access to both outdoor wonders, delectable restaurants and buzzing metropolitan action. Downtown Woodstock provides the perfect day trip or weekend getaway for any family or individual in North Georgia.

Where to Wander

There’s plenty of adventure awaiting in Woodstock, starting with a schedule of seasonal events at The Park at City Center right downtown. The most popular is the Summer Concert Series , a line-up of live music with free admission at the park’s outdoor Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater. (Visit woodstockconcertseries.com for a list of upcoming shows.) You’ll find even more live entertainment nearby at MadLife Stage & Studios and the intimate Listening Room at Rootstock . If theater is more your thing, take in a show at Woodstock Arts , with upcoming productions in June and July.

Lovers of whimsy won’t want to miss the ever-popular FoxTale Book Shoppe ( foxtalebookshoppe.com ) or some throwback entertainment at the Blue Ghost Arcade , which features games from pinball to Playstation.

For those who love shopping, Woodstock is home to The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta with all your favorite name-brand stores, but Downtown Woodstock also offers many quaint boutiques, including several clothing shops for any style. To stay with the trends, make your way to Brooklynn’s , where young girls will adore the fashionable attire and colorful accessories. Just across the street, Dress Up will catch your eye with its chic décor and arrangement of clothing styles for women. Looking for some cute children’s clothes? Madison Ave. Boutique for Girls is just the place. The chill vibes of The Wanderers Collections will make women feel trendy and free. Branches Boutique gives you the styles and apparel that will wow a crowd, but if you’d rather not conform, consider Dare To Be Different On Main . Don’t let the name fool you, because Fashion Cupcake does not sell sweet treats, but rather a sweet variety of clothing, while Spirited Boutiques boasts looks that are both unique and boho chic. You’ll also find locally made wares at Made Mercantile and home goods at The Neighborhood Nest .

Though you could spend your whole day downtown, outdoor enthusiasts will want to venture north along Highway 575 to Olde Rope Mill Park , where you’ll mountain biking trails and easy access Little River, which is perfect for fishing, paddle boarding and kayaking.

Where to Eat

If all that shopping stirs your appetite, Downtown Woodstock is home to plenty of delicious dining options that will keep you satiated from morning to night.

There’s nothing like starting the day with the smell of fresh bacon and biscuits, so be sure to check out A&M Kitchen or the Maple Street Biscuit Company, as either will provide you with a breakfast worth the early wakeup call. And the popular chain J. Christopher’s boastsafun location right on the train tracks.

In the mood for traditional American food? Canyons Fresh Grill serves up some of the most bragged about burgers and chicken fingers in the state. If you’re seeking an ice-cold brew and a great basket of Nashville hot rub wings, The Daily Draft is the place to go. Here, you’ll find the perfect pub feel for sports fanatics and casual fans alike. You will leave with a full belly and your wallet will be pleasantly surprised with its affordable prices. Nearby, the original location of Reformation Brewery is another family-friendly locale for a local brew and a good time.

If you’re craving something a bit more exotic, Pure Taqueria delivers a kick of spice alongside refreshing margaritas and a happening rooftop bar or consider Dina’s Family Italian Restaurant for Italian authenticity and TEN Sushi Lounge for modern Japanese cuisine.

For chef-driven fine dining in a historic house setting, make a dinner reservation at Century House Tavern .

Finish each night with a new slice of pie from the exquisite Pie Bar (We recommend the peanut butter cream pie!) With all of these options, all of your tastebud’s desires will be fulfilled and your stomach will be completely satisfied.

Where to Stay

With so much to see and do, you might want to extend your Woodstock excursion into the weekend. Right in the heart of the downtown district along the railroad tracks, you’ll find some very cozy Airbnb rentals within prime walking distance to the area’s restaurants, shops and entertainment. Guests can choose between apartments or townhomes ranging in size, with multi-bedroom options making for great group vacations. These will give you prime access to all the area’s restaurants, shops and entertainment, all within walking distance. Of course, a short drive away, you’ll also find hotel options including Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn and Microtel Inn.

If you are looking for a destination that is quaint, artsy and outdoors, Downtown Woodstock will not disappoint. It is the perfect location to meet with friends, go on dates, or explore with your family. There’s no doubt this historic railroad town is on the fast track to summer fun.

To plan your trip to Woodstock, click over to visitwoodstockga.com.

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Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Built on memories.

Join the many generations who have taken the nostalgic journey through the charming Appalachian foothills of North Georgia aboard the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway.

Trip Details

Starting at the historic depot in downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia, riders take a four-hour, 26-mile roundtrip journey along the Toccoa River through the North Georgia countryside. The first leg of the adventure takes riders on a one hour trip to the quaint sister towns of McCaysville, Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee, nestled deep in the mountains on each state’s line. Passengers enjoy all the towns have to offer during a two-hour layover before taking the one-hour return trip through the scenic forest and back to the depot in Blue Ridge, Georgia.

Purchase Tickets

Ready for a relaxing train ride through the beauty of North Georgia? Schedule your trip today and prepare for a journey filled with nature views, charming towns and nostalgic wonder. Come aboard.

Explore Blue Ridge

Food For All

With a selection as vast as the surrounding mountains, the thriving restaurant and craft cocktail culture provides something for everyone in Downtown Blue Ridge.

Another Home

Whatever the nature of your visit, Blue Ridge has lodging options to perfectly accommodate your comfort and budget. Find your place with us!

Take A Look

Our live streaming camera feeds allow a look around town from afar! Nothing beats Blue Ridge in person, so take a look and then come on out!

Group Reservations

Save on train tickets for groups of 15 or more., for assistance with group reservations, please call (877) 413-8724.

Our ticket office is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m Eastern Time.

The Track of Our History

Railroads played a significant role in the development of this area between the 1800’s and the early 1900’s, in that they determined the routes of local roads, saved an ailing mining industry, contributed to the growth of small towns as resort communities, and made it possible to log the last remaining virgin timber in the area.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway 241 Depot Street Blue Ridge, GA 30513 [email protected] Call: (877) 413-8724

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BRSR COVID-19 Update

The health and safety of our staff and guests is our top priority..

As with any transmissible illness, risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any place where people gather or are present. Based upon guidance issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) as well as other federal, state and local agencies and authorities, we have implemented – for our staff and guests – the following protocols and best practices to limit the risk:

• As part of the TSA’s mandate,  ALL RIDERS MUST FILL OUT OUR  COVID QUESTIONNAIRE   AND BRING IT WITH THEM ON THE DATE OF THEIR TRIP.   DOWNLOAD IT HERE.
• Where possible, “social distancing” is encouraged throughout the property
• Hand sanitizing stations will be available for guest and employee use
• Signs, PA announcements, and staff instruction both onboard and while on BRSR property will provide reminders to guests and employees alike of the importance of “social distancing,” and frequent hand washing.
• Cashless transactions are available and strongly encouraged throughout all purchasing locations, including the Gift Shop
• Frequent sanitizing of all public areas including commonly used surfaces in the Ticket Office/Gift Shop/Concession such as door handles, countertops, seating areas
• Clear protective barriers at all front-facing service counters – Ticket Office, Gift Shops, and Concessions Sales
• All employees receive daily health screenings, temperature, and symptom checks
• Any employees exhibiting symptoms will be asked to return/stay home
• All employees will be required to wear a BRSR-issued facemask and/or shield while on company property
• All employees are kept up to date on CDC & OSHA guidelines regarding workplace safety during COVD-19
• All employees must adhere to all departmental cleaning and disinfecting instructions based on CDC guidelines

OUR GUESTS:

• We encourage awareness and adherence to CDC and state health and safety guidelines
• We encourage you to maintain “social distancing”
• We encourage adherence to proper hand washing guidelines
• We encourage you to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and dispose of tissue in trash
• We encourage you to stay home if you are ill or exhibiting symptoms of flu or COVID-19 – we will work with you to cancel or reschedule your reservations without penalty when done 48 hours in advance
• We encourage courteousness in enclosed spaces and walkways and permitting ample space for passing and “social distancing”
• We encourage all to remain seated in your assigned passenger coach during your round trip, except for the layover in McCaysville, Ga / Copperhill, TN

• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips in Georgia

Thomasville, blackbeard island.

• Complete List & Map

Annual special events include the AthFest summer music and arts festival.

There are accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets and a long list of popular restaurants and bars.

Popular visitor activities include hiking, biking, photography, and wildlife watching, with saltwater surf and creek fishing allowed with permits. More Day Trips from Atlanta, GA

Annual special events include the Firefly Festival, the Chamber Music Festival, and the Madison in May Spring Tour of Homes and Gardens.

Public special events hosted throughout the year include the rain-or-shine Canton Farmers' Market, First Friday music and art events, and the city's annual Chili Cook-Off. More Day Trips from Athens, GA

Cumberland Island

Undeveloped lands on the island are also available for a wide range of outdoor activities, including swimming, biking, hunting, boating, fishing, kayaking, and guided nature excursions. More beaches Near Atlanta, GA

Convenient nearby access to the Chattahoochee National Forest lets visitors travel to beautiful sites such as the immense Amicalola Falls. More attractions in Dahlonega

Annual public special events include the Duluth Fall Festival and a free concert series hosted at the city's Town Green Park. Best Georgia Waterfalls

Fayetteville

Families can have a blast at the Fun Spot America Atlanta family entertainment center, which offers more than two dozen attractions for visitors of all ages, including the state's only multi-level go-karting track. Best Georgia Amusement Parks

Ziplining, river tubing, and go-karting opportunities abound, along with scenic overlooks at the beautiful Anna Ruby Falls.

Hutchinson Island

During the winter months, visitors can walk through the two-mile Savannah Harbor Festival of Lights, which is home to a holiday winter village.

Jekyll Island

Family-friendly island attractions include the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, the only sea turtle rehabilitation center in Georgia, and the seasonal Summer Waves Water Park.

Lake Lanier Islands

Winter holiday activities include the License to Chill Snow Island seasonal carnival and the Magical Nights of Lights event.

Little St. Simons Island

1000 Hampton River Club Marina Dr, Saint Simons Island, GA 31522, Phone: 888-733-5774

Little Tybee Island

A number of charter boat and kayak tour companies operate out of the island, including dolphin tour boats and guided jetskiing opportunities.

Blairsville

Annual special events include the Sorghum Festival, held in October, and the Spring Arts and Crafts Festival, held in July.

Ossabaw Island

More ideas: Best Camping in Georgia

Sapelo Island

Several public businesses are offered within the community of Hog Hammock, including a bar, general store, and public library. Other attractions include the Georgia State Parks-operated historic Reynolds Mansion, which can be toured as part of organized group tours.

Cultural attractions abound, including the Savannah Theatre, the Savannah Ballet, and the Savannah Orchestra, with regular festivals such as the First Friday Art March opening up many of the city's art galleries to the public for free.

The Sea Island Beach Club is home to luxurious amenities such as indoor and outdoor pools, bars, and an ice cream shop, with three championship golf courses offered for visitor use throughout the island, including the Plantation, the host of the annual RSM Classic PGA tournament.

Skidaway Island

Visitors can stay overnight at the island's scenic campground facility, which offers tent, trailer, and RV hookups, along with several pioneer campground areas and camper cabins for visitor use.

Annual special events include the St. Mary's Rock Shrimp Festival, held each October.

Tallulah Falls

Within the town, visitors can view local artwork and enjoy specialty coffees and ice cream at Tallulah Station, with camping and bed and breakfast accommodations offered nearby.

Wassaw Island

Nearby Pine and Little Wassaw Islands are also incorporated into the National Wildlife Refuge, serving as important habitats for loggerhead sea turtles.

Other major attractions include the Atlanta Ballet, the Georgia Aquarium , and the World of Coca-Cola center and museum. Next read: Weekend Getaways from Atlanta

• 2. Thomasville
• 3. Blackbeard Island
• 6. Cumberland Island
• 7. Dahlonega
• 9. Fayetteville
• 11. Hutchinson Island
• 12. Jekyll Island
• 13. Lake Lanier Islands
• 14. Little St. Simons Island
• 15. Little Tybee Island
• 16. Blairsville
• 17. Ossabaw Island
• 18. Sapelo Island
• 19. Savannah
• 20. Sea Island
• 21. Skidaway Island
• 22. St Mary’s
• 23. Tallulah Falls
• 24. Wassaw Island
• 25. Atlanta

Last Updated By VI on April 14, 2024 in Day Trips from Atlanta & Weekend Getaways

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Georgia (GA) » 15 Best Things to Do in Woodstock (GA)

15 Best Things to Do in Woodstock (GA)

Woodstock is a city in Georgia’s Cherokee County, a short distance north of Atlanta. It’s close enough to be a popular place for city workers to live. In fact, it’s one of the fastest growing suburbs in the United States, and there’s good reason.

Woodstock was incorporated in 1897, and is believed to have taken its name from a Walter Scott novel.

It became an important trading hub with the construction of the railway. Although the last passenger service was back in 1949, Woodstock remains a vibrant place to be, while also within easy reach of all metropolitan Atlanta has to offer.

Here are the 15 best things to do in and around Woodstock, Georgia.

1. Downtown Woodstock

Woodstock’s innate and organic vibrancy can be experienced in all its glory in the city’s downtown district, which sits around the T formed by Main Street and Towne Lake Parkway.

The oldest part of the city, here lies a range of elegant brown brick buildings which date to near the city’s foundation.

Today, their lower floors are home to around 20 esteemed restaurants and almost double that number of independent stores, where you can find everything from signed books to native American jewellery.

What’s more, Woodstock’s downtown is infinitely walkable by both day and night, so whether its sightseeing or a night out you’re after, you’ll find it here.

2. Elm Street Cultural Arts Village

With a commanding location in downtown Woodstock, it wouldn’t be wrong to say that the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village is at both the geographic and cultural heart of the city.

This is no community theatre that lies empty and unused except for a few days in the year. Far from it. Instead, this ‘village’ hosts a series of events that means there’s something going on almost every day of the week.

You name it, and the village has probably got it, with its theatre hosting plays, musical performances, and concerts. Its events space includes a growing garden area, art gallery, and educational spaces too.

3. Olde Rope Mill Park

On the southern bank of the Little River, Olde Rope Mill Park is named after a rope mill from the 1800s which converted cotton into rope using the river’s constant flow as its power source.

While the rope mill and its surrounding flour mills might no longer function, they do offer a spectacular outdoor space in which to explore the region’s history and natural beauty.

Jump into a canoe to discover the river itself, or join one of the mountain biking or hiking trails that stretch for 30-plus kilometres from the park. They are named in memory of Taylor Randahl, an avid mountain biker who died in a car crash at the age of 16.

4. Balloon Atlanta

While Olde Rope Mill Park provides extraordinary land and river vistas from ground level, there’s nothing quite like taking in the landscape by hot air balloon.

Floating on the warm thermals as dawn breaks over northern Georgia, a hot air balloon is not just a romantic way to spend a few hours, but also an unrivalled means of witnessing the bigger picture.

Only from the air, several thousand metres up, can you understand Woodstock’s position within the state – how its links to and from Atlanta have formed over one hundred years, and how the city interacts with the other northern suburbs.

5. Dixie Speedway

About as far away from the quiet solitude of a hot air balloon as it’s possible to get are the roaring engines of the Dixie Speedway.

Trackways such as this one are a key part of the culture of the southern United States, and where you will find Woodstock residents at their most relaxed.

The track itself is nothing more than a clay oval loop, putting the trials of Formula 1 drivers to shame.

The highlight of all the events the track presents is probably the National Touring Stock Car Races, however it also welcomes motorcycle races, Monster Truck rallies, and concerts as well.

6. Reformation Brewery

Woodstock’s Reformation Brewery prides itself on producing beers that have been liberated from the rules of what exactly a beer should or should not be.

Its team of passionate brewers do this from its craft brewery just off Main Street. Visitors are able to step behind the scenes on self-guided tours of the metal tanks in which the magic happens.

But, of course, the proof of the quality of what Reformation produces is in trying the beers themselves.

These include American-style pale ales, German wheat beers, Belgian tripels, as well as heavier porters.

7. Archibald Smith Plantation Home

Predating anything that can be found in Woodstock itself, Roswell’s Archibald Smith Plantation Home was built in the 1840s.

Now a museum, it was the home of one of the city’s founders, Archibald Smith, along with three generations of his family.

This beautiful example of southern architecture built in a traditional style with clapboard planks is therefore a wonderful survivor from the immediate period around the American Civil War.

Its spaces include several pieces of original furniture, as well as personal items belonging to the long-term residents, showing the life of a privileged white family during this time.

The grounds contain an authentic cook house and carriage house, where the family’s African-American slaves would have lived and worked. The house is just 20 minutes from Woodstock.

8. Lake Allatoona

A similar distance in the opposite direction is Lake Allatoona. For all its natural beauty, the lake is an artificial one, constructed by the US Army Corps of Engineers by the damming of the Etowah River.

Its long, thin form means construction around it has been limited. Particularly true at its northern end, the lake is another attractive location for anyone seeking out a little of the great outdoors.

The best way to get to the lake shore is by heading towards one of the seven public campgrounds and campsites still operated by the US Army, or either one of the two yacht clubs.

9. Berry Patch Farms

While Georgia might be known as the Peach State, there’s more to the region’s agricultural offerings than one fruit. Let’s not forget that Georgia resident former President Jimmy Carter used to be a peanut farmer.

Some of America’s natural foodstuffs can be found at Berry Patch Farms, from pumpkins of all sorts in the run up to Halloween, to pick your own blueberries during the summer.

The farm takes on a festive air during the Christmas period, when families come from far and wide to pick out their Christmas tree.

Elsewhere, at Big Springs Farms, visitors are not only able to grab a pumpkin, but also take a farm tour on the back of a wagon. You’ll get to check out many of the farm’s resident animals at the same time.

10. Red Top Mountain State Park

Covering more than 700 hectares, Red Top Mountain State Park sits on a peninsula of land surrounded on three sides by Lake Allatoona.

Twenty kilometres west of Woodstock, its lakeside location makes it popular with anglers, swimmers, and water skiers. There are also plenty of opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and pleasure boating, with vessels for rent in the park.

A sand beach makes a pleasant place to relax between swims. The more active will appreciate the more than 20 km of hiking trails to be found here.

Manmade attractions within the park’s bounds include the Allatoona Pass battlefield, and the reconstruction of an 1860s homestead.

11. Alpharetta and Old Milton County History Museum

Although Woodstock isn’t able to boast its own museum, there are plenty within a short drive of the city that help explain the settlement and development of the area immediately north of Atlanta.

One of the best is the Alpharetta and Old Milton County History Museum in the neighbouring city of the same name.

Located in Alpharetta’s City Hall, it doesn’t hide away from the fact that this area was native American land before its tribes were forcefully removed in the Trail of Tears.

Archive photographs help to demonstrate how the city has changed since its earliest times, while its also possible to listen to 70 residents detail their experiences. Alpharetta is roughly 30 minutes east of Woodstock.

12. Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park

The north of metropolitan Atlanta was a key battlefield in the American Civil War of the 1860s. To try and understand the reasons and consequences of the war, history lovers won’t want to miss Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

The battle around the mountain would last for three weeks in the summer of 1864. As opposed to the war overall, Kennesaw Mountain was the site of a victory for the Confederate south, delaying Abraham Lincoln’s General Sherman from attacking Atlanta.

The museum here contains various artifacts from the battle, and its earthwork defences still stand. They can be examined in more detail from 28 km of walking trails.

The park is 30 minutes south of Woodstock by road.

13. MadLife Stage & Studios

Back in downtown Woodstock, music fans should reserve some time for MadLife Stage & Studios, an excellent performance space with regular live music.

Its indoor stage offers intimate gig experiences, with less than 300 tickets available for each performance. The table-studded space also gives it a laid-back bar feel.

Outside, when the weather is good (and this is Georgia remember) MadLife is also able to boast a patio stage. The onsite grill serves food throughout the day, with a menu of takes on traditional southern flavours.

Unusually for such an establishment, this is a scratch kitchen, meaning everything is made and cooked in house, with the chefs going as far as smoking their own meat.

14. Park at City Center

Park at City Center might not be the largest green space on offer in and around Woodstock, however it is still a pleasant space for a picnic in the sun.

Its mature trees provide plenty of shade if the sunshine gets too hot, and a polygon bandstand provides an extra shady space.

A central fountain provides added interest. There is also a war memorial, and 9/11 memorial displaying track from the World Trade Center’s subway station.

The park’s lower section provides a space for the Northside Hospital Cherokee Amphitheatre, known for its summer concert series.

15. Georgia Aquarium

Thirty minutes south in downtown Atlanta, visitors will find one of Georgia’s most popular attractions, Georgia Aquarium.

One of the largest in the world, it is just a handful of aquaria anywhere that’s big enough to be home to whale sharks – one of the giants of the deep.

Other major attractions include its charming beluga whales, boisterous California sealions, and elegant manta rays.

However, these creatures form just a small part of the aquarium, that spans all the world’s marine environments, from the coldest to the warmest seas.

15 Best Things to Do in Woodstock (GA):

• Downtown Woodstock
• Elm Street Cultural Arts Village
• Olde Rope Mill Park
• Balloon Atlanta
• Dixie Speedway
• Reformation Brewery
• Archibald Smith Plantation Home
• Lake Allatoona
• Berry Patch Farms
• Red Top Mountain State Park
• Alpharetta and Old Milton County History Museum
• Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park
• MadLife Stage & Studios
• Park at City Center
• Georgia Aquarium

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How To Spend An Amazing Weekend Getaway In Woodstock, Georgia

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• Weekend Getaway

Venture outside Atlanta for a weekend getaway in the charming city of Woodstock, Georgia. You’ll find a walkable town with great eats, culture and the arts, boutique shopping, a community-involved brewery, plus outdoor activities like hiking, bicycling, and kayaking. You may even want to take a side trip to visit some of the areas nearby where movies and television shows including Ozark are filmed.

Woodstock ranks as one of Georgia’s best outdoor destinations with Lake Allatoona, the Greenprints trail system, and paddling and fly fishing on Little River. Woodstock’s mountain bike trail, Dwelling Loop — which is also great for hiking— is ranked fifth in the state by Singletracks .

After attending a travel writing conference in DeKalb County, Georgia, I was invited to spend a weekend exploring Woodstock. Here are some of the best things to do there.

Jill Dutton

Kayak To The Falls On The Little River

If kayaking or paddle boarding are your ideas of enjoyable getaway activities, plan an adventure from Olde Rope Mill Park . You can paddle the 1.5 miles (about 30 minutes) to the waterfalls, spend some time relaxing at the falls, then head back to Olde Rope Mill Park.

For a longer float, after you see the waterfalls, continue down toward the Little River Marina in Canton, Georgia — another 4.5 miles, or two to four hours.

Whichever journey you choose, don’t let not having a boat or board deter you from getting out on the water. Murphs Surf , a stand up paddle board and kayak rental company and guide service, can deliver paddle boards and kayaks and pick them up when you finish — or provide a guide if you’d rather not go alone.

Michael Murphy, the owner of Murphs Surf is a frequent guide. He’ll give tips if needed or is content to stay back and let you set the pace.

If you venture out with Murphs Surf equipment, someone will meet you at the Little River Marina to gather their kayaks or paddle boards while you walk across the street for lunch. J.D.’s on the Lake is a great option. After you’ve had a chance to eat, drink, and enjoy the scenery, Murphs Surf will have a shuttle waiting to take you back to your car at the park.

Best Hiking In Woodstock

The City of Woodstock, which encompasses approximately 7,170 acres adjacent to Lake Allatoona, contains a regional county park and four city parks. The Greenprints Project is an initiative to create a green infrastructure network to provide connectivity of community and outdoor recreation for the area’s visitors and residents, meaning excellent day hiking opportunities are in store during your Woodstock weekend getaway.

Noonday Creek Trail

If you’re up for a longer hike, commit to the Noonday Creek Trail past the river for a 9.1 mile hike both ways. The trail connects with the Towne Lake Pass if you’d like to extend your hike.

Olde Rope Mill Park

At Olde Rope Mill Park , enjoy one of the multi-use trails. The Rope Mill produced cotton ropes in the 1800s and the park has historical markers highlighting the history of the area.

Dwelling Loop Trail

The Dwelling Loop trail is a 4.8 mile loop through a forest setting. It’s accessible year-round and is a favorite for nature trips and birding .

Ryan Huckaby / Shutterstock

Biking Trails

If bicycling is your passion, there’s something for folks of every skill level in Woodstock and its surrounding areas.

Olde Rope Mill Park has 10 bike trails ranked beginner to intermediate. The trail map outlines distance, difficulty, and the direction of cycle traffic. Note that direction changes based on the day of the week, and hikers go the opposite direction of bicycles. Bikers have the right of way at all times.

Mountain Goat Adventures

If you’re a dedicated bicyclist, you may want to try one of Mountain Goat Adventures excursions. The founder, Lisa Randall, is a competitive racer herself, having competed in hundreds of events from mountain bike races and trail runs to triathlons and adventure races. She knows what makes a great course and strives to create courses for folks of every skill level.

Part of Randall’s mission is to give back by donating to organizations that maintain some of Woodstock’s beautiful trails. This is a business you can feel good about supporting; Mountain Goat Adventures has logged hundreds of hours of trail maintenance in conjunction with their events and raised thousands of dollars to donate to trail groups. Mountain Goat Adventures partners with Sixes Pit to facilitate bicycle rentals.

Blankets Creek Mountain Bike Trail System

The Blankets Creek Mountain Bike Trail System , also in the area, is one of the most beloved mountain bike trails in the U.S.

Woodstock Arts

At Woodstock Arts , you can enjoy top-notch musical acts as well as community theater. The 500-seat theater presents plays, musicals, improv, and classes. Their Lantern Series showcases world-class performances that introduce new music, ideas, and cultural concepts and are designed to invoke deeper and authentic moments with audience involvement.

Blue Cat Lodge: Ozark Filming Location

If you’ve watched the Netflix series Ozark , starring Jason Bateman and Laura Linney, you’re familiar with the Blue Cat Lodge . The series is filmed using Lake Allatoona as the setting. While the original Blue Cat Lodge is located in Missouri, you can visit the recreated Blue Cat Lodge that was created for filming the series. Visit nearby Canton to check out the Blue Cat Lodge then walk across the street to the Little River Marina and see the dock where the Langmore men work in the Netflix show.

Georgia is known as the Hollywood of the South since so many movies and television shows are filmed here. According to a 2017 study by FilmL.A., 15 of 2017’s top 100 movies were shot in Georgia . It’s a combination of beautiful backdrops and tax incentives offered to film companies that brings them to the state. Shows like Stranger Things and The Walking Dead , and films like The Hunger Games and Spider Man were all shot nearby. With so many production sites nearby, film buffs will want to plan a visit to some of these locations when visiting Woodstock.

MadLife Stage And Studios

Experience dinner and live music at MadLife Stage and Studios . The chef at MadLife creates dinner specials to complement the guest artist and their style of music. Enjoy a tribute band, an undiscovered artist showcase, a battle of the bands, or a comedy show. Or stop by for an all-ages show at Patio Music Sundays for brunch, lunch, and supper.

You’ll find three different dining experiences at MadLife Stage and Studios. The MadLife Grill serves a full menu including pulled pork sandwiches, steaks, fresh seafood, salads and seasonal vegetables, plus breads and desserts made in house daily. There’s a casual patio for outdoor music events and the MadLife Stage, the concert venue that seats up to 230 patrons for live performances by artists of various genres. There’s even a professional recording studio on site with two large tracking rooms and a post-production mixing room.

Dixie Speedway

Watch the races at the Dixie Speedway dirt track. Laid out over 150 acres, the oval, red-clay speedway seats 5,000 race fans. Grab a corndog and enjoy the outdoor seating or rent a VIP lounge for a quieter, air-conditioned experience.

Eating And Drinking In Woodstock

Woodstock is home to a vibrant foodie scene. From authentic Italian dishes at Vingenzo’s and Tuscany Italian Restaurant to farm fresh options at Rootstock and Vine, Freight Kitchen and Tap, Century House Tavern, and Salt Factory Pub, you’ll find creative dining experiences throughout the city .

With a friendly, historic town to gaze upon, it’s no wonder why there seems to be a rooftop bar on every corner in Woodstock. Part of the appeal is the town’s open container law in the entertainment district, which lends itself to an innovative cocktail and music scene with frequent live music events on rooftop bars all over town.

Vintner’s Rooftop , located above the Rootstock and Vine restaurant, is primarily a wine and bourbon bar. Pure Taqueria has a small rooftop bar overlooking the train tracks and a park setting, too.

Shopping In Woodstock

Walking around downtown Woodstock you’ll find boutique shops, breweries, a thriving bookstore, spas, and unique arts and crafts for sale. At the FoxTale Book Shoppe you’ll find a bookstore owned by writers who will take you back to a time when books were cherished.

It’s not often you find a custom shop with male tastes in mind, but at Little River Clothing and Outdoors , gentlemen get the royal treatment with a free beer or refreshment while they’re shopping for custom, off-the-rack, and specialty clothing items. Step into Spirited Boutiques for bohemian clothing and a jewelry bar at the center of the store where you can create your own unique accessories using pendants and beads designed by store owners and artists, Spirit and Ed Bush.

Finally, if you’re looking for designer products at a discounted price, check out The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta, located a five-minute drive from downtown Woodstock.

In 2015, Jill Dutton started traveling the world to explore culture and place through storytelling, writing about the people she meets along the way. Readers of her articles have come to expect an intimate look at authentic travel experiences. Jill's podcast, Global Journeys with Jill Dutton is ranked #22 in FeedSpot’s “Best Travel Podcasts on the Planet.” Listen to a podcast episode, read her syndicated food column -- Global Plates: The People We Meet, The Food They Eat, or follow her travels at https://globaljourneyswithjilldutton.com/.

How to Spend a Weekend in Woodstock, GA

Last Updated on June 17, 2023 by Grant

With all the travel we do, it is easy to forget how much we love our hometown, Woodstock, GA. We live here, we work here and we have a lot of fun here. So, we decided it was time to share our tips for how to spend a weekend in our hometown.

This is not the end all, be all list of things to do, but rather our favorites and recommendations for enjoying yourself in our hometown.

(Disclaimer: When we link to places where you can buy our stuff or places we stayed, we are using special codes that earn us commissions on the sales at no additional cost to you. Please see our  Review Policy   for more information.)

How to get to Woodstock, GA

Woodstock is located northwest of Atlanta off Interstate 575. I would love to be able to tell you that you can take mass transit to get here, but that’s not possible. Thus, you will need a car to get here and get around.

Get off at Exit 8 (Towne Lake Parkway) and head east. Towne Lake Parkway will intersect with Main Street right in the heart of downtown. Finding a place to park can be challenging but downtown is worth it. There is so much to see and do in an easy walking distance of anywhere you park.

Friday Night

The first stop is our favorite brewery, Reformation Brewery .

Reformation recently opened up a great new location in downtown with plenty of room, both indoors and out, for games and relaxation. Plus, they have their experimental brewery on the premises for some tasty stuff you can’t necessarily get in the stores.

I am a big fan of Cadence, their Belgian-style ale, and Nolan the Wanderer, their rotating IPA. Bonnie really likes Haddy, their Belgian-style white ale.

Grab a beer, take a load off and enjoy this great space. It’s perfect for a Friday afternoon beer (or any afternoon, for that matter).

When you are ready, head on over to  Century House Tavern . This is probably our favorite restaurant in downtown. It has just the right mix of tasty sandwiches and high-end entrees to keep any foodie happy.

We are big fans of the Ahi Tuna Burger, the Prime Rib Dip and the Jack and Coke-glazed Pork Belly. Seriously, the grits which come with the pork belly are some of the best we have ever had. I hate to say it but these are better than my grandmother’s grits.

After dinner, take some time to grab some gelato at Dulce Artisan Gelato and walk around in downtown. If live music is your thing, you will often, especially in the warmer months, find several bars with live music to enjoy.

Other great spots for a casual dinner in Woodstock we love:

Truck & Tap – Basically, this is a bar with great craft beer and space in the back for a food truck. The food trucks rotate but there are some really great trucks, like Dominic’s NY Pizza .

Freight Kitchen and Tap – The drinks here are fantastic and the pimento cheese dip is to die for. The food is mostly nouveau Southern.

Saturday Morning

Your first stop is the Woodstock Farm Fresh Market , held every Saturday morning April to December on Market Street right next to Reformation. Here, you will find fresh fruits and veggies, along with plenty of places to get something to munch on for breakfast. Alternatively, you could head up to Copper Coin Coffee Shop for coffee and a light breakfast.

Right next to the Farmer’s Market is the Noonday Creek Trail . This paved walking path leads down to the creek and provides a great way to burn off a few of the calories from the gelato last night.

Getting out on the trail is one of our favorite things to do on a Saturday morning and you will often find us exercising there. When you get to the bridge, you can keep going out to Highway 92 or head past the dog park (Woofstock Park) towards Woodstock High School. The former is a bit shorter and flatter and the latter is a bit more wooded. If you need to use the bathroom or get water, there are restroom facilities at the dog park.

For lunch, head down Towne Lake Parkway to our favorite BBQ joint, J. Miller’s Smokehouse. This is not located in downtown proper but is a relatively easy walk from downtown.

Before our first visit, we heard about this place from one of our coworkers, Susan, who knows the owner. We had been meaning to try it but just hadn’t made the effort.  One day we were driving home, stopped in traffic right at the shopping center, with the window open.  Bonnie said, “Wow, that smells good.” I immediately turned in, without any hesitation. The thing is, Bonnie enjoys barbecue but rarely will choose it; I wasn’t going to miss this opportunity.

The BBQ tastes just as good as it smells! We are particularly fond of the Smokehouse Cuban Sandwich, which is made with pulled pork and bolo ham, and the Black and Blue Brisket Sandwich. Also, the sour cream and bacon potato salad is to die for!

Pro tip: Order the Cuban without mustard, then douse it with the house-made Low Country Mustard BBQ sauce. Perfection!

Another great option for lunch is Canyons Fresh Grill . I am a big fan of the Red Smoke Burger. If burgers aren’t your thing, they offer chicken and salads as well.

Saturday Afternoon

There are tons of ways to spend your afternoon in Woodstock. If shopping is your thing, look no further. Not only are there great shops in downtown, but there is also an outlet mall just up Rope Mill Road. You can even take the trolley there.

If shopping isn’t your thing and you want to see more in the way of nature, there is a ton to enjoy with just a short drive.

Just west of Woodstock is Lake Allatoona and Red Top Mountain State Park , both of which offer a lot in terms of outdoor recreation. There are several day use areas, hiking trails and boating opportunities to be had all around the lake.

Looking for a bit of history? Head south to Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park , our nearest unit of the National Park Service. Kennesaw Mountain NBP offers both a glimpse into the history of the Civil War in Georgia and some great views of the surrounding country.

Saturday Night

Need a moment off your feet? We love the rooftop bar at Rootstock and Vine for a tasty cocktail in the afternoon or before dinner.

This place specializes in wine and bourbon, with a great selection of small plates/tapas. I highly recommend one the mules and be sure to check out their seasonal specials in terms of cocktails.

If the weather is hot, you might want to save drinks and the rooftop bar for after dinner to enjoy the cool of the evening.

For dinner, we recommend Vingenzo’s , a Neapolitan Italian restaurant owned by James Beard Chef Michael Bologna. You can get a wood-fired pizza or amazing pasta but be sure to pay attention to the specials.

We always enjoy the antipasti as a hearty appetizer. During our last visit, we had an amazing sea bass and pasta dish as well as the Bucatini All’ Amatriciana. But that is just a few of the great dishes we have had there.

Some other great dinner and drinks options in Woodstock we love:

Reel Seafood – I love their classic Dark n’ Stormy. The seafood here is great. I’m a big fan of the Seafood Gumbo.

Salt Factory – This gastropub offers a lot of tasty dishes along with a great beer and bourbon selection.

Cool Things to Do On Saturday Night

For Saturday night, we recommend checking the schedule for the Woodstock Summer Concert Series . Woodstock recently built a fantastic outdoor amphitheater and offers free concerts throughout the summer. Some of the acts which have played free shows in Woodstock include Drivin’ n’ Cryin,” Charlie Daniels Band, .38 Special and Everclear.

I got to go backstage for the Everclear concert. Yeah, I fangirled a bit. It was fantastic.

Another unique offering in Woodstock is Dixie Speedway , which offers dirt track racing at it’s finest. We can’t tell you how much fun we have watching the races at Dixie.

The races start fairly late, but there are plenty of warm-up and trial runs earlier, making for an action-packed time at the races.

Pro Tip: Make sure you stop by Wal Mart for some hearing protection and either bring or buy some cheap lawn chairs for the races. Also, this is a dirt track, so you and your clothes will get dirt on them.

If those aren’t available, be sure to check the schedule at MadLife Studios , which has a nice concert venue in downtown. Additionally, Elm Street Cultural Art Village  offers live theatre most weekends.

Sunday Morning

For a nice breakfast on Sunday which will last you well into the day, we always head to J. Christopher’s . An Atlanta chain, this joint offers one heckuva tasty breakfast.

I like scrambles and skillets. Bonnie typically gets bacon and eggs. We both love their grits and their signature blueberry crunch cakes (pancakes with granola added) are amazing.

Pro Tip: Get here early on Sundays. The wait can be a bit long.

The other great option for breakfast, especially if you have never eaten at one before, is the Waffle House  and there are two in Woodstock. Waffle House is probably the last bastion of true short-order cooks and the pecan waffles are just amazing.

Where to Stay

When we have a need to stay in a hotel (like when the AC goes out or when Grant got COVID and needed the condo to quarantine) , we have stayed at the Hampton Inn . It is nothing fancy, but it works.

Book the Hotel | Read TripAdvisor Reviews

The newest hotel, located about five minutes from downtown, is a Holiday Inn Express and it is located right next to the outlet mall.

Read TripAdvisor reviews and book it.

If you are looking to camp, there are several Corps of Engineers campgrounds around Lake Allatoona, as well as a campground at Red Top Mountain State Park.

Final Thoughts

It is kinda hard for us to believe our little downtown has grown to the point of being a weekend destination. I have lived here for more than 12 years and it has changed a lot in that time. 

We hope you come to visit our little corner of the world. It’s a lot of fun and there is a ton to do and enjoy here. For more information on visiting Woodstock, be sure to check out VisitWoodstockGA.com .

Plus, who knows, you might run into us out on the trail or sipping on a beer at Reformation.

Travel Resources

What do you use to find a flight.

We use Skyscanner to find deals on flights. Skyscanner has a great interface and compares tons of airlines for the best pricing and routing. That said, it does not always have every airline and some airlines will have better deals on their website. Still, Skyscanner is a great place to start. Click here to search for a flight.

What do you use to find a hotel?

We typically stay at Hilton properties , so we use the Hilton website . You can find good Hilton Honors discounts or AAA discounts for a hotel there. We make great use of our free night certificates from our Hilton Honors American Express. Click here to book a Hilton property.

If there are no Hilton properties available, we use TripAdvisor to read reviews and book the hotel. We find we can get the best price that way. Click here to search for a hotel.

We recently partnered with Stay22 to add interactive maps to each of our destination posts. This will allow you to see a plethora of hotels and vacation rentals all in one responsive map of the area.

What if I need more space than I can get at a hotel?

We use Vrbo for the times when we have rented a cabin for a weekend getaway, like this cabin in Townsend, TN , or needed to rent a house for a large family vacation. We had a great experience with them in terms of refunding deposits when COVID hit and will continue to use them. Click here to search for a vacation rental.

Who do you use for rental cars?

As a general rule, we book with Hertz for rental cars. We have had nothing but good experiences with them. Plus, we really like unlimited mileage and not worrying about crossing state lines. We have even rented from Hertz overseas in both Slovenia and Croatia . Click here to book a rental car.

How about booking a cruise?

We have found some amazing prices for booking a cruise through Cruise Direct . We have saved a lot of money on our cruises compared to what we found elsewhere, making a last-minute Bahamas cruise even cheaper. Click here to book a cruise.

What if I want to rent an RV?

We highly recommend Outdoorsy for RV rentals. We rented a camper van for a week to visit Rocky Mountain National Park for the elk rut and Custer State Park for the Buffalo Round-Up and had a blast. The program was easy to use and we really enjoyed the freedom of having a camper van for that trip. Click here to rent an RV.

What do you use for booking tours?

We don’t often book tours. Typically, we like to do stuff on our own. That said, there are some experiences you can’t have any other way. So, when we do want to book a tour, we always check Viator first. Click here to book a tour.

Do you use anything to get discounts on the road?

We make extensive use of both Good Sam and AAA on the road. Good Sam is normally regarded as a discount card for RVers at campgrounds and Camping World but anyone can use the 5 cents off a gallon at the pump at both Pilot and Flying J. Click here to get a Good Sam membership. We have had AAA as long as we have been married and it has more than paid for itself in discounts at hotels, aside from the peace of mind of having roadside assistance. Add in paper maps and the ability to get an international driver’s license and it is more than worth it for any traveler out there. Click here to get a AAA membership.

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Looking for the best hiking in Woodstock? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Woodstock. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Hiking Spots in and near Woodstock

Rope Mill Loop

Hike the Battlefield and Mountain Loop

Hike to Noses Creek

Camp at Red Top Mountain State Park

Hike and Swim at Red Top Mountain

Hike to the Roswell Mill Ruins via Vickery Creek Trail

Hike Along Sope Creek

Hike through Big Trees Forest Preserve

Pine Mountain Loop

Hike along the East Palisades Trail

Etowah Indian Mounds Interpretive and River Walk Trails

Take a Stroll through Blue Heron Nature Preserve

Morningside Nature Preserve Loop

Eastside Trail of the Atlanta Beltline

Mountainside Loop Trail

Bunten Road Park Loop

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Community Corner

Nearby historic day trips in georgia, revisit the past with these day trip destinations., david rice , neighbor.

Written by David Rice

History isn't something that lives only in textbooks. It's right in your own backyard. The best part? You can get to all these historic destinations on one tank of gas (or less).

Pickett’s Mill Battlefield Historic Site

Find out what's happening in Woodstock-Towne Lake with free, real-time updates from Patch.

4432 Mt. Tabor Church Rd.

Why Go?  One of the best preserved Civil War battlefields in the nation, Pickett’s Mill includes earthworks made by soldiers and a 1800's pioneer cabin that is furnished and open for tours.

Insider Tip: It's only open Thursday through Saturday.

Must Do: Keep an eye out for upcoming re-enactment events. Period actors demonstrate farm life, toys, games and celebrations of the period.

The Fine Print: Admission is $5.50 for adults, $3.50 for seniors and $3 for kids age 6 to 17. 

Gordon Lee Mansion  

217 Cove Rd. Chickamauga

(706) 375-4728

Why Go?  The only surviving structure used by both the Confederate and Union armies during the Civil War that survives, the Gordon Lee Mansion is a fascinating relic of the Battle of Chickamauga.

Insider Tip: Self-guided tours include musical entertainment, homemade cookies and apple cider.  

Must Do: Stop by local favorite Crystal Springs Smokehouse in downtown Chickamauga for smoked barbecue plates and sandwiches. 

The Fine Print:  Open from 11 a.m.- 3 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $1 for children 12 and under.

The Forts of Rome

Why Go?  Rome boasts a wide array of Civil War heritage sites and forts. Fort Attaway or Fort Norton are two sites that show just how modest forts were during the war. “What you find in Rome is the true southern experience," Executive Director of the Rome Visitors Bureau Lisa J. Smith said. "Whether it's the Civil War, Native American history or modern day history, Rome has an incredible story to tell."

Insider Tip: Visit the village of Cave Spring, which is home to more than 90 historic structures that were once headquarters of the Confederate Army of Tennessee.

Must Do:  Rome has several museums that are certainly noteworthy for any Civil War aficionado. In particular, check out Oak Hill and the Martha Berry Museum as well as the Rome Area History Museum.

The Fine Print:  Rome’s museums fees are around $5 admission for adults, $3 seniors and $2 and free for the kids, depending on the site.

Adairsville

Why Go?  In December of 1987, Adairsville became the first Georgia town listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.  

Insider Tip:  Just five miles outside Adairsville is Barnsley Gardens Resort, an 1840s estate where today guests can retreat to a luxurious stay that includes golf, a spa and gardens.

Must Do: See the original depot which witnessed the pursuit of the steam locomotive General of the famous Great Locomotive Chase during the Civil War. 

The Fine Print: The Public Square Opera House presents six productions each year, many of which accentuate the heritage of Adairsville. Open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday 1-5 p.m.

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