By Fiona Good-Sirota By Fiona Good-Sirota | June 20, 2024 | Lifestyle, Guides,
In need of a summer getaway? Hit the road and set off on a fun-loving adventure with our top picks for the best drivable destinations near Atlanta.
This charming and historic wine region is home to hiking trails, vineyards, waterfalls, breweries and shops. The town features over 106,000 acres of pristine Chattahoochee National Forest, 100 miles of trout streams and a quaint downtown Main Street with antique boutiques, galleries and restaurants.
Situated between Savannah and Jacksonville, this seaside resort and community offers reprieve with miles of sandy beaches, ideal for strolling, swimming, bodyboarding or participating in other water sports. Guests can also visit the area’s cozy villages, complete with shops, beaches, museums and acclaimed golf courses.
Nestled along the Chattahoochee National Forest and the Anna Ruby and Raven Cliff waterfalls, this historic mountain town is a must-visit for its quaint Bavarian architecture, tasty German cuisine, lush wineries and nearby lavender farm. Just under 90 miles from the city, antique lovers can swing by shops like the Historic Nacoochee Village Antique Mall to peruse heirloom pieces like decor, accessories and more.
Less than an hour from Atlanta, this lakefront destination offers over 1,200 acres of serene natural beauty, golf courses, dining spots and resort-grade accommodations. Relax in Legacy Lodge’s saltwater pool, visit Margaritaville water park, sit by the fire pits or stroll on the beach at this picturesque travel spot.
Meander through Savannah’s cobblestone streets and enjoy historic antebellum architecture, horse-drawn carriages, Tybee Island beach and an array of quaint bed and breakfasts. Visit local hot spots like the Saint Bibiana eatery (set in a 19th-century mansion), Southern restaurant Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room and the Rousakis Riverfront Plaza shopping center with clothing, accessories, jewelry and artwork.
Take a road trip and visit this beachfront city, known for its historic charm, Southern hospitality and vibrant culinary scene, which is filled with Lowcountry classics. Visit high-end boutiques, antique shops, art galleries and restaurants on Charleston’s main thoroughfare, King Steet or hit up coastal spots like Folly Beach, Edisto Beach and the 7-mile-long Isle of Palms beach.
This urban hub houses some of the most famous, widely acclaimed country music venues and artists in the world (Miley Cyrus, Dolly Parton, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban, to name a few). Visit Music City to explore chic shopping spots, rising restaurants and the area’s unique fine art scene.
With more than 12 million annual guests, this world-renowned destination is one of the most visited national parks in the country—and one of the few with no entrance fee. Visitors can enjoy abundant natural beauty, flourishing wildlife, more than 850 miles of hiking trails and an array of spots for fishing, camping and horseback riding.
Nestled along North Carolina’s Blue Ridge mountains, this buzzy city has garnered acclaim for its culmination of art galleries, culinary spots, live music venues and rich architecture dating back to the early 18th century—and its exquisite views.
This 26-mile-long stretch along Florida’s coastline is renowned for its white sand beaches (Grayton Beach, Rosemary Beach and Seaside Beach) and clear, blue oceanfront. As you ramble along the coast, swing by picturesque towns like Watercolor, Alys Beach and Seaside to shop, dine and explore art galleries and historic architecture.
See also: The 10 Best Parks In Atlanta
Photography by: Lauren Brooke/iStock