Thedailymiaminews– Georgia has been a well-liked vacation spot for many years because of its pleasant winters and balmy summers. But many are drawn to the Peach State for reasons other than Savannah’s ancient architecture or Atlanta’s music scene. Travel enthusiasts are drawn to the enchanting downtowns, majestic mountains, and sparkling lakes found in many tiny towns. Even in the lesser-known hamlets, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied thanks to the region’s mouthwatering food, sparkling wine, welcoming locals, and diverse range of activities. These are a few of our top picks.
Dahlonega
Nestled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega is about an hour and a half north of Atlanta. The hamlet, which hosted the first Gold Rush in the country in 1829, continues to honor its history with the Dahlonega Gold Museum, which features fascinating relics, movies, and a gift shop, as well as the yearly Gold Rush Days Festival. For opportunities to work out in the natural environment, outdoor enthusiasts will switch their backpacks. For advice on the region’s trails, waterfalls, streams, and historical places, one can visit the Outback Guide Service. Don’t forget to visit the Red Oak Lavender Farm and the Dahlonega Butterfly Farm if you’re taking your children.
However, Dahlonega’s natural splendor extends beyond its hiking paths. Outposts like the Dress up Boutique, with its comfortable and attractive designs, and The Spice & Tea Exchange of Dahlonega, with its unique tea and seasonings, can be found in the charming, walkable downtown. The Mountain Laurel Creek Inn & Spa offers jetted baths and private cottages that are perfect for a romantic weekend getaway. Or visit the Hall House Hotel with your pals to get a close-up look at the activity. There is a reason Dahlonega is the site of annual events like the Dahlonega Literary & Science Festival and why Hallmark’s “Christmas in the Smokies” was filmed there. It is the ideal location for a family outing, a couples’ retreat, or a girlfriend’s weekend because of its distinctive blend of sophisticated charm and rustic elegance.
Darien
Darien, which has a population of less than 2,000, is situated in a picturesque area on Georgia’s Atlantic Coast, approximately an hour’s drive from Jacksonville, Florida, and Savannah, Georgia. Like many coastal towns, it’s a great place to go canoeing, kayaking, boating, and fishing. Fort King George, the oldest English fort still standing on the Georgia coast, was first constructed in 1721 and is a must-see for history buffs. The Old Jail Art Center and Museum, one of the region’s oldest public structures, is also well-liked. It has been transformed into six active art galleries with regular classes.
Darien is a fantastic destination for those who enjoy locally caught seafood because of its waterfront position. Try the Snow Crab Dinner at B & J’s Steaks and Seafood or the Fried Georgia Shrimp at Skipper’s Fish Camp. If you plan to stay overnight, take in the views at the Darien Waterfront Inn or the comfortable lodgings at the Oaks on the River Boutique Hotel. You can easily turn your day vacation into an exciting weeklong adventure because Darien is close to barrier islands like Sapelo Island, plantations like the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, and parks like Waterfront Park.
The town of Thomasville
The hamlet of Thomasville lies near the border and less than an hour’s drive from Tallahassee, Florida. Places like Cherokee Lake Park, where more than 1,500 rose bushes bloom each summer, and The Rose Garden will captivate you with their Victorian elegance. This is the ideal site for the Annual Rose Show and Festival in April because it has pavilions and playgrounds. This festival has been a favorite for more than a century thanks to entertainment, a parade, an antique car exhibition, and vendors!
Local specialties like Gulf Shrimp, Pimento Oysters, and Filet Mignon can be found at restaurants like Chop House on the Bricks, which foodies won’t want to miss. Or unwind at the Grassroots Coffee Shop with a freshly baked muffin and a cappuccino. When it comes to the yarn choices at Fuzzy Goat Yarns or the materials at Trolly’s Designer Fabrics, hobbyists will become overwhelmed. For an informed guide to show you around, visit Local Strolls Historic Tours if you’re unsure where to begin.
City of Peachtree
Scenes from Sweet Home Alabama and Drop Dead Diva were filmed in the charming hamlet of Peachtree City, which is less than forty minutes from Atlanta. No vehicle? No issue! There are more than 100 miles of golf cart paths in the charming city, and you may rent the cars. Popular hotels, glistening lakes, and quaint retail malls are all within driving distance. As you might expect, a popular tourist activity is taking a movie tour, such as The Southern Hollywood Film Tour, which takes you to the locations where sequences from your favorite films were shot.
Well-known hotels like the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites and the Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Peachtree City will keep you cozy if you’re only staying for the weekend. Craft beer enthusiasts will savor a delicious lunch at Crosstown Grille and Alehouse, which serves regional lagers, IPAs, and ales. At Due South Seafood Kitchen or the Georgia Shrimp Company, foodies can try hot, fresh seafood. Lastly, there are plenty of treats for shoppers to enjoy along the Boulevard, including popular locations like Lizard Thicket and Darling Diva’s Boutique.
Madison
Madison, Georgia, is well-known for its charming shopping, vibrant flowers, and storybook homes. The Morgan County Historical Society and Heritage Hall, which features historical architecture and furnishings, is a must-see for history aficionados. The Apalachee Schoolhouse, constructed in 1911 and still containing the majority of its original materials, is another place you can see. Benny Paul’s Soul Food has the best fried chicken, cornbread, and baby back ribs in town, so if you’re a foodie, stop by. Or go to the Madison Chophouse Grille and take in the atmosphere and sizzling steaks.
Madison is an excellent small-town stop if you’re traveling to the state’s larger metropolitan centers because it’s only an hour’s drive from both Atlanta and Augusta. If you wish to stay for the weekend, book a room at the chic James Madison Inn or the comfortable Farmhouse Inn.
Mary’s
Just an hour’s drive north of Jacksonville, Florida, is St. Mary’s, a charming seaside town that serves as the entry point to Georgia’s renowned Cumberland Island. You can stay in the quiet village or take the ferry to Cumberland Island, which offers lots of hiking, fishing, and wildlife. See the Plum Orchard Mansion, which was first constructed by Lucy Carnegie for her son and his wife, or the St. Mary’s Submarine Museum, which is the only one of its kind in Southern Georgia.
You won’t want to miss the hiking, camping, and nature center at Crooked River State Park if you enjoy the great outdoors. The Spencer House Inn has a charming front porch for those looking for a more central place to stay. Enjoy the Southern Riverwalk or Locals Dockside if you’re searching for a great place to eat. Enjoy the St. Mary’s Murder, Mayem, and Mimosas Walking Tour, which includes an assassination plot and drinks at noon, if you’re searching for a unique tour.
The city of Greensboro
If you enjoy lake life, you should visit Greensboro, where there are many of chances for swimming, paddleboarding, and tubing in the sparkling waters of Lake Oconee. Parents won’t want to miss dining at restaurants with stunning views, including Gaby’s by the Lake, while kids will appreciate the waterfront playground.
The Ritz-Carlton Lake Oconee, which offers private cottages, outdoor fireplaces, and opulent rooms, is also located in the neighborhood. You’ll be occupied on the resort grounds with golf, a spa, and a fitness facility, but you also need to explore the downtown area of the neighborhood. For instance, the Oconee Brewing Company is the ideal location for breakfast, live music, and craft ales. Additionally, don’t pass on the shopping at Pop Vintage or Just Be.
Georgia’s little villages are a must-see if you’re looking for a journey that combines breathtaking views of the water, mouthwatering food, and exciting shopping. The majority are within a short drive from major cities and will provide you the rest and motivation you need to start your workweek again. You’ll discover the ideal location to escape from it all and never want to return home with lodging options ranging from comfortable B&Bs to sophisticated resorts to reasonably priced motels.