Georgia is a state steeped in the richness of America’s history and culture, and to go there is to receive a truly southern experience. Martin Luther King was born and lived in Georgia, while the movie Gone with the Wind was famously born out of the state as well. From the state parks and beaches to the quaint, charming streets of Savannah, there is a great deal of variety and many things to experience in the state. Here are just a few of the hidden gems and not-to-be-missed sights that the state of Georgia has to offer.
Blue Ridge
Blue Ridge is a small town with art as the thriving heart at its centre. Affectionately termed “the Switzerland of the South,” Blue Ridge boasts galleries as well as specialized craft breweries and many live music performances. The natural scenery surrounding the town is what truly makes the area come alive however, and there are many hiking trails through its wooded areas and kayaking along the Ocoee river available.
Pine Mountain
Lying just an hour outside of Atlanta, Pine Mountain is adjoined to the Calloway Gardens resort which encompasses gardens, lakes and golf courses. However, if none of that seems appealing, the town of Pine Mountain itself contains various antique shops, traditional restaurants serving southern food, and other locally-owned shops to get lost in. There are also many lodgings available within Calloway Gardens or nearby apartments in LaGrange, GA, a neighbouring city.
Tybee Island
Only a half-hour drive from Savannah, Tybee Island is a small slice of paradise with over five miles of sandy beaches, complete with sand dunes. Tybee Island encompasses only 22 square miles in total, but into that space is packed a multitude of activities such as fishing, sailing, and biking. However, upon visiting, you could equally decide to do none of these things, and simply soak up the sun and enjoy the amazing views from Tybee, either from the beach or sitting comfortably at one of her bars or restaurants.
Panther Creek Falls
The Panther Creek trail takes hikers along a winding trail through Georgia’s Cohutta Mountains, but the real treat at the end of this walk is the series of breath-taking waterfalls, all flowing in multiple tiers to a singular pool of crisp, clear water at the bottom. It has long been noted as a perfect spot for a meditative moment with the gentle, relaxing sound of the falls at your back. There are also many campsites on either side of the falls, so finding somewhere to set down a tent should prove easy.
Providence Canyon
Those looking for that Grand Canyon experience within Georgia could not do much better than to visit the state’s own Providence Canyon. Located within the Providence National Park, the Canyon offers a stark array of colors; oranges, reds, purples, oranges; that are particularly beautiful and striking during summer months. Furthermore, there are multiple hiking and rock-climbing opportunities available to really get hands-on with Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon.”