1. Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Gorge State Park features a two mile long gorge and is one of the Seven Wonders of Georgia. The entire park is absolutely breathtaking. Tallulah, Georgia is also the home of the spectacular Tallulah Falls. The park offers fishing, boating, mountain biking, rock climbing, swimming, and camping. The park is located on highway 441, just one and a half hours north of Atlanta.
2. Sweetwater Creek
Sweetwater Creek is a state park just 15 miles from downtown Atlanta in Douglas County. The park is rich in civil war history and contains astonishing scenery. Sweetwater is the home of a water powered mill that was used during the war. The remnants of the mill are still there today. Sweetwater Creek State Park offers hiking, canoeing, bird watching, fishing, a playground, picnic shelters, and a BBQ pit. The only thing you have to pay for is a $5 parking fee.
3. Stone Mountain
Tourist or not, Stone Mountain is a place for adventure seekers. Stone Mountain is home to civil war history, amazing geology, and pure fun for the whole family. Stone Mountain offers an adventure for people from 1 to 100. Some of the attractions include: walk-up trails, a sky ride to the mountain top, museums, stores, a children's play area, a riverboat, and much more. Don't forget to end your night of adventuring at the "Laser Show Spectacular." The park is located about 30 minutes west of Atlanta. Be sure to bring lots of money, because this adventure is not cheap. (The only free thing offered is the laser show.)
4. Savannah Historic District
"Life is like a box of chocolates." Who said that? Oh yes, Forrest Gump while sitting in Chippewa Square in Savannah, Georgia. Savannah is one of the major destinations in Georgia and hold days worth of adventure. The city is broken up by 22 squares, and you need to go down each one! The best way to see the city is a hop on hop off trolley. These can be a bit pricey, but they are worth it if you want the full experience. Savannah offers so many different adventures that I can't name them all. You just have to go see for yourself!
5. Tybee Island
While you're in Savannah, drive on out to Tybee Island and enjoy the afternoon in the sun. Tybee Island is the easternmost part of the state of Georgia and the home of a breathtaking beach. Near the mouth of the Savannah River sits Tybee Island Light Station. During peak summer seasons, the Tybee Lighthouse is open to the public for a small fee. The best part of Tybee Island is the beach. The beach is completely free and tons of fun! (Note: you do pay to park.) There are tons of local shops and restaurants located within walking distance of the beach as well. Just don't forget the sunscreen when you adventure out to Tybee Island.
6. Okefenokee
Always wanted to visit a swamp with a cool name? Okefenokee is just the adventure you've been looking for. Located on the Georgia-Florida border, Okefenokee offers four separate entrances for the public. Locals from the area offer tours via motorboat, kayak, and canoe. There is actually not a lot of attractions at this destination, but it is one of the Seven Wonders of Georgia. Plus you'd having bragging rights with your friends about visiting a place called Okefenokee.
7. Lake Lanier Islands
Want to have an amazing Independence Day? Drive on over to Lake Lanier Islands and join in on their annual celebration. Located 45 minutes north of Atlanta, Lake Lanier offers many things for visitors to do. There are places to stay, play, shop, eat, and even local events. Be sure to check out their calendar to find out more. Lake Lanier is definitely a top destination in Georgia for a summer adventure.
8. Banning Mills
Banning Mills has an extra-long zip line course that is fun for people of all ages. After you finish zip lining, try out their rock climbing wall. Tired of the heat? Take a trip to their spa. Other adventurous options include: horseback riding, kayaking, an adventure course, and a falconry show. Nothing here is free but it is definitely fun. Banning Mills is located 45 minutes west of Atlanta.
9. Cumberland Island
Cumberland Island is the largest and southernmost barrier island in the state. The island itself is only accessible via ferry boat and space is limited. The best way to enjoy Cumberland Island is to call for reservations in advance. No worries though, if you can't make it on a ferry the day arrive just camp outside until the next day. The ferry boat is a little pricey but a must to fully enjoy this destination. You can go kayaking, swimming, take a guided tour, and much more. By the way, horses roam free on the island!
10. Helen
Helen is known for being one the best places in Georgia to go tubing and it is extremely fun. After tubing, head over to Brasstown Bald and stand on the highest peak in Georgia. If all that outdoor adventuring makes you tired, Helen has tons of shops and restaurants for you to go in. Helen is located about and hour and a half northeast of Atlanta.
