Where to go North Georgia?A

Question

Hi,

I booked flights into Atlanta just for change of scenery from Florida and have no idea where to go!

I have young children and we’d like to see some countryside/small mountains. I was thinking to maybe stay in Atlanta for a couple of nights and then the remaining 5 nights in a cabin or hotel further out. Preferably not more than a 2 hour drive but open to more to preferably enjoy some slightly cooler weather and nice scenery!

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you.

Answer

It sounds like you're looking for a nice escape from the Florida heat and a chance to enjoy some beautiful scenery and cooler weather in North Georgia. There are a number of great places within a 2-hour drive from Atlanta that offer a mix of small mountain towns, outdoor activities, and plenty of relaxation for young children. Here are a few suggestions for you:

Blue Ridge (Approx. 1.5 hours from Atlanta)
- Blue Ridge is known for its picturesque mountain views, small-town charm, and family-friendly atmosphere. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway offers a fun ride through the Appalachian foothills, perfect for kids and adults alike.
- You can also explore hiking trails, visit local orchards for apple picking, or rent a cabin near Lake Blue Ridge for some peaceful downtime.
- Great for young children to experience the outdoors in a safe and relaxing environment.
Helen (Approx. 1.5 hours from Atlanta)
- Helen is a unique alpine-style town nestled in the North Georgia mountains. It has a lot to offer for families, including tubing on the Chattahoochee River, hiking in the nearby state parks, and exploring the quaint shops in the town center.
- Helen is also close to Unicoi State Park, which has great hiking trails, including the short and easy Anna Ruby Falls trail, which is a beautiful waterfall that is perfect for young kids.
Blairsville (Approx. 2 hours from Atlanta)
- Blairsville is a peaceful town surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking in the Chattahoochee National Forest, visiting the Vogel State Park, and exploring the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains.
- There are plenty of family-friendly cabins and lodges in the area, offering a relaxing retreat in the mountains.
Dahlonega (Approx. 1 hour from Atlanta)
- Dahlonega is famous for its gold rush history and is a charming small town with a rich heritage. It’s also home to beautiful vineyards, making it a great spot for a family getaway.
- The Dahlonega Gold Museum offers a fun, educational experience for children, and the nearby vineyards and hiking trails are perfect for a day out in nature. You can also enjoy peaceful mountain views and find cozy cabins to rent.
Lake Lanier (Approx. 1 hour from Atlanta)
- If you're looking for a lakeside retreat, Lake Lanier is a fantastic option. It's perfect for families with young children because it offers a variety of water activities, including boat rentals, fishing, and sandy beaches.
- There are several family-friendly resorts around the lake, and the surrounding area has great parks and outdoor spaces for hiking and picnicking.

Any of these destinations would provide a relaxing retreat from the heat of Florida while offering beautiful scenery and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy with your young children. Whether you're looking to rent a cabin or stay in a cozy hotel, North Georgia has something for everyone. All of these locations are under a 2-hour drive from Atlanta, making them perfect for a short getaway with easy access to nature and cooler weather.

Safe travels, and enjoy your trip!