Whether you want to meander down the romantic streets of Savannah or explore the vibrant, multicolored canyons at one of the many state parks, visiting top destinations in Georgia doesn’t have to break the bank. From cosmopolitan cities to lush barrier islands with laid-back charm and some of the state’s most beautiful natural attractions, Georgia offers a variety of budget-friendly vacation destinations to suit a range of preferences and needs. Perfect for those looking to get the most out of their precious days off, read on to discover some of the best budget-friendly vacations in Georgia.
Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
A stunning 680-square mile natural oasis, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is considered an ecological wonder in Georgia that is the perfect getaway for those who are looking for natural beauty without the tourist crowds. Drive along the Swamp Island Drive, visit the Chesser Homestead to see how early settlers lived, and walk along the Upland Discovery Trail for a look at diverse wildlife. Fishing, hiking, and canoeing are popular activities, while visitors are encouraged to take a guided boat tour of the area and take a panoramic glimpse of the prairie from the observation tower.
Jekyll Island
One of Georgia’s top beach destinations, Jekyll Island offers a variety of activities to fill a vacation itinerary. On top of its ten miles of sun-drenched beaches, the area is also home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center where animal lovers can watch veterinarians perform medical procedures on injured sea turtles in addition to the Tidelands Nature Center where visitors can join kayak tours, nature walks, and hands-on programs. To soak up the area’s stunning scenery, walk along Boneyard Beach, rent a bicycle and explore the flat terrain, or visit the Jekyll Island Museum for a comprehensive tour of the island’s history.
Tybee Island
A small city and barrier island near Savannah, Tybee Island can hold its own with an array of quaint attractions that attract visitors from around the state. Known for its long stretches of unspoiled sandy beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, visitors will find a rustic coastal area where it’s easy to spend quality time together. Visit the 270-year-old Tybee Lighthouse, explore historic Fort Pulaski, and relax on South Beach. For an educational look at Georgia’s natural resources, take a tour of the Tybee Island Marine Science Center to see exhibits on local fish and reptiles.
Helen
A small mountain town in the north of Georgia, Helen is a re-creation of a Bavarian Alpine Village with colorfully painted wooden houses and cobblestone alleys. While the biggest attraction to Helen is its postcard-worthy architecture, visitors who come here are in close proximity to some of the state’s most appealing natural attractions. Tube down the river, hike to Anna Ruby Falls, or visit Black Forest Bear Park. Whether you spend your time browsing the 200 specialty shops with handmade crafts or exploring the beautiful waterfalls and trails that surround the city, Helen is the perfect escape to those looking for life’s simple pleasures. Book an overnight stay at one of the city’s cozy cabin rentals.
Stone Mountain Park
Georgia’s top tourist attraction, Stone Mountain Park is a mecca for family-friendly fun. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, families will discover more than 3,200 acres of kid-friendly attractions, games, and exhibits nestled in a pristine woodlands area. While this area dates back to 1822, visitors will be overwhelmed with its range of modern attractions, from the nation’s largest adventure course to a Skyride to the top of Stone Mountain. The fun seems to never end here, where both kids and kids at heart can indulge in a vacation filled with adventure and family memory-making activities.
Cloudland Canyon State Park
One of the state’s most scenic parks, Cloudland Canyon State Park is located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain. Boasting a range of thousand-foot deep canyons, sandstone cliffs, and cascading waterfalls, this area is a mecca for hikers and campers. Perfect for an overnight experience of stargazing, the park is home to cottages, yurts, and campsites. Spend your days hiking, go on a cave tour or take a walk to the famous Ruby Falls, as visitors will find abundant wildlife and ample outdoor recreation opportunities.
Savannah
A quintessential Southern jewel, Savannah is home to charming streets that are nestled in the 22 verdant squares of the city’s Historic District. Soak in the lush foliage of the 30-acre Forsyth Park before strolling through the moss-draped streets to an open-air farmers’ market or one of the many souvenir shops, art galleries, and cobblestone waterfront district. Whether you take a history tour of the area’s historic home and mansions or soak in the majestic sight of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist’s Gothic towers, the city’s relaxed, small-town feel and Southern hospitality will surely lure you in time and time again.
St. Simons Island
One of the largest barrier islands in Georgia, St. Simons Island attracts visitors with its fascinating history, natural attractions, and beachfront vacation rentals. Massingale Park Beach and Neptune Beach are some of the area’s top attractions particularly for families, while the historic St. Simons Island Lighthouse is worth a visit. The unspoiled scenery is abundant, where kite surfing and fishing off the pier are popular activities. Stroll through the area’s array of eclectic shops or play a round of golf, as this charming area offers plenty of budget-friendly treasures at every corner.
Atlanta
Atlanta is a buzzing cosmopolitan city with plenty of activities that can suit a range of budgets, from beautiful green spaces like Piedmont Park to the family-friendly Georgia Aquarium. Offering a wide variety of attractions, visitors can explore the World of Coca-Cola, visit Turner Field or walk back in time at the Atlanta History Center. If you’re on a tight budget, wander through Atlanta’s famous Beltline urban space, window shop at the high-end stores at Buckhead Atlanta, or attend one of the city’s many festivals held throughout the year.
Tallulah Gorge State Park
One of the most stunning natural gorges in the Southeast, nature-loving families can head to Tallulah Gorge State Park for a vacation filled with rich history and rugged beauty. Boasting a series of six waterfalls cascading through a 1,000-foot chasm carved by the Tallulah River, this landmark has to be seen to be believed. Here visitors will find an Interpretive Center, plenty of postcard-worthy gorge overlooks, and enough hiking and biking trails to keep the entire family busy. Nearby Lake Tugalo and Lake Yonah offer fishing, swimming, and boating activities.
Lake Lanier
Located in northeast Georgia, Lake Lanier is one of Georgia’s most popular vacation destinations. Perfect for a weekend away, visitors will find a plethora of water-based activities to indulge in, from boating to canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and wakeboarding. The Lake Lanier Beach and Water Park is the main draw to this area, but visitors can also find a variety of hiking, hunting, and golfing available. The Equestrian Center offers animal lovers a chance to ride horseback along a trail that loops around the lake, while it’s easy to just spend your time watching the nearby boaters and jet skiers pass you by.
Providence Canyon State Park
Referred to as Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” Providence Canyon State Park is a geological wonder that highlights vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple throughout its soil layers. Created due to poor farming practices in the 1800s, visitors can spend their time hiking the scenic trails and soaking in the dramatic views from lookout points along the rim. Like nowhere else in the state, a visit to one of Georgia’s “Seven Natural Wonders” is a must. Perfect for a weekend away from the stressors of daily life, camping and cottages are located at nearby Florence Marina State Park on a 45,000-acre Lake Walter F. George.
Cumberland Island National Seashore
Found near Amelia Island, Cumberland Island National Seashore is considered one of Georgia’s top beaches, where visitors can regularly spot wild horses running freely along its shores. With 50 miles of hiking trails that carve through historic districts, marsh ecosystems, and beautiful beaches, this expansive area offers visitors plenty of activities to choose from. Both developed and wilderness camping is available, where beachcombing, fishing, bird watching, and stargazing are the most popular items on the itinerary. Visitors can also browse artifacts and exhibits at the Ice House Museum, Mainland Museum Building, and Sea Camp Ranger Station.
