Tourist Attractions

See More: 25 Best Instagram Spots in Atlanta

Museums + Memorials + Monuments

See More: Top Free Things to Do in Atlanta

Outdoors + Urban Parks

See More: How to Shoot the Hooch

Spectate: Shows + Events

Shopping or Food Experiences

See More: 49 Best Places to Eat in Atlanta GA

Day Trips

See More: 15 Best Day Trips from Atlanta

Seasonal or Special Events

Anything else I’m missing? Have you been to Atlanta? How many of these have you been to? What’s next on your list?

11 Best Stranger Things Filming Locations

1. Hawkins Middle School

109 S Lee St, Stockbridge, GA 30281, map

There are several shots of Hawkins Middle School in both Season 1 and 2, where the boys attend school. In Season 2, Episode 2, Dustin, Lucas, Will, and Mike dressed up as Ghostbusters as they enter the school. The actual schools used are Stockbridge Elementary and High School.

See More: 11 Best Walking Dead Filming Locations

2. The Wheeler’s House

2530 Piney Wood Ln, East Point, GA 30344, map

Mike and Nancy Wheeler’s house is located right outside of Atlanta in East Point, Georgia. You might remember their house from Season 1 with a Reagan/Bush ‘84 campaign sign staked in their front yard.

Note: If you visit, make sure you’re not trespassing. The homeowners only allow fans to take photos from the street.

3. Bradley’s Big Guy

506 Center St, Palmetto, GA 30268, map

I love this scene in Season 1, Episode 6 where Eleven steals a bunch of frozen Eggos from Bradley’s Big Guy grocery store. Eleven’s personality and powers begins to show as she tears through Bradley’s nicely organized shop. You can find the real-life Piggly Wiggly store in Palmetto, Georgia.

The employees and manager there are so kind! They love hosting fans, as long as you’re not with a large tour group. Be sure to pick up some Eggos while you’re there.

4. Hawkins National Laboratory

1256 Briarcliff Rd NE, Atlanta, GA 30306, map

This iconic building is located on the same street where I grew up. The exterior is an old, deserted psychiatric hospital on Emory University’s campus. How fitting, right? This is where the main action took place in both Season 1 and 2.

Hopper goes into the Upside Down from the lab to save Will, and it’s also where Bob meets his demise. The building is closed off to the public, but you can see parts of it from the street.

5. Hawkins Police Department

Douglasville, GA 30134, map

Hopper is frequently coming in and out of the Hawkins Police Department. The shoot location is a small building in Douglasville, which isn’t too far from Esther’s parents’ house.

6. Palace Arcade

8415 Campbellton St, Douglasville, GA 30134, map

Season 2 opens up with the boys meeting at Palace Arcade. The bright neon lights and colorful games make the arcade one of my favorite Stranger Things film locations.

You can still see the paint job on the facade of the empty building, which used to be a laundromat. If you peek through the windows, you’ll notice that the checkered floors and blue ceiling tiles are still intact.

7. Downtown Hawkins

Jackson, GA, 30233, map

Several scenes of downtown Hawkins are actually shot in downtown Jackson, Georgia. Joyce works at Melvald’s General Store in Season 1. The Hawk Theatre is also located further down at the end of the block.

8. Benny’s Burgers

7413 Lee Rd, Lithia Springs, GA 30122, map

Benny’s Burgers is the little diner where Eleven first appeared in the show. Benny, the restaurant owner rescues and feeds her and tries to figure out who or what she’s running away from.

The original restaurant, Tiffany’s Kitchen is located in Lithia Springs, Georgia. If you have time, we recommend grabbing a bite to eat here for the full effect and experience. It seems to be a popular spot.

10. Melvald’s General Store

4 2nd St, Jackson, GA 30233, map

This is where Joyce Byers worked. In the show, it’s located in downtown Hawkins, next to the RadioShack where her boyfriend, Bob works. You can find the original Jackson Drug store in downtown Jackson, across from the public library. During our visit, the signs for Melvald’s and RadioShack were still up since they are currently shooting Season 3.

11. Hawk Theater

2 Oak St, Jackson, GA 30233, map

You might remember Nancy running toward Hawk Theatre to see the slander written about her on the theatre’s marquee in Season 1, Episode 6. It’s also the area where Joyce and Jonathan argues about Will’s funeral earlier in Episode 4. You’ll notice that Hawk Theatre in fact, is not a theatre at all, but Bradley’s Olde Tavern.

Are you all caught up? What are your favorite Strange Things episodes?

Apple Farms in Georgia

1. B.J. Reece Apple House

9131 GA-52, Ellijay, GA 30536, map

Open: August 24 – October 31, 2024
Admission: $13-26

There are some incredible apple orchards in North Georgia. Most of them are around an hour and a half away from the city of Ellijay, GA. Besides apple picking, Reece Apple House offers a petting farm, pony rides, and even zipline rides. You can easily spend an entire day here. Be sure to check out their pricing here.

See More: Where to Go Apple Picking in the Hood River Fruit Loop Oregon

2. Hillcrest Orchards

9696 GA-52, Ellijay, GA 30536, map

Open: August 31 – November 30, 2024
Admission: $14 Weekdays, $22 Weekends

This family owned and operated apple farm is a local favorite. We can’t get enough of their baked goodies. The sweet smells from the bakery entice you to stuff your face with apple cider doughnuts, apple pies, and their famous apple fritters. Enjoy the live music, the swimming pig races, and the apple tree maze on the weekends. More info on their schedules and pricing here.

3. Red Apple Barn

3379 Tails Creek Rd, Ellijay, GA 30540, map

Open: August 24 – October 30, 2024
Admission: $11.25

The Red Apple Barn offers U-Pick apple picking as well as U-Pick flower picking. You’ll also receive a free doughnut and apple cider included with your U-Pick admission. In addition, there’s a delightful farmer’s market that sells fall pantry staples from beef jerky to jams. Kids will enjoy the tractor ride around the orchard as well.

4. Buford Corn Maze

4470 Bennett Rd, Buford, GA 30519, map | Pumpkin Farms in Georgia

Opens: August 31 – November 17, 2024
Admission: $17.95-29.95

Located less than an hour away from the city, Buford Corn Maze is only a short drive to a ton of family fun activities. Unlimited hayrides, a haunted forest, and even a corn box (aka a sandbox filled with corn kernels) will fill the void in your heart that missed the fall season. We love how they have photo ops like antique tractors, fields of corn, and a well-organized Georgia pumpkin patch. If you’re looking for a Pumpkin Patch in Atlanta, this is the pumpkin patch for you.

5. Uncle Shuck’s Corn Maze

4520 Hwy 53, Dawsonville, GA 30534, map | Pumpkin Patch North GA

Opens: September 14 – November 10, 2023
Admission: $17-27

Enjoy running through 12 acres of corn fields with your family and friends. At dusk, teens and adults usually opt for the The Dark Rows, the haunted corn maze. Keep in mind that flashlights are not allowed. If you’re looking for a super spooky corn maze, this is it. There’s also a cozy campfire area where you can roast marshmallows, make s’mores, and sing campfire songs.

6. Yule Forest Pumpkin Patch

3565 GA-155 N, Stockbridge, GA 30281, map | Pumpkin Farms in GA

Open: Closed for 2024
Admission: $15.95-25.95

Yule Pumpkin Patch is a huge pumpkin patch in Georgia and boasts a unique experience of being able to cut your pumpkin right off the vine, which might make it the best pumpkin patch in Georgia. They’ll even provide a cart and stem cutter for you. Unfortunately, they’re only open in of October, so plan accordingly.

Fall Festivals in Georgia

7. Gibbs Gardens Fall Festival

1987 Gibbs Dr, Ball Ground, GA 30107, map

Gibbs Gardens is one of my favorite local escapes, year-round. They’re well known for their Japanese maples, which turn a brilliant shade of red in late autumn. Gibbs Gardens hosts a live band, awesome magicians, a fall market, and lunch offerings as you stroll through 16 world class gardens.

8. Oktoberfest

1074 Edelweiss Strasse, Helen, GA 30545, map

Beers, brats, and German bands fill the small alpine village of Helen, GA. They host an impressive Oktoberfest that takes place daily from September 5 to October 27, 2024. It’s great for the entire family, from kids to your dogs. It’s super kitschy, but we love to see the alphorns, experience German culture, and dance to some good ol’ Polka music.

9. Cumming Country Fair

235 Castleberry Rd, Cumming, GA 30040, map

Unleash your inner kid with classic carnival rides, piping hot funnel cakes, and a petting zoo. The fair also exhibits an Indian Village that represents Cherokee heritage in Cumming, GA and the surrounding area. They also have a cool Heritage Village that displays notable farm machinery throughout history such as the cotton gin, corn mill, moonshine still, and more. It runs from October 3-13, 2024.

10. Georgia Mountain Fall Festival

3200 George Busbee Pkwy NW, Kennesaw, GA 30144, map

Each October (October 11-13 & 17-19, 2024), the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival features several fun musical performances, local arts & craft vendors, a flower show, and Georgia’s Official State Fiddlers’ Convention. We love the amazing views of the Blue Ridge mountains and enjoying the fall temps as we sip, eat, and shop.

Best Fall Foliage in Georgia

11. Tallulah Gorge

338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573​, map

Tallulah Gorge is one of the most scenic ravines the Southeast. There are numerous trails, so hikers can choose something easy, moderate, or difficult. The trails end up with breathtaking views of fall leaves and waterfalls. This is easily one of my favorite spots in Georgia to see fall leaves.

See More: 17 Road Trip Destinations for the Best Fall Foliage in the USA

12. Cloudland Canyon

122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn, GA 30738, map

We’ve done this hike several times. The 5-mile loop is moderate to difficult, but the crystal clear pool and waterfall at the bottom of the canyon are totally worth it. Shutterbugs will especially love the changing leaves in the backdrop.

Everything looks like an oil painting. But, get ready for a calves workout because you’ll be taking over 600 stairs to get to the bottom. Go ahead and schedule that massage after your hike.

13. Brasstown Bald

2941 Hwy. 180 Spur, Hiawassee, GA, 30546, map

Pack a picnic because you’ll definitely want to spend some extra time at the very top of Brasstown Bald. You’re able to see miles of fall foliage from Georgia’s highest mountain.

On a clear day, you’ll get an incredible 360-degree view of four states: Georgia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Imagine seeing rolling hills of leaves from four different states!

See More: 15 Best Day Trips from Atlanta Georgia

What are some fall activities you enjoy? Are there any activities, corn mazes, or pumpkin patches in Georgia we missed?

11+ Things to Do at Ponce City Market Atlanta

1. Ponce City Market Rooftop

The Roof on Ponce City Market is definitely the building’s main attraction and an iconic Atlanta destination! Boasting an 18-hole mini golf course, boardwalk-style games, and an amazing view of Atlanta, The Roof is the perfect spot for a date night, a fun day with the kids, and a relaxing, culinary experience for all. Oftentimes, we gather some friends for dinner at Nine Mile Station (shout out to their amazing staff) and play a round of mini golf at Skyline Park with some boardwalk snacks in hand.

Nine Mile Station highlights their classically-prepared cocktails that sets the standard for exemplary drinks, and their exclusive craft beers and an extraordinary dinner and brunch menu. Be sure to try the 9 Mile Station Grand Cru, exclusively imported for Nine Mile Station.

At the heart of PCM’s iconic tower sits the newly opened RFD Social, an old-fashioned bar and lounge which serves up boozy drinks in a beautiful 1920’s setting. Surround yourself with vintage radios, poker tables, bumper pool, and other entertaining games. This makes a perfect spot to end your night atop the roof!

Note: Admission to enter the roof and tower is $15 per person and includes a wristband good for the entire day. If you have reservations at Nine Mile Station, your ride up the roof is free. More info here.

See More: 101 Things to Do in Atlanta GA

Ponce City Market Restaurants

2. H&F Burger

Be prepared to loosen your belt for gluttonous glory. Where do I start with “The Original Burger” from H&F Burger? This juicy, decadent double cheeseburger was named one of “the Best Burgers in America” by Zagat and it truly does live up to its title.

Almost everything on the burger, from the soft buttered buns to the tangy pickles, even down to the ketchup is made in-house! What’s more to love? Their perfectly crispy fries and their delicious milkshakes! My favorite: The Peanut ButterScotch Cup milkshake paired with The Original Burger.

Even if you’re not a burger person, this joint will definitely change your mind. They also offer a great selection of salads and hotdogs, but locals know you don’t come here to grab greens.

Local Tip:  If you’re in a hurry and want to grab it to go, come on up to their walk-up window and continue on your trek around Ponce City Market.

See More: 49 Best Places to Eat in Atlanta Food Bucket List

3. Hop’s Chicken

Right next door to H&F Burger, a little stand houses Josh’s favorite food. Two words: Fried. Chicken. If you’re in the south, fried chicken is a must and Hop’s is definitely a spot worth checking out. There’s almost always a line at their window and there’s a good reason for that.

Their chicken is crispy and golden on the outside, juicy, succulent, and down-right delicious on the inside. If eating a bucket o’ chicken isn’t your thing, pick up their Slider Trio and don’t skimp out on their homemade slaw.

Local Tip: Be sure to try some of their unique sauces like the Frim Fram and the Black Pepper Gravy.

4. Dancing Goats

Working in a cafe in college, I’ve become a coffee snob and Dancing Goats has become one of my favorites. Its coffee is dark, smooth, with a complex aroma that’s been a local favorite for years. Also, one of my cherished pastimes is grabbing coffee with my dad (well, he’d get coffee and I’d get a chocolate milk) so I’m always exploring local coffee shops around town and reliving those glorious childhood memories. 

It helps that the coffee scene in Atlanta has been booming over the last couple of years. The outdoor, screened-in patio is a great place to relax, get lost in a book, and hang with your pup. They also offer a wide selection of teas and baked goods, all of which are a perfect way to start your morning exploring PCM.

Local Tip: Free 30 minute parking in the adjoining lot.

5. King of Pops

Hands down, Atlanta’s favorite treat, year-round. These handcrafted, uniquely flavored popsicles are the perfect refreshments for your stroll around PCM, but what makes this specific location unique is the bar.

Just when you thought the pops couldn’t get any better, they stick ‘em in a cocktail, making it a delicious “Poptail.” The boozy menu is always changing with the seasons. They also offer seasonal flavored pops, like Pineapple Habanero in the summer and White Chocolate Peppermint in the winter. Get your pop dipped in chocolate and sprinkles! All the cool kids do it.

6. Ton Ton

Their bright red banner above the storefront will catch your attention, and their ramen will fill your belly. This is our go-to spot for something warm and soupy! We seriously eat here all too often. The “Classic Tonkatsu Ramen” includes chewy noodles (10/10 for slurp-ability), a hot, rich broth, and beautifully runny, soft-boiled egg.

Don’t miss out on the “Tebasaki Wings”, perfectly brushed with a shoyu glaze. And be sure to grab a seat at the bar where you can marvel at your dish being created right before your eyes. 

Local Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, try the broth-less “Invincible Dan Dan Mazeman”. You won’t be disappointed!

7. Honeysuckle Gelato

Oh, my sweet tooth! Honeysuckle’s gelato is rich, creamy, and delectable. Their flavors are inspired by its Southern roots, so you know they’re bound to be good! Brown Butter Crunch, Bourbon Pecan Praline, and Lemon Raspberry Crumble are just a few of our favorites. Throw them into a milkshake (and keep the cute mason jar it comes in) and you’ve got yourself one of the best desserts in the South.

Keep in mind that your purchase also helps Georgia-based employment programs such as the Atlanta Community Food Bank, Friends of Refugees, and more. If you’re lactose intolerant, grab a zesty, fresh fruit sorbet. It’s like biting into the fruit itself.

Ponce City Market Bars

8. City Winery

This place is every wino’s dream come true, including mine/ But what makes this place unique is that City Winery combines live performance, food, and wine to bring you the ultimate culinary and cultural experience. Take a tour of the winery (I could swim in those humongous barrels) and see how their 300 selections of award winning wines are made or come by with your fur baby to enjoy a weekend brunch on the patio. They even have a “Canine Cuisine” menu with dog-friendly brunch items.

Be sure to try their very popular margherita flatbread! It’s made with yeast from the wine and fresh, locally sourced ingredients, so nothing goes to waste. It’s also Josh’s favorite since it’s the closest thing to pizza and if you know Josh, you know cheesy, saucy, bready goodness is his vice.

Local Tip: Shh, there’s also a hidden speakeasy called ABV (Alcohol By Volume) downstairs. If you find it, tell them we sent ya.

9. The Tap on Ponce

I love a good craft beer and the Tap has exactly what I want to quench my thirst. It’s a convenient bar with tons of unique draft beers on rotation. Fill a vessel and sip on it while you roam around PCM! We picked a 32-oz. Crowler and watched them seal it up right before our eyes.

They have 50+ selections of draught beers and the crew know their beer. They also have a nice selection of wines and single can beers in the cases located at the front of the shop.

Ponce City Market Stores

10. Citizen Supply

When I’m shopping for gifts, Citizen Supply is my go-to spot. There are thousands of items and many of them are handmade by local artisans or sourced through sustainable businesses. From quirky cards, sweet-smelling candles, to fun Atlanta gear, this shop has it all.

The space is super cool, too! There are a few in-store makers creating items right before your eyes, funky Instagrammable murals, and even a pretty plant shop in the back. I come in here pretty often since the shop setup is constantly changing with new items, and of course, more photo ops. Not to mention, their staff are all kind and helpful. They also offer workshops and host events throughout the year, making it a perfect date night spot.

See More: 25 Best Instagram Spots in Atlanta

11. Collier Candy Company

The name of the store says it all. Collier Candy Company offers some of my favorite retro candy (think Cowtales, Zotz, and Abba Zabas) and old-time sodas (Bubble Up, Nehi, Nesbitt’s) that takes me down Nostalgia Lane. There are also some more unique items such as jumbo sized gummy bears and giant tubes of Smarties. They make perfect gifts for the kids (or your inner kid). We promise this place will make you smile.

Local Tip: If you’re craving chocolate, my favorite is the Seattle Chocolate Bar in San Juan Sea Salt.

12. Archer Paper Goods

We always make a pit stop at Archer to browse their wide selection of punny cards, delicate stationary, and thoughtful gifts. This shop carries every desk item you can ever think of. It’s super fun to peruse even if you don’t buy anything, but be warned that it’s hard to leave empty handed. We can probably spend hours looking at all the pretty little things, so set aside some time to shop around. I always buy my yearly planners here because I know no one else will have the same one.

Closed

• 18/21 Bitters
• Biltong Bar
• Coco + Mischa

Seasonal: Skate the Sky

During the holiday season, The Roof at Ponce City Market hosts an ice rink (Skate the Sky) that is decked out in festive decor and embellishments. We loved channeling our inner Olympic figure skaters and then cozying up at the high-top tables with some hot chocolate. It’s the perfect way to take in the amazing view of Atlanta’s skyline.

My favorite feature atop the roof this year are the private igloo rentals that are themed out and perfect for warming up after our skating session. They can seat up to eight guests and includes bottle service, a menu of small bites and of course, access to the rink. The price varies depending on the package you choose. More information and reservations can be made here.

See More: 15+ Best Places to Celebrate Christmas in USA

More Shops and Activities

Best Places to Stay in Atlanta

What are your favorite things to do in Ponce City Market? Have you been to PCM?

1. Ricky Watts Wall for Outer Space Project

10 Krog Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, map

See More: 101 Things to Do in Atlanta GA – The Ultimate Atlanta Bucket List

3. Beltline Hense Wall (Pastel Spots)

Closest Address: 985 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, map

See More: 17 Free Things to Do in Atlanta

4. Beltline Fish Mural by Rising Red Lotus

Closest Address: 985 Monroe Dr NE, Atlanta, GA 30308, map (Opposite side of the above HENSE Wall)

5. The Music Room Boombox Doors

327 Edgewood Ave SE. Atlanta, GA 30312, map

See More: Top Free Things to Do in Atlanta

6. Disco Wall at Disco Kroger

3330 Piedmont Rd NE Atlanta, GA 30305, map

7. Hoxxoh Wall

10 Krog Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, map

Note: Must arrange to be allowed to go behind a fence to take photos.

See More: 49 Best Places to Eat in Atlanta GA

8. Greg Mike Wall

10 Krog Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, map

9. Greg Mike Garage Door

10 Krog Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30307, map

Diagonally across the street from the above Greg Mike wall.

See More: 15 Best Day Trips from Atlanta

10. Greg Mike Peach Coca Cola Collab

537 Ponce De Leon Ave NE, 30308, map

11. Arden’s Garden Blue Geometric Wall

969 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, map

12. “Atlanta” Part of the Atlanta Humane Society

981 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, map

See More: 15 Best Weekend Getaways from Atlanta

13. Upside Down House by Caroline Caldwell

339 Edgewood Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, map

14. The Highball Artist aka the Dripping Bridge by Hadley Breckenridge

Closest Intersection: Lucile Ave SW & Muse St SW, map

This one is hard to see from the road, but you’ll find it if you head down to the tunnel under the road.

15. A Toast to Atlanta by Dr. Dax

488 Flat Shoals Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30316, map

16. Martina Merlini Wall

429 Edgewood Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, map

17. Atlanta Wall

300 Marietta St, Atlanta, GA 30313, map

18. Abstract Wall by Hense

760 10th St NW, Atlanta, GA 30318, map

19. Atlanta Sign State Farm Arena

1 Philips Dr, Atlanta, GA 30303, map

20. Tree of Life by 3TTMan

39 Georgia Avenue SE Atlanta, GA 30312, map

21. Atlanta Made Wall

1183 Howell Mill Rd NW Atlanta GA 30318, map

When you visit different cities, do you hunt down photo ops like these? What cities have you visited that had the best murals?

15 Best Weekend Trips from Atlanta Georgia

1. Chattanooga, Tennessee →

Distance: 118 mi / 1 hr 46 min (map)
What to Do / See: Ruby Falls, Rock City Garden, Tennessee Aquarium
What to Eat: Maple Street Biscuit Company, Public House
Where to Stay: Find hotels in Chattanooga

Chattanooga has a ton of charm. We visited often when I was a kid, and I have fond memories of the Tennessee Aquarium, Rock City, and Ruby Falls.

Even to this day, the attractions are fun to explore and there are many outdoor activities in the area too. Regardless of your interest, there is plenty to keep you busy over a weekend.

See More: 17 Fun Things to Do in Chattanooga TN

2. Asheville, North Carolina →

Distance: 208 mi / 3 hr 25 min (map)
Can’t Miss Attractions: Biltmore Estate, Looking Glass Hike, Foundation Walls
What to Eat: 49 Best Places to Eat in Asheville
Where to Stay: The Best Places to Stay in Asheville

Asheville has a bit of everything! There’s an amazing food scene, craft breweries to quench your thirst, beautiful outdoor landscapes, fun murals and art to track down. Our last family trip was to Asheville during the holidays.

See More: 101 Things to Do in Asheville NC

3. Augusta, Georgia

Distance: 145 mi / 2 hr 10 min (map)
What to Do / See: Augusta Canal, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, Augusta Museum of History
What to Eat: Frog Hollow Tavern, Jackie M’s & Son, Abel Brown
Where to Stay: Search hotel deals in Augusta

Most well known for The Masters, Augusta is Georgia’s second oldest city. It definitely draws golfers from all over the world but is a great spot for weekend getaways.

With plenty of food options, eat til you can’t walk anymore, check out the growing arts and theater scene or catch a concert.

4. Blue Ridge Parkway

Distance: 164 mi / 2 hr 55 min (map)
What to Do / See: Fall Foliage, Tons of Stops Along the 469-Mile Road
What to Eat: Haywood Smokehouse, Buttered Biscuit, The Sweet Onion
Where to Stay: Find hotels near the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is an amazing spot for anyone who loves the outdoors. There are beautiful hikes, fishing, and camping.

If you don’t like being outdoors, you can enjoy the beauty without getting out of the car on the scenic drive. Don’t forget to check out all the amazing spots the drive takes you through.

5. Charleston, South Carolina →

Distance: 305 mi / 4 hr 40 min (map)
What to Do / See: Our Charleston Bucket List
What to Eat: 49 Best Places to Eat in Charleston
Where to Stay: Hotels in Charleston

Charleston is one of my favorite cities close to Atlanta. It’s the oldest and second largest city in the state. I love the cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and beautiful architecture. On top of that, there are amazing rooftop bars and delicious seafood!

See More: 101 Things to Do in Charleston SC

6. Destin, Florida →

Distance: 315 mi / 5 hr 10 min (map)
What to Do / See: Henderson Beach State Park, Destin Harbor Boardwalk, Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park
What to Eat: McGuire’s Irish Pub, Boshamps Oyster House, Louisiana Lagniappe
Where to Stay: Hotels in Destin

If you’re looking for clean, white sand beaches, Destin is your spot! Spring Break will bring party-ers to town but much less than some of the neighboring beaches. Though I prefer to stay longer when we drive down to the panhandle, we’ve done it for a weekend before.

See More: 17 Unforgettable Things to Do in Destin FL

7. Great Smoky Mountains NP / Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Distance: 196 mi / 3 hr 50 min (map)
What to Do / See: Great Smoky Mountains NP, Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park, Sky Life
What to Eat: Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, Delauders BBQ, Pancake Pantry
Where to Stay: Search for nearby Hotel Deals

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the closest national park to Atlanta and the most visited in the US. Fall is one of the busiest times with everyone enjoying the foliage, but there are plenty of spots to explore. 

Although touristy, Gatlinburg is a popular spot to set up home base and also gives you more options for attractions and restaurants.

See More: Complete List of National Parks by State

8. The Golden Isles: Jekyll Island, St Simons, Little St Simons, Sea Island

Distance: 322 mi / 4 hr 40 min (map)
What to Do / See: Georgia Sea Turtle Center, Driftwood Beach, Fort Frederica National Monument
What to Eat: Southern Soul Barbeque, Driftwood Bistro, Halyards Restaurant
Where to Stay: Search for Hotels in the Golden Isles

Located on the Georgia coast are four beautiful islands: St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Little St. Simons Island and Jekyll Island. Pristine marshlands fill the landscape accompanied by beautiful beaches. Each island brings its own character. On one hand, Jekyll Island is popular with families, on the other, Little St Simon is privately owned and only 32 people can stay there at a time.

9. Greenville, South Carolina →

Distance: 145 mi / 2 hr 15 min (map)
What to Do / See: Swamp Rabbit Trail, Greenville Zoo, Liberty Bridge
What to Eat: Takosushi, The Trappe Door, Thomas Creek Brewery
Where to Stay: Greenville Hotel Deals

Find waterfalls, hike beautiful trails, or fly down a zip line in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Greenville has something to offer year round. You can also find one-of-a-kind shops, art galleries, museums, and attractions for the whole family.

See More: 13 Absolutely Amazing Places to Eat in Greenville SC

10. Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

Distance: 281 mi / 4 hr 5 min (map)
What to Do / See: Coastal Discovery Museum, Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge, Hunting Island State Park
What to Eat: Lucky Rooster, A Lowcountry Backyard, Skull Creek Boathouse
Where to Stay: Hilton Head Island Hotels

Look for starfish, sand-dollars, and sea turtles at the beach, or spend your day on the golf course, biking, or kayaking. There are beautiful resorts and hotels set amongst spectacular scenery.

11. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Distance: 362 mi / 5 hr 30 min (map)
What to Do / See: Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, Myrtle Beach State Park
What to Eat: Johnny D’s Waffles and Bakery, Eggs Up Grill, Simply Southern Smokehouse
Where to Stay: Search Myrtle Beach Hotels

Myrtle Beach has sixty miles of beautiful sandy beaches. Bask in the sun or play in the water. If you need a break from the sun, there are a ton of live shows, endless shopping, a lot of great restaurants.

12. Nashville, Tennessee →

Distance: 250 mi / 3 hr 45 min (map)
What to Do / See: 9 Awesome Things to Do in Nashville
What to Eat: Peg Leg Porker, Hattie B’s Chicken, Biscuit Love
Where to Stay: Nashville Hotel Deals

Nashville is the country music capital! Catch an amazing live show on Broadway, see the Country Music Hall of Fame, or try some Nashville hot chicken. Also, there’s a full-sized replica of the Parthenon in Centennial Park.

See More: 9 Awesome Things to Do in Nashville Tennessee

13. Savannah, Georgia

Distance: 248 mi / 3 hr 30 min (map)
What to Do / See: Savannah Historic District, Oatland Island Wildlife Center, Fort Pulaski National Monument
What to Eat: The Olde Pink House, Savannah Seafood Shack, Treylor Park
Where to Stay: Hotel Deals in Savannah

Explore Savannah on a kayak, ride a carriage around town, or hop on a historical bus tour. If you’re a bit more daring, take a walking ghost tour. Savannah is a quintessential southern town with so much southern charm.

14. Birmingham, Alabama

Distance: 147 mi / 2 hr 15 min (map)
What to Do / See: McWane Center (Aquarium and Science Exhibits), Birmingham Museum of Art, Ruffner Mountain Nature Center
What to Eat: Bamboo on 2nd, El Barrio, Saw’s Soul Kitchen
Where to Stay: Search for Hotels in Birmingham

Birmingham is currently the largest city in Alabama and is where history meets present day. Even though the city is relatively young, it has a lot of historical significance that you can learn more about in their museums.

If you’re a sports fan, be sure to check out the nation’s oldest baseball stadium. If you’re looking for colorful photo spots, check out the rainbow-lit tunnel (map).

15. Orlando, Florida →

Distance: 442 mi / 6 hr 15 min (map)
What to Do / See: 101 Things to Do in Orlando
What to Eat: Cafe Tu Tu Tango, Christner’s Prime Steak & Lobster, Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa
Where to Stay: The Best Hotels in Orlando

Our parents own a timeshare down in Orlando, so we’ve been going at least once a year ever since I was a kid. Even as adults, we’re still big fans of Disney.

Obviously, there’s Disney World and the Universal Parks, which can keep you busy in and of themselves, but there’s plenty around town if you’ve already been.

See More: The Ultimate Orlando Bucket List

How many of these weekend trips from Atlanta have you done? Can you think of any other weekend trips you’ve done?

What’s your favorite thing to see in an aquarium?