Georgia is a place of breathtaking natural beauty. From glistening lakes to snow-capped mountain peaks, there's no shortage of places to visit in this beautiful state.
While many people flock to the iconic Stone Mountain Park for its spectacular views, there's plenty of other amazing destinations worth exploring. If you're looking for something a little less crowded, Radium Springs Garden is a must-visit attraction.
1. Tbilisi
Tbilisi is a great place for those who want to experience a bit of everything - from churches to museums, history & culture, and even nightlife. It's also a great base for exploring Georgia, Armenia and the rest of the Caucasus region.
The best way to get to know the capital is by visiting its Old Town, where you'll find winding streets and quaint restaurants. You can marvel at the beauty of this small area at your own pace, but be sure to book a walking tour to explore it at the best time.
The narrow streets snake up steep hills, and you'll pass a mix of Georgian and Armenian churches, synagogues, mosques and a Zoroastrian Fire Temple. The Anchiskhati Basilica, hidden away from the main road, is one of the most beautiful churches in the city. It ringes out with polyphonic chanting on Sunday mornings.
2. Kazbegi
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-track adventure in Georgia, Kazbegi is the place to go. Located at the foot of Mount Kazbek, this small town is a great base for trekking and hiking around the region’s many peaks.
Alternatively, you can take a day trip to nearby Truso Valley or Juta Valley. They both offer spectacular hiking trails and a chance to see Georgian customs in action.
Another fun activity in Kazbegi is sampling local tea at the tiny shop-museum that doubles as a tasting room for the Bitadze family. They’re experts in Georgian black, green and fruit blends as well as loose leaf teas.
There’s also a bustling Dezerter Bazaar to explore, where you can stock up on everything from fresh fish to multiple varieties of Churchkhela. And don’t miss the chance to see a Soviet-era mural!
4. Sapelo Island
Sapelo Island is one of Georgia’s largest barrier islands. This secluded island is a state-protected refuge for birds, sea turtles and marine life.
Tour the island and experience its natural beauty, historic communities and maritime forests with a guided tour. You’ll have plenty to see, especially on a day trip from Atlanta.
Guided tours of the Reynolds Mansion and Cabretta Island are offered Wednesday and Saturday mornings. You can also take a boat tour to the shell ring complex where you can find three donut-shaped mounds thought to have been built by the Guale tribe.
Kennesaw Mountain is another top destination in Georgia, especially for kids and history buffs. This park is home to a 3,000-acre battlefield, museum and ranger presentations. It’s also a great place to hike and enjoy nature with your family.
5. Radium Springs Garden
One of Georgia's seven natural wonders, Radium Springs Garden is a historical site that's perfect for family vacations and nature lovers alike. It pumps 70,000 gallons of 68-degree water per minute from an underground cave and is home to the ruins of a once vibrant gardens and resort.
The enchanting blue-green spring waters at Radium Springs were once used by Creek Indians and English settlers as a swimming hole, as well as by explorers. It's a serene place to relax, take a picnic and enjoy the scenery.
After the discovery of radium in the 1920s, the property was developed into a popular mineral resort. The resort featured a casino, hotel (Skywater), golf course and cottages.
