Top Things to do in Georgia
Top Hotels in Georgia
- 1. River Street Inn
- 2. The Candler Hotel Atlanta, Curio Collection by Hilton
- 3. Homewood Suites by Hilton Savannah Historic District / Riverfront
- 4. Hyatt Regency Savannah
- 5. The Marshall House
- 6. Best Western Central Inn
- 7. Hotel Clermont
- 8. The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa
- 9. Mansion on Forsyth Park
- 10. Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta Midtown
Things to do in Georgia, Georgia: The Best Military Museums
While Atlanta is the anchor and capital of Georgia, you can aim in any direction to find distinctly different regions – from the tail of the Appalachians in the North to the rolling Piedmont hills and on down to the seaside marshes in the East. Atlanta lays claim to the state’s number one attraction – Stone Mountain State Park. They say it best - “Serious fun. Endless adventure.” Just 15 minutes from downtown, the world’s largest exposed granite dome is surrounded by 3,200 acres of natural beauty and stimulating activities for every member of the family – sky rides and hiking paths, laser shows and pedal boats along Stone Mountain Lake. Golfers tee it up, while red foxes dash across the fairways in a state where the Masters Golf Tournament creates revered green-jacket memories every year. It’s a long downhill ride down to historic Savannah, a ‘stone’s throw’ from the Atlantic and a virtual step back in time to Southern architecture and stately squares. St. Simon’s and Jekyll Islands offer barrier island beauty and a wonderful combination of outdoor activities, historic sites and artistic culture. Originally the private winter playground of wealthy northeasterners, Jekyll Island stretches along 10 miles of coastal beaches and inland marshes. Cycling and walking paths wind under moss-laden oaks, and a tour of Millionaire Village takes you back to those Cornelius Vanderbilt and J.P. Morgan days. The kid-friendly Summer Waves Water Park adds man-made fun to natural water sport activities. Coastal golf courses and sophisticated St. Simon’s Island appeal to moms, dads and vacationing couples.
Restaurants in Georgia
1. National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,233 reviews
The National Infantry Museum emphasizes the values that define the Infantryman, as well as the nation he protects: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. It preserves and displays one of the greatest collections of military artifacts in the world, but it is a museum of people, not things. As a visitor, you will meet the Infantryman face to face and join him on his journey. You will come to understand why an Infantryman does what he does, why he puts himself in harm’s way in defense of an idea and you will leave transformed, just as the Infantry transforms the man into the Soldier. The 190,000-square-foot museum opened in June 2009 on a 200-acre tract of hardwoods and pines just outside the gates of the Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence.
Reviewed By A3278NLdeborahp
As an Army daughter born at Ft. Benning Army Base, the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center was a bonus for me visiting my birthplace. It makes you proud of your veteran and all the American veterans. Plus it's free. I definitely recommend this tour.
2. National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 989 reviews
The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force preserves the stories of courage, character and patriotism displayed by the men and women of the Eighth Air Force from World War II to present.
Reviewed By MarnetteS - Webster, United States
We have driven past the Mighty 8th Air Force Museum off of I-95 in Pooler many times. During COVID-19, we made it a point to do some local sightseeing that would permit social distancing. Masks were required in the venue which had very few visitors the day we were there. Three disappointments: there were no brochures or interactive displays because of the pandemic; and, the Chapel was closed. Entrance is $11 for seniors. The museum is funded solely by donations and grants and receives no government support. Ordinarily, aircraft does not appeal to me. However, we lived in Berlin for the first three years we were married and its WWII history holds a special place in our hearts. The Wall was still up then and we were reminded daily of the tragedy that befell those unlucky enough to be living in the East and those who had to live in captivity. The museum has several kinds of displays in addition to the prominent aircraft on display outside (F4C Phantom and MiG) and inside of the venue. The museum "aims to preserve the stories of courage displayed by the men and women of the Eighth Air Force from WWII to the present." The "Combat Gallery" displays original aircraft engines and scale models including the B-17 Flying Fortress which is being restored as the "City of Savannah." The B-17 is dedicated to and named after the 5,000th plane to leave Hunter Airfield during WWII. "Prelude to WWII" and "Mission Experience": what it's like to fly a bombing mission were among our favorites. The art gallery displays paintings from the world's leading aviation artists. Do not miss the Luftwaffe video, a chilling reminder of what it must have felt like to live with daily bombings. The 8th Air Force suffered 26,000 fatalities during the war. "Lights Come on Again" honors the return to peacetime. Take time to visit the Memorial Garden outside of the museum. I never realized just how many bombing units existed. This is a heartbreaking and sobering reminder of just how many lives were lost. More sobering were the displays of dog tags placed on metal flowers throughout the garden. Benches provide places to sit, rest and reflect. A visitor could spend several hours reading about the displays and watching the videos. We spent two hours and felt we did the museum justice. The gift shop has a good supply of books, shirts, stationery, mugs and accessories. Lunch is available in Miss Sophie's from 11-2 featuring deli sandwiches, wraps and fresh salads. Tables are socially distanced with hand sanitizers on each table.
3. Museum of Aviation
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 713 reviews
Free U.S. Air Force museum open to the public Over 90 aircraft like the SR-71, F-15 & a B-29. Exhibits include Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame, WWII Hump Pilots, Tuskegee Airmen, D-Day, and the Flying Tigers. Motion simulator rides $10, $8 for Military. Kid's Zone, Gift shop, and picnic park. Closed Jan. 1, Thanksgiving and Dec. 25. Ten miles east of I-75 Exit 144.
Reviewed By ELZ_73 - Central Florida, United States
My family and I which included four children, two teenagers and two elementary aged kids thoroughly enjoyed our time here at the aviation Museum. We were actually driving back home to Florida from a mountain visit when we decided to stop in and spend a couple of hours there. I will say I think it takes more than two or three hours that’s recommended to see this place if you truly want to read and taking everything they have there’s just a plethora of the coolest items from aviation history. It’s all laid out very well, it kept my children entertained so my husband and I could look at more intricate items read more things around the wall etc. it seem to just keep going and going to, truly is worth a drive. Well done to everyone who helped make this museum what it is, including my grandfather, retired lieutenant colonel, Randy Silsbee.
4. Webb Military Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 426 reviews
Reviewed By mommabear980004 - Plymouth, United States
Gary has painstakingly assembled this collection spanning everything from the Revolution to Desert Storm and has it all displayed along with pictures of the soldiers who wore the uniforms, relevant newspapers and old letters (some of my favorites). He's generous with his time and information as well; this is a must-see I would say!
5. Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 173 reviews
Reviewed By Rosewoodfoodie - Cedar Key, United States
The Land and Legacy tour is wonderful . Cumberland Island is a rather large island and to see it in one day you really need to take the van tour. Mike our guide was super. As retired educators we were amazed at how he delivered the history of the island from the beginning history to the present. His knowledge of the people and the structures at Cumberland were unsurpassed ,a walking history book was he!!! This tour is definitely worth the price and then some. The roads were rough but that added to the adventure of exploring such a beautiful place! We saw lots of wildlife and are planning on returning with family and friends. Thanks again Mike for making our day GREAT.
6. The Aviation Wing
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
The Aviation Wing is a growing collection of aircraft displayed on a 15 acre campus conveniently located 4.5 miles west of I-75, this museum highlights the impact the aviation industry has had on our local culture. We will show how aviation catapulted our fairly typical, small, Southern agricultural community into the industrial age and how Cobb County has impacted global events. In development of this facility, we also seek to interest America’s youth in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) disciplines through exposure to the science and physics of aeronautics and astronautics. Check out our Facebook page, @aviationwingofmarietta or come see us in person. We are open for visitors on Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM and on Sundays from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Reviewed By 404kaylm
The aviation wing was an excellent experience into the history of Lockheed Martin aviation. The volunteer staff of both veteran and Lockheed former employees were knowledgeable well spoken and eager to tell the history of both airplanes and jets on the exhibit and of their own stories and the places they had been. My twin 4 yr old GRANDBOYS were in awe. They didn't want to leave after being there over 3 hours.
7. World War II Home Front Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 92 reviews
The World War II Home Front Museum brings to life Coastal Georgia's extraordinary contributions during World War II. Through immersive exhibits and interactive experiences, visitors will learn about blimps on anti-submarine patrol, radar training to direct fighter pilots, building Liberty ships to supply troops overseas, and much more.
Reviewed By X9974QTjeremym - Topeka, United States
This is an amazing museum detailing the history of WWII on the home front and how it affected the area of Brunswick and St. Simon's during World War II. It talks about the merchant ships being torpedoed by German U-Boats and how this area of the United States rallied and built Liberty Ships, and trained WWII radar technicians, aviators etc. It was a refreshing look at the war and how it affected normal citizens. It is situated in the old Coast Guard station
8. Senoia Area Historical Society
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 5 reviews
Located a short walk from downtown, the Senoia Area Historical Society HISTORY MUSEUM provides a personal encounter with the traditions, history, and culture of Senoia. Inside the historic home at 6 Couch Street, the central hall and five rooms are filled with memorabilia that bring to life the story of Senoia. Open Fridays and Saturdays from 1:00 to 4:00.
Reviewed By bikerbon - Fayetteville, United States
In my opinion, a visit to the Senoia Area Historical is like time traveling. You step back in time to experience the people and places in the area, all through lovely, descriptive displays and their knowledgeable, friendly docents. The chronological layout enables you to experience the progression of the people and the town - very interesting and helpful. This is a great stop for people wanting to capture the flavor of Senoia, the era, or researching ancestors or the time periods. Highly recommended!
9. National Civil War Naval Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 510 reviews
By telling the stories of the navies of the Civil War, we connect people with the past; giving them a better sense of place and time. Located in Columbus, Georgia, the National Civil War Naval Museum overlooks the Chattahoochee River. We house the largest surviving Confederate warship, the CSS Jackson, as well as the wreckage of the CSS Chattahoochee. Other exhibits include a full scale ship replica of the USS Water Witch, a replica of the USS Hartford with its berth deck, ward room and captain’s cabin, an actual cutter or "ship's boat" from the USS Hartford, a full scale replica of the USS Monitor’s famous turret, and an immersive panoramic dockside exhibit recreating Plymouth, North Carolina, complete with an exterior and interior view of the CSS Albemarle. Among our many artifacts, we have the largest collection of Civil War Naval-related flags on display in the country. The collection includes various flags from ships and coastal forts, signal flags and Admirals’ pennants.
Reviewed By msgttop - Tallahassee, United States
Must see if you are a Civil War buff or interested in American history. This is dedicated to ships and battles of the Civil War. There were a lot more iron clads on both sides than I realized. Highly informative with perfect displays documenting the conflict from both sides. Enjoy.
10. Old Fort Jackson
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,399 reviews
The state's oldest remaining fort dates back to 1808 and includes a number of Civil War and other military exhibits. Daily cannon firing programs are offered at 11:00am and 2:00pm.
Reviewed By Collins419
My wife and I wanted to see at least one of the two forts in Savannah while we were here, so we stopped in at Old Fort Jackson. I was struck by how friendly the staff were right off the bat and the abundance of historical documentation throughout the fort. That they had two live demonstrations at 11:00 and 3:00 p.m. which included a rifle/musket drill and firing and a cannon firing and each was explained very well and in thoughtful detail. I would definitely suggest anyone who's coming to Savannah to definitely check out old four tracks and as it's a huge part of the US history, three separate wars which include the Revolutionary war, the War of 1812 and the Civil War and you learn a lot about the historical inaccuracies and historical accuracies within our history books.
