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 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. Booth Western Art Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 575 reviews
The Booth Western Art Museum, an Affiliate to the Smithsonian Institution, is a 120,000 square foot museum located in Cartersville, Georgia, where guests are invited to See America's Story through contemporary Western artwork, a Presidential Gallery, Civil War art gallery, and Sagebrush Ranch, an interactive children's gallery. Open since August 2003, Booth Museum is the only museum of its kind in the Southeast and is the second largest art museum in the state of Georgia.
Reviewed By sherrillec
Wow! The bronze sculptures, paintings and mixed media art are wonderful; however, you don’t want to miss my favorite piece-the cast paper sculpture! See if you can find it (hint-it’s on the 2nd floor)! This is truly a gem of a museum in downtown Cartersville. Such a pleasant surprise! You’ll come out with a new appreciation of the Wild West! Also, don’t miss the display honoring all of our presidents!
5. Biblical History Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 240 reviews
Our mission at the Biblical History Center is to help people experience the ancient biblical world, its history, and culture. We have an Archaeological Replica Garden with life-size replicas of archaeological digs including a typical house, Roman step theater, goat hair tent, tombs, and more. Our Biblical Life Artifacts Gallery houses 250 artifacts from Israel and is one of seven of its kind in the world! We also have fun activities available for kids and teens. Reservations are required for guided tours, the Biblical Meal, the Shepherd's Bread, and the Kid's Dig.
Reviewed By joant2015 - Lilburn, United States
Our trip to the Bible History Center surpassed our expectations. If you live in or around Atlanta, it is a perfect day trip. Or stay in Callaway Gardens and go from there. Our guide made the Bible come alive and the stories were interesting and filled with biblical history. The meal is not to be missed. Not only is it informative, but also delicious in every way. I highly recommend this Georgia experience.
6. National Center for Civil and Human Rights
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,110 reviews
The National Center for Civil and Human Rights in downtown Atlanta is an engaging cultural attraction that connects The American Civil Rights Movement to today's Global Human Rights Movements. The Center features four immersive and thought-provoking exhibit spaces, including a continually rotating gallery of items from The Morehouse College Martin Luther King, Jr. Collection, where visitors can view the personal papers and items of Dr. King. The Center also provides designated event spaces and educational programs inspiring visitors to join the ongoing dialogue about contemporary movements for human rights around the world. 3/2/2020 - Closing at 3pm (Last ticket at 2pm).
Reviewed By Olde_biL - Markham, Canada
Our visit to the National Center for Human and Civil rights near Centennial Olympic Park completed our trifecta of civil rights themed museum visits during our one full day visit to Atlanta. (This was our second visit to Atlanta and our first without our children.) It proved a valuble complement to what we learned and experienced at the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic Site. Admission to the center was more than the free for the MLK Jr. Historic site and the $8/adult for the presidential library. Nonetheless, it provides a powerful experience and the lunch counter simulation itself was worth more than the price of admission. Caution, this latter is not for the very young as cautioned by the posted signage. The simulation includes a reproduction of a lunch counter at which protesters would sit. The participant takes a stool and puts on a headset, places hands palms down on the counter, and closes their eyes. The sounds and jolting movement of the stool over about a minute and a half provide the merest taste of what young protesters must have endured. I emerged deeply affected, both marveling at the courage of the protesters and angry at the need. Most of the museum exhibits are well executed and interactive. Right from first exhibit hall is "Rolls Down Like Water", it houses the lunch counter but starts with Atlanta of the 50's, with interactive features such as the sign board upon which users choose the jurisdiction from which to display Jim Crow laws. The exhibit moves forward through time with displays covering the bus boycott, the freedom riders, notorious figures such as Bull Connor, and continuing through the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. The museum isn't exclusively about the American Civil Rights movement. The "Spark of Conviction" on the 3rd floor houses a series of interactive mirrors that users can approach and select from a number of real individuals from around the world to hear their story. The objective is to allow an individual to choose someone that is like them in some way. Other exhibits work similarly and provide multi-sensory ways to interact and convey more than just facts about the struggle for civil and human rights. We spent more than two hours going through the museum. I feel better educated but also with a desire to return after doing more personal research and being better prepared to comprehend the material.
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. Little White House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 812 reviews
President Franklin D. Roosevelt built his "Little White House" in Warm Springs, Georgia, in 1932 while serving as governor of New York.
Reviewed By Wngrl - Rockmart, United States
Expect to stay at least an hour to see this fascinating bit of Georgia history. Enter at the museum- a movie shows often and it's worth the viewing. All real footage or the era. Then walk through the artifacts including the car that he engineered to be able to drive with hand controls. There is a stagecoach that has been beautifully restored by an Atlanta artist, a collection of his walking sticks, and the unfinished portrait of him along with a finished one. For those who enjoy a walk there is the 50 state flag walk. Travel down to the home and take a self guided tour. There is a state employee there in the home to answer any questions. He was very knowledgeable. The home is sparse but very interesting-all in all highly recommended!
9. Hay House
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 332 reviews
Hay House is a historic house museum and National Historic Landmark that is owned and operated by the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation. Guided tours of this antebellum mansion are offered daily.
Reviewed By eagledress85 - Georgia, United States
If you love historic homes, the Hay House is a must! First, we had an excellent guide who was very personable and very informative. The architecture of this home is just amazing. This is the first home that we have ever seen curved pocket doors, unbelievable! If you have the opportunity to get the extended tour then definitely do it. Unfortunately, they weren't offering it when we went due to COVID restrictions, but we would definitely go back just to add that to the tour. It's nice to visit a historic home that actually has almost all of the original details. If you're in Macon, definitely make this one of your stops!
10. Atlanta History Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,406 reviews
The Atlanta History Center was founded on the big ideas and relentless fascination of 14 Atlantans who were emphatic about our city’s historical relevance in society. In a sense, our organization was created by Atlanta’s biggest fans, and we love that detail. In 1926, these founding members introduced the Atlanta Historical Society into the world with one mission: to help preserve Atlanta’s history. In 1990, after decades of collecting, researching, publishing and celebrating the early stories of our great Southern community, the Atlanta Historical Society and all of its holdings officially became the Atlanta History Center.
Reviewed By 921jamesl - Pasadena, United States
I really enjoyed walking the grounds between the Smith farm, the Swan House, and the cabin. Beautiful and relaxing. House tours were interactive and great for kids; you are allowed to touch everything. Swan House had actors in character and costume providing info about the people who lived and worked in the home. Allow three hours for the history center and house tourslcombined, and save the Margaret Mitchell house (located in Midtown)for another day; the ticket is good for 9 days. Also enjoyed the Civil War exhibit.
