Top 10 Georgia Escapes for Labor Day Weekend
Relax on a long weekend trip that fits perfectly in that sweet spot between summer and fall!
If you missed taking a vacation during the summer break, getting away for the long Labor Day weekend may be just what you need. You can enjoy time at the beach or a dip in the lake … or head to the mountains for a mild breeze and a hopeful peek at fall.
These 10 Georgia favorites are ideal for relaxing trips anytime. You might even find availability and rates that better fit your schedule before or after the holiday. No matter when you go, you'll feel refreshed and rewarded by the chance to escape your daily routine at these great escapes.
Barnsley Resort in Adairsville, Georgia
Barnsley Resort in Adairsville
The 3,000-acre Barnsley Resort in the north Georgia mountains is the perfect getaway for those who love the outdoors. Inspired by nature and steeped in history, this retreat offers horseback riding, hiking, golf, and shooting. Stroll through the gardens and historic manor house ruins, or book an appointment at The Spa at Barnsley Resort. Wind down and sample craft beers at the outdoor Beer Garden. With a mix of hotel rooms and suites at the Inn, or cottages perfect for couples and families, there are plenty of options to rest and get a much-needed change of scenery. Check the resort's calendar for special events during the holiday weekend.
Cabin on Lake Blue Ridge in Blue Ridge, Georgia. Photo by @gcalebjones
Cabin rentals in Blue Ridge
Blue Ridge is a great place to stay if you want to get away to a mountain cabin with your loved ones. Escape To Blue Ridge and Mountain Top Cabin Rentals, among many others, have carefully curated accommodations with perks like full kitchens and hot tubs.
Get out and explore the outdoors on the trails of the Chattahoochee National Forest, go fly fishing on the Toccoa River. You also can go paddleboarding, tubing, and kayaking on Lake Blue Ridge. From apple orchards to a drive-in theater, Blue Ridge has plenty of places to explore.
Lodge & Spa at Callaway Resort & Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia. Photo by @gcalebjones
Callaway Resort & Gardens in Pine Mountain
Take in the last of summer at Callaway Resort & Gardens. Stay at the Lodge and Spa or in a Cottage, explore Callaway Gardens, rent bikes and kayaks, play tennis and golf, and relax on the beach. Labor Day at Callaway means you can experience the Labor Day Weekend Hot Air Balloon Show & Glow with extraordinary nighttime balloon glows, fireworks and much more.
Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort at Stone Mountain Park
Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort at Stone Mountain Park
Stick close to the city with a stay at Stone Mountain Park’s Atlanta Evergreen Lakeside Resort. Play in the pool (indoor and outdoor options mean pool fun regardless of the weather!), challenge the kids to a game of "life-size" chess, and explore Stone Mountain Park. Enjoy fireworks all three nights at the Lasershow Spectacular!
Brasstown Valley Resort in Young Harris, Georgia
Brasstown Valley Resort in Young Harris
Head to the mountains for fun on Brasstown Valley Resort's 503 acres of family fun. Activities include hiking, golfing, fishing and pool time for outdoor excitement. Don’t miss the guided trail horseback rides, including hand-led rides for kids under 6 years old.
Adults will enjoy an outing to nearby Crane Creek Vineyards to sample their award-winning wines. And the whole family will enjoy spending time in nearby Blairsville at the annual Mountain Heritage and Music Festival. Browse local arts and crafts, hear live music, and watch demonstrations surrounded by the beauty of the North Georgia mountains.
Family biking on St. Andrews Beach on Jekyll Island, Georgia. Photo by @jekyll_island
Jekyll Island Club Resort on Jekyll Island
If you’re looking for a family beach getaway — sunny weather and shoreline for miles — then head to Jekyll Island. Stay at the historic Jekyll Island Club Resort, visit the Georgia Sea Turtle Center or Summer Waves Water Park. Kayaking, biking, dolphin cruises, exploring Tidelands Nature Center … there are plenty of ways to adventure here.
Ziplining at Unicoi State Park & Lodge in Helen, Georgia. Photo by @gcalebjones
Unicoi State Park & Lodge in Helen
Whether you want to explore the Alpine town of Helen or stay within the grounds of Unicoi State Park, Unicoi Lodge is a great home base for families. Choose from kid-approved barrel cabins or affordable rooms within the lodge (including loft options the kids will adore.) The Adventure Lodge program is great for active families, with packages that include 3-D archery, paddleboarding, kayak fishing, zip-lining and more.
While you're in town, spend Saturday at the Folk Pottery Show & Arts Festival at the nearby Sautee Nacoochee Center, featuring regional pottery, live music and food. Also, don't miss the African-American Heritage Site and Cultural Center, where you can explore a restored slave cabin and watch blacksmith demonstrations.
View of River Street in Savannah, Georgia, with Westin Savannah Harbor Resort on left side of the river. Photo by @gcalebjones
Westin Savannah Harbor Resort in Savannah
Relax in luxury at Savannah’s premier resort for families. The Westin Savannah Harbor Resort has an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, a spa and on-site marina. The hotel also offers a poolside oasis with a restaurant, children’s area, saltwater pool and hot tub. Relax in a poolside cabana with unforgettable views of the river and historic district.
On Sunday, enjoy a day on Tybee Island and then dance the night away with The Swingin' Medallions at the free family-friendly concert at the Labor Day Beach Bash.
Flint River in Albany, Georgia
Merry Acres Inn in Albany
The rooms and suites at Merry Acres Inn are made for relaxing. You’ll find hardwood floors, hearty Southern oaks and comfortable porch dining options here. Kids will adore the saline pool, and mom and dad love the proximity to family fun attractions like Flint RiverQuarium and Chehaw Park. Hit up Kayak Attack Adventures – they’ll outfit you with a kayak or canoe for an adventure down Flint River from one of two new launch points.
Stay Dahlonega treehouse. Photo by @gcalebjones
Stay Dahlonega
Choose to stay in a whimsical treehouse, a cozy farmhouse, a modern home just blocks from the Dahlonega square, or a farmhouse next to a waterfall with Stay Dahlonega's collection of vacation rentals. While you're in the mountains, explore miles of trails through the forest; wineries, breweries and meaderies; historic gold mines and much more. Find more places to see in this Guide to Dahlonega.
On Saturday in nearby Dawsonville, check out the annual Labor Day Car Show at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame.
