9 Georgia Spring Break Trips for Grown-Ups

What could be a better adult spring break than a trip to Georgia's wine country?

Less than two hours from Atlanta, Dahlonega and Helen are the ideal bases for exploring the North Georgia Wine Country, whether it's taking in the scenery at wineries like Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery or downtown tasting rooms.

In nearby Cleveland, visit Yonah Mountain Vineyards & Winery and CeNita Vineyards & Winery, known for their award-winning wines and stunning views.

A stay at Chateau Elan Winery & Resort in Braselton has everything you could want, from wine tastings to the spa to restaurants. Learn more about what makes the region and winery special on group or private tours. Spend a special afternoon or evening in a wine bungalow overlooking the vineyard.

Find more Georgia Wineries with Breathtaking Views.

Remember all of those wacky attractions you've always wanted to visit? Spring break is a perfect time!

Summerville is home to Howard Finster's Paradise Garden, the former home of renowned folk artist Howard Finster. See where he lived and worked with artwork on every visible surface.

Similarly, folk artist St. EOM made his home at St. EOM's Pasaquan in rural Buena Vista. The colorful grounds are designed with futuristic figures that were painstakingly restored.

The Rock Garden in Calhoun has recreated the castles and cathedrals of Europe in miniature form.

Find more unusual destinations in this list of 14 Strange Things You Wouldn't Believe Are in Georgia.

Georgia's small towns aren't just for antiquing and bed and breakfasts. There's a rising population of young professionals starting businesses in them.

Americus, for example, has its own record label, distillery and organic coffee roaster. The thriving downtown is great for exploring in between trips to nearby Plains and Andersonville.

In Athens, there's plenty to keep you occupied. Explore the grounds of the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, and then splurge on a spa visit at the Graduate Athens before dinner at Five & Ten.

Clayton is great for outdoor enthusiasts. Your first stop should be Wander North Georgia, a family-owned outdoor store that carries hiking and camping gear but also offers expert guidance on what to see and do in the region. Then, wander the trails of Tallulah Gorge State Park or walk across the suspension bridge. Dillard House Stables offer scenic horseback rides.

Find more small towns to explore in Georgia.

There's certainly an appeal to charming Southern towns.

Savannah may be the most well-known for its historic homes open to tours. Spend the night in one of the historic inns and chow down at some of the state's best restaurants.

Madison is known as "the town Sherman refused to burn," and its most stunning homes still stand today. The Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, a former school-turned museum, can't be missed. If you're up for a bicycle adventure, check out the routes in the Madison-Morgan Meander. Pick up a guide at the Madison Welcome Center or follow the online routes to cruise by farms, historic schoolhouses, movie and TV filming locations, and other great finds.

Thomasville has become an arts hub, with gallery walks and performances. The downtown shopping district has won countless designations and is loaded with great restaurants. Historic sites like the Lapham-Patterson House tell the rich history of the area.

Find more places to explore in this list of 9 Small Towns Dripping with Charm.

Spring is the perfect time to head to Georgia's lakes.

A short drive from Atlanta, Lake Oconee has the stunning The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee, which can be your base for visiting nearby towns. Nearby Greensboro has its own brewery (Oconee Brewing Company). Eatonton has the Rock Eagle Effigy and Trails and the Georgia Writers Museum.

Stay in Gainesville to explore Lake Lanier, and make time to chill at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands.

Read more about Georgia's Best Lake Vacations.

Roller coasters and thrill rides don't have to be for kids. Adults can also enjoy the theme parks located around the state, and they don't have to worry about being tall enough.

Six Flags Over Georgia in northwestern Atlanta has some of the region's best roller coasters, including Superman and Goliath.

Wild Adventures Theme Park in Valdosta has the Boomerang and Twisted Typhoon coasters that will excite.

Don't forget about the mountain towns!

For a totally unique retreat, spend your time at North Georgia Glamping in Ellijay, which is part alpaca farm and part glamping resort with vintage Airstream trailers and a geodesic dome. Local outfitters can get you set up for whitewater rafting and kayaking.

Blue Ridge is another favorite, offering activities like zip lining as well as things only adults can do. Leave the kids at home as you visit breweries like Angry Hops Brewing, or crush a car at nearby Tank Town USA.

Young Harris is home to its namesake college as well as a number of wineries and Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa.

Find more ideas in this list of 8 North Georgia Towns You Need to Visit.

Spring adventures around Atlanta don't have to be all adventure. Staying within one of the cities and larger towns is also a fun getaway. In Atlanta, use your spring break as an opportunity to stay in a neighborhood like a local. Hotel Clermont is great for wandering around Poncey-Highland and nearby Little Five Points. Decatur is another neighborhood perfect for in-town trips.

In Columbus, visit the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center, and go on an adventurous rafting trip down the Chattahoochee River. Once you've dried off, grab a beer and a bite to eat at Banks Food Hall or hearty Southern fare at 11th and Bay.

Augusta is one of the state's underrated cities. Learn about local legends Bobby Jones and James Brown at the Augusta Museum of History and, if weather allows, take a trip with Augusta Canal Petersburg Boat Tours. Explore 18 square miles of Georgia's most serene water trails and uncommon wildlife by paddling Clarks Hill Lake, the Savannah River and the Augusta Canal on the Serene18 Paddle Trail. Dine out at restaurants like Bodega Ultima or Edgar's Above Broad.

Beaches are great, but beaches without crowds are even better. Thanks to Georgia's 100-plus miles of coastline and more than 14 barrier islands, there are plenty of opportunities to escape to the coast.

Little St. Simons Island is an all-inclusive eco-resort accessible only by boat. Spend the entire day at the deserted beach or go on one of the naturalist-led excursions.

On St. Simons Island, retreat to Hotel Simone, which is perfect for a romantic getaway or girls’ trip. Lounge at the rooftop pool, cruise the beach on complimentary bicycles, and take advantage of amenities at neighboring King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is home to incredible pristine beaches and the Dungeness Ruins. You can camp in the campground or stay at the prestigious Greyfield Inn.

Sapelo Island is another nationally protected island with unique coastal wildlife and campground accommodations. While you’re there, be sure to tour the Reynolds Mansion on Sapelo Island, another Gilded Age getaway.

Find more places to explore in Coastal Georgia.

Find more spring travel ideas in Georgia.