One Week in Georgia: Atlanta to the Mountains
Fly into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and then follow this guide to explore Georgia's capital city and scenic mountain towns.
Welcome to the City in the Forest, Atlanta
Come see for yourself why Atlanta has been recognized for its efforts in sustainability and tree preservation. From world-famous attractions to historic neighborhoods, there is so much to experience in Georgia's capital city. The creative, diverse, dynamic city is so popular, in fact, National Geographic selected Atlanta as one of the top destinations to visit in the National Geographic Best of the World 2022 list, and Lonely Planet included it in the Best in Travel list for 2022, the only U.S. city on the list.
Downtown
Find amazement at every turn in the galleries of sea creatures at Georgia Aquarium. Treat yourself to tastes from around the globe at the World of Coca-Cola. See the city from above on SkyView, watch a show at the Tabernacle, immerse yourself in history at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, or cheer on Atlanta's world-class professional sports teams at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena.
Midtown
Explore Midtown Atlanta and its vibrant arts scene. Catch a show at the Fox Theatre or Alliance Theatre, explore world-class art exhibits at the High Museum, or visit the latest fashion installation at SCAD Fashion. Grab a bite to eat at Westside Provisions and stay overnight at the Bellyard Hotel. Or, pick your local favorite at Politan Row, an eclectic food hall. Be sure to keep an eye out for Tiny Doors ATL! For a quiet break, stroll through Piedmont Park and the Atlanta Botanical Garden, and then visit the charming Virginia-Highland neighborhood for dinner at La Tavola.
Old Fourth Ward & Sweet Auburn
See where the leader of the civil rights movement was born at the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, and explore the surrounding Sweet Auburn neighborhood, which became the commercial center of Black Atlanta in the 1920s. Explore Ponce City Market for local eats and shopping, and then stroll the BeltLine (on foot or by bike or scooter) to shops, breweries, and restaurants.
Buckhead
Spend the day at the city's most prestigious shops at Phipps Plaza and the Shops of Buckhead. Don’t miss a visit to the Atlanta History Center to learn about the city, including the Cyclorama an interactive mural depicting the Battle of Atlanta. Afterward, enjoy dinner nearby at St. Cecilia and an overnight stay at the incredible St. Regis Atlanta.
Located 90 miles from Atlanta, the Alpine town of Helen takes its inspiration from the villages of Germany, complete with the building style of downtown shops and restaurants. But it's also in the heart of the North Georgia mountains, offering travelers outdoor sports like tubing, hiking, and ziplining. The area has both Native American history and an arts community in nearby Sautee Nacoochee.
Popular activities include:
- Georgia Mountain Coaster
- Tubing in summer
- Oktoberfest in fall
- Ziplining and hiking at Unicoi State Park
Spend two nights at Cloudland Canyon State Park; breathtaking views await! Located 140 miles from Helen on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, this is one of the most scenic parks in the state, offering rugged geology and beautiful vistas. The park straddles a deep gorge cut into the mountain by Sitton Gulch Creek, and its elevation differs from 800 to 1,980 feet.
The most spectacular view into the canyon is found near the picnic area parking lot; however, additional views can be found along the rim trail. Hardy visitors who hike to the bottom of the gorge find two waterfalls cascading over layers of sandstone and shale into pools below.
Cottages are located near the canyon edge, while the park's walk-in campsites provide exceptional privacy for tents. Outdoor lovers should not miss this park's spectacular scenery.
