9 Winter Getaways that will Conquer Your Cabin Fever
When you need a change of scenery, these nine cozy places have plenty to do inside and out.
When it gets chilly outside and you're dreaming of beaches and sunshine, it might be time for an escape. Check out some of Georgia's cozy places to stay in cities and towns with plenty of things to do inside and out.
1. Hotel Abacus in Athens
Located in the historic Foundry Building not far from the University of Georgia's Historic North Campus in Athens, the Hotel Abacus will instantly make you feel at home. Southern style and a history lesson in every corner create a community feel for locals and guests alike. Need help setting a date? Browse events in Athens this winter.
2. Cottages at Howard Finster's Paradise Garden in Summerville
Paradise Garden is home to the art of renowned artist Howard Finster. Three on-site rentals are available, including a two-bedroom, one-bath bungalow decorated in an eclectic, vibrant décor by Atlanta designer Summer Loftin. Tour the gardens during your stay, and find inspiration to warm your soul.
3. Four Seasons in Atlanta
Nothing will warm you up faster than a little luxury pampering — OK, maybe the indoor saltwater pool and soothing spa! Four Seasons always welcomes kids with open arms, but it also makes a wonderful date night escape. Visit Atlanta any time, and you're sure to find amazing things to do.
4. The Partridge Inn Augusta, Curio Collection by Hilton
The Partridge Inn is a Historic Hotel of America, yet the contemporary renovations and sleek styling make it an elegant and modern hotel selection. The suites are spacious and welcoming, and P.I. Bar and Grill is great for grabbing a bite.
Augusta is world-famous as the host of The Masters golf tournament, but did you know it's also the hometown of legendary soul singer James Brown? Visit any time of year to see his statue and learn more about The Godfather of Soul at the Augusta Museum of History.
5. Savannah Marriott Riverfront in Savannah
The spacious Savannah Marriott Riverfront hotel sits right on Savannah's premier attraction, historic River Street. The outstanding location enables you to easily explore the city's beautiful squares, historic house museums, art galleries, and more. Be sure to request a riverfront view room; the scene is beautiful both day and night.
Want to snap that iconic photo of the road through the live oaks? Head to Wormsloe State Historic Site, and hop aboard the trolley that takes visitors down the breathtaking 1.5-mile avenue.
6. City Mills in Columbus
Stay just steps from the Chattahoochee River in Columbus' first luxury boutique hotel, City Mills. Formerly a mill, the building has been transformed into a luxurious hotel, complete with an on-site restaurant, Millhouse Kitchen + Bar, serving up artisan breads and pastries, fresh Gulf Coast seafood, and steakhouse classics. Don't hesitate to bring along your four-legged friends for the trip. City Mills offers pet-friendly rooms, pet bowls made by a local artist, and stunning outdoor seating along the riverwalk.
During your getaway, unwind with a massage or yoga class at the hotel's in-house wellness center, brave the world’s largest urban whitewater course with Whitewater Express, and rent bikes to explore the Riverwalk. Take in a show at the Springer Opera House or RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, and explore the art collection at the Columbus Museum. Rest and relax, or fill your time with all of the things to do in Columbus.
7. Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange
North America's largest collection of indoor water park resorts has everything for a family getaway under one roof. Just over an hour's drive southwest from Atlanta, Great Wolf Lodge features kid-friendly activities, dining options, and access to the 93,000-square-foot water park's pools and slides kept warm at 84-degrees year-round. Add in excursions to nearby downtown LaGrange, attractions like the Biblical History Center and Hills & Dales Estate, and you'll have a trip to tell stories about until spring.
8. Stephen C. Foster State Park in Fargo
If you really want to get away from it all and immerse yourself in scenery that is truly out of this world, Stephen C. Foster State Park at the legendary Okefenokee Swamp should be high on your list of places to go this winter. At this certified Dark Sky Park, you can gaze into galaxies far, far away in the clear winter night sky, and during the day, tour the swamp, keeping an eye out for wildlife like alligators, birds, turtles, and much more. Stay in one of the park's cottages or campsites, or nearby at the Suwannee River Eco-Lodge.
9. Getaway House in Suches
Drive just two hours from Atlanta to stay in a cute, tiny cabin in the north Georgia mountain town of Suches. Equipped with everything you need, Getaway Chattahoochee is like camping, except you don't have to bring all the gear.
Relax inside or outside the tiny cabins and soak up the scenic views of the Chattahoochee National Forest. And, go hiking to nearby waterfalls or head into Dahlonega to check out the local shops and restaurants. Read more about what to expect during your stay.