Stay Cool with These Summer Activities in Georgia
There’s no wrong way to spend summer in Georgia. With so many options for unforgettable amusement – from splashing around in a lake to kicking back for live music – our state makes the most of it with all sorts of summer activities.
Escape to Georgia's beaches and lakes
Ready to cool off? Explore the splendor of Georgia’s abundant natural allure and beauty by sunbathing on our coastal beaches and getting out on the water, including our vast assortment of lakes.
Bring your family to laid-back Tybee Island, a classic beach experience beloved since the 1800s. Beginning as a cluster of 400 summer cottages for Savannah locals, this coastal gem now draws visitors from everywhere for ocean activities like dolphin spotting and Southern-style seafood.
For miles of shell-strewn beaches and famed wild horses, ferry to Cumberland Island National Seashore on Georgia’s largest and southernmost barrier island. See the roaming horse herd graze amid the remnants and roadways of Dungeness Ruins, which was once the mansion of Thomas Carnegie. Built in 1884, it was the grand winter retreat of the successful industrialist, and cherished by his wife Lucy long after his untimely passing. Next, meander maritime forests promising mature oak trees and curly Spanish moss. Remember: the horse herd is feral, so please do not approach.
With a mild year-round climate and over 400 miles of scenic shoreline, Lake Sinclair in Milledgeville offers way more than its many boating and watercraft options, including Jet Skis, paddleboards, and kayaks. You can come here to hike, bike, cast a line, and play games like pickleball at The Club at Lake Sinclair and disc golf at Walter B. Williams Park. Or, frolic at resort-style waterparks like Statesboro’s Splash in the Boro! and lakeside Margaritaville at Lanier Islands in Buford. While both locations promise fun with wave pools and waterslides, Margaritaville ups the ante with easy boat rentals and its very own beach.
Experience Georgia's live music venues
With spring’s festivals in the rearview, Georgia’s summer season shifts to concerts and outdoor performances. Whether it’s a sunset amphitheater performance or a weekend of musical fun, there’s always a reason to get outside. New to the scene, Atrium Health Amphitheater in Macon is already carving out its place in the city’s storied musical heritage. From its massive stage to impeccable sound quality to comfortable seating, this hot spot offers box and suite accommodations with VIP perks, like private parking and bar access, for fans wanting to elevate their experience.
Tucked in the mountain town of Hiawassee, the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds strikes a chord with music lovers of all kinds. Here, a year-round lineup performs everything from bluegrass to classic rock. Synovus Bank Amphitheater at Chastain Park in Atlanta welcomes big-name acts, including heroes like the late Johnny Cash and current artists like John Legend, James Taylor, Teddy Swims, and local stars like the Indigo Girls. Come for a “table/cooler event” that allows attendees to pack in their own goodies for a picnic to remember.
Get outside Atlanta’s hustle and bustle at the intimate Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater, aka The Fred, in Peachtree City. Here, concertgoers across three decades have soaked in tunes by greats like Huey Lewis and the News and the late B.B. King. Touted for its laid-back vibe, comfy seats, and sublime acoustics, The Fred hosts music all season long during its Summer Concert Series. Make a day of it with a leisurely hike amid lush foliage at Flat Creek Nature Area.
Set on the Douglasville Town Green, the GreyStone Amphitheater brings in performers like LeAnn Rimes, Stokley, and Leela James. This jewel of a venue promises close proximity to eateries with Southern delicacies, too, like Gritz Brunch Bar and Gumbeaux’s, A Cajun Cafe. Or, pick Sweetland Amphitheatre in LaGrange, where legends like Willie Nelson and Gladys Knight wowed fans from the stage of a one-of-a-kind venue carefully carved into the gentle slant of a hillside surrounded by a vast green space.
Celebrate the Fourth of July in Georgia
As one of the Thirteen Original Colonies, Georgia throws festive Fourth of July celebrations all over the state, and they promise to be even more spectacular for America’s 250th birthday in 2026. Yet, one event is recognized as one of the best in the U.S. Don’t miss Stone Mountain Park’s Fantastic Fourth Celebration, a spectacular Independence Day fireworks, drone, and lights show that, with ticket purchase, offers access to more park attractions like scenic hikes and 1940s-era train rides.
Find more of Georgia's best July 4th celebrations.
