Next Exit: Worthy Georgia Detours
If you’re driving through Georgia, it’s natural to base your stay in popular destinations like Atlanta and Blue Ridge. Just beyond our most well-known spots are rising stars – some of the best towns to visit in Georgia – deserving of a detour and a day trip. These nearby locales are within easy reach of popular Georgia destinations and each offers its own distinct appeal. So, plan ahead to extend your stay – then take the next exit to the unexpected.
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Destination: Atlanta > Detours: Duluth & Woodstock
Destination: Savannah > Detours: Skidaway Island & Dublin
Destination: Blue Ridge > Detours: Hiawassee & McCaysville
Destination: Atlanta
Detours: Duluth & Woodstock
As the state capital and an undisputed cultural keystone, Atlanta is known for its wide sphere of influence. But less than an hour away, you’ll find two under-the-radar cities with their own subtle sway. Here’s why they’re worth a detour.
Duluth: Diverse Delights
About 40 minutes northeast of Atlanta off Interstate 85, Duluth is a delightful study in contrasts, offering big-city sophistication with small-town vibes. It’s also home to one of the largest Korean populations in the U.S., which means there’s a distinctive cultural flavor you simply won’t find anywhere else.
Seoul of the South™
Since the establishment of its Korean Consulate in the 1970s and the arrival of Kia and other Korean-born companies, Atlanta and its suburbs have become colorful multicultural enclaves. Today, Duluth holds “Seoul of the South™” bragging rights, with nearly a quarter of its population hailing from Korea.
For a flavorful dive into Duluth’s thriving Korean culture, cruise the aisles at the local H Mart; this legendary Korean-owned supermarket chain is a reliable feast for the senses and our perennial favorite for road-trip snacks. Then, adjourn to JeJu Sauna & Spa, the traditional Korean wellness center that’s attracting accolades from Buzzfeed, The New York Times, and others.
Of course, Korean cuisine is everywhere in the area. While it’s difficult to make a bad choice, we’re especially fond of Jang Su Jang and 678 Korean BBQ. For travelers who like to plan ahead, the Seoul of the South™ Food Tour is a solid centerpiece for any trip. Offered just a few times a year, these unforgettable four-restaurant experiences sell out very quickly. Free-range foodies can download the free Seoul of the South™ Mobile Pass to earn points and prizes for exploring the area’s food scene on their own.
Authentic Southern soul
Of course, we are still in Georgia – and Duluth has its own version of Southern soul that’s worthy of discovery. The town’s welcoming, walkable Downtown District invites all kinds of exploring with an eclectic mix of tempting independent boutiques and family-run restaurants.
Like the local residents, you’ll be tempted to gather on the Town Green, a bustling open-air HQ for families, picnickers, and music lovers. Food trucks envelop the green with enticing aromas, splash-pad fountains sprinkle the scene, and free concerts fill the air with enticing sounds. Nearby, the beat always goes on at Eddie Owen Presents: Red Clay Music Foundry – where you might find yourself discovering a talented up-and-comer or face-to-face with a legend like Jason Isbell.
The visual arts are also very much at home here. Swing by Eye Candy Art Studio for a handmade memento, including pottery, jewelry, and artwork from regional makers. And, as you discover downtown Duluth, keep an eye out for the dozens of murals, sculptures, and interactive installations that transform the district into an open-air gallery.
Take a piece of Georgia home with you
Founded by a mother-daughter team with a shared love for treasure hunting, Personify Shop stocks a wide selection of whimsical wares, including embroidered tops, “what’s-she-wearing?” fragrances, and sunny prints from local artists.
Woodstock: Welcome to Wander
Woodstock, about 30 minutes north of Atlanta via Interstate 75, is small enough to escape the notice of the average travel guidebook. But there are good reasons this railroad town is in regular rotation on national “best places to live” lists, and they all make it a wonderful place to visit as well.
Though Woodstock has been chugging along since 1897, a sudden growth spurt nearly 100 years later paved the way for its present-day popularity. In an effort to combine historical appeal with modern conveniences, the entire city center was reimagined in the early aughts with striped-awning boutiques, charming eateries, and entertainment spots all connected by trails. The result is a carefree community that puts all its wonders within easy walking distance.
Get your bearings at Century House Tavern, a culinary landmark in downtown Woodstock’s beloved “little yellow house.” Housed in the 1894 Hubbard House, this inviting spot blends heritage and modern flair. Enjoy inventive Southern dishes, craft cocktails, and the warm sense of community that defines Woodstock’s creative spirit. As you wander around this easygoing area after dinner, you’ll find so many amiable hyphenates springing to mind – family-friendly, pet-friendly, pedestrian-friendly, etc. – that “just plain friendly” ultimately seems most accurate.
Woodstock is so laid-back that it’s legal to walk around with an open container – something the city’s creative craft beer scene will surely tempt you to try. Sip and stroll with Reformation Brewery’s Panther Creek Falls (an outdoors-inspired IPA with notes of pineapple, pear, and mango). Or, swing by Truck & Tap, a brick-and-mortar brewery pouring a rotating menu of Georgia beers paired with an ever-changing lineup of standout food trucks.
Additional musts in downtown Woodstock include The Sweet Read, where used books blend perfectly with coffee, tea, and fresh-baked pastries; and Blue Ghost Arcade, where vintage arcade games can connect with a new generation of passionate players.
Then, when it’s time to commune with Mother Nature, you’re just minutes from tranquil Lake Allatoona. Pack up the family, pick up sandwiches from Rally Point Grille, and head to Victoria Beach for a lazy afternoon of sunning and swimming.
Take a piece of Georgia home with you
Commemorate your detour in Woodstock with mementos from Made Mercantile – a collaborative retail space for creative companies like Beau Paper Co., Silver Lining Jewelry Co., and other maker-centric shops.
Destination: Savannah
Detours: Skidaway Island & Dublin
It’s natural to gravitate toward a show-stopping city like Savannah – it’s an only-in-Georgia experience, where Gothic mansions and cobbled streets are just a stone’s throw from the coast. But your trip to the “Hostess City of the South” should also make time for a detour to Skidaway Island and Dublin, each offering its own unique interpretation of “warm welcome.”
Skidaway Island: Naturally Awesome
When you’re strolling Savannah’s cosmopolitan avenues, it might be hard to imagine that there’s actual wilderness within reach. But with just a quick jog south on Interstate 95, that’s exactly what you’ll find: Skidaway Island, a haven of salt air and wild things.
Part of Georgia’s Intracoastal Waterway, this barrier island is a living mosaic of salt marshes, tidal creeks, and maritime forest. This is nature at its most diverse, and Skidaway Island State Park gives you access to nearly 600 acres of it – with campsites, cabins, playgrounds, picnic shelters, and a host of other amenities to ensure that everyone in your crew is a happy camper.
Take your time exploring the trails, for there’s much to reward the observant hiker. On any given day, you might be treated to a glimpse of deer or raccoons in the lush underbrush – or fiddler crabs, reptiles, and the occasional gator bobbing quietly in the marsh. Part of the Colonial Coast Birding Trail, the island is also home to around 200 bird species, so you might see a flash of bright feathers from the dapper wood duck, the stately American bald eagle, and many avian creatures in between.
Prefer a bit of education with your exploration? Stop by the park’s Visitor Center to sign up for one of several ranger-led interpretive programs offering insight into the island’s ecology and the fascinating history of the Guale, Indigenous people who lived on the islands centuries ago. More of a hands-on learner? Visit the University of Georgia’s Marine Education Center and Aquarium, where touch tanks encourage connection with sea stars, whelks, and a variety of local crabs.
During your detour, don’t forget to sample the catch of the day at one of the area’s many local eateries. Score fresh-caught seafood with Southern flair at Driftaway Cafe, fall in love with Lowcountry cuisine at Sandfly BBQ, or quash your Caribbean cravings at Tortuga’s Island Grille.
Dublin: Feel Like Family
Savannah is known as the “Hostess City of the South” for good reason. Here, hospitality is everywhere, as natural as the Spanish moss on live oak trees. But you’ll soon learn that Georgia’s friendliness is more of a statewide thing – it just takes on a different character from town to town. So, when you make the detour to Dublin, just off Interstate 16, you’ll be treated to a more casual, scaled-down version of our world-famous warmth.
As any traveling parent knows, the secret to a smooth group getaway is plenty of pint-sized fun – and Dublin has that in spades. Start with a visit to Stubbs Park: while little ones explore the playground or splash in the creek, parents can picnic on the sprawling, shade-dappled lawn. Or, go with the flow at Southern Pines Water Park, home to water slides, a lazy river and lots of splashy, sprinkly fun.
Of course, nothing makes one feel at home like a lovingly crafted meal. At the old-school diner Lou Ann’s Biscuits & Burgers, the buttery biscuits are said to be the biggest in the state – on their own or as part of a decadent sandwich, they’re guaranteed crowd pleasers. Crooked Finger Brewing likewise knows how to cater to families, with fryer-forward meals for kiddos, craft brews for grown-ups, and a year-round patio, either heated or shaded depending on the season. The barbecue-smothered Dirty Truck Fries alone are worth a trip.
Take the plunge at Saltwater Fishery, which serves up fresh-caught seafood on a breezy rooftop patio that feels like a backyard fish fry with acclaimed Chef Lorenzo Klink. The sweet hush puppies, served light and crispy with housemade butter, will become instant favorites. Or, for the warmest welcome in town, head over to Dublin Farm Bed and Breakfast. The friendly proprietors invite guests to unwind in the picturesque countryside, where recent renovations have blended modern touches with timeless beauty. The innkeepers also own Moe’s on Madison, one of downtown Dublin’s newest dining gems, giving guests a taste of their warm hospitality both in the country and in the heart of town.
Before you go, there’s one final stop on your Dublin detour: Strickland’s Boots. Famously friendly, it’s a place where customers still feel like they’re part of the family. Married founders Rodney and Martha are still walking the walk, well into their 80s, and are happiest when helping you search their impressive selection of blue-chip brands – including Danner, Laredo, Dan Post, and of course, Georgia Boot – for the perfect fit.
Destination: Blue Ridge
Detours: Hiawassee & McCaysville
Blue Ridge is consistently among the most-visited cities in Georgia for a reason – quite a few, actually. But if you’d like to expand your mountain-town horizons with fewer crowds, these two detours promise their own “peak experiences.”
Hiawassee: Altitude Adjustment
There’s no wrong route to take through the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The hour-ish detour from Blue Ridge to Hiawassee via U.S. Route 76 is part of the Lookout Mountain Scenic Highway, a balanced blend of rolling mountain scenery and tempting roadside attractions.
Once you arrive in Hiawassee, it’s hard to miss the state’s highest peak, Brasstown Bald, in the distance. Fuel up for your ascent at Tilted Cafe, a beloved brunch spot serving Southern comfort food like shrimp and grits before choosing a route to the top. Hikers can get there via the paved half-mile Summit Trail, or take the Jacks Knob Trail or Arkaquah Trail for a longer trek to the summit through breathtaking Appalachian scenery.
Still stuffed from your epic brunch? There’s also a shuttle service to the top, departing from the parking area and visitor center. But no matter how you get to the mountain’s peak – 4,784 feet above sea level – you’ll be rewarded with stunning vistas in every direction from the cloud-level observation deck. On clear days, you can see four states; when it’s cloudy, you’ll enjoy views of moody, fog-filled valleys.
For mountaintop vistas that also include paragliders and picturesque lakes, it’s an easy drive to Bell Mountain Park and the Hal Herrin Scenic Overlook, nearly 3,500 feet in the air. For a short hike with a spectacular payoff, try the High Shoals Scenic Area; following a rustic trail and tumbling creek by the same name, you’ll encounter five cascading waterfalls with an estimated vertical drop of 300 feet.
Given its woodsy magnetism and proximity to the Appalachian Trail, Hiawassee hits all the right notes to be a gracious and fun-forward festival host. Visit the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds for the popular Georgia Mountain Fair every August or the Georgia Mountain Fall Festival each October; both offer live music, handcrafted goods from local makers, carnival rides, and of course, piping-hot funnel cakes.
If you’re staying overnight, check into the Hiwassee River Retreat. This adults-only riverside resort is tailor-made for romantic weekends, with perfectly appointed “glam cabins,” gourmet meal plans, and cozy extras like claw-foot tubs and s’mores kits. Should you prefer a different kind of waterfront view, stay at The Ridges Resort on nearby Lake Chatuge; this is luxury on a slightly larger scale, with a range of family-friendly lodging options and Appalachian-inspired farm-to-table dining on-site at The Oaks Lakeside Kitchen.
McCaysville: Rapid-Onset Joy
Outdoorsy border village McCaysville, a quick 20-minute drive from Blue Ridge via State Route 5, is a river town through and through, with its culture driven by rushing water since its mining days in the 1800s. Today, McCaysville’s most precious resource is not copper but adrenaline – with a whitewater rafting industry that draws paddlers of all levels, from all over the world.
Thanks to its dam-controlled flow, the Ocoee River offers a continuous stretch of Class III and IV rapids – a roiling, mist-sprayed romp through storied sections like “Humongous” and “Godzilla.” Take a guided half- or full-day river trip with the experienced guides at Rolling Thunder River Company; whether you’re an absolute beginner or a seasoned rafter, you’ll be in for the ride of your life.
Craving a more relaxed river experience? Much of the river is slow and glassy, and Toccoa River Tubing Company puts it within easy reach. Your tube rental includes a life jacket and a ride up the river, so you can float at your own pace back to the car. Picnic stops, shore exploration, and naps in the sun are encouraged.
River time is virtually guaranteed to make you ravenous, so take a seat on the patio at Twisted Tomato, where you can bite into a fresh, fired-to-order Neapolitan pizza. Locals love the Pepe Le Pew pie, with housemade marinara, mozzarella, Parmesan, crumbled meatballs, peppadew peppers, and fresh garlic.
Afterward, walk off your meal at the Riverwalk Shops, a bustling alfresco retail center brimming with locally owned boutiques. Pause at Riverwalk Sweets to secure a suitable sugar buzz for the road tomorrow, then head over to Tooneys Music Venue, a great place to see live music on weekends or have an ice-cold beer, anytime.
Take a piece of Georgia home with you
Don’t miss Chooch, an eclectic artisan marketplace and oddities shop offering hundreds of unique, only-in-Georgia mementos – each a friendly reminder to stay on “mountain time.”
Destination: Valdosta
Detours: Thomasville & Tifton
Headed for Valdosta? You’re in for a treat. South Georgia is full of natural beauty, cultivated charm, and small towns with serious personality – and like a farmers-market sampler, each one offers something unique. Two of our freshest picks for a detour: Thomasville and Tifton.
Thomasville: Roses & Rosés
On your way to Valdosta, the “Azalea City,” via U.S. Route 84, Thomasville is a detour dedicated to a different flower. Georgia’s “Rose City,” a popular winter destination generously adorned with Victorian details, bursts brilliantly into bloom each April for the annual Rose Show & Festival – a Thomasville tradition for over 100 years. The roses can remain in bloom through July, so you’ll want to explore Thomasville Rose Garden no matter when you’re in town.
For two diverse perspectives on Thomasville’s fascinating history, pair tours of the Lapham-Patterson House and Jack Hadley Black History Museum. The former is a monument to the opulence and innovation of Gilded Age architecture and engineering; the latter is a thought-provoking journey through the lives of Thomasville’s Black history, from Buffalo Soldiers to Heisman Trophy winners and much more.
Next, sample Thomasville’s finest local flavors. Start with the Saltwater Gypsy Rosé at Farmer’s Daughter Vineyard & Tasting Room, a three-generation family winery known for smooth, flavorful sips. Then, queue up for a meal at Jonah’s Fish & Grits, a local eatery known for its hush puppies and other from-scratch specialties. There’s often a wait for this popular spot, but you’ll stay busy scanning your surroundings for the 18 bronze quail statues that are hidden around town.
You’ll wrap up your time in Thomasville with a bit of Southern-style retail therapy. If you visit only one shop here, make sure it’s SouthLife Supply Company. This heirloom outfitter crafts exquisite leather goods for astonishingly reasonable prices. Their signature croc-embossed cowhide pieces are enduring standouts, but – fun fact – they’re also happy to create a one-of-a-kind custom piece from your “personally harvested alligator hide.”
Take a piece of Georgia home with you
On your way out of town, swing by Sweet Grass Cheese Shop for a to-go cheese board, including four Sweet Grass Dairy cheeses, two Blackberry Patch preserves, house B+B pickles, roasted Schermer pecans, and crackers. Their nationally acclaimed Green Hill (double-cream soft) and Thomasville Tomme (semi-soft farmhouse) cheeses both pair well with the open road.
Tifton: Cultivated Charm
In a state known for its hospitality, you have to go the extra mile to earn the nickname “The Friendly City.” But that’s exactly what Tifton does, just an easy detour off Interstate 75. Get ready to fall under its bucolic spell.
Agriculture is Tifton’s bread and butter, so your day begins with a visit to a working farm. If you’re looking for fresh, grab-and-go berries to enjoy with your gourmet cheese, Berry Good Farms is your best bet. For the full family-fun experience, choose The Market at Rutland Farms. You’ll need at least an hour to pick your own berries, stroll through the sunflower fields, make some feathered and furry friends at the petting zoo, and reward yourself with homemade ice cream.
No trip to farm country would be complete without a jaunt to the Georgia Museum of Agriculture at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. Here, you’ll step back in time to rural 19th-century America, experiencing an authentic day in the life of a Georgia farmer. Knowledgeable costumed docents bring history to life throughout the site: you’ll learn about the typical farmer’s daily routine in the recreated Historic Village, ride the rails on the preserved steam locomotive, and stop at the drugstore for a nose-tickling root beer float.
Of course, agriculture isn’t the only culture in this fertile community. As a railroad junction and later a crossroads town, Tifton has been treated to a steady stream of outside influences since its founding in 1872. Much of the inviting downtown area is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with an appealing clutch of meticulously restored buildings certain to transport you back in time.
Don’t miss the Syd Blackmarr Arts Center, where you can enjoy quarterly exhibitions by local artists in a 1900 Romanesque church with soaring stained glass windows. Then, stroll the short distance to Fresco Italiano for authentic Italian cuisine served with Southern flair, including the dolce del giorno, made with love by the in-house pastry chef.
Take a piece of Georgia home with you
Did you know: Georgia is the most prolific producer of pecans in the U.S.? We hope you saved some room in your luggage for your trip to Adcock Pecans, a Tifton institution for over 75 years. Whether you like ’em roasted, salted, glazed, or spiced, this is the place to stock up.
