Flint RiverQuarium in Albany, Georgia

Flint RiverQuarium in Albany, Georgia

5 Small Towns that Deliver Big Family Fun in Summer

Some of our best summer escapes have been in Georgia's adorable small towns. You're sure to find things in small towns that you won't find anywhere else, like delicious restaurants, unique attractions and places to stay that feel like home. Here are a handful of our favorites.

Feeding animals at Chehaw Park in Albany, Georgia

Chehaw Park in Albany, Georgia

Albany

Begin your Albany adventure at Chehaw Park, where you can take a veldt ride or feed a camel. Head to Flint RiverQuarium to cool off and learn about Blue Holes. Kayak the Flint River, and take in some train history at Thronateeska Heritage Center.

Find places to stay and more things to do in Albany.

Visit Albany

The Caboose in Rutledge, Georgia

The Caboose in Rutledge, Georgia

Rutledge

Take a hike in Rutledge through Hard Labor Creek Park, and eat lunch at the bright red Caboose, making sure to save room for dessert. Nearby, you can enjoy even more fun at Southern Cross Guest Ranch.

Visit Rutledge

Southern Belle Farm in McDonough, Georgia. Photo by @justthekings

Southern Belle Farm in McDonough, Georgia. Photo by @justthekings

McDonough

In McDonough, you can nosh on delicious produce at Southern Belle Farm, and bring your bike to Sandy Ridge BMX Park. From the train-watching platform to the nearby Atlanta Motor Speedway, McDonough and all of Henry County offer so much for families.

Visit McDonough

Consolidated Gold Mines in Dahlonega, Georgia

Consolidated Gold Mines in Dahlonega, Georgia

Dahlonega

Take the kids on a gold hunting adventure in Dahlonega, which served as home to the nation's first gold rush. There's also hiking, waterfalls, horseback riding and more. And mom and dad will love Cavender Creek for kid-friendly wine tasting.

Visit Dahlonega

Wildwater Chattooga Adventure Center in Clayton, Georgia

Wildwater Chattooga Adventure Center in Clayton, Georgia

Clayton

If your family adores outdoor adventure, then Clayton is your ideal destination. Try hiking myriad waterfalls (many are very easy to get to like Dick's Creek Falls,) exploring Foxfire Museum and its Appalachian history, shooting the rapids with Wildwater Chattooga Adventure Center and taking in the shops and restaurants. Set up a "home base" by renting a cabin, and explore Black Rock Mountain State Park

Find places to stay and more things to do in Clayton.

Visit Clayton

Published: March 2024
Written by: Lesli Peterson
Scroll To Top