Best Georgia Trip Ideas for Couples
If you’re looking to surprise your significant other with a romantic getaway, Georgia should be top of mind. From five-star dining in eclectic cities to dreamy off-the-grid glamping destinations, you’ll have a hard time parting ways with the distinctive Southern charm and laid-back feel of this beautiful state.
Couple with cocktails at Skyline Park at Ponce City Market in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by @gcalebjones
Atlanta
Known for its gorgeous skyline, beautiful parks and rich history, Atlanta brings a spark to budding romances and longtime lovers alike. Indulge in opulence at The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta, where you’ll be treated to sommelier-selected wines and world-class whiskey in the exclusive Club Level lounge. Enjoy the stunning views atop SkyView, Atlanta’s iconic Ferris wheel. For dinner, head to Canoe, a restaurant acclaimed for its culinary excellence and serene natural setting along the backdrop of the Chattahoochee River. Delve into savory entrees like maple-marinated duck breast or wood-grilled beef tenderloin, and take an after-dinner stroll through the riverside gardens. Canoe received numerous accolades over the years, including a 2016 award for the Most Romantic Restaurant in Atlanta by Town & Country Magazine.
Forsyth Park fountain in Savannah, Georgia. Photo by @gcalebjones
Savannah
Faithful romantics would be remiss not to give the storied streets of Savannah their rightful due. Along cobblestone walkways, regal 18th- and 19th-century architecture enchants eager onlookers with whispers of a bygone era. Forsyth Park, a popular spot for proposals, is like a water painting come to life with its mossy oaks and elegant fountain. Take a romantic dinner cruise aboard riverboats aptly named Savannah River Queen and the Georgia Queen. Delight the senses with a buffet featuring locally caught fish and a post-dinner dance in the ballroom. After a long day, settle into Azalea Inn & Villas, a charming bed-and-breakfast nestled in the Historic Landmark District. You’ll be treated to nightly indulgences like expertly crafted cranberry-carrot cake and giant chocolate-toffee cookies.
The Cloister at Sea Island in Sea Island, Georgia. Photo by @izzyhudgins.
Sea Island
Part of Georgia’s famed Golden Isles, Sea Island is a private community known for its sprawling beaches and Forbes Five Star resort, The Cloister at Sea Island. This resort stands out like a Mediterranean enclave with its sandy pillars and terracotta roof. Revel in 50 luxurious acres of lush gardens, saltwater marshes, three golf courses and 5 miles of private coastline. Or indulge in romantic activities like couples massages in a restorative paradise, horseback riding along the golden shores and a pre-dinner cocktail cruise on the Sea Island Explorer. For dinner, head to Tavola, a rustic Italian eatery situated on the Blackbank River. Specialties include branzino, traditional roasted fish, and bucatini al tartufo, a delicate mix of forest mushrooms and black truffle in a garlic-marsala cream sauce.
Montaluce Winery in Dahlonega, Georgia. Photo by @gcalebjones.
Dahlonega
Located at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the small town of Dahlonega proudly proclaims its title as the heart of Georgia wine country. Just northwest, you’ll find Montaluce Winery & Restaurant, an alluring Tuscany-inspired chateau yielding unforgettable panoramic views of the mountains from its patio restaurant, Trattoria di Montaluce. Take a day trip to its beautiful vineyard, or book one of the intimate Italian-themed villas for a night. Immerse yourself in the intricacies of viticulture with a 1.8-mile guided wine hike, or try a flight of handcrafted wines — including the 2019 Tempranillo or the 2019 Viognier — with a tasting tour. If you’re eager for more, book a private couples trip with North Georgia Wine Tours, where you’ll discover Dahlonega gems like Wolf Mountain Vineyards & Winery and Frogtown Cellars.
Barnsley Resort in Adairsville, Georgia. Photo by @jdgensler
Adairsville
This town is tucked into the rolling hills and charming pastures of northwest Georgia. Just an 8-mile drive southwest, you’ll come across Barnsley Resort. This 3,000-acre resort has a deep history that’s rooted in love, passion and sacrifice. Originally constructed as an Italianate villa for Godfrey Barnsley’s wife in the 1840s, his true vision for the estate would not be fully realized until after she passed. Couples visiting the resort today will no doubt find remnants of his lasting love in the warm hospitality and cozy English-cottage accommodations. Barnsley Resort is brimming with activities like horseback riding, golfing, skeet shooting and spa relaxation. Stroll through the heirloom gardens and view the historic Barnsley ruins. For dinner, grab a seat at Woodlands Grill, where you’ll dine on farm-to-table creations like pappardelle and lamb meatballs from an executive chef.
Mermaid tree on St. Simons Island, Georgia.
St. Simons Island
From historic sights to outdoor adventures, St. Simons Island is a romantic getaway made easy. The island is only about 17.5 square miles, so it’s conveniently traversable by bike or by foot. Hop on the St. Simons Trolley and explore the island's most iconic landmarks like Christ Church and the St. Simons Lighthouse, one of only five lighthouses in the state. Hotel Simone is the perfect home base for your adventures. Bask in the sun on the peaceful rooftop pool with an afternoon drink, enjoy a round of golf at the King and Prince Golf Club or grab a complimentary bike for a ride around the island. As you pass through forests of ancient oaks, keep an eye out for the faces of sea-weary sailors carved into their trunks and branches. These “tree spirits'' are said to immortalize the seamen who once braved Georgia’s coastal waters. A few miles inland, Halyard’s Restaurant serves up fresh seafood dishes like seared yellowfin tuna and creamy blue-crab bisque.
Couple at a rooftop bar in Macon, Georgia. Photo by @gcalebjones
Macon
Visit Macon for its beautiful architecture, rich music history and the International Cherry Blossom Festival. Famously dubbed “the pinkest party on earth,” this springtime event is characterized by 350,000 blossoming Yoshino cherry trees that burst with color on the city’s streets and throughout its parks. You’ll enjoy everything from live music to parades and local fare from the festival’s Food Truck Frenzy. Take a romantic walk along the Cherry Blossom Trail and stop at the Johnston-Felton-Hay House, an 18,000-square-foot Renaissance Revival mansion known for its ornate floral stained-glass windows. Burke Mansion Bed & Breakfast is an easeful spot to call home for the night. Constructed in 1887 by T.C. Burke, the mansion is considered one of the best examples of Queen Anne Victorian architecture in the United States. Each morning, you’ll be served a Southern-style breakfast, and in the afternoon, a reception with savory hors d’oeuvres and wine from the mansion’s cellar.
Cloudland Canyon in Rising Fawn, Georgia. Photo by @thewayweroam.
Cloudland Canyon
Not all romantic retreats must include luxurious accommodations and decadent dining options. There are more than 60 state parks and historic sites in Georgia, and many of them provide the perfect conditions for a date, honeymoon or anniversary. Hike to the top of Lookout Mountain in Cloudland Canyon State Park for captivating vistas of densely forested ravines and towering sandstone walls. Scout out one of the many hidden waterfalls for a view that’s ripped straight from a fairytale. As the sun sets, retreat to a private yurt where you can grill up your favorite meal and savor the blissful simplicity of a tranquil mountain lake.
