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Guide to Visiting The State of Georgia

Gary Thompson
Hits: 1941

GEORGIA - For most of America's history, Georgia was known to move slower, enjoy passing the time, and not rush into anything new.  Now Georgia leads the way in new technologies and growth, but that doesn't mean that you still can't find the old Georgia hidden in communities around the state. From the coastal town of Savannah, Georgia, to the mountain village of Helen, you can find the Southern charm and hospitality that made Georgia famous.


Guide to Visiting The State of Georgia

Visiting The State of Georgia


GeorgaSavannah, GeorgiaNo visit to Georgia would be complete without a few days in beautiful Savannah. There are plenty of tours and activities to do in Savannah. Still, it would be best to stroll the streets to feel this sophisticated city. Start at River Street and wander towards Forsyth Park. Along the way, you will be treated to breathtaking views of old Savannah homes, interesting bookstores, art shops filled with pieces from locals and Savannah School of Art and Design students, and unique restaurants like Lady and Sons.

Drive a few hours north, and you'll find the college town of Athens, Georgia. This town sits far enough away from the sprawl of Atlanta to keep its soul. Plan your trip to Athens so you can participate in one of the spring or fall festivals or a football game day. Downtown Athens is filled with one-of-a-kind shops and some of the best restaurants in northeast Georgia, like the Basil Press and the always-open Grill. Take a walk through the UGA Arches on College Street and enjoy the old oaks and Greek revival buildings of the north campus.



After you've enjoyed the college town of Athens, head for the mountains and visit Helen's cheesy but fun city, this Bavarian façade will make you smile. If you see it in the summer, don't pass up the opportunity to "shoot the hooch" on an inflatable tube. Floating down the Chattahoochee River on a hot summer day is a family favorite. Helen comes alive again in the fall when it celebrates October Fest. Watch the baseball playoffs in an outside beer garden before catching a horse and buggy ride back to your chalet or hotel.

About an hour from Helen is Dahlonega. The home of the first gold rush in America, this mountain town still celebrates its heritage with a year Gold Rush Festival and plenty of shops to buy items made of gold. The elite North Georgia Military College sits at the edge of town in Dahlonega.



Probably the most beautiful place in Georgia is Young Harris. This tiny town sits in a valley and holds the prestigious Young Harris College with graduated students like Zell Millar and country singer Trisha Yearwood. Park your car, walk the campus of Young Harris, and watch a play at one of the school's two theatres.