It’s amazing just how many scenic byways there are throughout our beautiful state. Sometimes we get so caught up in the rigmarole of daily life, or we’re too stressed out in traffic, that we don’t stop to appreciate the majestic roads that stretch before us: roads that link small-town Main Street roads to downtown Atlanta, or the Golden Isles to Chattahoochee National Forest. We’ve rounded up some of the best scenic drives in Georgia, perfect for a scenic drive. So hop in the car — adventure awaits!

1. Altamaha Historic Scenic Byway
U.S. 17, US-17, Brunswick, GA, USA
Flickr Doug Kerr
Our list of the best scenic drives in Georgia begins with the Altamaha Historic Scenic Byway. This gorgeous byway runs for 17 miles through McIntosh and Glynn Counties and all the way through the City of Darien. What's so fascinating about this byway is the scenic views of the marshland, mixed with the plethora of live oaks dripping with Spanish moss. It's no mystery why this route is considered one of the best scenic drives in Georgia.
2. Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway
Fort Mountain State Park Road, Fort Mountain State Park Rd, Georgia 30705, USA
Flickr Thomson20192
This scenic byway follows State Route 2 past rolling, rustic lands into Murray County. These quiet country roads surely do not disappoint, especially when you see the Cohutta Mountains in the distance. If you want to cruise through peaceful forests and beautiful mountain scenery, you won't regret taking the Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway.
3. Enduring Farmlands Scenic Byway
Flickr Ken Lund
This is one of those byways that showcases the beauty of historic towns throughout Georgia. On this byway, you'll see the towns of Hawkinsville, Pineview, Rochelle, and Abbeville, plus all the pastoral landscapes of the accompanying countryside. If you have a knack for history, you'll love driving the Enduring Farmlands Scenic Byway.
4. Historic Dixie Highway
South Dixie Highway, S Dixie Hwy, Dalton, GA, USA
Flickr Brent Moore
Probably one of the longer Georgia scenic drives, this beautiful road travels 62 miles through the towns of Albany, Baconton, Camilla, Pelham, Meigs, Ochlocknee and Thomasville. You'll get a little bit of history during this stretch of road. While you're in the area, be sure to check out 4-Way Lunch.
5. Historic Effingham-Ebenezer Scenic Byway
Ebenezer, GA 31326, USA
Flickr JR P
This 60-mile journey winds through country and state roads, stopping at a few of the most important historic sites in Georgia. You can also use this byway to recreate Georgia Washington's 1791 Southern Tour if you're feeling nostalgic. Learn more about driving eh historic Effingham-Ebenezer Scenic Byway.

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6. I-185 Scenic Byway
Flickr Jimmy Emerson DVM
Maybe not as beautifully sprawling as the other byways, but it's just as important. There are a ton of rich cultural and rustic attractions that dot the route of the byway. Here's more on the I-85 Scenic Byway.
7. Meriwether-Pike Scenic Byway
Georgia 85, GA-85, Fayetteville, GA, USA
Flickr Janine
This 55-mile trek begins at the charming town of Warm Springs. It's the byway that honors the legacy of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Between the 1920s and 1940s, Roosevelt came to Warm Springs in hopes the therapeutic springs would treat his legs, which were damaged by polio. Learn more about the Meriwether-Pike Scenic Byway.
8. Monticello Crossroads Scenic Byway
Flickr C Smith
On the shorter end as Georgia byways go, this scenic trek through the rolling pastures of Jasper County is worth the trip. Not only is it a lovely drive, it also has deep historical roots for our fair state.
9. Ridge & Valley Scenic Byway
Flickr David Clow
During this road trip, you'll travel through 51 miles of mountain passes and rustic farmlands, getting the perfect glimpse into how much variety Georgia has to offer. Learn more about the Ridge & Valley Scenic Byway.
10. Russell Brasstown Scenic Byway
Russell–Brasstown Scenic Byway, Helen, GA 30545, USA
Flickr Thomson20192
The great thing about this byway is that it's a loop, which reveals some of the most breathtaking scenery in the entire state. Not only do you get to see Brasstown Bald, Georgia's highest mountain, but the byway also passes near Helen, Georgia, the quaint Bavarian town. Here's more on why everyone should drive the Russell Brasstown Scenic Byway at least once.
11. South Fulton Scenic Byway
South Fulton, GA, USA
Flickr sporadic
Last but not least on our list of the best scenic drives in Georgia is the South Fulton Scenic Byway. Another byway loop in Georgia, the South Fulton Scenic Byway takes you through Fulton County, where you can observe the wonderful forestry, plus the rolling hills and farmlands.

Have you ever traveled down any of these Georgia scenic roads? Do you agree that they’re some of the best scenic drives in Georgia? Perhaps there are some other byways that you drive for fun. Share with us your experience!

No matter how long your drive is, if you want to make it feel like a road trip and adventure, be sure to check out our ultimate road trip packing list. You’ll appreciate all the helpful tips and tricks!

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More to Explore

best scenic drives in Georgia

Beth C. | August 31, 2021

What are the most beautiful drives in Georgia?

Driving in Georgia is one of the best ways to experience all that the state has to offer. From breathtaking mountain scenery to beautiful coastal landscapes, you can appreciate all that the Peach State has to offer right from the comfort of your car. Of course, if you're looking to experience some of the lesser-known routes, you'll want to know where to find them. Some of these drives include the following:

  • Cohutta Wilderness Loop
  • South Fulton Scenic Byway 120
  • U.S. Highway 17/Coastal Highway
  • Russell Brasstown Scenic Byway
  • Georgia Highway 15
  • Georgia Foothills Loop
  • Georgia Highway 177 from Fargo to Okefenokee Swamp
  • Columbus to Providence Canyon
  • Armuchee
  • Georgia Valley Drive
  • Rabun County Loop

Learn more about these beautiful drives in Georgia that you'll want to take.

Where can I find the best scenery in Georgia?

To be honest, beautiful scenery awaits you in just about every corner of the great state of Georgia! Of course, if you're really looking to be awe-inspired, we have a few places for you to experience.

  • One of our top recommendations would be a trip to Magnolia Springs State Park. This beautiful spring measures 1,000 acres in size, offering some truly exquisite scenery. While you're there, you can enjoy a whole assortment of recreational activities including camping, hiking, and fishing. Looking for more incredible scenery?
  • Don't miss out on Panther Creek Falls...
  • ....or Tybee Island Beach
  • You'll love the views of Lake Lanier
  • And there's also the East Palisades Hiking Trail

Learn more about these unique adventures that will showcase some of the best scenery in Georgia.

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