A Scenic Georgia Road Trip: Explore a Covered Bridge and Tons of Hidden History Near Atlanta

There is much to love about Atlanta, including its down-home restaurants, rich history and culture, and vibrant sports scene. Of course, I can’t forget to mention the family-friendly attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, the largest aquarium in the US. And if you haven’t been, trust me, it’s a must-visit. Most folks think of the city as an urban oasis with skyscrapers and many shopping and dining opportunities. But what some fail to realize is that A-town and the surrounding areas have several parks and green spaces that are playgrounds for nature lovers like me. Fortunately, I’ve carefully curated a road trip near Atlanta to see the nearby parks and gardens. Along the way, you’ll witness several charming covered bridges, including the Harlson Mill Covered Bridge. Driving across this iconic structure in Conyers is the perfect road trip detour.

Want to know my favorite part? You’ll only have 120 miles to cover and approximately 3 hours of driving time. So with proper planning, this could easily be a one-day adventure. If you’re ready, gas up the car, pack your favorite road trip snacks, and let’s go!

1. Sweetwater Creek State Park, Lithia Springs

It’s easy to see why Sweetwater Creek State Park made this list. The park is extremely accessible, just a short 15-mile drive from Atlanta along I-20. No matter if you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or you love spending time on the water, there’s an adventure here waiting for you. With a historic mill, a serene lake, waterfalls, and 15 miles of hiking trails, you won’t run out of things to do here. Fun fact: Scenes from The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 were filmed inside the oasis, so that’s even more of a reason to visit. 

2. Heritage Park, Mableton

Just 10 miles from Sweetwater Creek is Heritage Park, a 105-acre nature preserve. Combining nature and historical sites, the trails here meander through woodlands and wetlands, across boardwalks, and along flowing creeks. If you’re a history enthusiast, seeing the ruins of Concord Woolen Mills, a 19th-century textile mill along the 4-mile Heritage Park Trail, will be a highlight for you. But that’s not all. Another surprise is waiting here! A charming relic, the Historic Concord Covered Bridge dates back to the mid-1800s and can be explored on foot or by car. As the last covered bridge open to vehicle usage in Cobb County, you don’t want to miss seeing it.   

3. Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain

I’ve been to Stone Mountain many times, so of course, it’s on my list of destinations to visit. Not to mention it’s our most popular attraction. From Heritage Park, you’ll drive 35 miles east on I-285 to get here. While the iconic granite mountain that we believe is our very own Mount Rushmore lookalike is the highlight of the park, I love that there are tons of family-friendly activities, too. The kids will enjoy the scenic railroad ride on a 1940 locomotive and the Dinosaur Adventure, featuring 20 life-size prehistoric creatures. Moreover, there is ziplining, a treetop adventure course, a splash pad, a Skyride to the summit, and historical sites, including a covered bridge built in 1891. If you visit in the summer months, don’t skip the drone light show. Honestly, you’ll need more than a day to experience all the attractions here, but it’s well worth the trip. If you do extend your time inside the park, opt for the waterfront yurts. You won’t be disappointed.    

4. Historic Haralson Mill Covered Bridge, Conyers

After leaving Stone Mountain, driving across the Haralson Mill Covered Bridge is the perfect detour. Though the 150-foot wooden bridge was built in 1997, it was constructed using the lattice truss design patented in the 1800s. Although it’s the newest covered bridge in Georgia, it was designed to preserve the charm of the Haralson Mill Historic District. 

This unique gem can be explored as part of the three-mile Black Shoals Nature and Scenic Trail at Black Shoals Park or by simply driving in your car. However, I recommend parking at the small parking area near the bridge, so that you can easily stroll across to see views of Mill Rock Creek below. Of course, you’ll want to snap pics for your collection. After all, it’s not every day you get to explore the last bridge of its kind to be built in Georgia. For more exploration, walk down to the scenic creek or check out the old general store, old mill site, and blacksmith shop of the historic district. 

5. Panola Mountain State Park, Stockbridge

Your final stop will be Panola Mountain State Park. It’s located just 19 miles away from the charming bridge. As the last leg of your trip, you can make the best of this underrated park in Georgia. Activities include hiking, fishing, mountain biking, geocaching, and wildlife viewing. While it’s not as commercially developed as Stone Mountain, this hidden gem also has a massive granite outcropping. Large boulders inside the park are a playground for rock climbers. Please note: you’ll need a permit from the visitor center for this adventure. Tree climbing on a 200+ year-old Southern Red Oak is another fun activity that the park offers. You can’t go wrong, no matter the adventure you choose.    

With a mix of historical sites and outdoor activities, this road trip near Atlanta has something for everyone. Plus, seeing the unique Harlson Mill Covered Bridge is an incredible road trip detour. 

What do you think about our road trip adventure in Georgia? What stops would you add to this trip? Tell us on our nomination page.