The 10 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take in Georgia

Life is always busy, but hopefully, from time to time, you will be able to plan some fun things to do to explore the great state of Georgia. Between waterfall hikes, swimming holes, and farmers markets, Georgia is always chock-full of fun things to do with the entire family during the summer or any other season. So, the next time you're wondering to yourself, "Where are some of the best day trips I can take?" we have 10 of the best day trips in Georgia listed below, and you'll want to experience each of them.

1. Red Clay Resort - Cohutta

Who wouldn't want to spend a day basking in the sun next to a spring-fed, turquoise, crystal-clear pool? That's why Red Clay Resort is a must in the summer. In fact, it's one of the best summer day trips in Georgia for families.

2. Gibbs Gardens - Ball Ground

To be honest, we can spend all summer at Gibbs Gardens. Heck, all seasons, for that matter (fall is especially magical)! But if you're looking for an enjoyable way to spend the day amongst a flurry of natural beauty, then this is your spot to explore Georgia in a day.

3. Magnolia Springs State Park - Millen

At over 1,000 acres long, Magnolia Springs State Park is an epic adventure waiting to happen. Besides the crystal clear spring that is worth the trip alone, there are also camping opportunities, fishing, hiking, and more for one of the most incredible Georgia day trips out in nature.

4. Panther Creek Falls - Blue Ridge

This challenging waterfall hike in Georgia is one of the most perfect ways to spend a full day exploring the great outdoors of Georgia. Fit with a swimming hole at the end, make sure you bring your bathing suits to cool off in the refreshing Panther Creek Falls. Download AllTrails+ for trail information.

5. The Georgia Ice Cream and Candy Trail

I don't know about you, but summertime means cooling down with certain food items, and ice cream absolutely fits the bill. We created an incredible dessert trail in Georgia, highlighting some of the best places to snag some delicious sweet treats, including ice cream!

6. Tybee Island Beach

We recently learned that Tybee Island Beach has some of the most pristine sand in the state, and that is reason enough to spend a day here. But beyond there, beach days should always be in the summer agenda. After all, nothing beats spontaneous day trips, especially on Georgia's beautiful coast.

7. Lake Lanier

There really isn't a better way to spend the summer than by splashing about in Lake Lanier, Georgia's clean, refreshing water. This famed summer spot brings people together every season for swimming, camping, fishing, boating, and more. Unsurprisingly, it's considered one of the best day trip destinations in Georgia.

8. The East Palisades Hiking Trail - Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, Sandy Springs

The East Palisades Hiking Trail in the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is one of the greatest in the state. Why? Because it's nestled up against the Chattahoochee River and takes you to a secret bamboo garden.

(Note: there is an admission fee to enter the park, or you can just show your National Parks Pass for entry instead.)

9. Zipline Canopy Tours - Blue Ridge

No matter your age, Zipline Canopy Tours of Blue Ridge is for you. It's the perfect way to spend the day in Georgia, soaring through the clouds and treetops with the whole family. There's a zipline for younger kids here as well as for adults.

10. Abernathy Greenway Park - Sandy Springs

Abernathy Greenway Park is a sculpture garden and children's playground. Its unique design makes it no wonder kids can spend hours indulging in their imagination and creativity here.

How about that for one heck of a list of GA day trips? Have you ever experienced any of these fun day trips in Georgia? Can you think of other day trips in Georgia worth experiencing? If so, please feel free to share those with us as well.

No matter where the road takes you, ensure you're well-fueled for adventure. To help you do just so, we've compiled the ultimate list of road trip snacks.