10 Charming Small Towns in Georgia You Need to Visit
When you really want to get away from it all, choose a quaint small town. Georgia has plenty of adorable small towns that are big on adventure. When you’re ready for the perfect getaway, check out these charming small towns in Georgia.
While Georgia is known for its bustling cities of Atlanta and Savannah, there are plenty of charming small towns nearby just waiting to be explored. From picturesque mountain escapes to coastal gems, there are a ton of options.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historic sites, or just a more relaxed pace, these small towns in Georgia should be on your must-visit list.
The Best Small Towns in Georgia
1. Dahlonega: A Gold-Lover’s Paradise
Nestled in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains, Dahlonega is a charming town with a rich history of gold mining. Known as the site of America’s first gold rush, you can still pan for gold at the town’s old gold mines and explore the historic Dahlonega Gold Museum.
Dahlonega also has plenty of outdoor activities for nature-lovers. This area of North Georgia is home to an extensive network of hiking trails where you can explore forests, waterfalls, and panoramic views. There are trails suitable for all hiking levels, so there’s no need to traverse the entire Appalachian Trail.
Its quaint downtown square is filled with unique shops, delicious restaurants, and local art galleries. Dahlonega is the perfect weekend getaway for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It’s also a great place for wine-lovers. Dahlonega is known as the Heart of Georgia Wine Country, and has some amazing wineries and vineyards.
Read more about Dahlonega:
- 11 Creepy Haunted Places in Dahlonega
- Barefoot Hills Hotel Review: Where to Stay in Dahlonega
- A Romantic Mystery Weekend in Dahlonega
- 4 Reasons You’ll Love Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo
- These Tiny Homes in Dahlonega are the Perfect Romantic Retreat
- Top North Georgia Wineries for a Weekend Getaway
2. Ellijay: The Heart of Apple Country
Located in the heart of Georgia’s apple-growing region, Ellijay is a picturesque town with an abundance of apple orchards, a charming downtown, breathtaking scenery, and local vineyards and wineries.
In the fall, Ellijay is a haven for apple picking, and there’s no better time to visit than during the Georgia Apple Festival or for hand-picking your own apples at a local orchard. Ellijay is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts year-round, though the colors are especially nice during the fall, with hiking trails that wind through the forests to hidden waterfalls and incredible views.
Whether you’re savoring a freshly picked apple, exploring the great outdoors, or simply enjoying the small-town charm of Ellijay’s downtown area, this Georgia mountain town is a great weekend escape that’s only a couple hours from Atlanta.
Read more about Ellijay:
- 12 Best Restaurants in Ellijay
- A Girls’ Trip to Ellijay: The Perfect Itinerary
- A Weekend Getaway Guide to Ellijay
- Where to Go Apple Picking in Ellijay
3. Thomson: Georgia’s Music City
Located in eastern Georgia, Thomson is a small town with a big musical heritage. One of the best things to do in Thomson is attend the Blind Willie McTell Music Festival each fall, a blues and roots music festival celebrating the life and music of the legendary blues musician.
Thomson is the quintessential small Southern town that’s perfect for a weekend getaway. In addition to their great music history, you can tour herb farms and Highland Cow farms, shop for hidden treasures at antique stores, find one-of-a-kind treasures at the local boutiques, and dine on some of the best Southern eats at the local restaurants.
With its lively music scene and rich cultural offerings, Thomson is a hidden gem for music-lovers. You can immerse yourself in the sounds of Thomson while enjoying the warm hospitality of the town.
Read more about Thomson:
- A Weekend Getaway in Thomson, GA Itinerary
- 12 Unique Things to Do in Thomson, Georgia
- 5 Can’t-Miss Restaurants in Thomson, Georgia
4. Helen: A Reminder of Europe
Escape to the Bavarian-inspired town of Helen, sitting snug in the North Georgia Mountains. Known for its charming Alpine architecture, Helen is a unique destination that will transport you to Europe without you ever having to leave the United States.
In Helen, you can enjoy authentic German cuisine, explore the quaint shops, and take part in the annual Oktoberfest celebration. Helen also offers outdoor activities such as tubing on the Chattahoochee River and hiking in the nearby mountains. Or enjoy the local wineries here in the heart of Georgia’s wine country.
This unique town is a delightful blend of Old World charm and Southern hospitality. Helen is a must-visit small town in Georgia.
Read more about Helen:
- Your Perfect Weekend Getaway Guide to Helen, Georgia
- Georgia Hikes: Anna Ruby Falls
- Tips for Visiting Unicoi State Park
- Things To Do on a Day Trip to the North Georgia Mountains
5. Madison: A Historic Town with a Story to Tell
Step back and stroll through the streets of Madison, one of Georgia’s oldest and most beautiful small towns. Known for its well-preserved antebellum homes and stunning architecture, Madison offers a glimpse into the Old South.
Take a guided tour of the historic homes, visit the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, and indulge in the town’s charming shops and restaurants. Madison’s downtown area has quaint shops lining the streets with an array of treasures, from handcrafted jewelry and artisanal crafts to vintage clothing and home décor.
Madison’s rich history and timeless beauty make it a must-visit small town in Georgia for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
6. Summerville: An Idyllic Town with Year-Round Festivities
Summerville is a small town in the northwest corner of Georgia that is perfect for the outdoorsy type. This Georgia small town is surrounded by natural beauty, so whether you enjoy hiking through scenic trails, casting a line for fishing, or teeing off on lush golf courses, you’ll find something to enjoy in Summerville.
Beyond its natural wonders, Summerville also hosts vibrant festivals and annual events that are worth traveling for. From Christmas in the Park to the Oktoberfest arts and crafts festival, there’s always something happening in this charming town.
With its outdoor adventures and year-round festivities, Summerville is a hidden gem worth exploring. And at only a 2 hour drive from Atlanta, it’s the perfect weekend getaway.
7. Milledgeville: Home to Georgia’s Old Capital
As Georgia’s former state capital, Milledgeville is steeped in history and Southern charm. Take a step back in time at Georgia’s Old Capital Building and take a tour of the Old Governor’s Mansion.
Explore the beautifully preserved antebellum homes and learn all about the town’s rich literary heritage. Milledgeville was once home to renowned author Flannery O’Connor, and you can tour her childhood home. The town is also a great place for boating and fishing on Lake Sinclair.
Milledgeville has a captivating history, and it’s a must-visit destination for history and literature lovers. As you stroll through the town’s tree-lined streets, you’ll be glad you visited!
8. St. Marys: A Relaxing Beach Destination
St. Marys is a tranquil small beach town on the southeastern coast of Georgia that offers a refreshing escape.
Known for its stunning marsh views, charming downtown, and proximity to Cumberland Island National Seashore, St. Marys is an ideal beach destination for your next getaway. You can take a ferry to Cumberland Island, home to pristine beaches, wild horses, and abundant wildlife. Then stroll along the riverfront, savor fresh seafood, and enjoy the laid-back coastal atmosphere of St. Marys.
Only a couple hours away from Savannah, St. Marys is the perfect small town in Georgia to visit if you’re looking for some coastal charm.
9. Blue Ridge: A Beautiful Mountain Town
Blue Ridge is a cute Georgia mountain town surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. If you’re looking for a weekend getaway with that special someone, Blue Ridge is a great romantic escape.
Blue Ridge is a nature-lover’s paradise, with scenic trails that lead to cascading waterfalls and over swinging bridges, kayaking on serene lakes, and fishing in crystal-clear mountain streams. Explore the charming downtown area, filled with art galleries, antique shops, and cozy restaurants. For a really memorable experience, ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and see the mountains in a whole new way.
With its stunning mountain backdrop and small-town charm, Blue Ridge is the perfect North Georgia mountain retreat.
Read more about Blue Ridge:
- 10 Romantic Things to Do in Blue Ridge, GA for Couples
- Georgia Hikes: Swinging Bridge on the Toccoa River
- Georgia Hikes: Long Creek Falls Trail
10. St. Simons Island: Beachside Paradise
Located on Georgia’s Golden Isles, St. Simons Island is the perfect blend of pristine beaches, rich history, and vibrant coastal culture. This beachside paradise offers a serene escape where you can unwind and rejuvenate your senses.
Relax on the sandy shores, explore the iconic St. Simons Lighthouse Museum, and wander through the streets lined with moss-draped oaks. The island also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including golfing, kayaking, and biking.
With its laid-back island vibe, St. Simons Island is a beachside paradise that is perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway.
Georgia Small Towns Map
Ready to book a weekend getaway to these cute small towns in Georgia? Use the map below to find a town close to you.
I hope you have an amazing time visiting these unique small towns!
More Georgia Travel Tips
Looking to explore more destinations in Georgia, small towns and beyond? Check out these top posts:
- 10 Incredible Spring Destinations in Georgia
- 10 Exciting Summer Destinations in Georgia
- 10 Incredible Fall Destinations in Georgia
- 10 Incredible Winter Destinations in Georgia
- 3 Relaxing Small Town Day Spas in the South
Ready to take a vacation? Plan your trip with these tips.
- Find cheap accommodation: Use my tips for finding cheap accommodation for travel every time.
- Book your flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner, my favorite flight search engine.
- Pack for your vacation: Make sure you’ve packed everything you need by checking out my packing list resources.
Cheers!
Paige
Have you visited any of these incredible small towns in Georgia? Let me know in the comments!
Small towns/ never been to Summerville…
Summerville is one of the towns I go through a lot when driving to see my parents in Huntsville. It’s a great little town!
The Beachside paradise looks right up my alley! I have never spent real time in Georgia. Usually, it is in Atlanta changing planes or driving through to get to Florida from Michigan. It looks lovely and charming in slower paced, southern relaxed kind of way! Perhaps it is worth another think! I’m ready to be charmed by Georgia!
Georgia has so many charming small towns to choose from!