Traveling Georgia, USA: Atlanta, Savannah, Mountains, and Coastal Islands
Georgia is one of the most geographically diverse states in the southeastern United States, stretching from the Blue Ridge Mountains in the north to the Atlantic coastline in the southeast. Its landscapes include densely forested mountains, rolling hills, major cities, salt marshes, and subtropical barrier islands. Atlanta is the state’s largest city and an important center of American history and culture, while Savannah is known for its preserved architecture, historic squares, and waterfront.
My travels through Georgia have taken me from the busy streets of Atlanta and the historic neighborhoods of Savannah to the summit of Brasstown Bald, the highest point in the state. I’ve particularly enjoyed the contrast between Georgia’s urban destinations and its natural landscapes. The mountains of northern Georgia offer a completely different experience from the humid coastal forests and beaches farther south.
One of my favorite outdoor experiences anywhere in the United States was visiting Cumberland Island. Its undeveloped beaches, dense maritime forests, free-roaming horses, and surprisingly approachable armadillos made it especially memorable. Whether exploring historic cities, hiking in the Appalachian Mountains, or discovering wildlife along the Atlantic coast, Georgia offers an impressive variety of places to visit.
Explore Atlanta
Atlanta is Georgia’s capital and largest city, known for its role in the American Civil Rights Movement, its modern skyline, and its numerous cultural attractions. The city was the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr., whose childhood home and the surrounding historic district form part of the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. The area preserves important sites associated with his life and the struggle for civil rights.
Atlanta is also the birthplace of Coca-Cola, and the World of Coca-Cola presents the history of the internationally recognized beverage company. Nearby attractions include the Georgia Aquarium, Centennial Olympic Park, and the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. With its museums, historic landmarks, parks, and entertainment districts, Atlanta offers a broad introduction to Georgia’s urban culture and history.
Explore Brasstown Bald
At 4,784 feet (1,458 meters) above sea level, Brasstown Bald is the highest point in Georgia. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of northern Georgia, the summit rises above the surrounding Chattahoochee National Forest and provides some of the most extensive mountain views in the state. On clear days, visitors can see across the rolling Appalachian landscape and into neighboring states.
A paved but steep walking trail leads from the upper parking area to the summit observation platform, and a seasonal shuttle is generally available for visitors who prefer not to walk. The surrounding region offers numerous opportunities for hiking, scenic drives, and exploring the southern Appalachian Mountains. The higher elevation also brings noticeably cooler temperatures than those found in much of Georgia’s lowlands.
Explore Savannah
Founded in 1733, Savannah was the first permanent British colonial settlement in Georgia and remains one of the best-preserved historic cities in the American South. Its historic district is known for tree-lined public squares, elegant Southern homes, churches, and streets shaded by live oaks draped in Spanish moss. The city’s distinctive layout and architectural heritage make it a popular destination for walking and sightseeing.
Among Savannah’s notable landmarks are the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, the historic Cotton Exchange, and River Street along the Savannah River. Former waterfront warehouses now contain restaurants, bars, galleries, and shops, while historic stairways connect the riverfront with the city above. Savannah is also home to the Savannah College of Art and Design and is especially well known for its St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Explore Cumberland Island
Cumberland Island is Georgia’s largest barrier island and one of the state’s most remarkable natural destinations. Located near the Florida border, much of the island is protected within Cumberland Island National Seashore. Its landscapes include undeveloped Atlantic beaches, coastal dunes, salt marshes, and maritime forests filled with live oaks and Spanish moss. Visitor access is limited, helping preserve the island’s relatively isolated atmosphere.
The island is particularly famous for its free-roaming feral horses, but it also supports armadillos, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, alligators, and numerous coastal birds. Visitors can explore the island’s trails, forests, beaches, and historic sites, with passenger ferry service operating from the nearby town of St. Marys. Cumberland Island provides an unusual opportunity to experience a largely undeveloped stretch of Georgia’s Atlantic coastline.
