Choose from 55 Fun Things to Do in Georgia
ShowingFilter 41-55 of 55 listings.
Massie Heritage Center
The city of Savannah has a rich history unlike anywhere else in the US, and the Massie Heritage Center is one of the best places to hear Savannah's story. Learn why Oglethorpe designed Savannah in a large, square-laden grid, and hear Savannah's maritime past or the history of its most famous buildings. Occasionally, the heritage center will hold special events, such as guided walking tours that showcase the city's plantation or Civil War past, or the interactive Georgia History Festival that's held each year in February. Located in Georgia's oldest public school building, the Massie Heritage Center is filled with numerous hands on and interactive activities, so visitors of all ages can bring the past of this colonial city to life. With its wood cupola and gabled roof, the building is a classic site in itself and indicative of colonial architecture, and the center is considered a "must-stop" spot for learning the history of Savannah.
Practical Info
Guided tours held at 11am and 2am are included in the price of admission. Self-guided tours are available at any time, and in the courtyards out back, the Massie Gardens are manicured and maintained by the Garden Club of Savannah.
Address: 207 E Gordon Street, Savannah, Georgia, USA 31401, USA
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-4pm, Sun 12-4pm
Admission: Adults: $7
From $ 55
Telfair Museum of Art
Tucked away in picturesque historic downtown Savannah, the Telfair Museum of Art holds the distinction of being the first public art museum in the American South. Architecturally crafted in Regency style, this 19th century mansion is actually one of three museums within several blocks of each other that together constitute the Telfair Museum of Art. These include: the Telfair Academy mansion/gallery, the Owens-Thomas house, and the brand new Jepson Center for the Arts. The Telfair Museum and its neighboring mansions are great examples of the historic architecture that Savannah is known for, and the new Jepson Center is a stunning architectural feat in its own, modern right. With holdings of over 4,000 pieces of German Impressionist and American French paintings, as well as a fine collection of Savannah-made silver and an interior that harkens back to its 19th century glory days, the Telfair Museum of Art is a splendid stop in the heart of downtown Savannah.
Practical Info
The Telfair Museum of Art is open daily, last admittance is at 4:00 p.m.
Address: 121 Barnard St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA
Hours: Tue-Sat 10am - 5pm, Sun-Mon 12pm - 5pm. Thursdays the museum is open until 8pm.
Admission: Adults: $20
From $ 20
Sorrel Weed House
Built in the mid-19th century for shipping merchant Francis Sorrel, Sorrel Weed House became a State Historic Landmark in 1954, one of the first in Georgia. It’s also believed to be one of the most haunted buildings in Savannah, and has been featured on TV shows like Ghost Hunters and Travel Channel’s Most Terrifying Places in America.
The Basics
There are a few different ways for visitors to explore Sorrel Weed House. Daytime tours cover the antebellum history of this Southern estate and its architectural details, while evening tours include stories of its ghostly residents. Those with a special interest in paranormal investigation can join a late-night tour to get their hands on paranormal investigation equipment, like an EMF detector, ambient temperature sensor, and geophone.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Sorrel Weed House is a must on any paranormal tour of this Southern city.
- Reserve your tour ahead of time; some tours fill up early.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture your own evidence of the paranormal.
How to Get There
The Sorrel Weed House sits on one side of Madison Square in the middle of Savannah's historic district. It's a stop on historic house tours during the day and ghost tours at night.
When to Get There
If you’re interested in the haunted history of the Sorrel Weed House, plan to visit during a nighttime ghost tour when the property’s creepy factor is at its highest. Families visiting with children should opt for daytime or early evening tours.
Other Attractions in Madison Square
Madison Square sits in the heart of historic Savannah, where there’s plenty of history on display. A bronze statue of Sergeant William Jasper sits in the middle of the square, which is flanked by historic structures, including the Green-Meldrim House museum and St. John’s Episcopal Church, built in 1853 in a Gothic Revival style.
Address: USA
Admission: Varies
From $ 33
Madison Square
Part of the Savannah Historic District, Madison Square was named after the fourth U.S. president and added in 1837. The square also commemorates Sgt. William Jasper, a Savannah native of the Revolutionary War who was mortally wounded in battle but managed to heroically retrieve his company's banner. Many local Savannah natives refer to this as Jasper Square in his honor.
In the center of Madison Square sits the William Jasper Monument, as well as a granite marker that defines the southern limit of the British defenses. Look for two cannons from the Savannah Armory on the southern part of the square, which represent Georgia's first two highways. These are the starting points of the Ogeechee Road leading to Darien and the Augusta Road to Augusta.
Madison Square leads to other notable sights in the Savannah Historic District. Looking toward the west side of the square, you will find St. John's Episcopal Church with the Green-Meldrim House just next door. On the northwest side of Madison Square is the Sorrel-Weed House, one of the city's most imposing mansions. On the southwest corner of Madison Square stands the Masonic Temple, previously a Scottish Rite temple. There is a beautifully restored Greek Revival mansion on the northeast corner, but it remains in private hands. Note the adjacent building that is integrated into it, E. Shafer Books & Maps, one of Savannah's oldest and best known independent bookstores.
Practical Info
Madison Square is located on Bull Street, between Harris and Charlton Streets. There is the Savannah Visitor Center in the restored Central of Georgia railroad station located at 301 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. The visitor center is open Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5pm, and weekends from 8am until 5pm.
Address: Savannah, Georgia 31401, USA
From $ 25
Savannah City Market
Dating back to the 18th century, Savannah City Market has long been the commercial and social center of historic downtown Savannah, Georgia. The market is known locally as the “art and soul” of Savannah, a nod to the numerous art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants that make it such an important part of Savannah's social fabric.
The Basics
Set adjacent to Ellis Square in the city’s historic district, Savannah City Market is a vibrant destination for dining, sightseeing, shopping, and admiring local artworks. Many Old Savannah tours include a stop at the market, whether you want to visit on foot, by carriage, or by trolley. Along with the market, city tours typically include a visit to other top attractions such as River Street, Forsyth Park, Bonaventure Cemetery, and the American Prohibition Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Savannah City Market is a must-see for art enthusiasts and foodies.
- Six onsite restaurants offer a variety of food options, ranging from gourmet establishments to casual hot-wing joints.
- The market hosts special events throughout the year, including some specifically for kids.
How to Get There
Savannah City Market is located at 219 W Bryant Street in the North Historic District. While guided tours are an easy way to visit, there are numerous parking lots in the area and street parking is also available. Buses 11 and 14 stop nearby at W Broughton and Jefferson streets.
When to Get There
The retail shops at the Savannah City Market are open year-round. Summer weekends and days when the market hosts special events are typically the most crowded and liveliest times to visit. For low-key shopping, aim to visit on a weekday. January and February hours are slightly shorter.
The History of Savannah City Market
The market still stands on the site used by farmers and traders since the city’s founding. Originally the most popular destination for locals in search of groceries, the market survived two fires, a huge hurricane, and the Civil War. It fell into disrepair as the city spread out, but was revived by preservationists dedicated to Savannah's history, and today is a destination for locals and travelers alike in search of arts and culture.
Address: 219 W Bryan St #207, Savannah, GA 31401, USA
From $ 25
Senoia
Senoia is a small suburb of Atlanta, GA with a population of about 3,300 people and was originally settled in the mid 1800s. This quiet town has gained more attention recently due to its role in the television and film industry. Senoia's significant number of historical buildings in the downtown area give it an interesting atmosphere in which to film. It has been home to several movies over the years including Fried Green Tomatoes, Sweet Home Alabama, and Drop Dead Diva.
More recently the town has become the setting for the AMC television series The Walking Dead. The town doubles for the town of Woodbury, the fictitious setting of the show. Visitors can walk through town and see some of the buildings that have been featured in the series. Tens of thousands of people visit Senoia each year to catch a glimpse of their favorite show, and stores, cafes, and tours have been created cater to them.
Practical Info
Senoia is located 40 miles south of Atlanta and can be reached using Interstate 85.
Address: Senoia, Georgia, USA
From $ 69
Columbia Square
Of all the squares in historic Savannah, Columbia Square is the most serene and devoid of swarms of crowds. Originally constructed in 1799, Columbia Square is punctuated today by the historic Wormsloe Fountain, which once graced the grounds of the Wormsloe Plantation"”one of the earliest settlements in Georgia. It's also the site of the immaculate Kehoe House that was built in 1893, and despite the fact that it's rumored to be haunted, it thrives today as one of Savannah's most luxurious bed and breakfasts. Also here on Columbia Square is the historic Davenport House, which was originally built in 1820 and saved in 1955. With the city threatening demolition, a group of women in downtown Savannah raised funds to purchase the house, and the move would lead to the eventual establishment of the Historic Savannah Foundation"”a group that has helped to preserve and restore over 400 buildings downtown.
Practical Info
Columbia Square is in Savannah's historic district between East State Street and East York Street. It's a 10-minute walk from Savannah City Hall and the heart of downtown Savannah, and a comfortable place for relaxing in the shade or reading on one of the benches.
Address: Habersham Street, Savannah, Georgia 31401, USA
From $ 55
The Pirates' House
The historic Pirates’ House is thought to be the oldest standing building in the entire state and today serves as a restaurant. The site was built on land originally slated for a neighborhood botanical garden in the Savannah Historic District, which never did pan out.
A small gardening building called the Herb House was added to the plot in 1734 and was later transformed into an inn and tavern for visiting seamen about 20 years later. The Pirates’ House became the scourge of the neighborhood, earning a poor reputation for drunken sailors that went missing here. The city was full of underground tunnels, with Pirates’ House being right at the entrance to one, and it was generally agreed that if a drunken sailor wandered off, he would likely never be found again.
For some literary history, take a look at the walls of the Captain’s Room and the Treasure Room, which hold rare early edition pages of Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson. The current owners allege that one of Stevenson’s characters, Captain Flint, died in the upstairs bedroom and still haunts the house. Since Flint is a fictional character, there is no historical proof that any of this is true.
In 1948, Pirates’ House transformed the house into the restaurant and museum that it is today, with 15 dining rooms.
Practical Info
Pirates’ House is located at 20 East Broad Street in Savannah. Lunch is served from 11am to 4pm and there is a Southern-style buffet available from 11am to 3pm. Dinner is served Sunday through Thursday from 4 to 9:30pm and from 4pm to10pm on Friday and Saturday.
Address: 20 E Broad St, Savannah, Georgia 31401, USA
Hours: Sun-Thur 11-am-9:30pm, Fri & Sat 11am-10pm
From $ 31
World of Coca-Cola
Boasting a collection of more than 200 historical artifacts, a 4-D theater experience, and interactive museum exhibits, the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta does far more than whet your whistle for a (though it does that, too). Pay homage to the birthplace of the world’s most popular soft drink and learn how a simple beverage became a global sensation and a must-see Atlanta attraction.
The Basics
Although the World of Coca-Cola is about far more than its namesake product, the tasting room remains a highlight. At the Sampling Bar, you can choose from more than 100 different Coca-Cola brand beverages from around the world, including flavors such as Bibo Candy Pine-Nut and Fanta Melon Frosty. You can also line up for a photo with the Coca-Cola Polar Bear, look behind the scenes at the bottling process, or head to the vault that contains Coca-Cola's signature secret formula. The World of Coca-Cola is easily combined with tours of Atlanta and its other major attractions such as Centennial Olympic Park, the Center for Civil and Human Rights, CNN Studios, and the Georgia Aquarium.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The World of Coca-Cola provides plenty of kid-friendly entertainment options.
- Plan to spend roughly two to three hours enjoying the exhibits.
- The museum is next to the Georgia Aquarium and the Center for Civil and Human Rights, making for an easy full day of activities.
- Purchase tickets in advance to guarantee admission.
How to Get There
The World of Coca-Cola is conveniently located in downtown Atlanta. For drivers, the parking garage is off of Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd. Those staying in Midtown may prefer to walk to the attraction. Or, take a MARTA train to Dome/GWCC/Philips Arena/CNN Center or Peachtree Center and walk 10 to 15 minutes.
When to Get There
The World of Coca-Cola provides a cool oasis during Atlanta’s long, hot summers; visit during peak heat in summer afternoons for a much-needed air-conditioned reprieve. The museum is open daily with the exception of major holidays. Double-check operating hours before your trip.
Open More Happiness
General admission allows access to all the major attractions, but to learn more about the history of Coca-Cola, opt for a VIP guided tour, which is capped at 10 people for a personalized experience. A VIP tour also includes a special souvenir and discounts on the gift shop, photo packages, and Pemberton Cafe.
Address: 121 Baker Street Northwest Downtown, Atlanta 30313, USA
Hours: Varies, usually 10am-5pm
Admission: Adults: US$17, Seniors (65+): US$15, Children (3-12yrs): US$13
From $ 10
Little Five Points
The eclectic Atlanta neighborhood, Little Five Points, has been described as the Haight-Ashbury of the south and is known for its fringe culture, music, food and residents. Visitors who venture to this popular spot can jam out to the indie radio station, WRFG, that's a hit among locals, while combing through the stacks at two of the area's independent bookstores. Lined with skate shops, coffee shops, health food stores, local food joints and off-beat retailers, Little Five Points makes for a fun and versatile way to spend an afternoon.
For a more structured tour of the neighborhood, consider visiting Five Points on a shopping tour or as part of an Atlanta city tour including stops in Midtown, Poncey Highlands and Castleberry Hills.
Practical Info
Little Five Points is located two-and-a-half miles east of Downtown Atlanta. It is surrounded by Inman Park, Edgewood, Poncey-Highland and Candler Park neighborhoods. The neighborhood is accessible by car and via the bus from downtown; take the 16 from Peachtree St at Auburn Ave to N. Highland Ave at Freedom Pkwy on a 28 minute bus ride.
Did you know? The Five Points moniker is a nod to the busy intersection in the heart of the "˜hood where the same number of roads meet and where national retailers have more recently opened up shop.
Address: Little Five Points, Atlanta, USA
From $ 52
Savannah Historic District
Grand antebellum homes and historic plazas lined with live oaks are just some of the sights that define Savannah’s Historic District. Considered the heart of the city, the Historic District is not only the centerpiece of a Savannah vacation but also where to find the highest concentration of bars, restaurants, and historic attractions.
The Basics
Savannah’s Historic District encompasses more than 20 city squares laid out in a distinctive grid pattern by General James E. Oglethorpe, founder of the British Colony of Georgia in 1733. Today, it’s the largest National Historic Landmark District in the United States, attracting millions of visitors on an annual basis. The area also remains easily walkable—it’s flat and full of benches so you can sit and rest under the oaks draped with Spanish moss.
Many visitors opt for a walking tour to fully appreciate the area: niche tours focus on its eclectic architecture, rich culinary traditions, and important contributions to black history. Or, make your own tour by strolling through the area and popping into cafes, restaurants, shops, and bars for a taste of Southern hospitality.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dress for the weather with plenty of water and sun protection during the summer.
- Bring some spending money to enjoy the area.
- Easily cater your visit for your group—there’s something for everyone (including kids).
How to Get There
The boundaries of the Savannah Historic District are the Savannah River, E. Broad Street, Gwinnett Street, and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. The Savannah Visitor Center is located in the restored Central of Georgia railroad station located at 301 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and has plenty of information to get your exploration of the area started.
When to Get There
The Historic District is active all day, every day. The only real consideration with when to visit is the weather—summer is notoriously hot and humid, especially during the middle of the day. The city hosts special events every season, from Christmas on the River to one of the largest Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations in the country, so check the official calendar to time your visit for something out of the ordinary.
Top Historic District Attractions
It’s impossible to miss the Historic District while in Savannah. Some of the attractions you might come across include River Street, Forsyth Fountain, Oglethorpe Square, Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and more.
Address: Savannah, Georgia 30334, USA
From $ 18
Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum
Tucked away in a beautiful southern mansion once owned by William Scarbrough, (better known as one-time president of the Savannah Steamship Company), Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is both a garden oasis and step back into the past history of the great era of trade between England and America during the 18th and 19th Centuries. The collection of this historic museum takes you through the history of shipping from tall ships to steamers with expertly-crafted model displays, while the garden is a prime example of a 19th century parlor garden and is the largest garden of its kind in the historic district of Savannah. The Scarbrough house itself is a museum, built in 1819 and one of the best examples of the Greek Revival in Savannah, sure to please any architecture buff.
Practical Info
The Ships of the Sea Maritime Museum is located in the historic district of downtown Savannah, at 41 M. L. King Boulevard. The museum is open Tuesday "“ Sunday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Adult admission is $8.50.
Address: 41 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401, USA
Hours: Tue-Sun 10am - 5pm
Admission: Adult: $8, Student: $6
From $ 55
Zoo Atlanta
Founded based on a need for space for former circus animals, Zoo Atlanta has been a mainstay attraction in Atlanta since 1889. Today, it houses more than 1,500 animals and has the largest number of gorillas and orangutans of any zoo in the United States. Additionally, Zoo Atlanta is one of only four in the U.S. that houses giant pandas.
The 40-acre zoo features seven exhibits, including the popular Ford African Rain Forest and the giant pandas exhibit with its two inhabitants, a male and a female, both on loan from China. Children love the petting zoo, where they can interact with sheep, goats and pigs.
Practical Info
Zoo Atlanta hours vary by the season. Adult tickets cost $21.99, and childern's tickets are $16.99. There are discounts for military members and senior citizens. The zoo is located in historic Grant Park, easily accessible from downtown Atlanta and a mile from Turner Field.
Address: 800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, Georgia 30315, USA
Hours: Varies
Admission: Adults $21.99, Children $16.99
From $ 19
Road to Tara Museum
Immerse yourself in Scarlett O'Hara and Rhett Butler's enigmatic romance at the Road To Tara Museum, which brings to life Tara, the mythical plantation where Gone With the Wind takes place. Margaret Mitchell, the novel's author, created Tara based on the sprawling Victorian homes she saw in Clayton County, Georgia ,so today, Clayton County and the city of Jonesboro have been officially designated by the Georgia State Legislature as the "home of Gone With the Wind." Fittingly, the Road to Tara Museum is housed in the 1867 Train Depot in downtown historic Jonesboro.
At the museum visitors can see original props, wardrobe items and keepsakes from the 1939 Atlanta premiere of the feature film. The centerpiece is a large original oil mural depicting Rhett and Scarlett from the film, while additional oil paintings flank this large one. The museum also has an exhibit on the Civil War, featuring the Battle of Jonesboro.
Practical Info
The Road to Tara Museum is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adult tickets cost $7, and the site is located in Jonesboro, Georgia off of Interstate 75.
Address: 104 N. Main Street, Jonesboro, Georgia, USA
Hours: Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Admission: Adults: $7, Seniors & Children: $6
From $ 55
Legoland Discovery Center Atlanta
What would it be like to live in the world of Legos? At LEGOLAND Discovery Center, a Lego-themed entertainment park, children ages 3-10 years old have the chance to find out. The highly interactive and educational experience takes place entirely indoors, where there are play areas for kids to build anything they can dream up with more Legos than they can even imagine. The center also features a 4D cinema, special party rooms for birthdays and celebrations, two rides, a Lego-building class taught by a master model builder and an exhibit that showcases the skyline of Atlanta"“made out of Legos, of course!
The LEGOLAND Discovery Center also has the Ninjago Laser Maze, where kids can duck, dive and jump under, through and over laser beams. Of the two rides here, Kingdom Quest is by far the most popular and geared toward 5 to 10-year-olds. The play areas are separated"“one for the older kids and one for children under 5. Another favorite area is the earthquake table, where kids can build Duplo towers. All of the play areas are made of safe with soft rubber matting so that if kids take a tumble, they will jump right back up and keep on playing.
Practical Info
Admission costs $19 for adults and $17 for children ages 3-12. It is free to enter for kids under 3. The site is open from 9am to 7pm Monday through Friday, with later hours (until 9pm) on Saturday. It is open from 10am to 7pm on Sunday. The Discovery Center is located in the Phipps Plaza, accessible by car or MARTA.
Address: 3500 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Hours: Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m .
Admission: Adults: $19, Children (3-12) $17, children under 3 are free.
From $ 19