Atlanta sits at the crossroads of the Southeast, which makes it an ideal launchpad for quick escapes. In just a few hours, you can trade skyline views for mountain peaks, riverfront strolls, or sandy shores. This guide curates the best weekend getaways from Atlanta so you can maximize two or three days without the stress of long-haul travel. You’ll find short trips near Atlanta for every mood—relaxation, adventure, or culture—plus practical planning tips that make leaving town a breeze. Whether you’re after romantic inns, hiking trails, or coastal cuisine, these are the best weekend destinations near Atlanta to put on your shortlist now. Let’s start planning your next close-to-home escape.
Looking for a budget trip? Here you go: Cheap Vacation Packages From Atlanta
Why Plan a Weekend Getaway from Atlanta?
Quick weekend trips reset your routine, spark creativity, and pack real adventure into a short window. From Atlanta, most top spots sit 1.5 to 4.5 hours away by car, so you can leave after work Friday and be back by Sunday evening—no precious PTO required. Two to three days works well for one base and a focused itinerary: one signature activity, one scenic experience, and one great meal each day.
Why should I plan a weekend trip from Atlanta?
Because you can reach beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and historic cities in under five hours, keep costs manageable, and return refreshed without the logistics of a long vacation.
Top Weekend Getaways from Atlanta
Blue Ridge, Georgia — Cozy Cabins and Scenic Railways
A weekend getaway from Atlanta to Blue Ridge gives you classic North Georgia mountain vibes—fireplace cabins, apple orchards, and miles of trails within easy reach.
• Distance/Travel Time: About 90 miles; 1.5–2 hours by car via I-575/GA-515. Car is the best option. • Why Visit: Blue Ridge blends small-town charm with serious outdoor access. You can ride a vintage train, hike riverside paths, and sip cider at an orchard—all in one weekend. • Top Things to Do:
- Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway along the Toccoa River.
- Hike or bike the Aska Trails and Long Creek Falls (a slice of the Appalachian Trail).
- Pick apples and enjoy cider donuts at Mercier Orchards.
- Explore downtown galleries, breweries, and farm-to-table restaurants. • Where to Stay: Book a mountain cabin with a hot tub, a boutique inn near Main Street, or a riverfront lodge. Budget travelers can find simple motels or vacation rentals. Consider booking early on major platforms with free cancellation for weather flexibility. • Best Time to Visit: September–November for fall color and crisp hikes; April–June for wildflowers and mild temps. Winter brings cozy cabin time and fewer crowds.
Blue Ridge works beautifully for couples or families, and you can keep drives short once you arrive. Add a daypack, rain shell, and trail shoes to your list for year-round comfort.
Savannah, Georgia — Historic Squares and Southern Flavors
A weekend getaway from Atlanta to Savannah delivers live oaks, cobblestone streets, and lowcountry cuisine with a side of riverfront nightlife.
• Distance/Travel Time: About 250 miles; 3.5–4.5 hours by car via I-75/I-16. Bus options (Greyhound/FlixBus) typically take 4.5–5.5 hours. There’s no direct Atlanta–Savannah passenger train. • Why Visit: Savannah’s walkable historic district puts 22 leafy squares, museums, and restaurants within steps. You’ll eat well, stroll endlessly, and soak in a distinct coastal vibe. • Top Things to Do:
- Join a guided walking or ghost tour through the historic district.
- Visit Forsyth Park and the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist.
- Dine along the Plant Riverside District and shop on Broughton Street.
- Take a day trip to nearby Bonaventure Cemetery or Wormsloe Historic Site. • Where to Stay: Choose a boutique inn in the historic district for ambience, a riverfront hotel for views, or a budget-friendly spot west of downtown. Book early for weekends and consider bundled parking rates. • Best Time to Visit: March–May and October–November for comfortable weather; summer brings heat and humidity but also livelier nightlife.
Savannah pairs history with indulgence. Map out meals and tours ahead of time, and if you plan to add the beach, keep Tybee Island in mind (see below).
Asheville, North Carolina — Blue Ridge Parkway and Craft Breweries
A weekend getaway from Atlanta to Asheville pairs mountain scenery with a thriving arts and beer scene.
• Distance/Travel Time: About 210 miles; 3.5–4 hours by car via I-85 and I-26/US-25. Limited bus routes run 5–6 hours; a car remains most convenient. • Why Visit: Asheville blends access to the Blue Ridge Parkway with an energetic downtown. You’ll find galleries, street art, James Beard–recognized chefs, and dozens of breweries. • Top Things to Do:
- Tour the Biltmore Estate and its gardens (buy timed-entry tickets in advance).
- Drive and hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway (Graveyard Fields, Craggy Gardens).
- Explore the River Arts District studios and murals.
- Sample local beer on a self-guided South Slope brewery hop. • Where to Stay: Book boutique hotels downtown for walkability, eco-lodges or cabins outside town, or budget motels along Tunnel Road. Weekend demand runs high, so secure flexible rates early or try HotelTonight for last-minute deals. • Best Time to Visit: April–June and September–October for prime hiking weather and mountain views; winter is quieter and great for food lovers.
Plan one full hiking day and one urban day. Reserve restaurant tables ahead of time if you’re targeting popular spots.
Chattanooga, Tennessee — Riverfront Adventure and Family Fun
A weekend getaway from Atlanta to Chattanooga balances outdoor attractions with a charming riverfront core.
• Distance/Travel Time: About 120 miles; roughly 2 hours by car via I-75. Bus options vary by schedule; driving is usually faster. • Why Visit: “Scenic City” lives up to the name. Lookout Mountain looms with caves and views, while the Tennessee Riverwalk and Aquarium offer easy downtown fun. • Top Things to Do:
- Visit the Tennessee Aquarium and walk the Walnut Street Bridge.
- Explore Ruby Falls, Rock City Gardens, and the Incline Railway on Lookout Mountain.
- Bike a stretch of the 16-mile Riverwalk (rentals available downtown).
- Grab barbecue or tacos at the NorthShore and browse indie shops. • Where to Stay: Pick a riverfront hotel with pool access, a boutique stay in the Southside arts district, or family-friendly suites near the Aquarium. Budget travelers can look at simple motels off I-24. • Best Time to Visit: March–May and September–November for mild temperatures and clear views; summer works for water activities, though it can feel hot.
Book combo tickets for Lookout Mountain attractions to save money and time. Parking can fill on weekends, so arrive early.
Athens, Georgia — Music, Food, and Botanical Beauty
A weekend getaway from Atlanta to Athens offers a college-town heartbeat with gardens, museums, and an A+ dining scene.
• Distance/Travel Time: About 70–80 miles; 1.25–1.5 hours by car via GA-316 or US-78. Buses and shuttles run from Atlanta on select schedules. • Why Visit: Athens brings energy and creativity, thanks to the University of Georgia. You’ll discover live music, craft breweries, and leafy spaces that invite slow wandering. • Top Things to Do:
- Tour the State Botanical Garden of Georgia and its canopy walk.
- Visit the Georgia Museum of Art and explore historic North Campus.
- Catch a show at the 40 Watt Club or Georgia Theatre.
- Sip local pours at Creature Comforts or Southern Brewing Company. • Where to Stay: Choose a boutique hotel downtown for nightlife, a quiet B&B in historic neighborhoods, or a budget chain on the loop. On football weekends, book far in advance and expect higher rates. • Best Time to Visit: March–May and September–November for festivals, music, and pleasant temps; summer is quieter and budget-friendly.
Secure show tickets and dinner reservations early if you want a specific gig or restaurant.
Highlands & Cashiers, North Carolina — Waterfalls and Cool Mountain Air
A weekend getaway from Atlanta to Highlands and Cashiers delivers upscale mountain inns, misty overlooks, and waterfall-hopping.
• Distance/Travel Time: 130–160 miles; 2.5–3.5 hours by car via US-23/US-441 and scenic mountain roads. Driving is the practical choice. • Why Visit: Perched on a plateau, these towns offer cooler temperatures, elegant dining, and dozens of waterfalls within short hikes or roadside pull-offs. • Top Things to Do:
- Walk behind the curtain at Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.
- Hike Whiteside Mountain for sweeping views along a dramatic ridgeline.
- Browse boutiques and art galleries along Highlands’ Main Street.
- Book fly-fishing or a guided waterfall tour for an easy overview. • Where to Stay: Opt for a refined mountain inn or lodge, a cozy cabin with a deck, or a budget-friendly motel in nearby Franklin or Clayton. For peak foliage, book months ahead and look for free-cancellation stays. • Best Time to Visit: May–October for waterfalls and hikes; September–early November for brilliant leaves. Summer offers the biggest temperature relief from Atlanta heat.
Pack layers, a light rain jacket, and sturdy shoes—the weather changes quickly in the highlands, and trails can be damp.
Tybee Island, Georgia — Laid-Back Beach Days Near Savannah
A weekend getaway from Atlanta to Tybee Island gives you a relaxed beach break with classic lighthouse views and easy seafood shacks.
• Distance/Travel Time: About 285 miles; 4.5–5 hours by car (Atlanta–Savannah–Tybee). You can also bus to Savannah (4.5–5.5 hours) and rideshare the final 18 miles to the island. • Why Visit: Tybee stays refreshingly low-key. You’ll find wide beaches, gentle surf, dolphin tours, and marsh kayaking without the high-rise hustle. • Top Things to Do:
- Climb the Tybee Island Light Station and explore the museum.
- Kayak to Little Tybee Island for birding and quiet beaches (guided tours available).
- Catch sunrise at North Beach and sunset at Back River.
- Feast on peel-and-eat shrimp and a basket of hushpuppies. • Where to Stay: Pick a beachfront condo or cottage rental, a cozy inn near North Beach, or a budget motel along Butler Avenue. Book early for spring and summer weekends; consider shoulder-season deals. • Best Time to Visit: Late April–June and September–October for warm water and pleasant weather; July–August brings heat and busy beaches.
Bring a sun shirt, reef-safe sunscreen, and a soft-sided cooler. If you plan to add Savannah, split your nights between city and sea.
Lake Oconee, Georgia — Golf, Spas, and Easy Waterfront Relaxation
A weekend getaway from Atlanta to Lake Oconee offers smooth sailing: gentle waters, golf courses, and resort-style downtime just down I-20.
• Distance/Travel Time: About 85 miles; roughly 1.5 hours by car via I-20 east to Greensboro. Driving is the simplest option. • Why Visit: You can arrive Friday evening and feel worlds away by dinner. Spend your days paddling, teeing off, or lounging by the pool, and your nights around a firepit under stars. • Top Things to Do:
- Rent kayaks or a pontoon boat for a lazy lake day.
- Play a round at local courses (book tee times in advance).
- Explore cute nearby towns like Madison and Greensboro.
- Book a spa treatment and slow down properly. • Where to Stay: Choose a lakeside resort with amenities, a private cabin or townhouse rental, or a budget hotel in Greensboro for value. Reserve boat rentals early on peak weekends, and look for packages that bundle lodging with golf or spa credits. • Best Time to Visit: April–June and September–October for warm days and cool nights. Summer is great for swimming but plan for higher rates.
Pack a hat, polarized sunglasses, and a soft-shell layer for breezy evenings by the water.
Travel Tips for Weekend Trips from Atlanta
Plan around drive times. Leave before rush hour on Friday or dawn on Saturday to skip bottlenecks on I-75, I-85, and GA-400. Build simple itineraries: anchor each day with one must-do and one flexible activity. Pack light in a carry-on-sized duffel and keep a small daypack handy. For transport, driving offers the most freedom; buses can work for Savannah, Athens, and Asheville. Always book parking or check hotel fees in historic districts.
What should I pack for a weekend trip from Atlanta?
- Essentials: weather-appropriate layers, rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, refillable water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, compact umbrella.
- Outdoors: trail shoes, small first-aid kit, insect repellent, portable charger, headlamp.
- Beach: quick-dry towel, sun shirt, hat, sand-proof phone pouch.
- Extras: copies of reservations, snacks for the road, and a cooler for picnic supplies.
Use trusted booking platforms (Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Airbnb) and consider free-cancellation rates for weather wiggle room.
Best Time to Plan Weekend Getaways from Atlanta
Spring (March–May) brings dogwoods and 65–80°F days across North Georgia and the Carolinas—perfect for hiking and city strolling. Summer (June–August) runs hot and humid—80s to low 90s in cities and 70s–80s in the mountains—great for lakes and beaches. Fall (September–November) delivers 60–75°F days and the Southeast’s best color in October. Winter (December–February) stays mild in cities (40s–50s by day) and crisp in the highlands (30s–40s), ideal for cozy cabin stays. For beaches, aim April–June and September–October; for mountains, pick April–June and late September–October; for culture-first city breaks, choose spring and fall.
Budget and Planning Advice
How much does a weekend trip from Atlanta cost? Expect $250–$800 per person for 2–3 days, depending on lodging and activities. Roughly budget: $120–$300+ per night for hotels (less for motels or shared rentals), $40–$120 per person for food, $40–$120 for gas and parking, and $20–$80 for attractions. Save with shoulder-season dates, bundled hotel packages, and free-cancellation deals. For planning, use Google Maps/Waze for traffic-aware routing, AllTrails for hikes, OpenTable/Resy for dining, GasBuddy for cheaper fuel, and HotelTonight for last-minute stays. Consider a Georgia State Parks pass if you’ll hike frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
For short drives, aim for Blue Ridge (1.5–2 hours) for cabins and the Scenic Railway, Chattanooga (about 2 hours) for riverfront attractions and Lookout Mountain, Athens (1.25–1.5 hours) for music and the State Botanical Garden, and Lake Oconee (about 1.5 hours) for golf, spas, and boating. If you don’t mind stretching to roughly 3 hours, Highlands/Cashiers offers cooler temps and waterfall-hopping in North Carolina.
No, there’s no direct passenger train between Atlanta and Savannah. You’ll reach Savannah fastest by car via I-75 and I-16 (3.5–4.5 hours), or by bus (about 4.5–5.5 hours). Flying is also an option with nonstop ATL–SAV flights that take about an hour, then it’s a 20–30 minute drive to Tybee Island.
Tybee Island near Savannah is one of the closest, typically 4.5–5 hours by car. Hilton Head Island in South Carolina runs similar drive times. For Georgia’s Golden Isles, plan about 5 hours to Jekyll Island or St. Simons. If you prefer the Gulf, Panama City Beach is usually 5–5.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Choose Chattanooga if you want a shorter drive (about 2 hours) with family-friendly highlights like the Tennessee Aquarium, Rock City, and riverfront biking. Pick Asheville if you’re up for 3.5–4 hours and want Blue Ridge Parkway hikes, the River Arts District, and brewery-hopping near South Slope. For fall color and mountain views, Asheville usually wins; for a quick, easy escape, Chattanooga takes it.
In North Georgia and Western North Carolina, peak color typically runs mid-October at higher elevations and late October to early November in lower elevations. For vibrant leaf-peeping, plan Blue Ridge and the Aska Trails in late October, Highlands/Whiteside Mountain from mid–late October, and the Blue Ridge Parkway around mid–late October (weather can shift timing by a week).
Head to Highlands/Cashiers for Dry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls—both easy-access and photogenic. Near Blue Ridge, hike to Long Creek Falls off the Appalachian Trail. In Chattanooga, Ruby Falls offers a unique cavern waterfall on Lookout Mountain. If you want a scenic loop, base in Highlands and add stops at Cullasaja Falls and Glen Falls in the same weekend.
For cozy cabins and mountain views, Blue Ridge is a favorite—book a hot tub cabin near the Aska Trails and add the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. Highlands/Cashiers brings upscale inns, fine dining, and waterfall walks like Dry Falls for golden-hour photos. Prefer city charm? Savannah’s historic inns around Forsyth Park and the riverfront deliver candlelit dinners and carriage rides. Lake Oconee works for spa days, sunset pontoon cruises, and quiet nights by the firepit.
In Savannah, you can park once and walk or trolley around the Historic District, but a car makes the Atlanta–Savannah trip easy and lets you add Tybee Island. Asheville’s downtown is walkable, yet a car helps you reach the Blue Ridge Parkway trailheads, the Biltmore Estate, and breweries beyond the core. Buses exist on both routes, but schedules and transfers can eat into a short weekend.
Plan 2–3 days. With two days, spend Day 1 exploring Savannah’s squares, Forsyth Park, and the Cathedral, then enjoy the riverfront by night; on Day 2, head to Tybee for the lighthouse, beach time, and a sunset at Back River. With three days, add Bonaventure Cemetery or Wormsloe in Savannah and a kayak tour to Little Tybee for quiet beaches and birding.
Most travelers spend about $250–$800 per person for 2–3 days, depending on season and lodging style. As a guide, plan $120–$300+ per night for hotels or cabins (less for motels), $40–$120 per person for food, $40–$120 for gas and parking, and $20–$80 for activities like the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, Biltmore tickets, or Lookout Mountain attractions. Travel in spring or fall shoulder seasons for fair weather and better rates.
Susan CalliesSusan Callies is a travel writer at Travleon.com, where she shares guides, itineraries, and hidden gems from around the world. When she’s not writing about new destinations, Susan enjoys playing the violin, ice skating during the winter months, and exploring local food scenes wherever she travels. She's also passionate about photography, journaling her adventures, and visiting art museums. Susan believes that the best stories are found off the beaten path — and she’s always chasing the next one.