Category: Recreation

The Peach State has some of the most beautiful state parks in the Southeast. When is the last time you ventured into the adventurous Georgia outdoors?

This article will tell you all about some of the best state parks in the Peach State.

Don’t think that you have to travel far from Atlanta to enjoy these great parks — they’re closing than you think! Here are some of the best state parks in Georgia that are close to Atlanta:

But first, more Travel Content:

Best Atlanta Festivals To Attend

5 Ways To Save On Your Next Trip

40 Things To Do In The Fall In Georgia

Atlanta Travel Guide: How To Navigate And Save

Looking For The Best State Parks In Georgia? Read This

In this article, we’re going to show you some of the best state parks in Georgia. Gas up the vehicle and get ready to go!

All of these Georgia state parks are within 90 miles (an hour and a half tops) of Atlanta city limits. That makes them easily accessible by driving around I-285, I-85, I-75 and I-20.

No matter if it’s summertime or fall, you’ll enjoy the lush scenery in the heart of Georgia’s state parks.

Here Are Some Of The Best Sites To See Georgia Foliage

Georgia has elite foliage, if you didn’t know. We begin with one of the most beautiful state parks in Georgia and the home of the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi River:

Amicalola Falls State Park

Here’s what one reviewer says about Amicalola Falls. “Beautiful falls with beautiful views around. Hiking is fun here and there are steps that you can take to go top of the falls. My 2year old kid did climbed easily 425 steps. There is plenty of space for picnic and spent valuable time there. All aside weather was just right. Overall it was a fabulous experience.”

2. Anna Ruby Falls (Twin Waterfalls)

Here’s what one reviewer says about Anna Ruby Falls. “Picturesque waterfall with a visitor’s center accessible by driving through Unicoi State Park.”

3. Black Rock Mountain

Here’s what one visitor says about Black Rock Mountain State Park. “Beautiful campground and state park! Our site was nice and shady. Just be warned, you will have to walk uphill to get to your site if you aren’t near the bottom. Not a big hill, but it’s uphill, none the less. Beautiful views were everywhere! The hiking trails are also pretty steep, but nothing too bad if you are a seasoned hiker.”

4. Vogel State Park

“Beautiful park. Camped here for 6 nights. Nice staff. Bathhouse was clean,” says one visitor. “They have several INDIVIDUAL bathrooms with a private shower, toilet and sink. It’s not community like a locker room. I absolutely love that!!! Number 68 was the best spot for us. It sits adjacent to the Bathhouse and our neighbors were not on top of us. The park has plenty of hiking paths, a man made beach and swimming area, paddle boating and a beautiful lake and waterfall. They have signs posted for black bears and copperhead snakes. We saw none, thank God! Beautiful and serene place. Would definitely return!”

5. Brasstown Bald

Here’s what one visitor says about Brasstown Bald State Park. “Finally made the trip back up there after many years too long of an absence. Much is still the same as I remember it with still some of the best views in North Georgia.

As of 10/5/22, there’s a $7 per person entrance fee. The walk-up trail is a nice paved path beginning between the gift shop and restroom facility. (Highly recommend the gift shop, lots of cool and unique items!) It’s about a half mile trek going constantly uphill to the top (a slight workout!), but a shuttle bus is also available if preferred.”

6. Cloudland Canyon

Here’s what one visitor says about Cloudland Canyon State Park: “$5 entrance fee for gorgeous views and short, but rewarding trails. Trails are extremely moderate for an experienced hiker, but present diverse landscape. The trails were well marked, mostly clear from a lot of foot traffic and dirt. Look out for armadillos! We saw two while we were here. You’ll hear them rustling around. We enjoyed going all the way around the loop and then ending with a peek at both waterfalls which weren’t too full but couldn’t have fomo. Lots of stairs to the waterfalls as expected. Camping, RV spots, cabins+ available for an extended stay. The trails were lively with people and dogs enjoying the mild Tuesday afternoon. I do recommend! Views still available right off from the parking lot if you are not feeling a hike. Bonus is that the park also has a disc golf course.”

7. Fort Mountain State Park

Here’s what one visitor says about Fort Mountain Park. “We visited Fort Mountain State Park recently and we had a wonderful time. Since we have visited all 56 Tennessee State Parks we thought we would visit Georgia State Parks. We are glad we went here. We enjoyed seeing the 4 story look out tower. It was a hike to it but not to hard. There is a lot of history here and several plaques are placed so we could read them. From the tower we hiked to the over look. Wow. This has amazing views here. We also drove around the park and we saw a nice lake and campground. There is another trail that goes to a waterfall which is nice. Overall great experience. Can’t wait to go back.”

8. Tallulah Gorge State Park

Here’s what one visitor says about Tallulah State Gorge Park: “What an absolutely beautiful park. We spent two days at the park, walking trails and enjoying the sights and water, and we still didn’t get the opportunity to see everything. But what we did see was stunning!

There are miles of trails you can hike. Some are located on the north side and some on the south side of the gorge. Additionally, you can cross the gorge via the suspension bridge, and even go to the bottom of the gorge. That said, we didn’t go to the bottom – it’s only 100 passes a day, though they are free – but I imagine it’s awesome. And we are hoping to do that ourselves next visit. I highly, highly recommend you been in decent to good shape if you plan to go to the bottom because there are a lot of steps (over 1000 total down and back up) that you must climb to do so. We opted to go down to the suspension bridge and back up and it was quite a work out on its own.”

9. Sweetwater Creek

Here’s what one reviewer says about Sweetwater Creek State Park: “A very well-staffed park. Excellent signage to direct you on where to go. We only took the Red Trail to see the Mill Ruins on a quick visit, but I do recommend that one for beginner hikers! The path is nicely packed and wide for comfort without much of a grade. I was a little disappointed in all the fencing around the ruins keeping you from getting a closer look, but I totally understand the purpose of it being there. The water was lovely and calming also. I would recommend this spot for a nice, relaxing afternoon in nature.”

10. Stone Mountain Park

One reviewer says this about Stone Mountain Park: “Our first time coming by to see Stone Mountain. $20 Vehicle Entry, was well worth the drive, literally around the entire mountain. Beautiful landscape, everywhere you look. We arrived very close to dark and were thrilled to find out that they close at midnight! The Lift to the top and Gift Shop were certainly closed by the time we arrived, but we were able to navigate a well-lit sidewalk, to get a bit closer to the carving. Really pretty area, very nice folks. Absolutely worth the stop!”

Georgia contains tens of thousands of acres of natural beauty with a wide variety of fun family activities and things to do in the Atlanta.

Final Word

You can have a great time in the Georgia outdoors.

No matter if you’re a visitor to the state or a family looking to bring the kids out for a day of fund and children’s attractions, you can find tons of outdoor recreational activities including kayaking, SUP, championship golf, hiking, biking, and more around Atlanta.

Up next: 10+ things to do in Georgia that are fun & outdoorsy

https://atlantafi.com/adventurous-and-outdoorsy-things-to-do-in-atlanta/

Explore Atlanta At Your Own Pace

Looking for some autumn fun in Georgia? Don’t miss these fall festivals. Also, don’t forget to keep up with the fall foliage map.

There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.

Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:

• All The Fun Things To Do In North Georgia
• Outdoorsy Things To Do In ATL
• Green Scene: Best Parks in Atlanta

Georgia will never be mistaken for wine country, but when it comes to vino, its wineries offer a generous pour for all interested parties.

If you’re looking to support black-owned businesses, there may be a winery near you that appeals to your sensibilities and love of vino.

In this article, we’ll cover the best black-owned wineries in Georgia.

Table of Contents: Best Black-Owned Wineries In Georgia

• Pop the Cork Wine Tours (Atlanta, GA)
• The Winery at MoonLight Manor (Griffin, GA)
• 3 Parks Wine Shop (Atlanta, GA)
• NAVI Wine Bar & Tasting Room (Columbus, GA)

Pop The Cork Wine Tours

1100 Peachtree St NE Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30309 |  (404) 433-2956

Here’s what one reviewer says about Pop the Cork: “The entire experience from start to finish was amazing . Customer service 10/10 . We dance , we laughed, we ate, visit 3 different winery’s. We met some really cool people and I can’t wait to go back definitely booking again. Just in case your wondering it was worth every penny. You get lunch , chauffeured in a nice br clean sprinter, sample multiple wines with an option to purchase your own bottles, visit 3 winery’s , good music and vibes all for the price of what you would pay for a visit to one winery. Love our Tour guide very professional and knowledgeable.”

Taste Wine Bar & Market

202 Chattahoochee Row NW Suite B, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 254-2144

Here’s what one reviewer says about Taste Wine Bar. “Great place for a date night or to catch up with friends! I love how everything is at your own pace and the selection of wines was good for the price. The idea to include different size options was so smart especially for those that want to try multiple wines.”

The Winery at MoonLight Manor

373 Cook Rd, Griffin, GA 30224 | (770) 766-3939

Located in Lamar County, The Winery at MoonLight is a small farm-based winery owned by military veteran Stef Parker. She offers wine tastings and paint and sip events.

Here’s what one reviewer says about The Winery at MoonLight Manor. “I love love love The Goth Gardener’s preserves! If you’re like me and you like a little spicy kick with your sweet, then you will absolutely enjoy the Beatle Juice/Mango chili preserve and the Devils advocate/Jalapeño jelly! Also my go to preserves made with fresh strawberries is Love Potion/strawberry preserve. It’s the chefs kiss on some toast, I promise! Everything I’ve ever gotten from The Goth Gardener is absolutely positively made with love.”

3 Parks Wine Shop

451 Bill Kennedy Wy SE c, Atlanta, GA 30316 | (678) 349-7070

Here’s what one reviewer says about 3 Parks Wine Shop. “3 Parks Wine is a unique wine shop that offers wine tasting, weekend wine flights and more! We decided to check them out while we are on the Beltline in Glenwood Park. The selection of wine had good balance, acidity and sweetness. Our favorite was Gran Valor Brut from Spain.”

If you want to venture beyond Atlanta and Georgia, here are some of the best black-owned wineries in the South.

Tilford Winery

 126 Berry Patch Ln, Kathleen, GA 31047 |  (478) 396-3025

Here’s what one reviewer says about Tilford Winery. “We had a great experience! The owner gave us a private tasting and we got to try several of his wines. They tasted so fresh and natural. We took home a whole case from here. Would definitely be a cool spot to bring friends and listen to music and relax on the weekends. Definitely check it out!”

What Is The Largest Black-Owned Winery In America?

Photo credit: McBridesisters.com

The largest black-owned winery in the United States is the McBride Sisters Wine Co., which is owned by siblings Robin and Andrea McBride. The sisters hail from Monterey, California and Marlborough, New Zealand.The company ships directly to the following states:

AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DC, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IA, KS, MA, MD, ME, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, ND, NE, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OH, OR, PA, TX, VT, VA, WA, WI, WY.

Black-Owned Wineries In The South

• Bowman Vineyards — 17144 Augusta Hwy, Round O, SC 29474 |  (910) 308-1409
• Ole’ Orleans Wines and Spirits — 579 Brooklyn Ave, New Orleans, LA 70121 | (504) 354-2449
• Williams Vineyard and Far — 21 Gabriel Pl, Nesmith, SC 29580 | (803) 397-1859
• Preston Ridge Winery — 4105 Preston Rd, Martinsville, VA 24112 |  (276) 957-3844

Final Sip

If BrewPub is any indication, Atlanta’s craft beer scene is on and pouring! Make sure you check out Krog Street Market, one of Atlanta’s many food halls.

Traveling to the city’s midsection can lead to unexpected adventures, including new restaurant openings and more.

More AtlantaFi.com Articles:

• Best Atlanta Bars for Premium Drinks
• Best Atlanta Bars For Beer And Cocktails
• Best Places To Grab A Whiskey In Atlanta

Metro Atlanta is an adventure-filled place, and we’re not talking about the whole of Georgia. There are plenty of things to do outdoors that will put some real joy in your life.

Looking for an outdoors adventure in the Peach State? This article will tell you the best things to do outside in Georgia.

1. Hike The Bartram Trail

The Bartram Trail is pathway in Rabun County, Georgia that features several natural features that are beautiful treasures such as waterfalls, mountains, rivers and more.

Book a Bartram Trail Hike adventure.

2. Atlanta Scavenger Hunt: Finding Peace in Piedmont Park

In Atlanta’s most beautiful park, look for clues in a classic scavenger hunt among landmarks and discover the history of the Piedmont Park. Book now.

3. Cloudland Canyon

Here’s what one visitor says about Cloudland Canyon State Park: “$5 entrance fee for gorgeous views and short, but rewarding trails. Trails are extremely moderate for an experienced hiker, but present diverse landscape. The trails were well marked, mostly clear from a lot of foot traffic and dirt. Look out for armadillos! We saw two while we were here. You’ll hear them rustling around. We enjoyed going all the way around the loop and then ending with a peek at both waterfalls which weren’t too full but couldn’t have fomo. Lots of stairs to the waterfalls as expected. Camping, RV spots, cabins+ available for an extended stay. The trails were lively with people and dogs enjoying the mild Tuesday afternoon. I do recommend! Views still available right off from the parking lot if you are not feeling a hike. Bonus is that the park also has a disc golf course.”

4. Fort Mountain State Park

Here’s what one visitor says about Fort Mountain Park. “We visited Fort Mountain State Park recently and we had a wonderful time. Since we have visited all 56 Tennessee State Parks we thought we would visit Georgia State Parks. We are glad we went here. We enjoyed seeing the 4 story look out tower. It was a hike to it but not to hard. There is a lot of history here and several plaques are placed so we could read them. From the tower we hiked to the over look. Wow. This has amazing views here. We also drove around the park and we saw a nice lake and campground. There is another trail that goes to a waterfall which is nice. Overall great experience. Can’t wait to go back.”

5. Tallulah Gorge State Park

Here’s what one visitor says about Tallulah State Gorge Park: “What an absolutely beautiful park. We spent two days at the park, walking trails and enjoying the sights and water, and we still didn’t get the opportunity to see everything. But what we did see was stunning!

There are miles of trails you can hike. Some are located on the north side and some on the south side of the gorge. Additionally, you can cross the gorge via the suspension bridge, and even go to the bottom of the gorge. That said, we didn’t go to the bottom – it’s only 100 passes a day, though they are free – but I imagine it’s awesome. And we are hoping to do that ourselves next visit. I highly, highly recommend you been in decent to good shape if you plan to go to the bottom because there are a lot of steps (over 1000 total down and back up) that you must climb to do so. We opted to go down to the suspension bridge and back up and it was quite a work out on its own.”

6. Sweetwater Creek

Here’s what one reviewer says about Sweetwater Creek State Park: “A very well-staffed park. Excellent signage to direct you on where to go. We only took the Red Trail to see the Mill Ruins on a quick visit, but I do recommend that one for beginner hikers! The path is nicely packed and wide for comfort without much of a grade. I was a little disappointed in all the fencing around the ruins keeping you from getting a closer look, but I totally understand the purpose of it being there. The water was lovely and calming also. I would recommend this spot for a nice, relaxing afternoon in nature.”

Final Word

The Peach State has some of the most beautiful sights you could ever see this time of year. Don’t let the nice weather pass you by. Pack your bags, plan a trip and get to going!

To save money, look for the cheapest flights from Atlanta that are on sale.  To keep costs down, use these travel hacks to save money and time.

Some bad stuff has been happening at Georgia’s most well-known bodies of water. Aside from being a great place to have fun outdoors outside Atlanta, Lake Lanier is one of the top bodies of water in Georgia. It also happens to collect bodies under the water.

The lake, located in a reservoir located in North Georgia, draws thousands of visitors a year and its nearly 700 miles of shoreline and 100 small islands are a needed respite during the Georgia summers. But  as beautiful as the waters are, Lake Lanier has a dangerous reputation.

The lake claims at least one fatality each year, according to news reports in recent years. While the vast majority of these deaths are unfortunate accidents, there has been a growing buzz on online forums and social media that the lake’s past may not be as pristine as its waters.

Lake Lanier: A History

Lake Lanier was created in the 1950s as part of a large-scale water management project known as the Buford Dam Project. The construction of the dam and the creation of the lake were authorized by the U.S. Congress in 1946, and the project was undertaken by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The primary purpose of the project was to provide hydroelectric power, flood control, navigation, and water supply to the city of Atlanta and its surrounding areas. The construction of the dam began in 1950, and it took six years to complete. The dam was named after Congressman Carl Vinson’s hometown of Buford.

How Deep Is Lake Lanier?

Lake Lanier is 160 feet deep when it is full. The deepest spot is the Buford Dam’s north side, which is situated about 911 feet above sea level.

Where is Lake Lanier Located?

Lake Lanier is located in North Georgia about 50 miles from downtown Atlanta. The lake touches four surrounding five counties: Dawson, Forsyth, Gwinnett, Hall and Lumpkin. Here is a map to help you find it.

When Was Lake Lanier Built?

Here is a timeline of the major events related to the construction of Lake Lanier in Georgia:

• 1946: The U.S. Congress authorizes the construction of Buford Dam on the Chattahoochee River for the purposes of hydroelectric power, flood control, navigation, and water supply.
• 1950: Construction of the dam begins.
• 1953: The town of Oscarville, located in the area that will be flooded by the lake, is evacuated and abandoned.
• 1956: The construction of Buford Dam is completed, and the lake begins to fill.
• 1957: The lake is officially dedicated, and it is named Lake Sidney Lanier in honor of Sidney Lanier, a 19th-century poet and musician from Georgia.
• 1958: The lake reaches its full pool level of 1,071 feet above sea level.
• 1962: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers completes construction of the Buford Dam Powerhouse, which generates hydroelectric power from the flow of water through the dam.
• 1966: The Corps of Engineers begins construction of a new dam downstream of Buford Dam, called the Lower Buford Dam, which is intended to provide additional flood control and water supply capacity.
• 1970: The Lower Buford Dam is completed, and it is combined with the original dam to form a single structure.

Since its completion, Lake Lanier has been managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and it has become a popular recreational destination, as well as a vital source of water supply and power generation for the region.

Was Lake Lanier Built On Top of Oscarville, Ga.?

Lake Lanier in Georgia was not built on top of Oscarville, but rather, the construction of Buford Dam, which created the lake, flooded the area where the historic town of Oscarville was located.

Photo credit: Playhouse Media
Oscarville was a small community established in the early 1800s, located at the confluence of the Chattahoochee and Chestatee Rivers. The town had a population of around 40 people at its peak, and it was an important center of commerce and trade in the area.

However, the construction of Buford Dam required the flooding of the land around the town, including several other communities and historic sites. 

The creation of the lake required the relocation of several thousand people, and entire communities were displaced. The construction of the dam also flooded several historic sites, including the town of Oscarville, which was established in the 1820s and was one of the earliest settlements in the area.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which was responsible for the construction of the dam and the creation of the lake, bought out the property owners and relocated the residents of the affected communities.

Why Is Lake Lanier So Dangerous?

Lake Lanier has gotten a reputation for being dangerous because of the frequent deaths that have taken place, but that’s not the whole story.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which manages the lake, has taken steps to improve safety, including implementing boating safety education programs, increasing law enforcement patrols, and improving signage and warning systems. However, accidents and fatalities continue to occur, and visitors are advised to exercise caution and follow all safety guidelines and regulations while enjoying the lake.

How Many Deaths Have Occurred At Lake Lanier?

The number of deaths that have occurred at Lake Lanier in Georgia is difficult to determine precisely, as there is no comprehensive record of such incidents. However, according to news reports and various online sources, there have been a significant number of fatalities and accidents at the lake over the years.

In fact, Lake Lanier has been the site of many tragic incidents, including boating accidents, drownings, and other water-related accidents. According to a report by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution in 2018, at least 160 people had died on the lake since 1994. These incidents have included drownings, boating accidents, and other tragedies, and they have sparked concerns about safety and the need for greater regulation and oversight of activities on the lake.

Final Word

Today, Lake Lanier covers the area where Oscarville and several other communities once stood. You can find revelers, swimmers and fishermen from Atlanta this weekend or the next.

Although the town itself is now submerged, efforts have been made to preserve and commemorate its history, including the establishment of the Oscarville Historic District, which recognizes the significance of the town and its impact on the local area.

Are you looking for fun things for kids to do in Atlanta this summer?

Kids and caretakers are invited to don their favorite PJs as Children’s Museum of Atlanta’s annual Pajama Jam Party returns.

On Saturday, July 19, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., the Museum will host a dreamy evening filled with snacks, sing-alongs, dancing and more!

The Science Bar will feature a bath bomb station for kids to use for post-event relaxation, while the dance party on stage will let kids rock out with their friends and experiment with various instruments.

Little architects can build the fort of their dreams using the imagination blocks as the Art Studio is transformed with blacklight for glow-in-the-dark chalk art creations.

Free snacks will be provided at the Snack Stop to keep the energy high all night long – or at least until bedtime.

WHAT: Pajama Jam

A night of family fun, fort building, snacking, glow-in-the-dark art and more

WHEN: Saturday, July 19 

5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 

WHERE: Children’s Museum of Atlanta

275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive, NW
Atlanta, GA 30313                               

HOW: Tickets are available online at CMAPJJAM and must be purchased in advance. Tickets are $10 for Museum members and $25 for non-members. Prices may increase as the event approaches.

Final Word

What other activities might you enjoy around Atlanta? Take a ride to the metro mountains of Atlanta. Or you might want to get physical by playing basketball around the city. Here’s more awesome and adventurous things to do around Atlanta.

Have you ever felt like Atlanta needed a beach?Well, the nearest beach to Atlanta, Georgia, may be closer to you than you think.

Yes, the city is landlocked, but if you get in your vehicle and can endure a 25-50 minute ride, you can enjoy some great Georgia beaches near Atlanta.

Here Are The Best Beaches In Georgia

In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about Georgia’s beaches.

Quick Links:

• Where Are The Best Beaches In Georgia?
• What Cities In Georgia Have Beaches?
• What Is The Nearest Beach To Atlanta?
• Interactive Map: Beaches Near Atlanta

The closest legitimate beaches may not be within eyesight of the concrete jungle that is Atlanta, but that doesn’t mean we can’t take a road trip to enjoy a quick getaway — and we’ve got a winner on our shores.

With traveling in mind, here are some great Georgia islands to check out:

Tybee Island

Tybee Island aka Savannah Beach, is a rustic getaway spot 18 miles away from Savannah. The beach’s famously preserved history has made it a tourist destination in recent years.

Visitors love to walk the three miles of uninterrupted sand, featuring salt marshes with birds and wildlife unique to the Georgia coast.

Jekyll Island

If you’re enchanted with the natural beauty of undeveloped beachfront, Jekyll Island, the smallest of barrier islands in the state, is a paradise. Visitors can enjoy a host of wildlife-center activities, such as horseback riding and turtle habitat tours. As a bonus, you can visit the historic Jekyll Island Club Hotel, a 19th-century winter retreat for the rich.

St. Simon Island

Fans of historic structures have been flocking her for years because of St. Simon’s historic lighthouse, which began operating six years after the Civil War ended. Other preserved structures include Bloody Marsh and several antebellum buildings.

St. Simons has also become a shopping and dining mecca as new eateries have moved in.

Cumberland National Seashore

Georgia’s largest barrier island features huge swaths of marchland and pristine maritime forests across its nearly 10,000 acres of protected wilderness.

Visitors can tour the very spots where wealthy industrialists vacationed. Cumberland Island is also home to more than 9,800 acres of congressionally designated wilderness.

Little St. Simon Island

This little 10,000-acre island features seven miles of beach and 20 miles of wilderness trails for the explorer types.

If exclusive lodgings are your fancy, check out the the Lodge at Little St. Simon’s Island, a 30-guest gem accessible strictly by 10-minute boat ride from the mainland.

Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier does indeed have a beach. Many people from metro Atlanta like to rent boats and tour Lake Lanier, but people can enjoy a refreshing swim there as well.

Read about the surreal history of Lake Lanier.

Lake Lanier is basically built around parks, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, themed restaurants and designated swimming areas.

Lake Allatoona

Lake Allatoona is a popular tourist spot located in Acworth near Proctor Landing Park.

There’s a swimming beach on site, where people can also park and reserve picnic pavilions. The park is located at 5120 Allatoona Drive, Acworth.

Lake Oconee

Lake Oconee is a relatively new lake in central Georgia. The lake was built in 1979 as a reservoir stemming from the Wallace Dam holding the Oconee River.

Lake Oconee has a small beach area frequented by people from the nearby cities of Eatonton and Greensboro.

What Cities In Georgia Have Beaches?

Here are the cities in Georgia with beaches. For the beaches in Glynn County, New Brunswick, Georgia is the closest city:

• Cumberland Island — Cambden County, Georgia
• East Beach — Glynn County, Georgia
• Glory Beach — Glynn County, Georgia
• Sapelo Island — McIntosh County, Georgia
• Jekyll Island — Glynn County, Georgia
• St. Simons Island — Glynn County, Georgia

What Is The Nearest Beach To Atlanta?

The closest beach to Atlanta is Tybee Island. It is 267 miles away. If you’re interested in driving there, here are the driving directions:

• Get on I-75/I-85 South
• Follow I-75 South to I-16 East to Montgomery St. in Savannah
• Use any lane to take exit 167B for Montgomery Street toward Savannah/Civic Center/Downtown
• Follow E President St, Islands Expy and US-80 E to 10th Terrace in Tybee Island

Interactive Map: Beaches Closest To Atlanta

Final Word

The temperature outside is perfect for a little fun in the Georgia sun, and what better place to have that than at the beach.

The best beaches in Georgia are close to metro Atlanta. And these spots will be packed come Memorial Day, summertime and other holiday periods.

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Midtown boasts a wide range of restaurants, from upscale steakhouses to cozy bistros, international cuisines, and trendy vegan spots. An added bonus? A lot of them are near MARTA locations.

Public transportation in Atlanta can get you to your job, the hospital, the mall, so why not your favorite restaurant?

Here Are The Best Atlanta Restaurants Near MARTA

We’re going to show you some of the best Atlanta restaurants near MARTA so you can ride and eat.

Alma Cocina

 191 Peachtree St, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 968-9662

Alma Cocina is one of Midtown Atlanta’s favorite restaurants for Mexican-inspired fare. It is located at 191 Peachtree Tower.

How to get there: Alma Cocina is nearest to the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

Busy Bee

810 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW, Atlanta, GA 30314 (404) 525-9212

Busy Bee is one of the best soul food restaurants in Atlanta, not to mention a favorite of Joe Biden. 

How to get there: The eatery is a quarter of a mile from the Ashby MARTA Station.

Chicken+Beer

Concourse D, Gate D5, Atlanta, GA 30337 (404) 209-3905

Chicken + Beer continues to make believers out of passengers at the world’s busiest airport, Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

How to get there: Take the MARTA train into Airport Station.

Cuts Steakhouse

60 Andrew Young International Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30303  (404) 525-3399

Cuts Steakhouse caters to a lot of visitors to the city, cultivating a foreign following that brings patrons back for more.

How to get there: Only a short walk from the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

Fox Bros. BBQ

1238 DeKalb Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (404) 577-4030

One of Atlanta’s favorite barbecue restaurants is a short distance from public transit. 

How to get there: Take the green line train to the Candler Park MARTA station.

Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

231 Peachtree Street Northwest A-05 The Mall at, Atlanta, GA 30303

Gus’s is a big reason people from the suburbs come into downtown Atlanta to eat. The famous hot chicken is worth it!

How to get there: Only a short walk from the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

The Iberian Pig

121 Sycamore St, Decatur, GA 30030 | (404) 371-8800

This iconic restaurant on the Decatur Square is known across the Southeast for its classic take on tapas.

How to get there: It’s literally feet away from the Decatur MARTA station.

The Lawrence

905 Juniper St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309  (404) 961-7177

The Lawrence restaurant in Midtown has become a go-to spot for a good meal and creative cocktail.

How to get there: 

Mangos Caribbean Restaurant

806 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd SW, Atlanta, GA 30310 | (404) 500-2851

Mangos Caribbean Restauranthas quickly become a top spot for jerk chicken, roti and other West Indian food in the West end.

How to get there: Get off at the West End MARTA Station and cross Ralph David Abernathy Boulevard.

McCormick and Schmick’s Seafood Restaurant

190 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 521-1236

Mccormick and Schmick’s is a well-known seafood chain known for their happy hours. This is a favorite place for sports fans and the after-work set.

How to get there: Get off at CNN Center / GWCC Station in downtown Atlanta.

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse

Embassy Suites Hotel, 267 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 (404) 223-6500

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse is a fine dining restaurant that specializes in thick steaks cooked a variety of ways.

How to get there: Get off at CNN Center / GWCC station in downtown Atlanta.

Sear

265 Peachtree Center Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30303(404) 586-6134

Sear, located inside the Marriott Marquis in downtown Atlanta, offers the opulence and style to help you impress that special someone.

How to get there: Only a short walk from the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint

200 Peachtree St. NW L05, Atlanta, 404-230-5853

Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint continues to be a perennial favorite of tourists and visitors to the city. The food is great and the live music is excellent.

How to get there: Only a short walk from the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

South City Kitchen

1144 Crescent Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30309  (404) 873-7358

South City Kitchen’s menu is one of the most celebrated in the Southeast. And it’s relatively close to a MARTA Station.

How to get there: Get your walking shoes on. Get off the train at the Midtown MARTA Station.

Sun Dial

210 Peachtree Street Northwest, Atlanta, GA 30303  (404) 589-7506

The Sun Dial atop the Westin Hotel offers brilliant views of the city and is probably the most romantic ambiance in downtown Atlanta.

How to get there: Only a short walk from the Peachtree Center MARTA station.

Final Bite

Fine dining in Atlanta doesn’t have to be off the beaten path. You can find some of the best Atlanta restaurants near MARTA.

 Atlanta has so much to do that you need a curated guide to help you sort through it all. Make sure you subscribe to our #ATLHaps newsletter that gives you a weekly tab of Atlanta events you don’t want to miss.  

If you want to check out some other food spots in the area, here are the best restaurants in Buckhead. Or you might like to read our Buckhead Steak Guide to find all the best eateries offering mouth-watering prime cuts.

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Atlanta offers a variety of fishing spots, from urban lakes to nearby reservoirs and rivers, catering to anglers of all skill levels.

In this article, we’re going to show you where you can go fishing in metro Atlanta. You can even take the kids!

Before you bait a hook, you need to have your paperwork in order. The first thing you need if you want to go fishing is a fishing license in Georgia.

How Much Is A Fishing License In Georgia?

Annual fishing or hunting licenses good for 365 days from its purchase date cost $15 each for state residents. You can get a discounted short-term license spanning from one to 10 days for  residents and non-residents.

A basic one day fishing license for non-residents is only $10.

Can I Buy A Fishing License At Walmart?

You can buy a freshwater fishing license at your local Walmart, if it has a Sports & Outdoors Department. It costs $10 for residents and $25 for non-residents for freshwater.

Where Can You Fish In Georgia?

Many fishing spots in Georgia are on private property. If you want access, remember to follow these practical steps in etiquette:

• Always know when you cross onto private property
• Always ask for permission to enter private property
• Always ask for permission to fish on private property

With that being said, Georgia also has many places to fish that are open to the public. When it comes to finding fish holes, here are the places you can fish in metro Atlanta:

Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier has many nice areas where you can fish. You can do it in a boat or on the shore. Many people from metro Atlanta like to rent boats and tour Lake Lanier, but people can enjoy going out on the water as well.

Lake Lanier is basically built around parks, picnic pavilions, playgrounds, themed restaurants and designated fishing areas.

Lake Allatoona

Lake Allatoona is a popular tourist spot located in Acworth near Proctor Landing Park. It’s a great place to go fishing.

Along with a lot of places to fish, the lake also has a swimming beach on site, where people can also park and reserve picnic pavilions. The park is located at 5120 Allatoona Drive, Acworth.

Lake Oconee

Lake Oconee is stocked with some of the most diverse fish in Georgia. It is a relatively new lake in central Georgia. The lake was built in 1979 as a reservoir stemming from the Wallace Dam holding the Oconee River.

Bull Sluice Lake

Bull Sluice Lake is another fishing spot that is safe to Atlanta long the Chattahoochee River in Roswell, Georgia. The lake is part of a greenspace spread out over 673 acres adjacent to the Morgan Falls Dam.

Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center

Charlie Elliot Wildlife Center is a nature preserve located near Mansfield, Georgia, United States. Named after Charles Newton Elliott, the nature preserve has 6,400 acres of forests, lakes, and fields, which are managed by Georgia Department of Natural Resources

Final Word

If you like to fish, there are places around Atlanta and other parts of Georgia that are ideal fishing spots that you need to know about. Boat safety is a priority though, so make sure you have a license if you fish in a boat.

The state has everything from freshwater lakes, saltwater lakes and various sizes of ponds stocked with fish.

It doesn’t matter if you’re an expert fisherman or a novice angler, metro Atlanta has some great places to fish.

Fishing is a fun activity and one of the best things to do in Georgia with kids.