Cities in Georgia with Atlanta flair, but better

Atlanta is the capital of Georgia in the southeastern United States. The city has a rich history that includes the historic Oakland Cemetery and Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. Atlanta has a population of 514,465, so the city is busy enough even without crowds of tourists. Georgia is visited by more than 168 million tourists annually, which might put you off the capital if you prefer a quiet city atmosphere.

Georgia is a historic state with plenty of natural habitats and quieter towns. Its diversity and southern charm offer much more than just bustling Atlanta. Travelers can escape the hustle and bustle and head to quieter and more relaxed outlying cities. You might be surprised at how slower life is in some towns that are just a short day trip from Atlanta. Here are Georgia towns with Atlanta flair, only better.

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7 savannah

Savannah is a hip coastal city with a slower pace of life and distinctive neighborhoods

Savannah is a historic and hip city with a similar vibe to Atlanta but fewer crowds. The coastal city attracts 17 million tourists annually. It’s a North American city that feels European due to its colorful architecture and local beach. While in Savannah, you can look forward to a slower pace of life as you explore the well-kept parks and interesting antebellum architecture.

For those who love sand and sea, Savannah’s coastline is a great place to visit. Head to Tybee Island’s North Beach for a swim (while lifeguards are on duty) and surf the crashing waves. The neighborhoods are full of character too, so don’t hesitate to explore downtown and the Victorian District, where you’ll find American coffee roasters and interesting museums like the King Tisdell Cottage, a museum of African-American heritage.

6 Athens

Athens is Georgia’s youthful city and offers creative events day and night.

Athens is a laid-back and creative city with a quieter and more relaxed vibe than Atlanta. The classic Georgia city feels young and energetic thanks to the University of Georgia. The university and city are popular with artists, musicians, and community lovers. In the summer, tourists can enjoy AthFest, an annual, free 3-day festival celebrating local creatives. At night, experience lively bars, comedy clubs, and drag events.

If you’re visiting Athens in the colder months or want to explore the art scene and escape the heat in the summer, head to the Georgia Museum of Art and the Lyndon House Arts Center to view artists’ work and exciting exhibitions.

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5 Augusta

Augusta is an ideal city in Georgia for hiking and evenings with live music

Augusta is a city in northeast Georgia, bordering South Carolina. Although it is quieter than Atlanta, it is still a lively vacation spot. Day and night life offer something for every traveler. During the day, you can enjoy hiking trails like the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area Trail to see the beautiful Savannah River and Augusta Canal. Outdoor activities in Augusta include golfing and visiting the Savannah Rapids Pavilion for kayaking and canoeing.

In the evenings, Augusta offers tourists a vibrant music and arts scene. Visit venues like the James Brown Arena, the Miller Theater, or the Imperial Theater. Downtown Augusta is home to the evening nightlife and local restaurants.

4 Roswell

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in Roswell amidst breathtaking nature and historic places

Roswell is 22 miles from Atlanta but has a more relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Located north of the capital, the suburb offers excellent schools for residents and a historic downtown for those looking to spend a long weekend wine and dine.

In Roswell, you can enjoy nature and a relaxed atmosphere. Visit the Chattahoochee River with its hiking trails and parks and the Chattahoochee Nature Center where you can canoe and kayak and observe wildlife. The Roswell Riverwalk is also a beautiful place for a relaxing stroll through the city’s nature.

History buffs can explore the numerous museums, including Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall and Smith Plantation. The downtown area is great for nightlife and offers many delicious American restaurants, such as the 1920 Tavern and Table & Main.

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3 Peachtree City

Peachtree City is known for its popular mode of transportation… golf carts

Peachtree City is a popular suburb for golfers. People often use golf carts to get around the 100 miles of paved golf paths throughout the city. Popular golf courses include Flat Creek Country Club, Canongate and Braelinn Golf Club.

If you don’t want to spend a weekend golfing, you can visit the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater, where local artists perform during the summer, or visit the Commemorative Air Force Dixie Wing Museum, which houses a collection of military warplanes.

Peachtree City has been featured in several movies, and the Southern Hollywood Film Tour allows visitors to explore the iconic locations. You may recognize them if you SpiderMan: Homecoming, The Walking Dead, Fried green tomatoesAnd Sweet Home Alabama.

2 Mâcon (city)

Macon is a Georgian city full of history and culture

Often referred to as the birthplace of Southern rock, Macon is a charming southern city rich in history and culture, dating back to its founding in 1823. With its slower pace of life and numerous historical and cultural attractions, it is an attractive alternative to Atlanta.

In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy the many parks, including Washington Park, Tattnall Square Park, and Coleman Hill Park. Interesting historical sites include Hay House, one of the finest Renaissance Revival homes in the South; Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, where various Native American cultures once inhabited the land for thousands of years; and the Museum of Aviation, which exhibits and protects historic war artifacts.

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1 Columbus

Columbus may be Georgia’s second largest city, but its natural surroundings make it even more relaxing

Columbus is Georgia’s second-largest city with a population of 200,167. Although it’s busier than other cities, it has a more relaxed atmosphere thanks to its strong connection to nature.

While in Columbus, relax and explore the city’s natural beauty. Try whitewater rafting on the Chattahoochee, stroll the Riverwalk, visit local museums and experience the city’s growing arts scene. Popular museums that delve into Columbus’ history include the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center and the National Civil War Naval Museum.