The azaleas, peach blossoms, magnolias, and dogwoods are beginning to bloom all around us, the sun is setting later, and the mild temperatures are perfect for spending more time outside in our beautiful Peach State – it’s spring break in Atlanta!
For those of us staying local this spring break, there’s really no better place to be! Georgia in the springtime is a dream. The parks, the lakes, the amusement parks, hiking trails, and museums offer endless opportunities for day trips and staycations. Here are just a few things you and your family can do this spring break to make the most of the season of new beginnings:
Visit the Chattahoochee National Forest – The Chattahoochee National Forest is located less than 80 miles north of Atlanta and is part of the Appalachian Trail. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore approximately 850 miles of recreation trails and dozens of campgrounds, picnic areas, and other recreational opportunities. We recommend organizing a few friends from your pod for the ultimate spring break staycation and venturing up to Dahlonega. Dahlonega is a quaint little town and an excellent launch pad for exploring Chattahoochee. Spend the day hiking, exploring, and taking in nature, then settle in at a charming inn in town. While you’re in the area, check out the Consolidated Gold Mine and the Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo. After a day of entertaining the kiddos, treat yourself to a glass of wine at one of the local wineries such as Montaluce Winery & Restaurant or Accent Cellars.
Check out the Peach State’s best theme parks: If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Six Flags Over Georgia features high-speed roller coasters like Doomsday and The Riddler Mindbender, as well as tons of water attractions. The Historic Fourth Ward Park Splash Pad is another fun, family-friendly park that promises to deliver both a rush and a good laugh. Our final park recommendation is the Fun Spot America Theme Parks. This park lives up to its name! Spend hours entertained here playing mini-golf, riding the roller coasters, go-kart racing, and playing laser tag.
Visit the Georgia Aquarium – Spring showers are inevitable. Yes, they bring the flowers, but they can also put a damper on your festive spring break – not to fear! There are plenty of fun-filled activities you can do on a rainy day in Atlanta, like visiting the Georgia Aquarium! The Georgia Aquarium is one of the world’s largest aquariums and is home to more than 120,000 animals! Check out the exhibits and galleries while learning and marveling. This whole area of Atlanta has a lot to offer, like the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame, the World of Coca-Cola, and the Children’s Museum of Atlanta. When the clouds clear, explore Pemberton Place. And once your brain is filled with new knowledge, and you’ve taken in as much as you can take, finish your day of exploring by grabbing a milkshake at The Yard in Centennial Park.
Sink into Lake Life – Georgia is famous for its beautiful lakes, and everyone in the Atlanta area knows and loves the local Lake Lanier. Located less than 40-miles north of the city, Lake Lanier offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown. We recommend booking a campsite at one of the many available near the lake’s access points for a fun-filled spring break experience. We love Shady Grove Campground for its family-friendly vibes and lakefront views. Here, you and your family can enjoy good old-fashioned family time – bonfires and cards at night, grilling over charcoals, kayaking, and swimming. While you’re in the area, take a day to explore the stunning Sawnee Mt. Preserve. This gorgeous 963-acre park is known for the Indian Seats rock formation and its beautiful hiking trails. Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Water Park is also located nearby and offers fun for the whole family.
A spring escape at the Inn at Serenbe – Okay, the kids and family have had their fun, but spring break is for adults too! If you and your sweetheart need a staycation, the Inn at Serenbe is your spot. Whether it’s a budding romance or in full bloom – the Inn at Serenbe is the perfect romantic getaway just 32 minutes south of Atlanta. Here, you’ll enjoy stunning natural surroundings in a rustic upscale farmhouse-style boutique. Explore everything that makes the Chattahoochee Hill’s area so charming – visit Serenbe Farms, the local art at Art Farm at Serenbe, grab a coffee at Blue Eyed Daisy Bakery, shop for local goods at The General Store. As for dining, we recommend The Hill, a family-run restaurant with a patio serving farm-fresh entrees and brunch. This chic dining experience is the cherry on a perfect, romantic spring staycation.
There’s no denying that spring is in the air, and we’re thrilled to have a much-needed break to enjoy the mild weather and fun-filled Atlanta attractions. Wherever you live in the Peach State, we hope you take some much-deserved time to get some fresh air, explore, and enjoy this beautiful state.