Memorial Day 2025 trip ideas: Georgia’s eight most overlooked towns

Memorial Day is Monday, marking the end of a three-day weekend. Want to visit a hidden gem?

WorldAtlas released a guide of the most underrated small towns in Georgia “where a vibrant sense of community and exploration awaits.” Below is a look at which towns they highlighted and excerpts of what WorldAtlas had to say about them:

Blue Ridge

“Tucked away in the mountains, Blue Ridge is a sweet little railroad town with a vibrant artistic community and a burgeoning adult beverage scene that is often overshadowed by those of larger cities such as Atlanta. Beverage enthusiasts will find a haven here, with innovative wineries, breweries, and distilleries around every corner. … Tipsy or not, a performance at the Blue Ridge Community Theater is always a good time. … Outdoor enthusiasts can hike at the nearby Chattahoochee National Forest, take a scenic train ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, or frolic in the tranquil waters at Lake Blue Ridge Dam Recreation Area.”

Dahlonega

“The town features a lovely historic downtown where you can embark on a haunted walking tour (or a wine tour) with Dahlonega Walking Tours before diving into the region’s gold mining history at the Dahlonega Gold Museum. … Nature seekers can trek through the breathtaking Chattahoochee National Forest, which provides ample hiking trails, camping, and gushing waterfalls. … Afterward, savor a wine tasting at Frogtown Winery, one of the most awarded wineries outside California.”

Ellijay

“Celebrated as Georgia’s Apple Capital, the area is home to numerous farms and orchards that welcome eager apple pickers. … Beyond apples, Ellijay features a growing wine scene. Local vineyards like Cartecay Vineyards and Chateau Meichtry offer tastings, winery tours, and summer concerts. … Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, as Ellijay is the gateway to Springer Mountain, the starting point of the Appalachian Trail, and features numerous hiking trails for all skill levels. The nearby Cohutta Wildlife Management Area offers fishing, birdwatching, and mountain biking, while the Cartecay River provides tubing opportunities during warmer months.”

Lumpkin

“While unassuming at first, nature lovers are in for a treat, as Lumpkin is a gateway to the stunning Providence Canyon State Park. Spanning 1,000 acres, this breathtaking park features a remarkable collection of canyons and gullies. … Plus, the park is home to the largest natural collection of plumleaf azalea in the world. … While Georgia is overflowing with historic significance, Lumpkin was the first small town in the state to successfully complete a historic preservation project aimed at encouraging tourism. The result? The beautifully restored/preserved Bedingfield Inn on the town’s central square.”

Madison

“It boasts one of the state’s largest historic districts despite its small population. … Visitors can explore historic homes like the Rogers House, which illustrates early 1800s middle-class life, and Rose Cottage, which shares the story of a slave who built her own laundress business. … Outdoor lovers can head to Hard Labor Creek State Park, home to two peaceful lakes, an 18-hole golf course, multi-use trails, and campsites. Additionally, just 30 minutes away is Lake Oconee, a vast reservoir perfect for swimming, fishing, boating, and water skiing.”

Tybee Island

“Unlike more crowded coastal spots in Georgia, Tybee Island offers a serene atmosphere for visitors to relax and unwind. … One of its iconic landmarks is the Tybee Island Lighthouse, the oldest and tallest lighthouse in Georgia, alongside the smallest lighthouse in the state, the Cockspur Island Lighthouse. After taking in views of the Atlantic from the lighthouses, embark on a deep-sea fishing tour with Brown’s Reel ‘Em N Deep Sea Fishing. Nature lovers will also enjoy birdwatching, as Tybee is positioned on the Colonial Coast Birding Trail.”

Thomasville

“While Atlanta is known as the food capital of Georgia, Thomasville’s restaurant scene is giving it a run for its money. Visitors can enjoy the Taste of Thomasville Food Tour, where local cuisine and stories that highlight the town’s rich history are brought to life. … After you’ve had your fill of delicious food, rent a bike from Hubs and Hops and pedal through the town’s red clay roads. … Nature lovers will also appreciate the Birdsong Nature Center, where miles of trails wind through wildflower meadows, forests, and swamps, showcasing diverse wildlife.”

Tallulah Falls

“The town is home to the breathtaking Tallulah Gorge, a 1,000-foot chasm carved by the Tallulah River, featuring six cascading waterfalls. Hikers can trek along the breathtaking Tallulah Gorge Rim Trails for breathtaking views of the gorge and waterfalls, while Tallulah Gorge State Park is home to picnic areas, a beach, tennis courts, and campgrounds along the shores of Tallulah Lake. … The community spirit in Tallulah Falls shines during Saturday Night Bluegrass Jams, where locals bring their instruments to Main Street for a night of music and camaraderie. Families can sprawl on the grass around a communal bonfire and soak in twangy tunes.”

Miguel Legoas is a Deep South Connect Team Reporter for Gannett/USA Today. Find him on X and Instagram @miguelegoas and email at mlegoas@gannett.com.