clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile
An outdoor patio on a roof. There are couches with blue cushions, tables, and a white gazebo. It is sunset and the sky is purple and pink.
The Penthouse Suite of The Partridge Inn in Augusta doesn’t disappoint with its outdoor deck.
The Partridge Inn

Mapped: 21 top places to stay within easy driving distance of Atlanta

From the mountains to the beach, find remarkable Peach State lodging for every budget and style

View as Map
The Penthouse Suite of The Partridge Inn in Augusta doesn’t disappoint with its outdoor deck.
| The Partridge Inn

When it’s time to escape the hustle and bustle of the city (and the traffic!), Atlantans have a wealth of options to consider. Georgia is one of the few states that offers both mountain and beach destinations, with so much in between.

From full-service luxury to a quaint bed-and-breakfast and a serene retreat in the forest, travelers will likely just find what they’re longing for at one of the following accommodations. And the best part is, most can be reached within five hours or less.

Check out these properties, Atlanta, then start planning that next road trip.

Read More

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

Copy Link

Escape to the fresh water, and enjoy lazy days boating on Lake Oconee or swimming in the infinity pool at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee in Greensboro. With five championship golf courses, a full-service spa, seven restaurants, and a variety of outdoor activities, guests will find nothing lacking at this property. And, each night before withdrawing to their room overlooking the lake, visitors can indulge their sweet tooth by making s’mores around the campfire behind the hotel. 

Chairs surrounding fire pit with hotel in background. Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

Great Wolf Lodge

Copy Link

Quick family vacations near Atlanta are a howling good time at the Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange. While the kids will love splashing in the waterpark, tackling the indoor ropes course, and fulfilling journeys in MagiQuest, parents will love the farm-to-table dining at Barnwood and relaxing by the outdoor swimming pool. When taking a break from the water, there’s no shortage of daily activities like story time and character meet-and-greets. Plus, Great Wolf Lodge has a great selection of both regular and themed rooms for families of all sizes.

Graduate Athens

Copy Link

Athens is known for its music scene, and the Graduate Athens provides the perfect spot to stay while visiting this college town. It’s located within the Foundry building, and guests don’t have to venture far to enjoy live music. Onsite dining at The Foundry Bar & Mill and Iron Works Coffee means guests have options, while they’re just steps from downtown Athens, too. The hotel also is close to all University of Georgia action for those who have business or leisure planned on campus.

A lounge with colorful chairs, tables, and a circular chandelier hanging from the ceiling.
Graduate Athens
Courtesy of Graduate Athens/Christian Horan

Jekyll Island Club Resort

Copy Link

One of the prestigious Historic Hotels of America, the Jekyll Island Club Resort provides truly inspiring opportunities for visitors to enjoy a natural getaway without sacrificing city comfort. For those who don’t want to wander far from their guest room, the resort pool sits right behind the main buildings. Guests looking for fun in the sand and surf will find it at the resort’s oceanfront property, complete with beach chairs, umbrellas and towels. See who turns out to be the best player on the croquet lawn, go for a bike ride across the (flat) island, or just wander the paths along the grounds. (Pro tip: Christmastime is especially magical.)

A large green lawn is in the foreground. In the background is a resort building.
Jekyll Island Club Resort
GoldenIsles.com

Antebellum Inn

Copy Link

Built in 1890, the Antebellum Inn prides itself on serving up true Southern hospitality coupled with a gourmet country breakfast, featuring farm fresh eggs, bacon, sausage, raspberry French toast, homemade quiches, and more. The inn is conveniently located near many of Milledgeville’s top attractions, including The Old Governor’s Mansion, Georgia’s Old Capitol Museum, and Andalusia, the home of author Flannery O’Connor.

Columbus Marriott

Copy Link

Housed in a restored cotton mill, the Columbus Marriott sits at the edge of Columbus’s historic residential district and within walking distance of the city’s Uptown dining, entertainment, and touring district along the Chattahoochee River. The hotel has 177 rooms, two onsite restaurants, and an outdoor swimming pool. For more activities in Columbus, consider riding the river rapids, biking along the RiverWalk, or shopping for souvenirs. 

The interior of a hotel room. There is a bed, two arm chairs, a table, and multiple lamps. Courtesy of Columbus Marriott

Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa

Copy Link

Located near the Georgia-North Carolina state line in Young Harris, the Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa offers everything one could want: comfortable accommodations, onsite dining, a full-service spa, and activities like golf, horseback riding, and hiking. Or just relax on the back porch and take in the views of the North Georgia Mountains. Either choice is a win-win. 

An aerial view of a large resort building surrounded by trees and grass. Courtesy of Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa

Barnsley Resort

Copy Link

For those wanting a one-stop escape, set the GPS for Barnsley Resort in Adairsville. Built to resemble an English village, this resort provides an array of guest rooms housed in the many cottages around the property. Book a standard hotel-style room, or rent out an entire cottage with up to seven bedrooms to share with the entire family, a group of girlfriends, or a bachelor party weekend. Resort amenities range from golf, fishing, and sport-shooting to a full-service spa, horseback riding, and several onsite dining spots.

The exterior of a cottage. The facade is green with a brown roof.
A cottage at Barnsley Resort
Karon Warren

Amicalola Falls Lodge

Copy Link

Sitting just above gorgeous Amicalola Falls in Amicalola Falls State Park, the Amicalola Falls Lodge in Dawsonville offers a quiet retreat in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains. In addition to 57 lodge rooms, visitors also can choose from one-, two- or three-bedroom cabins, or a tent or RV campsite in the nearby campground. Amenities like Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and onsite dining will make guests feel like they’re still in the city, while panoramic views of the surrounding mountains will erase all that. 

The exterior of a large lodge surrounded by multi-color trees in Autumn. Georgia Department of Natural Resources

Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort

Copy Link

Geographically speaking, it may not be that far from Atlanta, but the Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort feels a world away. Overlooking Stone Mountain, hotel amenities include onsite dining, a spa, pool, golf, and hiking trails. For more adventure, check out Stone Mountain Park’s many attractions and activities, like canoeing on the lake, hiking up the mountain, or picnicking on the Great Lawn in front of the grand monzonite dome. 

A pool lounge area behind a resort building. There is a swimming pool and many lounge chairs and tables. Courtesy of Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort

Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

Copy Link

When heading out for a road trip from Atlanta, Savannah has to be on the itinerary. And when visiting Savannah, the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa provides an ideal escape. Sitting along the Savannah River, across from the city’s famed River Street, this hotel welcomes guests to spend their days lounging by the pool watching the river traffic go by. There’s a full-service spa with golf just minutes away, plus several onsite dining options. The hotel also offers complimentary shuttle service to Savannah’s historic downtown for sightseeing, shopping, dining, and more. 

An aerial view of a large resort building surrounded by a body of water with a boat marina. Courtesy of Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

The Partridge Inn Augusta, Curio Collection by Hilton

Copy Link

A part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, The Partridge Inn started as a 1836 home that was expanded through the decades. Although the number of guest rooms increased, the intimate grace and charm of the property remains unchanged. Whether relaxing on the verandah, hanging by the swimming pool, or resting in your room, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the property. For a truly special stay, book the Penthouse Suite, complete with four bedrooms and an outdoor deck with views that will amaze.

Valhalla Resort Hotel

Copy Link

Freshly opened in summer 2017, the Valhalla Resort Hotel at Innsbruck Resort and Golf Club in Helen offers visitors all-king suites outfitted with fireplaces, smart TVs, and balconies overlooking the golf course and the surrounding North Georgia Mountains. Hotel amenities include deluxe spa services, an outdoor swimming pool, and three onsite restaurants. Also, the property offers pet-friendly rooms so travelers can bring their furry friends along for the ride. In addition, the property is just minutes from Helen, where guests can explore the alpine village for unique souvenirs—and suds. 

Aerial view of hotel with swimming pool. Courtesy of Valhalla Resort Hotel

Best Western Plus Windsor Hotel

Copy Link

Built in 1892, the Best Western Plus Windsor Hotel has long welcomed visitors to come and enjoy its Victorian charms. Dominating almost an entire city block in downtown Americus, the five-story hotel architecture features a tower, a turret, and the three-story open atrium, complete with balconies. Most recently renovated in 2010, the hotel serves as a second home for guests wanting to explore the history of Americus and nearby Plains, home to former President Jimmy Carter. 

The exterior of a hotel building. The building is red with a tower and a chimney. It is surrounded by a large parking lot. Courtesy of Best Western Plus Windsor Hotel

Cloudland Canyon State Park

Copy Link

For something off the beaten path, book a stay at a yurt in Cloudland Canyon State Park in Rising Fawn near the Georgia-Tennessee state line. These accommodations feature bunk beds, tables, chairs, and other furnishings. Outside, find a picnic table, fire pit, and deck with chairs. For those wanting to do more than relax and read a good book, park activities include hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, geocaching, and disc golf. 

The interior of a large tent that has bunk beds, chairs, and a table.
A yurt interior.
365 Atlanta Family

The 1884 Paxton Historic House Hotel

Copy Link

Located in the southern region of the state, not far from the Georgia-Florida state line, The 1884 Paxton Historic House Hotel was built by James W. Paxton of Wheeling, W. Va., in, yes, 1884. Today, the property features a selection of guest rooms in four areas: the Main House, the Garden Cottage, the Carriage House, and the Pool House. Each one offers a peaceful respite for guests, as do the property grounds. Go for a walk, read a book on the porch, or pedal to town on one of the property’s bicycles. 

Blue Victorian house lit up at night. Courtesy of the 1884 Paxton Historic House Hotel

Ellijay River House

Copy Link

A new addition to Historic Downtown Ellijay, the Ellijay River House is a bed-and-breakfast housed in a 1915 Craftsman home. Featuring four rooms, the B&B is steps from Ellijay’s downtown square, which bustles with restaurants, a wine tasting room, shopping, and entertainment. Those looking for outdoor adventures—hiking, mountain-biking, tubing, paddling, and more—in the area will find those just minutes from Ellijay River House.

The exterior of a house with a red brick facade and a covered outdoor entrance. There is a lawn with a surrounding fence in front of the house. Karon Warren

Historic Banning Mills

Copy Link

A world of adventure awaits at Historic Banning Mills in Whitesburg, not far off Interstate 20 East. Spend the days zipping through the trees, or brave the world’s tallest freestanding climbing wall. Don’t miss the birds of prey show or the Ancient Art of Falconry program, both of which provide guests with up-close-and-personal experiences with some amazing birds. At the end of the day, head to one of the property’s treehouse rooms, a fun take on the traditional hotel lodge. 

A treehouse with a bridge leading to the entrance. The treehouse is orange with a brown roof.
Treehouse at Historic Banning Mills
Karon Warren

Merry Acres Inn

Copy Link

Fans of historic Southern charm will enjoy a retro getaway at Merry Acres Inn in Albany. Built in 1952, this boutique-style hotel features 110 rooms, a swimming pool, and a complimentary buffet breakfast. Catch up over cocktails at the onsite Manor House Pub while live music on the hotel’s verandah fills the air. Tip: Take the inn’s free shuttle to the Stewbos family of restaurants for a fun evening out.

The Dillard House

Copy Link

Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, The Dillard House started welcoming guests in an original, six-room building. Today, it maintains 92 guest rooms and suites, plus almost 30 cottages and chalets. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served family-style in the restaurant, with a menu filled with such Southern favorites as fried chicken, rice, gravy, country ham, green beans, creamed corn, lima beans, fried squash, homemade yeast rolls, and the restaurant’s famous apple butter. To work up appetites, guests can wander the property, take a dip in the pool, or go horseback riding. 

Lounge chairs surrounding a swimming pool. Courtesy of The Dillard House

The 1842 Inn

Copy Link

Situated in the heart of the National Register Historic District's Intown Neighborhood in Macon, the 1842 Inn occupies a gorgeous antebellum mansion showcasing the best of Greek revival architecture. With 19 guest rooms located in the main house and the Victorian Cottage on the property, the 1842 Inn invites guests to enjoy one of four public parlors, the wraparound veranda, and the garden and courtyard. In addition to breakfast each morning, the inn also serves complimentary hors d’oeuvres during the daily evening hospitality hour. Added bonus: homemade cookies in the parlor. 

The exterior of a white house with columns and multiple windows. There is a path leading up to the house which has grass on both sides. Courtesy of The 1842 Inn

Loading comments...

The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

Escape to the fresh water, and enjoy lazy days boating on Lake Oconee or swimming in the infinity pool at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee in Greensboro. With five championship golf courses, a full-service spa, seven restaurants, and a variety of outdoor activities, guests will find nothing lacking at this property. And, each night before withdrawing to their room overlooking the lake, visitors can indulge their sweet tooth by making s’mores around the campfire behind the hotel. 

Chairs surrounding fire pit with hotel in background. Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

Great Wolf Lodge

Quick family vacations near Atlanta are a howling good time at the Great Wolf Lodge in LaGrange. While the kids will love splashing in the waterpark, tackling the indoor ropes course, and fulfilling journeys in MagiQuest, parents will love the farm-to-table dining at Barnwood and relaxing by the outdoor swimming pool. When taking a break from the water, there’s no shortage of daily activities like story time and character meet-and-greets. Plus, Great Wolf Lodge has a great selection of both regular and themed rooms for families of all sizes.

Graduate Athens

Athens is known for its music scene, and the Graduate Athens provides the perfect spot to stay while visiting this college town. It’s located within the Foundry building, and guests don’t have to venture far to enjoy live music. Onsite dining at The Foundry Bar & Mill and Iron Works Coffee means guests have options, while they’re just steps from downtown Athens, too. The hotel also is close to all University of Georgia action for those who have business or leisure planned on campus.

A lounge with colorful chairs, tables, and a circular chandelier hanging from the ceiling.
Graduate Athens
Courtesy of Graduate Athens/Christian Horan

Jekyll Island Club Resort

One of the prestigious Historic Hotels of America, the Jekyll Island Club Resort provides truly inspiring opportunities for visitors to enjoy a natural getaway without sacrificing city comfort. For those who don’t want to wander far from their guest room, the resort pool sits right behind the main buildings. Guests looking for fun in the sand and surf will find it at the resort’s oceanfront property, complete with beach chairs, umbrellas and towels. See who turns out to be the best player on the croquet lawn, go for a bike ride across the (flat) island, or just wander the paths along the grounds. (Pro tip: Christmastime is especially magical.)

A large green lawn is in the foreground. In the background is a resort building.
Jekyll Island Club Resort
GoldenIsles.com

Antebellum Inn

Built in 1890, the Antebellum Inn prides itself on serving up true Southern hospitality coupled with a gourmet country breakfast, featuring farm fresh eggs, bacon, sausage, raspberry French toast, homemade quiches, and more. The inn is conveniently located near many of Milledgeville’s top attractions, including The Old Governor’s Mansion, Georgia’s Old Capitol Museum, and Andalusia, the home of author Flannery O’Connor.

Columbus Marriott

Housed in a restored cotton mill, the Columbus Marriott sits at the edge of Columbus’s historic residential district and within walking distance of the city’s Uptown dining, entertainment, and touring district along the Chattahoochee River. The hotel has 177 rooms, two onsite restaurants, and an outdoor swimming pool. For more activities in Columbus, consider riding the river rapids, biking along the RiverWalk, or shopping for souvenirs. 

The interior of a hotel room. There is a bed, two arm chairs, a table, and multiple lamps. Courtesy of Columbus Marriott

Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa

Located near the Georgia-North Carolina state line in Young Harris, the Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa offers everything one could want: comfortable accommodations, onsite dining, a full-service spa, and activities like golf, horseback riding, and hiking. Or just relax on the back porch and take in the views of the North Georgia Mountains. Either choice is a win-win. 

An aerial view of a large resort building surrounded by trees and grass. Courtesy of Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa

Barnsley Resort

For those wanting a one-stop escape, set the GPS for Barnsley Resort in Adairsville. Built to resemble an English village, this resort provides an array of guest rooms housed in the many cottages around the property. Book a standard hotel-style room, or rent out an entire cottage with up to seven bedrooms to share with the entire family, a group of girlfriends, or a bachelor party weekend. Resort amenities range from golf, fishing, and sport-shooting to a full-service spa, horseback riding, and several onsite dining spots.

The exterior of a cottage. The facade is green with a brown roof.
A cottage at Barnsley Resort
Karon Warren

Amicalola Falls Lodge

Sitting just above gorgeous Amicalola Falls in Amicalola Falls State Park, the Amicalola Falls Lodge in Dawsonville offers a quiet retreat in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains. In addition to 57 lodge rooms, visitors also can choose from one-, two- or three-bedroom cabins, or a tent or RV campsite in the nearby campground. Amenities like Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and onsite dining will make guests feel like they’re still in the city, while panoramic views of the surrounding mountains will erase all that. 

The exterior of a large lodge surrounded by multi-color trees in Autumn. Georgia Department of Natural Resources

Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort

Geographically speaking, it may not be that far from Atlanta, but the Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort feels a world away. Overlooking Stone Mountain, hotel amenities include onsite dining, a spa, pool, golf, and hiking trails. For more adventure, check out Stone Mountain Park’s many attractions and activities, like canoeing on the lake, hiking up the mountain, or picnicking on the Great Lawn in front of the grand monzonite dome. 

A pool lounge area behind a resort building. There is a swimming pool and many lounge chairs and tables. Courtesy of Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort

Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

When heading out for a road trip from Atlanta, Savannah has to be on the itinerary. And when visiting Savannah, the Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa provides an ideal escape. Sitting along the Savannah River, across from the city’s famed River Street, this hotel welcomes guests to spend their days lounging by the pool watching the river traffic go by. There’s a full-service spa with golf just minutes away, plus several onsite dining options. The hotel also offers complimentary shuttle service to Savannah’s historic downtown for sightseeing, shopping, dining, and more. 

An aerial view of a large resort building surrounded by a body of water with a boat marina. Courtesy of Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa

The Partridge Inn Augusta, Curio Collection by Hilton

A part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, The Partridge Inn started as a 1836 home that was expanded through the decades. Although the number of guest rooms increased, the intimate grace and charm of the property remains unchanged. Whether relaxing on the verandah, hanging by the swimming pool, or resting in your room, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the property. For a truly special stay, book the Penthouse Suite, complete with four bedrooms and an outdoor deck with views that will amaze.

Valhalla Resort Hotel

Freshly opened in summer 2017, the Valhalla Resort Hotel at Innsbruck Resort and Golf Club in Helen offers visitors all-king suites outfitted with fireplaces, smart TVs, and balconies overlooking the golf course and the surrounding North Georgia Mountains. Hotel amenities include deluxe spa services, an outdoor swimming pool, and three onsite restaurants. Also, the property offers pet-friendly rooms so travelers can bring their furry friends along for the ride. In addition, the property is just minutes from Helen, where guests can explore the alpine village for unique souvenirs—and suds. 

Aerial view of hotel with swimming pool. Courtesy of Valhalla Resort Hotel

Best Western Plus Windsor Hotel

Built in 1892, the Best Western Plus Windsor Hotel has long welcomed visitors to come and enjoy its Victorian charms. Dominating almost an entire city block in downtown Americus, the five-story hotel architecture features a tower, a turret, and the three-story open atrium, complete with balconies. Most recently renovated in 2010, the hotel serves as a second home for guests wanting to explore the history of Americus and nearby Plains, home to former President Jimmy Carter. 

The exterior of a hotel building. The building is red with a tower and a chimney. It is surrounded by a large parking lot. Courtesy of Best Western Plus Windsor Hotel

Cloudland Canyon State Park

For something off the beaten path, book a stay at a yurt in Cloudland Canyon State Park in Rising Fawn near the Georgia-Tennessee state line. These accommodations feature bunk beds, tables, chairs, and other furnishings. Outside, find a picnic table, fire pit, and deck with chairs. For those wanting to do more than relax and read a good book, park activities include hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, geocaching, and disc golf. 

The interior of a large tent that has bunk beds, chairs, and a table.
A yurt interior.
365 Atlanta Family

The 1884 Paxton Historic House Hotel

Located in the southern region of the state, not far from the Georgia-Florida state line, The 1884 Paxton Historic House Hotel was built by James W. Paxton of Wheeling, W. Va., in, yes, 1884. Today, the property features a selection of guest rooms in four areas: the Main House, the Garden Cottage, the Carriage House, and the Pool House. Each one offers a peaceful respite for guests, as do the property grounds. Go for a walk, read a book on the porch, or pedal to town on one of the property’s bicycles. 

Blue Victorian house lit up at night. Courtesy of the 1884 Paxton Historic House Hotel

Ellijay River House

A new addition to Historic Downtown Ellijay, the Ellijay River House is a bed-and-breakfast housed in a 1915 Craftsman home. Featuring four rooms, the B&B is steps from Ellijay’s downtown square, which bustles with restaurants, a wine tasting room, shopping, and entertainment. Those looking for outdoor adventures—hiking, mountain-biking, tubing, paddling, and more—in the area will find those just minutes from Ellijay River House.

The exterior of a house with a red brick facade and a covered outdoor entrance. There is a lawn with a surrounding fence in front of the house. Karon Warren

Historic Banning Mills

A world of adventure awaits at Historic Banning Mills in Whitesburg, not far off Interstate 20 East. Spend the days zipping through the trees, or brave the world’s tallest freestanding climbing wall. Don’t miss the birds of prey show or the Ancient Art of Falconry program, both of which provide guests with up-close-and-personal experiences with some amazing birds. At the end of the day, head to one of the property’s treehouse rooms, a fun take on the traditional hotel lodge. 

A treehouse with a bridge leading to the entrance. The treehouse is orange with a brown roof.
Treehouse at Historic Banning Mills
Karon Warren

Merry Acres Inn

Fans of historic Southern charm will enjoy a retro getaway at Merry Acres Inn in Albany. Built in 1952, this boutique-style hotel features 110 rooms, a swimming pool, and a complimentary buffet breakfast. Catch up over cocktails at the onsite Manor House Pub while live music on the hotel’s verandah fills the air. Tip: Take the inn’s free shuttle to the Stewbos family of restaurants for a fun evening out.

The Dillard House

Celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, The Dillard House started welcoming guests in an original, six-room building. Today, it maintains 92 guest rooms and suites, plus almost 30 cottages and chalets. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served family-style in the restaurant, with a menu filled with such Southern favorites as fried chicken, rice, gravy, country ham, green beans, creamed corn, lima beans, fried squash, homemade yeast rolls, and the restaurant’s famous apple butter. To work up appetites, guests can wander the property, take a dip in the pool, or go horseback riding. 

Lounge chairs surrounding a swimming pool. Courtesy of The Dillard House

The 1842 Inn

Situated in the heart of the National Register Historic District's Intown Neighborhood in Macon, the 1842 Inn occupies a gorgeous antebellum mansion showcasing the best of Greek revival architecture. With 19 guest rooms located in the main house and the Victorian Cottage on the property, the 1842 Inn invites guests to enjoy one of four public parlors, the wraparound veranda, and the garden and courtyard. In addition to breakfast each morning, the inn also serves complimentary hors d’oeuvres during the daily evening hospitality hour. Added bonus: homemade cookies in the parlor. 

The exterior of a white house with columns and multiple windows. There is a path leading up to the house which has grass on both sides. Courtesy of The 1842 Inn