Short Road Trips Near Me: 7 Day Trips from Atlanta You’re Going To Want To Take This Year

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I generally try to keep Short Road Trips no longer than a 90 minute drive. This estimate does NOT include Atlanta traffic conditions–just sayin’.  Here are 7 fun day trips from Atlanta.

Each has their own unique personality and are well worth the trip.

Yes, there are many more towns/attractions that could be added to this list, but my goal is to narrow it down for those of us that get overwhelmed by too many choices.

These are some of my favorites and a great way to spend a day that is close to home.

Short Road Trips Near Me – 7 fun day trips from Atlanta

Woodstock

Rounding out our 6 Days Trips from Atlanta list with this gem. Located 35 minutes from Atlanta, Woodstock is a most unexpected destination offering a vibrant downtown with the arts, culinary, outdoor adventure and more.

In the heart of Woodstock, find downtown boutique shopping while nearby retailers offer national brand opportunities as well as Atlanta’s closest outlet shopping.

Over 20 miles of trails meander throughout the city including 14 miles of single-track mountain bike trails make for all-day outdoor adventures.

Lake Allatoona’s shores beckon water enthusiasts, from fishermen to boaters to paddle boarders and kayakers.

A variety of restaurants span global flavors and ambiance options range from fine dining to farm-to-table to fast casual, meaning there’s something on the menu for everyone.

Throughout the week, move to the beat of an energetic town as music venues and theaters serve up world-class entertainment. With year-round events it’s always a good time to visit Woodstock.

Booth Western Art Museum

Explore the American West Without Leaving the South. Open since August 2003, the Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville,  is a Smithsonian Affiliate Museum, just 30 minutes north of Atlanta off I-75. It houses the largest permanent exhibition space for Western American art in the country.

Major temporary exhibits are mounted on a regular basis. Past exhibitions have featured the photographs of Ansel Adams, Frederic Remington’s sculpture and the Western art of Andy Warhol.

Museum Hours

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Sunday: 1 – 5 p.m. Closed Mondays, New Year’s Day, July 4, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Admission (subject to change)

Adult: $13; Senior (65+): $11; Student (with ID): $10; Child (12 and under): Free (accompanied by parent or guardian);

Extend your visit to Cartersville by visiting the Tellus Science Museum, another Smithsonian Affiliate Museum, is a world-class 120000 square foot hands-on science museum. The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM closing only on major holidays. Entrance fees vary.

Brookhaven

Brookhaven is probably the nearest destination in our 6 fun day trips from Atlanta roundup. It is composed of distinct neighborhoods, many with historical significance dating to the 1800. The community-focused vibe welcomes visitors to explore locally owned restaurants, shops, greenspace and more.

Stroll the waterfront Peachtree Creek Greenway and explore the city’s other parks including dog-friendly Brookhaven Park.

Walk around the lake at Murphey Candler Park or enjoy a picnic at Blackburn Park.

Take time to walk the grounds of Oglethorpe University and enjoy their Museum of Art which presents three major and several smaller exhibitions each year. 

Tempt your taste buds with global dining options throughout Brookhaven. This includes the treasure trove of international culinary treats in the community along Buford Highway.

Shop locally in Town Brookhaven and Dresden where you’ll find wines from around the world to refined home décor to apparel for any adventure.

Read 9 of my favorite reasons to visit Brookhaven for more ideas.

Griffin

Located just 40 miles south of Atlanta, Griffin boasts small town charm, quirky cafes, recreation, a thriving art scene, and more.

Film fans should know that more than 100 movies and shows have been filmed in Griffin Spalding. Some films including “Fried Green Tomatoes” in 1992 and “The Walking Dead” TV series in 2011.

Historic downtown Griffin is the heart of the community featuring many locally owned restaurants and cafes. You’ll also find beautiful murals depicting the town’s history and unique shops offering antiques, apparel, and gifts.

Be entertained at the annual Doc Holliday Festival, explore the Griffin-Spalding Sports Hall of Fame, or participate in activities like skeet shooting and pickleball. 

Griffin is no doubt a must-see small-town gem exuding a uniqueness like none other.

Henry County

Henry County is only 30 minutes south of Atlanta, and the perfect stopping point for those en route to Savannah or Orlando.

Southern Belle Farms brings new meaning to eating locally. Pick your own berries and peaches or buy bakery treats that are made in-house. In the fall, cheer for your favorite pig during a pig race or weave your way through the corn maze.

Get your heart racing at the approximately 850-acre Atlanta Motor Speedway, with racing and driving schools.

Let soldiers’ stories come to life at the Heritage Park Veterans Museum where artifacts reveal stories of those who served our country.

Tour the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation and Flying Museum. Here you’ll see a 50-year-old army helicopter while gaining insight into the importance of aviation to our country’s military history.

There’s some great restaurant choices in Henry County. Grab a bite to eat at Shane’s Rib Shack—Henry County is home to the original location where the popular chain first got its start.

The Black Rose Café & Bakehouse serves authentic Mexican cuisine as well as baked goods, coffee and a full bar. It is a family owned business where Mother (owner), daughter and sister/aunt (baker/cook) all work there.

If you’re looking for a great breakfast be sure to check out Southern Fusion Dining. This restaurant is owned by Chef Paul Lewis, a former grenades instructor for the US Army. Be ready for colossal cinnamon rolls, frittatas, chicken and waffles and their famous shrimp and grits.

Read All The Fun Things To Do in Henry County (which includes NASCAR ride alongs and a ride in a historic military helicopter)

Watkinsville

 An hour east of Atlanta and eight miles south of Athens, take the scenic route to Oconee County, Georgia.

At the Oconee County Welcome Center, in historic Watkinsville, grab a complimentary cup of Georgia Bushcraft coffee. While sipping your coffee receive personalized itineraries for every kind of outdoor activity.

Rustic and refined collide with expeditions down the Oconee River. Adventurers make memories along the riverbanks while diving into history. 

Downtown, boutiques make it easy to find the perfect souvenir and a brand-new brewery offers a way to celebrate the day with a sudsy toast.

Museums, art galleries and year-round special events, such as the largest pottery sale in the Southeast or festivals throughout autumn, mean it’s always a good time to visit. 

Locally owned restaurants satisfy the pickiest palates.

The only Clydesdale Farm in the state, Classic City Clydesdales in Oconee County’s Bishop, Georgia, offers farm tours and trail rides.

White, GA

The classic car graveyard in White, GA is an absolute must for everyone from car lovers to photographers. A short 45 minute drive from Atlanta will land you in the middle of one of the coolest stops on a road trip.

Pull up to the nondescript, ramshackle building and enter a colorful, nature-loving world and find 6 miles of trails on 34 acres with 4,000+ cars. Beyond the cars you’ll find artwork, folk art, and so much more.

Be sure to click over to my article about this attraction (link above) to read tips and tricks for visiting and why you shouldn’t leave before stepping in the building at the entrance.

Admission

Tickets start at $20, a little cheaper for those under 13. They offer military discounts.

Hours

Tuesday – Saturday 9a-4p

CLOSED Sunday & Monday.