Family trip couple of days outside of Atlanta

Question

Will be in Atlanta with my family of 6 (daughters in their 20s) the first week of May and have a couple of nights to spare. Would appreciate ideas of places to stay or visit and activities outside of Atlanta. We like outdoors, scenery, orchards,lakes, mountains, but can't do hiking.

Answer

It sounds like you have a great trip planned for the first week of May! If you're looking for a relaxing getaway with your family, there are plenty of beautiful spots just outside of Atlanta that offer scenic views, outdoor activities, and a peaceful atmosphere—all without requiring strenuous hiking. Here are some suggestions for places to stay and things to do during your couple of days outside Atlanta:

1. Blue Ridge (Georgia Mountains)

Blue Ridge is a charming mountain town about 1.5 hours north of Atlanta. It’s known for its scenic views, quaint downtown area, and the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains. You can enjoy beautiful drives through the mountains, visit local orchards and wineries, and relax by the lake. Here are some activities to consider:

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway: Take a leisurely train ride along the Toccoa River to enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery. It's a relaxing way to see the area without having to hike.
Lake Blue Ridge: Spend time by the water, perhaps on a boat tour or renting kayaks or paddleboards (without the need for hiking). There are plenty of places to picnic and enjoy the lakeside views.
Orchards & Wineries: Explore local orchards like Mercier Orchards, which offer fresh fruit, pies, and a scenic farm experience. The vineyards in the area also offer wine tastings with stunning mountain views.

2. Helen, Georgia (Alpine Village)

Helen is about 1.5 hours northeast of Atlanta and offers a unique, Bavarian-inspired village in the heart of the North Georgia Mountains. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a European town, complete with shops, restaurants, and plenty of outdoor beauty. Here are some options:

Chattahoochee River Walk: This is a gentle, paved walk along the river where you can enjoy the outdoors, with no strenuous hiking required. It's great for families and offers some beautiful scenery.
Unicoi State Park: While Unicoi does have some hiking trails, there are also opportunities for scenic drives, fishing in the lake, and just relaxing in the park. You could also visit the Unicoi Lake for a serene afternoon by the water.
Alpine Village Shopping & Dining: Enjoy the Bavarian-themed shops and restaurants in the town, many of which offer outdoor seating with great views of the surrounding mountains.

3. Dawsonville & Amicalola Falls State Park

If you’re looking for a place that's known for its natural beauty but still want to avoid strenuous hiking, Dawsonville, located about an hour north of Atlanta, offers scenic spots and easy outdoor activities. The Amicalola Falls area is stunning and offers accessible viewing platforms to enjoy the falls from a safe and easy distance.

Amicalola Falls: Although the full trail to the falls can be challenging, there are accessible viewing platforms and a paved path that leads to a beautiful overlook of the falls, allowing you to enjoy the sights without a strenuous hike.
North Georgia Premium Outlets: If your family enjoys shopping, you can visit the outlet mall in Dawsonville for a fun afternoon of browsing stores.

4. Lake Lanier & Buford

Just 45 minutes north of Atlanta, Lake Lanier offers many lakeside activities without needing to hike. You can rent a boat, enjoy water sports, or simply relax by the shore. There are also lots of parks and picnic areas around the lake. Here are some options:

Lake Lanier Islands: Stay at one of the resorts on the lake, enjoy a boat tour, or visit the beach areas for a fun, family-friendly day by the water.
Buford Dam Park: If you're looking for a quiet place to picnic and relax by the water, this park offers plenty of space with scenic views of the lake and dam.

5. Callaway Gardens

Located about 1.5 hours south of Atlanta, Callaway Gardens is a beautiful resort and nature park with plenty of relaxing outdoor activities. Known for its beautiful gardens, lakes, and family-friendly atmosphere, Callaway Gardens is a wonderful choice for families who want to enjoy nature without any strenuous hiking.

Butterfly Center & Gardens: Explore the world’s largest glass-enclosed butterfly conservatory, where you can learn about butterflies and walk through beautiful gardens.
Boating on the Lake: You can rent paddle boats or canoes to explore the serene lakes, offering a peaceful and scenic experience for the whole family.
Garden Strolls: There are several paved walking paths that will let you enjoy the stunning flower gardens, without requiring a hike.

Each of these destinations offers something unique for families who love the outdoors but prefer not to hike. Whether you choose the mountains of Blue Ridge, the Bavarian charm of Helen, or the peaceful lakeside experiences at Lake Lanier or Callaway Gardens, there are plenty of beautiful places to relax and enjoy time with your family!

Family trip couple of days outside of Atlanta

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