If you’re looking for a road trip that takes you to see waterfalls, cobblestone streets, secret beaches, and maybe even a turtle or two, then this Atlanta to Jekyll Island road trip is perfect for you.
This Georgia road trip from Atlanta all the way to the coast is full of must-see spots you’ve probably never heard of, but wish you knew about sooner.
Whether you’re into history, hiking, splashing, or snacking (or all of the above), this route has something fun waiting just around the bend.
1. Atlanta
Atlanta, the largest city in Georgia, is known for its sweet tea, vibrant street art, and as the birthplace of Coca-Cola.
It’s packed with cool spots like the massive Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park.
You’ll also find tons of movie filming locations, giant murals in neighborhoods like Cabbagetown, and a never-ending stream of cars on the long 75/85 Connector.
Don’t forget to visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden for one of the best botanical garden experiences in Georgia.
2. High Falls State Park
About 50 minutes from Atlanta, High Falls State Park is where you trade city traffic for trees and the sounds of rushing water.
The highlight here is a powerful 135-foot waterfall tumbling over rugged rocks, along with a scenic Tranquil Trail loop that winds along the river.
You can rent a kayak to explore the 650-acre lake, camp under the stars, or just chill by the falls and enjoy the scenery.
3. Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park
Next, make your way to Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park in Macon, where you’ll find some of the earliest known traces of human life in the Southeast.
This site showcases massive earthen mounds built over 1,000 years ago by the Mississippian people, including the 55-foot-tall Great Temple Mound.
There’s also a museum with more than 2,000 ancient artifacts, as well as an Earth Lodge with a preserved clay floor that dates back to 1015 AD.
4. Dublin
Keep cruising down I-16 and you’ll reach Dublin, ‘The Emerald City’, a small town with big charm and some fascinating history.
This is where a young Martin Luther King Jr. gave his very first public speech at the historic First African Baptist Church, which you can still visit today.
If you’re passing through in March, the town goes all out with its month-long St. Patrick’s Festival, complete with a leprechaun contest and a balloon parade.
5. Splash in the Boro Waterpark and Aquatics Center
When the Georgia sun starts cranking up the heat, make a splashy stop in Statesboro at Splash in the Boro Waterpark and Aquatics Center.
This place has three giant water slides, a lazy river that loops for 800 feet, and a wave pool where you can bob like a beach ball.
There’s even a relaxing therapy pool for adults (available by private reservation), plus a zero-depth entry zone that’s perfect if you’re traveling with little kids.
6. Savannah
Up next is Savannah, where every street feels like a movie set thanks to the moss-draped oak trees, cobblestone squares, and spooky old mansions.
You can stroll through Forsyth Park, snap a pic of the famous fountain, or hop on a trolley tour to hear ghost stories and wild local legends.
Don’t skip a walk down River Street, where you’ll see old cotton warehouses turned into candy shops, restaurants, and cozy spots to take in the views.
7. Fort Frederica National Monument
Before you hit the beach, take a little detour to St. Simons Island and explore Fort Frederica National Monument.
Back in the 1700s, this was a British fort built to defend the area against Spanish invasion.
Today, you can walk through the remains of that history, with tabby ruins, old cannons, and even the outline of the original village streets still visible.
There’s also a short walking trail that winds through giant oaks draped in moss.
8. Jekyll Island
Finally, you’ve made it to Jekyll Island, where you can experience the beauty of Georgia’s coastline.
You can cruise the island’s 24 miles of bike paths, meet sea turtles at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, or take photos of the hauntingly beautiful Driftwood Beach.
Fun fact: The island was once a secret getaway for elites like the Rockefellers and Vanderbilts, and their fancy Gilded Age cottages are still open for tours.
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