Atlanta stands as the capital of Georgia and unofficial capital of the “New South.”  Known as a melting pot with transplants from all over the world and a huge diversity of people, I’m happy to have had the chance to attend college here at Georgia Tech and return to call it my home now.

Atlanta City Facts:

• Founded in 1837 as the transportation hub of two railroads
• Nicknamed “the city in a forest” because of the city’s dense tree coverage 
• Home of the world’s busiest airport, the Coca-Cola Company, the world’s largest indoor aquarium, and best-selling novel Gone With The Wind

Atlanta Insider’s Tip: 

Beat the hot Southern heat for FREE by floating the Chattahoochee River aka  “shooting the hooch.” 

Augusta is my hometown and home of The Masters golf tournament.  I grew up on sweet tea, golf, and good old Southern cooking.  Beyond a thriving arts community and ever-evolving foodie scene, this charming Southern city has plenty of other activities to enjoy like kayaking, biking, shopping, and more.

Augusta City Facts:

• Founded in 1736 at the Savannah River on the Georgia-South Carolina border 
• Nicknamed “The Garden City” 
• Home to major army base of Fort Gordon, the Augusta National, the Medical College of Georgia and the future National Cyber Security Headquarters 

Augusta Insider’s Tip: 

Looking for a great BBQ joint?  Try Sconyers.  It’s only open Thursday through Saturday but some of the best!  You can’t miss the giant reclining pig out front.

Clayton is a small town in North Georgia located in the Blue Ridge Mountains.  Clayton sits in Rabun County where there are plenty of trails to hike, lakes & waterfalls to explore, camping opportunities and more. For a peaceful destination to get outdoors and enjoy nature, check out Clayton, GA.

Clayton City Facts:

• Originally named the Dividings & Claytonville, Clayton was incorporated in 1823
• Population just over 2,000 people
• Part of the Disney movie Old Yeller was filmed in Clayton in 1957

Clayton Insider’s Tip: 

Make a pit stop at Wander North Georgia’s Main Street boutique for some rustic yet stylish outdoor themed souvenirs.

Jekyll Island is one of the Sea Islands and one of the Golden Isles of Georgia barrier islands.  With tons of biking trails, beautiful beaches, golf, numerous historical structures to explore and a lush wildlife scene, the island has plenty to entertain any traveler.

Jekyll Island Facts:

• Developed as private vacation homes in the late 19th century by wealthy American business men
• The island measures about 7 miles long 
• One of only four Georgia barrier islands that you can drive a car onto from the mainland

Jekyll Island Insider’s Tip: 

There are a ton of great multi-day workshops at the Jekyll Island Club Hotel that are fun and educational for guests visiting the island.

As Georgia’s oldest city in the state, Savannah comes complete with hundred year old oak trees covered in Spanish moss, cobblestone streets with horse-drawn carriages, and plenty of antebellum architecture with perfectly manicured gardens to explore.  A romantic Southern city with near-by Tybee Island lighthouse, beautiful Forsyth Park, and an unlimited number of antique stores ready for you to explore.

City Facts:

• Founded in 1733 on the coast of Georgia at the Savannah River
• A strategic port city in the Amercian Revolution & Civil War
• Home to the Savannah College of Art & Design, the famous 22 squares in the historic district, and setting for the book & movie Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil

Savannah Insider’s Tip: 

Riding a bike is the BEST way to explore Savannah hands down… just make sure you go with the flow of traffic and that you don’t ride on the sidewalks.