10 Best Family Weekend Getaways from Atlanta (Within 5 Hours)
Planning a weekend trip from Atlanta? These 10 family-friendly getaways offer beaches, hikes, history & fun, all within a 5-hour drive from the city. Perfect for family road trips!
Atlanta is a great city for families, not just to live in, but to road trip from! Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, charming small towns, or beautiful beaches, you’re in luck. Thanks to its central location, Atlanta offers easy access to some of the best family weekend getaways in the United States, all within about a five-hour drive.
From the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the coast of South Carolina, these 10 fantastic destinations make it easy to hit the road without the stress of a long haul. We’ve taken these short drives ourselves with little ones in tow and can vouch: each one has something for everyone—from toddlers to teens, and from nature lovers to history buffs.
So pack the car, grab snacks, and get ready for your next visit to one of these amazing, family-friendly spots!
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10 Fun Family Weekend Trips a Short Drive from Atlanta
Atlanta is a great hub for travel, and not just flights! These great family weekend getaways from Atlanta might just become your new favorite road trip destinations.
From camping in the woods, charming mountain towns, historic landmarks, amusement parks and beautiful beaches, Atlanta is centrally located to make finding your new favorite destination an easy drive.
1. Blue Ridge, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: ~1.5–2 hours
Why We Love It: Mountains, nature, and small-town charm
Nestled in the North Georgia Mountains, Blue Ridge is a perfect getaway for families craving the great outdoors. You’ll find peaceful scenic views, cozy cabins, and plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and even scenic train rides on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway.
The charming downtown area is full of great restaurants, boutique shops, and handmade crafts. It’s got that southern charm vibe that makes it feel like a storybook town—without the crowds. Anna Ruby Falls and other nearby beautiful waterfalls are a great way to burn energy while exploring.
This is an ideal spot for unplugging and reconnecting as a family—especially if you’re traveling with kids who love nature adventures and parents who love a cozy cabin vibe.
2. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Distance from Atlanta: ~2 hours
Why We Love It: Educational fun + outdoor play
Chattanooga checks so many boxes. Located along the banks of the Tennessee River, this great city is known for blending urban attractions with natural beauty.
Must-dos include the Tennessee Aquarium, one of the top-rated aquariums in the United States, and the Creative Discovery Museum, which is packed with hands-on learning for little ones. History and nature come together at Lookout Mountain, where you can explore Rock City, Ruby Falls, and even take a ride on the Incline Railway.
Parents will appreciate the local art scene and great restaurants, while kids will love Coolidge Park—complete with a carousel and splash pad. Chattanooga is one of those places that balances family fun, historic landmarks, and modern appeal with ease.
3. Callaway Resort & Gardens, Pine Mountain
Distance from Atlanta: ~1.5 hours
Why We Love It: Gardens, zip lines, and butterfly magic
Tucked into Pine Mountain, Callaway Gardens is a favorite destination for families looking for a little bit of everything. There are outdoor activities galore—like biking through colorful trails, visiting the butterfly conservatory, or letting kids try the zip line at TreeTop Adventure.
In the warmer months, Robin Lake Beach opens with a water park feel, complete with inflatable obstacles and a splash pad. Whether you want a low-key weekend strolling through azalea gardens or a more energetic day of tree-climbing and biking, Callaway has you covered.
Pro tip: Book one of the family packages that include meals and access to events. It’s a perfect option for an easy weekend getaway with kids.
4. Jekyll Island, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: ~4.5 hours
Why We Love It: Beaches, sea turtles, and bikes
Part of Georgia’s Golden Isles, Jekyll Island is a dream for families craving a mix of beach days and rich history. The island’s beautiful beaches are quiet and family-friendly, and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center is a must-see for curious kids.
Hop on a bike trail to explore the whole island, or visit the Historic District, home to horse-drawn carriages, grand cottages, and historic buildings from the Gilded Age. You’ll love the slower pace here—it’s a place where screen time takes a backseat to sandcastles and sunsets.
Jekyll is an amazing spot for nature lovers, and the educational element makes it a hit with both parents and kids.
5. Asheville, North Carolina
Distance from Atlanta: ~3.5–4.5 hours
Why We Love It: Mountains, art, and the Blue Ridge Parkway
For families who want a little culture with their mountain air, Asheville is a gem. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s known for its creative energy, beautiful hikes, and the iconic Biltmore Estate—America’s largest private home.
Spend your day exploring the River Arts District, strolling cobblestone streets downtown, or hiking nearby trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which offers some of the most scenic drives in the country.
The food here is as eclectic as the city itself, with great restaurants that cater to both foodie parents and picky eaters. Don’t miss hot cocoa at French Broad Chocolate Lounge or catching live music in Pack Square Park.
6. Helen, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: ~2 hours
Why We Love It: Bavarian vibes and river tubing
Looking for something a little different? Helen is a small town with big personality. Styled like a Bavarian village, Helen offers family fun year-round—from tubing down the Chattahoochee River in summer to Oktoberfest parades in fall.
You’ll find great places to eat (pretzels and schnitzel, anyone?), toy shops, candy stores, and even mini-golf. Outdoorsy families can hike to Anna Ruby Falls, explore Unicoi State Park, or just admire the scenic views of the North Georgia Mountains.
This is the kind of weekend trip that feels both playful and peaceful—perfect for creating core memories.
7. St. Simons Island, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: ~5 hours
Why We Love It: Coastal charm + island fun
Another gem in the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island is known for its southern charm, beautiful beaches, and friendly, relaxed vibe. Families love its bike trails, historic lighthouse, and charming village shops.
Take a dolphin tour, go deep-sea fishing, or play in the tidal pools at East Beach. The historic sites like Fort Frederica give the trip an educational edge, too.
St. Simons is laid-back and low-key, making it a perfect getaway for families looking to recharge by the ocean.
8. Providence Canyon State Park, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: ~2.5 hours
Why We Love It: Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon”
If your crew loves hiking and unique photo ops, Providence Canyon State Park in southwest Georgia is a great place to explore. Nicknamed Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” the colorful canyon walls are a hit with both kids and Instagram-loving parents.
This is a lower-cost, lower-stress kind of day trip or weekend trip, especially great for spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Pack a picnic, lace up the hiking shoes, and let the kids explore nature at their own pace.
9. Tybee Island, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: ~4.5–5 hours
Why We Love It: Quirky beach town with easy Savannah access
Tybee Island is a family-favorite beach destination that’s just 20 minutes from Savannah, Georgia’s oldest city. It’s the best of both worlds—beautiful beaches for the kids and a quick trip into one of the most historic cities in the South for the grownups.
Enjoy sand, surf, and simple fun like biking around the island or visiting the Tybee Island Lighthouse. Plus, Savannah’s Broad Street, historic landmarks, and horse-drawn carriages make for a magical detour.
10. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Distance from Atlanta: ~3.5–4.5 hours (via Gatlinburg or Cherokee)
Why We Love It: Epic views + family hikes in the most visited national park in the U.S.
Last but definitely not least: Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is the most visited national park in the United States, and for good reason. With beautiful hikes, epic mountain scenery, and tons of fun things to do for the whole family, this park is a must-see. In fact, this is one of my own family’s very favorite places to visit.
Stop by the visitor center for ranger-led programs, hike easy trails like Laurel Falls, or drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway nearby. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer amusement parks, water sports, and even Dollywood for added fun.
This one is great for spring break, summer, or even a cozy winter cabin escape.
You might enjoy these other family travel posts, too:
The Ultimate Family Guide to Great Wolf Lodge (Including What to Pack)
Final Thoughts: Which Family Weekend Trip Will You Choose?
Atlanta’s location makes it the perfect launchpad for so many amazing weekend trips. Whether you’re craving natural hot springs, historic cities, outdoor adventures, or just want a change of pace for the weekend, there’s something here for every kind of family.
Bookmark this list, pin it on Pinterest, or share it with your partner or bestie, and start planning your next road trip. You’ve got plenty of options—all within a short drive of downtown Atlanta.
If you enjoyed this family travel article, be sure to pin it on Pinterest using the image below to make it easier to find next time (and to help more families find this information, too)!
