Three weekend not-super-far escapes from Atlanta
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Rabun Bald, Georgia's second-tallest peak, near Clayton. Photo: Courtesy of Explore Rabun
Go north, go south, go somewhere. Might we propose one small but mighty city, a mountain retreat and a postcard-perfect small town?
Why it matters: These overnight escapes have charm and reasons to stick around — and are just far enough away to feel you've escaped Atlanta without ruing the ride home.
The bottom line: Yes, springtime might be the best time in Atlanta but an occasional absence makes the heart for home grow fonder.
- Pack up and get going, road warrior.
🥾 Chattanooga, Tennessee
⏱ ~Two hours northwest of Atlanta
Why go: A mammoth river, towering mountains and a charming and revitalized downtown.
Do this: Explore the Bluff View Art District, head underground at Raccoon Mountain Caverns and hike Lookout Mountain's Guild-Hardy Trail.
Eat here: Eat Gong Bao chicken with dan dan noodles at Ernest Chinese followed by gelato at Milk & Honey or a cocktail at Unknown Caller, a speakeasy bar.
Side stop: Hop off I-75 in Dalton for a slice at Cyra's or one of the city's excellent authentic Mexican restaurants.
🏘️ Madison, Georgia
⏱ ~1.5 hours east of Atlanta
Why go: From the downtown shops and restaurants to the avenues lined with antebellum homes, it's the quintessential Southern town.
Do this: Tour Heritage Hall, a potentially haunted mansion dating to the early 1800s, and shop for lamps and vintage goods at In High Cotton.
Eat here: Enjoy modern Southern fare inside a former cotton warehouse at Town 220 and go British-inspired gastropub at Hart & Crown Tavern.
Side stop: Buy a chicken biscuit at Farmview Market in Rutledge.
🏔️ Clayton, Georgia
⏱ ~Two hours northeast of Atlanta
Why go: The mellow northeast Georgia mountain town serves up outdoor activities, stunning views and farm-to-table food.
Do this: Hike Tallulah Gorge State Park, sip wine at Tiger Mountain Vineyards and meet local hikers and travelers at outfitter Wander North Georgia.
Eat here: Enjoy banana bread French toast at The Rusty Bike and visit Fortify Kitchen & Bar for locally sourced ingredients and seasonal menus.
Side stop: Snap a photo and grab a snack at The General Store in Tallulah Falls, a roadside shop with cliffside views.