Spring might be one of the best times to visit Georgia (the fall is pretty great too, thanks to all the fall foliage with golden and red leaves). But in the spring, the air hasn’t been taken over by dense humidity and dauntingly hot temperatures that “Hot-lanta” is quite notorious for. It’s a great time to visit parks, tourist attractions, and natural landmarks. In addition, there are festivals to celebrate the onset of blooms and warmth, and native plants, from Dogwood trees to azaleas, are at their peak. Keep reading for inspiration for your spring visit.
Go to the Beach
What Is It? Several famed beaches reside near Savannah, from the sandy beaches in Tybee Island to the winding trees and southern beauty of Jekyll Island.
Why Do It? Spring is a good time to search for deals, especially before spring breakers hit the scene (although these areas are lesser known for partying than Panama City).
Good to Know: That little window in May right before school lets out for summer, is a good time to book a vacay along Georgia’s Atlantic Coast.
See the Nation's Largest Daffodil Display
What Is It? Gibbs Gardens is located north of Atlanta in Ball Ground, Georgia, and is a diversely landscaped area of a few hundred acres. Fifty of those acres become drenched in golden daffodils through the spring.
Why Do It? Intermittently, over six weeks, 200 different types of this majestic flower will make a debut. Gibbs Gardens features the largest display of this particular bloom in the nation with over 20 million flowers carpeting the ground.
Good to Know: Dogwoods and cherry blossoms are also here in the spring.
Visit the Atlanta Botanical Gardens
What Is It? A popular attraction in Atlanta, the Botanical Gardens are ever-changing with each season, and the grounds are an absolute oasis in the middle of a bustling city.
Why Do It? Interesting modern art is met with 80,000 tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, crocuses and many more species of blooms. Whether coming for an afternoon walk, or for a whole day, there’s a surprising amount of things to do here.
Good to Know: The food in the cafe is great, then there’s the interactive children’s garden, and an indoor shop to explore. Every time one visits the gardens, it’s a truly unique trip.
Attend Macon's Cherry Blossom Festival
What Is It? Macon’s International Cherry Blossom Festival typically takes place every spring within the historic downtown vicinity.
Why Do It? There are over 300,000 Yoshino Cherry Trees in Macon, making it a spectacle you won’t want to miss.
Good to Know: A parade, pink pancakes, cherry desserts, of course, and a list of “pinked out” vendors flood the streets for a party that will certainly get you in the mood for spring.
See Atlanta United
What Is It? Basketball is winding down, baseball isn’t quite in full swing and it will be several months before the Falcons hit the field again—but Atlanta United, the city’s elite soccer team, is firing up Mercedes Benz Stadium in the spring.
Why Do It? Come enjoy the outdoor games and freebies before entering the impressive stadium, that might just have its retractable top open on a nice day.
Good to Know: Tweet a pregame selfie of your crew with caption #ATLUTD, and you might just be featured on the massive halo board screen during the game.
Take a Trip to Callaway
What Is It? Callaway Gardens is another signature place to visit come spring, as miles of biking and hiking trails are surrounded by predominantly azaleas, along with a list of other native plants.
Why Do It? There are countless outdoor activities here, making it the perfect spot to celebrate springtime. Plus, the on-site butterfly conservatory is a highlight.
Good to Know: This is something that could either be a day trip, or a full vacation, as the lodge and onsite accommodations are absolutely lovely.
Go to Savannah
What Is It? Savannah, Georgia has one of the largest St. Patty’s Day celebrations in the world in addition to a number of other spring festivals and events. The Savannah Music Festival is a popular one that includes live performances from various genres.
Why Do It? With blooming flowers lining the historic streets and beautiful weather, Savannah offers the perfect backdrop for celebrating spring.
Good to Know: The Savannah Bananas are a “fan first” baseball team, so you’re pretty much guaranteed to have a good time. If you’re visiting in March, make sure to bring your kilt because they have a special St. Patrick’s Day event.
Take a Waterfall Hike
What Is It? Georgia is full of beautiful waterfalls. These natural wonders are a feature of a multitude of hikes in North Georgia—Anna Ruby, Desoto and Dukes Creek to name a few.
Why Do It? Spring adds a dash of color to your journey along these beautiful paths, and of course, the waterfalls present prime photography opportunities while being surrounded by lush, new greener after a long sparse winter.
Good to Know: Spring temperatures are pretty perfect in the mountains as well, and if in an approved area with a proper fishing license, you could cast a line to catch some trout.
See Balloons Set Sail in Helen
What Is It? Toward the end of May, a number of colorful hot air vessels take to the skies for the Helen to the Atlantic Balloon Race. Competitors will float their way over the rolling mountains, on a route that will take them to a finish line along the coast.
Why Do It? Downtown Helen is the perfect backdrop for the spectacle, as late spring brings different foliage, from azaleas to other rhododendron species.
Good to Know: The town itself has a lovely Bavarian flare with quaint streets lined by sweet shops and restaurants.
Eat Stawberries at Southern Belle Farm
What Is It? Southern Belle Farm is one of the best, most exciting places to pick fresh fruit through the warmer months.
Why Do It? In addition to expansive spring strawberry fields, a market offers old fashioned treats and homemade ice cream. A petting zoo, slides and moon bounce are some of the other activities.
Good to Know: Come back through the summer and enjoy blackberries, blueberries, muscadines and peaches.
