Longing to get out and travel? You’ll find a wide variety of day trips you can easily take from Buckhead. You don’t have to put your travel plans on hold thanks to the range of activities you can find close to home. Of course, finding a place to visit that will please everyone in the family can feel like a big challenge. That’s where Crème de la Crème of Buckhead comes in.

We’ve put together a list of trips within an hour or so of the area to make planning your next family adventure a breeze. Whether you’re planning ahead for an upcoming weekend or setting out on a whim, you’ll find so much to do just a short drive away. From nature hikes to museums and much more, you can find just about anything you’re looking for right outside Atlanta.

Athens, Georgia

You don’t have to hop on a plane to enjoy the classics. Located just a little more than an hour from Atlanta, Georgia’s very own Athens is often dubbed “The Classic City.” A day trip here offers something for everyone thanks to its rich history (fun fact: Athens boasts the first state-chartered university in the country, the University of Georgia), booming music scene, and abundance of family-friendly activities.

If you have some budding artists in your brood, you’ll want to make sure you stop by the Georgia Museum of Art while you’re in town. Not only is this Georgia’s official state museum, but it’s also free to visit. You’ll find over 10,000 individual pieces here, including works from the Italian Renaissance, 19th- and 20th-century American artists, and more. You’re also sure to inspire your kids when you visit one of the temporary exhibits featuring student artwork.

Blue Ridge, Georgia

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Blue Ridge offers the ideal getaway if you’re looking to escape the fast pace and neverending bustle of the Atlanta area. The scenic mountains here make this a great way to get out and enjoy everything nature has to offer. From fun hikes to trout fishing, Blue Ridge has it all.

Make sure you include Mercier Orchards as a stop on your trip to Blue Ridge. This fourth-generation family-owned apple orchard has made a name for itself as a must-see Georgia attraction since 1943. The Blue Ridge landmark is the place to go for a day of apple or pumpkin picking with the kids.

Depending on the season, you can pick your own fruits from this 300-acre orchard. Fruit varieties include peaches, apples, berries, and more. While you’re at Mercier Orchards, make sure you stop by their market to stock up on delicious fruits and veggies your family can continue to enjoy once you get back home. You’ll also find an assortment of tasty treats like jellies, jams, apple butter, and more.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests, Georgia

When you’re ready to immerse yourself in natural wonders, head out to one of Georgia’s national forests. You can make this into a camping trip or just go exploring for the day. Chattahoochee National Forest is just about an hour and a half from Buckhead.

Whether you want to enjoy hiking, horseback riding, fishing, or a family picnic, this national forest serves as the perfect backdrop. Check out hundreds of miles of streams, rivers, and trails, and reconnect with nature as a family when you make the trip out to this picturesque area.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Head over to this bustling, vibrant Tennessee city for a day of fun. Chattanooga is less than two hours northwest of Atlanta, making it an easy day trip if you want to check out another state. The city sits next to the Appalachian Mountains and features the Tennessee River winding its way through the area, so you’ll find plenty of outdoor fun to enjoy. Chattanooga is also home to an abundance of unique boutiques and restaurants, making this a day trip full of interesting options.

If you’re looking for an adventure while you’re in the Chattanooga area, make sure you check out Lookout Mountain Flight Park. It’s one of the premier places for paragliding and hang gliding in the United States. Tandem flights with experienced instructors let novice gliders experience the thrill of real flying. Even kids can get in on the action since tandem flights are available for participants as young as 10 years old.

Lake Lanier, Georgia

Fun for the whole family awaits you at this favorite summertime destination. Visitors from Georgia and beyond flock to this lake to enjoy tons of outdoor fun.

If your family is into hiking, you’ll find plenty of great hiking opportunities at Sawnee Mountain. Looking for a low-key day instead? The beautiful lake makes it easy to relax outside and simply enjoy nature. If you’re searching for activities to keep the kids entertained, you can’t go wrong with a visit to LanierWorld. With water slides, a zip line, and even splash pads for the youngest kiddos, there’s something for everyone here.

Macon, Georgia

Macon is known as the city “where soul lives,” making it a treat for families visiting from the Atlanta area. You’ll find gorgeous antebellum architecture, soulful music heritage, and rich history here, all wrapped up in classic Southern charm.

The Tubman Museum is a must-see stop while you’re in town. As the largest museum in the country dedicated to educating visitors about African American history, culture, and art, the Tubman Museum features a range of special events and exhibits throughout the year. Entry for adults is $10, while kids ages 3 to 17 can get in for only $6.

There’s Crème de la Crème of Buckhead’s list of easy day trips from the Atlanta area! Whether you’re seeking a relaxed day out in nature, a fun-filled trip to a bustling city, or anything in between, we hope this list inspires you the next time you’re planning a day out as a family. Do you have another favorite day trip you love to take with the kids? Let us know so we can check it out and add your go-to day trip to our list!