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Top cities between Ocoee and Charleston
Best stops along Ocoee to Charleston drive
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36 Best Stops Between Ocoee and Charleston

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedApr 7, 2023

How long is the drive from Ocoee to Charleston?

The direct drive from Ocoee to Charleston is 444 mi (714 km), and should have a drive time of 6 hrs 56 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Ocoee to Charleston, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Atlanta, Columbia, Stone Mountain, Augusta, Athens, and Marietta, as well as top places to visit like Wills Park Recreation Center and Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, or the ever-popular Old Car City USA.

Visiting Ocoee or Charleston? See our Ocoee Trip Planner and our Charleston Trip Planner.
444 mi
Total Distance
6 hrs 56 mins
Drive Time
36 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Ocoee and Charleston

The top cities between Ocoee and Charleston are Atlanta, Columbia, Stone Mountain, Augusta, Athens, and Marietta. Atlanta is the most popular city on the route. It's 2 hours from Ocoee and 5 hours from Charleston.
1

Marietta

Marietta, a charming city in Georgia, is located northwest of Atlanta. The Marietta Museum of History, housed in a historic cotton warehouse, offers exhibits focusing on local history. Nearby, the Gone with the Wind Museum celebrates the famous film and novel by Margaret Mitchell. For outdoor enthusiasts, Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park features trails and commemorates an 1864 Civil War battle. Whether you're interested in exploring neighborhoods or planning your itinerary, Marietta has something for everyone to enjoy.
3% as popular as Atlanta
5 minutes off the main route, 27% of way to Charleston
2

Atlanta

Atlanta, the capital of Georgia, has a rich history that includes its role in the Civil War and the 1960s Civil Rights Movement. The Atlanta History Center and Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site offer insights into the city's past and pay tribute to the African-American leader. In downtown Atlanta, Centennial Olympic Park, constructed for the 1996 Olympics, is home to the impressive Georgia Aquarium.
Most popular city on this route
2 minutes off the main route, 31% of way to Charleston
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2
Children
0
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2
3

Stone Mountain

Shopping
Antique Stores
Stone Mountain, located near Atlanta, Georgia, is home to Stone Mountain Park, which features the impressive monolith at its center. The Confederate Memorial Carving on the rock's side depicts Civil War figures such as Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee. Visitors can reach the peak of the rock via a trail or the Summit Skyride cable car. The park also boasts historic buildings dating back to 1793 in its Historic Square.
6% as popular as Atlanta
8 minutes off the main route, 34% of way to Charleston
4

Athens

Athens, located in northeast Georgia, is famous for its antebellum architecture and is the starting point of the state's Antebellum Trail. The city boasts historic Civil War towns and landmarks such as the T.R.R. Cobb House, which showcases period furniture and exhibits related to Southern history. Athens is also known as 'The Classic City' and is home to the University of Georgia, where the renowned football team, the Georgia Bulldogs, has achieved recent College Football National Championship victories.
2% as popular as Atlanta
23 minutes off the main route, 42% of way to Charleston
5

Augusta

Augusta, a city in Georgia near the South Carolina border, offers a variety of attractions and experiences. The Augusta Museum of History showcases exhibits on golf and soul singer James Brown, while the Morris Museum of Art is dedicated to American Southern art. Visitors can explore the Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson and walk along the Augusta Riverwalk that runs alongside the Savannah River.
3% as popular as Atlanta
8 minutes off the main route, 60% of way to Charleston
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6

Columbia

Columbia, the capital city of South Carolina, is a place rich in history and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the Greek Revival architecture of the South Carolina State House and stroll through its surrounding gardens adorned with monuments. The Columbia Museum of Art offers a diverse collection spanning centuries, while the Robert Mills House, dating back to 1823, showcases ornate gardens and serves as a museum.
9% as popular as Atlanta
8 minutes off the main route, 74% of way to Charleston

Best stops along Ocoee to Charleston drive

The top stops along the way from Ocoee to Charleston (with short detours) are Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Stone Mountain Park, and Zoo Atlanta. Other popular stops include Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, Middleton Place, and Piedmont Park.
1

Old Car City USA

Mentioned on 
6 lists 
Museum
Art gallery
Old Car City USA, located in White, Georgia, is a renowned classic junkyard that dates back to 1931. Spanning over 34 acres of land with more than 4,000 unsalvageable mid-century American steel classic cars and six miles of walking trails, it's a paradise for photographers and car enthusiasts alike. The founder has turned this collection into an art project rather than just a junkyard.
This place is AMAZING. It rained the whole time we were there, but it was still cool. My wife loves old cars too, but not as much as I do. My buddies and I could easily spend a couple of days out there looking at and talking about cars. Try to plan for a whole day there. We did cut it short because of the rain, but it was still a blast.
Tim W — Google review
You know the old saying --"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder". That definitely held true today as my brother and I toured Old Car City in Cartersville, GA. I know some of you are going to look through these photos and say, "Good grief, this is nothing more than a junkyard?". And in some respects, you may be right. But this place is so much more than a resting place for rusting relics of the past. It is a museum of Americana in the form of steel, chrome, glass and upholstery. It is a cathedral of art from designers and craftsmen who have passed on to eternity. It is an homage to the machines that developed from simplistic transportation into high-powered expressions of individual freedom and luxury. Instead of the soulless mishmash of styles and trends we have today, automobiles from yester-year made a statement even when standing motionless; even when silently awaiting a turn of a key and a burble from an exhaust pipe. My, how times have changed -- most for the better from the standpoint of safety, economy and environmental impact. But oh how the eye of art has been clouded with mediocrity. If you consider yourself an automobile afficenado, you MUST make a pilgrimage to Old Car City. Please go and pay your respects to the lost age of style, beauty and flamboyance. But don't expect to dash in, snap a few photos and say that you had seen it all because (get ready for this) if you travel down every lane, alley, trail, twist and turn, you will have walked 7 MILES amongst thousands of the grandest man-made art forms on the face of earth.
J. M — Google review
Was an interesting and unique place to stop. Had a real great time. Highly recommend. Make sure you get a little memento from the gift shop.
Tom — Google review
If you're a photographer and love old and abandoned things like I do you will definitely love this place! Also, as a car enthusiast you will love this place but you'll also be sad at the same time seeing some of the cars that can't be saved. It's 100% worth the stop, the money, and the time to go walk around, it truly feels like you've stepped back in time. There's not many places like this left around, see it while you can, and don't forget to thank the owner for keeping a place like this around for all of us to enjoy!
Diffy S — Google review
As a car enthusiast, this place was remarkable to see such a vast collection of vehicles in a picturesque setting. Over 4,400 vehicles and miles of trailers to walk. It is sad to see these vehicles essentially rot away but the idea of them all laid to rest in one area to appreciate was a great idea and we appreciated the effort to curate this venue. Far too easy to scrap and not have anything left but this is like a capsule in time. Thinking about who may have owned these cars, what roads they travelled and what stories they hold over the past 90’s years gave me the goosebumps to think about it. Well worth it. Thank you to the family who first set this local general store up back in the 30’s and had the vision for this
Mark D — Google review
One man's trash (or junk cars, in this case) is another man's treasure is an understatement!! This 34-acre junkyard art of over 4000 classic cars is definitely worth visiting. There are rows and rows of antique cars, some staged in very interesting ways. My husband and I arrived around 10:30am and it was almost 2pm before we left!! Plenty photo opportunities. There is a $10 charge for picture taking but don't let that stop you cause there is still plenty to see. And don't forget to check out the Styrofoam Cup Collection...
Pamela B — Google review
Such fun. The pathways are clear of debris and the views are endless. We visited for hours and still didn’t see everything. Mike was kind enough to let my doggy Ollie visit too!
Rebecca T — Google review
Old Car City USA is a hiking trip down memory lane. We had a great time exploring the many acres of random rusted carnage that is scatter throughout the woods. The trails take you winding through stacks of bikes, mounds of cars and rows of delivery vans. You could spend every day of the year here and find new treasures buried beneath fallen pine needles and leaves. Well worth the entrance fee.
Mountain G — Google review
4.5
(184)
•
4.5
(63)
3098 US-411 E, White, GA 30184, USA
http://www.oldcarcityusa.com/
(770) 382-6141
2

Wills Park Recreation Center

Mentioned on 
7 lists 
Recreation center
Nature & Parks
Park
Wills Park Recreation Center in Alpharetta, Georgia is a vibrant hub for fitness, sports, and leisure activities. The center offers state-of-the-art facilities such as indoor swimming pools, fitness centers, and gymnasiums with programs for all ages and abilities. Families can enjoy playgrounds, picnic areas, and various attractions within the park's expansive 120 acres.
First time visiting and it was an absolute blast. This park has a little bit of everything. Swimming pools, basketball, and tennis courts, multiple different playgrounds, benches along the running track, although a little disappointed at the lack of signs for the run routes. They also have an equestrian area. A definite recommend if you are searching for a new park to visit.
GREGORY — Google review
Went to watch my grandson play baseball on a very hot day. Parking lot was not like a furnace. Took note that it was a large park with Swimming Pool, Tennis Courts, and maybe more that I didn't see. The ball fields were natural and extremely well kept(FAR above average). A nice park to experience
Bruce A — Google review
Went here for the first time for the 4th of July. Parked on the street due to closed roads. Took a 5 min walk with lawn chairs and had the best seat in the house. Worth the walk and boy was it crowded.
Jessica W — Google review
Even though the Wacky World wooden playground is dated it still was fun and kept clean. Getting to watch the horses was really cool
Susan R — Google review
Wills Park has something for everyone! It is the most inclusive park I have ever visited! It has so many park options that if you can't find one to enjoy maybe it's you not them because they really put forth the effort!! I love Wills Park!!
Rick J — Google review
The park was neat and tidy. There weren't many people, and there were swimming pools and equestrian riding courses. One lap is about 1.7 miles away. There is a lot of consideration for walking with pets and children. There are many parking lots, so you can use them conveniently. It is minor negative that the stream is small and there is no pond. If you live in Alpharetta, you must visit there once.
ATL R — Google review
We have been to the cast park quite a few times and our first experience at the pool. So much fun
Donne W — Google review
Fantastic place to walk, play, relax! The City of Alpharetta makes it an enjoyable experience with well maintained trails, parks and clean restrooms. Very enjoyable.
Jill S — Google review
4.7
(1534)
•
4.6
(215)
11925 Wills Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30009, USA
https://www.alpharetta.ga.us/government/departments/recreation-parks
(678) 297-6130
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3

Ameris Bank Amphitheatre

Mentioned on 
17 lists 
Amphitheater
Sights & Landmarks
Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, formerly known as Verizon Amphitheatre, is a premier outdoor venue located just north of Atlanta in Alpharetta. The state-of-the-art amphitheater sits on 45 acres of beautifully landscaped, wooded land and can accommodate up to 12,000 people with pavilion and lawn seating options. From April to October, the venue hosts a variety of big-name acts and events, making it a perfect destination for music lovers.
Attended the Outlaw Music Festival recently and really enjoyed the event. It is a good idea to call the amphitheater for directions to your specific lot. Their directions were much clearer and easier to get to your specific lot than what pops up when you simply input the street address in GoogleMaps. I highly recommend the premier parking lot. Security check at the gate was quick and friendly. I also recommend checking out the merchandise online beforehand. It saves a lot of your time if you have already decided what you want to purchase. Business was brisk, and the vendors were super nice. We sat under cover and enjoyed the comfortable seats. The show was great. So lucky to have seen legends sing. Exiting the parking lot was orderly and quick.
Stephanie D — Google review
I super love this venue !! We have seen multiple shows here, HALSEY, GOD IS A WEAPON, and their first concert ever back in 2009 to name a few and it’s gotten even better over the years! Great acoustics for an outdoor venue, great drinks, and friendly staff!! Except for ONE staff member that stood out for all the wrong reason. The staff member stationed at section 101, older lady, who took her job way too damn seriously. Who thought she was the gateway to protecting innocence. The last defense from protecting the artist and the precious venue. Whose job she thought was to be rude to anyone who talked to her 🫡🫡🫡🫡 My wife l, me, my friend, anyone she saw. You take away from the experience BY YOURSELF. That’s not an easy feat.
Jeff B — Google review
Second time @ this venue. Staff is friendly and helpful. Facilities are clean. Try to pay close attention to the bag policy specifics, but if you don't, it's ok, there is a coat check type station at each entrance. If you're a drinker, I'd go heavy on the pregame, drinks start at almost $20. Definitely will return
Matthew B — Google review
Great place for a concert! We have seen several shows here and they all rocked. We just saw Collective Soul here and it was great. The acoustics here are awesome even though its outdoors. Our seats were just okay considering we had a tree view. I also dont like the fact that the place is cashless. Still though this is a cool venue
Mike G — Google review
First visit to Ameris and was very pleased. Very organized. Easy to navigate. Merch, bathrooms, food and drink were all visible and close to the seating area. The box office staff were friendly and helpful.
Eric B — Google review
Venue was awesome! Lawn seating with chair rental for $1. Box seats. Private seating. Regular seats are under the pavilion. Big fans keep air moving. Seats upgrades were available moving us from 104 to the orchestra, dead center stage! Sound was amazing. 2 large screens. Food lines were short and moved quick. $11 refillable sodas. $2 hotdogs. Bring in your own cups with ice and they have filtered water stations. Restrooms were easily accessible and clean!! Staff was knowledgeable and friendly.
Jenna S — Google review
We attended the Rod Stewart concert here, our first time visiting this venue. We were very impressed. We elected to sit in the grassy area and it was perfect. A light breeze kept the summer heat from being unbearable. The line to get in was long, but it moved quickly. There were lots of vendors to buy food, drink, souvenirs, etc. Vendors came around offering drinks during the concert. Several people came up to the Will Call window looking for tickets and upgrades. The event was sold out, so I recommend getting your tickets in advance. I hope we get a chance to come back here again soon.
Kenneth D — Google review
The best venue for a large rock concert in the greater ATL area. The show was amazing! Security was absolutely wonderful. They gave us water when we needed it. They were excellent with pulling crowd surfers over the barricade without injuries. The security was also very fair with distributing items the band threw that missed the crowd. That speaks volumes that they care about keeping the patrons happy and wanting to come back. Thanks for a great show!
JoEl D — Google review
4.6
(7183)
•
4.4
(458)
2200 Encore Pkwy, Alpharetta, GA 30009, USA
https://www.amerisbankampatl.com/?utm_source=GMBlisting&utm_medium=organic
(404) 733-5010
4

LEGO® Discovery Center Atlanta

Mentioned on 
+28 other lists 
Water & Amusement Parks
Theme Parks
LEGO Discovery Center Atlanta is a family-friendly destination that offers an interactive experience for LEGO enthusiasts of all ages. Visitors can explore displays, enjoy rides like Merlin's Apprentice and Kingdom Quest, and watch 4D films featuring their favorite characters. The center also features the LEGO Master Builder Academy where kids can unleash their creativity with millions of LEGO bricks. Located in Phipps Plaza, this attraction showcases a scale model of Atlanta constructed from 1.
This was my family's first time going here, as we live 2.5 hours away, and it was a blast! We were able to create our own Lego figures and rode rides and created cars to race and space ships so that we could play them on the interactive big screen once they'll were scanned and really enjoyed the 4k theater etc. There was a ton to do and we spent about 2 to 3 hours in there! We didn't eat at the cafeteria in there just bc it was our first time being at that mall and wanted to try different places in the food court but plenty of people were there enjoying food. I will say, it would have been cool to have done the class with a master builder, but not having that available didn't take away from the experience at all.
Adam V — Google review
This is a great indoor place to take the kids for creativity and imagination. It's easy to spend 2-3 hours. Worth the price. Lots of sitting areas for parents to sit back and let the kids explore within sight. The cafe offers a good variety of kid friendly choices at a decent price. If you have a diehard Lego lover, I recommend adding on a Master builder class. Free parking deck
Wendy A — Google review
This place can’t be a bigger bust. The people are nice so we’ll say that. upon going in there’s a ride that has guns where you shoot things. Only two of the three guns work and half the screens are off. There’s a rocket building station the scans your rocket and then the joysticks and things don’t operate, and one of them is out of order. There’s a 40 cinema thing. That’s also a bust with a couple of broken chairs. Also online it says if you book online to get a discount and when you go through it, it makes you pay full price. There are a lot of Legos. If I had anybody tell me to take my $40 per ticket and do absolutely anything else in life with my $40. I would’ve been happier.
Malcolm G — Google review
It was fun. We went when it was dead, so very little crowds, which was a plus We got the activity pack and the lego build additions. The build was a low cost item, which is fine, but I think it was more expensive than the msrp. The activity was just a bunch of cheap cut outs on a lanyard that there was no attempt by the establishment to factor into the visit. Literal wasted money. All in all, its worth the money, especially if your little one(s) love lego, but do not get the activity pack.
Travis T — Google review
This is definitely worth every penny of entrance! It was very reasonable to enter, plus! If you book a day in advance, you get a discount! This place was filled with Legos, directions, and a 4D Lego movie with real effects! Also, kids are encouraged to be creative with making cars and rockets and being interactive with them using technology! The cafe was ok, but don't depend on them for food...not worth the cost...Also, it is NOT a building by itself, but it's inside of Phipps Plaza Mall, 3rd floor! Loved the experience! My daughter had a fabulous time!!
Sue W — Google review
Omg incredible experience. It was so good I was overstimulated lol. The kids had a blast. There is so much to do in a medium size space it's incredible . Great layout, clean, with a very knowledgeable and attentive staff. There is still more for me to discover at the center, so we're definitely coming back.
Olamide A — Google review
the boys had a blast but I was im underwhelmed lol! the best part was the 4D theater, the water spray and wind, lightning effects was so cool! The virtual experience was down so that was a bummer. I would take the boys back again! Only when its on sale tho. I dont think its worth the full price. oh and the photo booth, was super special LOVED THAT 😍 🥰
Kimberly A — Google review
I didn’t even realize Lego Land had rebranded to Lego Discovery Center until we got there, but either way, it was a brickin’ good time! We visited the Atlanta location, and from the moment we walked in, the fun kicked off. They offered a military discount, which is always appreciated, and the staff was friendly and welcoming. We even got to attend a building class taught by the Master Lego Builder Noah, who was not only super talented but also hilarious. He made the class so engaging, and my baby ended up building a pigeon out of Legos, and it was definitely a highlight! Now let me just say, Wow to the Lego setup and display of Atlanta because it was AMAZING. The amount of detail they put into recreating the city was mind-blowing! You could spend a long time just admiring all the tiny moving parts and iconic landmarks made completely out of bricks. It was honestly one of the coolest parts of the visit and a great photo spot, too. One thing that would’ve made the visit even better? If families could keep the mini Lego person they create at the entrance. My kid got pretty attached, only to find out we had to return it at the exit. Still, this place is an absolute win. Me, my parents, and my baby had a blast and we’ll definitely be back! I've included some pictures. 😍 7-19-25
D. T — Google review
3.7
(4422)
•
3.7
(1413)
3500 Peachtree Rd NE Suite G-1, Atlanta, GA 30326, USA
https://www.legodiscoverycenter.com/atlanta/?utm_source=local-listing&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=tickets
(404) 848-9252
5

Piedmont Park

Mentioned on 
+150 other lists 
Park
Nature & Parks
Nestled between Atlanta's vibrant Midtown and the charming Virginia-Highland neighborhoods, Piedmont Park is a sprawling 189-acre urban oasis that invites both locals and visitors to unwind. This beautifully designed park, originally crafted by Joseph Johnson and later enhanced by Central Park's Frederick Law Olmsted, offers a plethora of recreational activities. From jogging paths and basketball courts to dog parks and picnic areas, there's something for everyone.
Wonderful walk through this urban park! First hour is $3 parking in the public parking deck. Lots of folks playing recreationally. Careful for the tight parking spaces in the deck. There is a clearance beam that hangs above the so I wouldn't drive a tall vehicle through it.
Wild N — Google review
Shakey Knees 2025 My boyfriend and I had an amazing time on Saturday 9/20/25 at Piedmont Park for Shakey Knees. We went to see Tv on the Radio. They were absolutely fabulous. We also enjoyed seeing Johnny Marr, Cage the Elephant, and of course My Chemical Romance. We got the GA+ tickets, and the ammenties were great. It was nice to stretch out and have enough room to relax. The AC bathrooms were top notch, and we loved the Comp drink options. We got food at Get Baked, Mosh Burger and the Pizza joint. I absolutely loved the veggie burger that Mosh makes. This was my second Shakey Knees festival, and my boyfriend's first time in the ATL. Such incredible memories! Can't wait to see the line-up for next year's festival. Thank you Shakey Knees!
Caitlynn — Google review
Huge lovely green space for cycling, picnics, walks or jogging.. Concert space restrooms. Electric scooter & bikes. Easy start for the Beltline walk. Nice street art & graffiti. Atlanta biggest & most popular park. Free entry best to walk Marta or use rideshare.
Fran T — Google review
Visited for One Music Fest and it was absolutely amazing! Plenty vendors, lots of restrooms,and great acts! Had a very great time and I look forward to next year's line up!
Angel M — Google review
Lots of green space and pedestrian trails close to residential neighborhoods and urban amenities. Free and home to many community events. Botanical garden is a paid entry but only a portion of the area inside the park.
UnlockedVistas — Google review
I spent a sunny afternoon exploring Piedmont Park in Midtown Atlanta, and it deserves five stars. The park is vast and beautifully maintained—perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or just lounging on the grass with a skyline view that never gets old. Whether you're coming for a stroll, playing fetch with your pup in the off-leash dog park, or enjoying a picnic by Lake Clara Meer, there's something for everyone. What makes the park extra special are its amenities: an ADA-accessible pool with lap lanes, current-channel for floating, scenic fountains, and concessions—great for cooling off on warm days. Families will love the playgrounds, especially the artistic Noguchi Playscapes with modern sculptures and slides that double as public art. Piedmont Park is the city’s event stage for festivals like Dogwood Festival, Atlanta Pride, Music Midtown, and more—bringing energy and culture each season. But even without an event, the park radiates calm—great shady spots, restrooms, and enough paths and benches so you can easily settle in for a peaceful break. The Conservancy behind the park has big plans too: expect new walking and bike trails, better restrooms, expanded tree canopy, and creative paths weaving through the treetops—making an already amazing park even better in the years ahead. All around, Piedmont Park feels like the heart of Atlanta—green, welcoming, and full of life.
Subhajit B — Google review
So beautiful and calm. There were people playing music and its so awesome to see that we are truly our own person and to see all the different types of people in the park. Going here always works to clear my head after a stressful week :】
Anto — Google review
Terrible experience. They’re currently prepping for a concert, so many roads and streets are blocked. I thought parks were meant for local residents, not for rappers or celebrities taking over the whole area. It’s so inconvenient — homeless people everywhere and parking is a nightmare.
Kelly L — Google review
4.8
(17564)
•
4.6
(2393)
Atlanta, GA 30309, USA
https://piedmontpark.org/
(404) 875-7275
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6

Sawnee Mt. Preserve

Park
Nature & Parks
A 963-acre park known for Indian Seats rock formation, with hiking trails & a visitor center.
I may be biased because I live so close to this park but this is one of my absolute favorite spots to go on a hike! the view at the top is breathtaking and there are some cool nature facts posted along the trail along with the info center. Restrooms are usually clean and it is very dog friendly! Also a super cool spot at the top for a picnic lunch. definitely recommend taking a hike to the top if you never have before!
Ashley C — Google review
Have been hiking up the mountain for years. Always a fun hike. Sometimes we do the shorter trail from the Bettis Tribble Gap parking lot and sometimes we do the much longer hike from the Visitor Center. Trail is rocky and rough and you will roll your ankle multiple times even if you are careful. View from the top on a clear day is beautiful. Always a busy trail and you will meet multiple families, trail runners on the way.
Priya R — Google review
One hour from Atlanta you can get lost on a windy 5 Mile loop and enjoy views from the top of this mountain. Stop by the fairy trail kindly provided by the Girl Scouts. The trails are neither too steep or overwhelming. Kids are more than capable of the trek.
Chrisoula M — Google review
Beautifully shaded trail. My friends and family love this. Approx 4miles (up & down) from this point to Indian Seat, an amazing overlook vista point. Suggestion: Along the trail stay on the LEFT whenever it bifurcates so you will reach Indian Seat. Otherwise you may drift towards Bettis gap if that is not your intent (and keep wandering).
Sahanagrad S — Google review
Strongly recommend good shoes for this shaded trail with gradual incline to the top of the mountain. Pretty decent and easy for general public. Great views, all one sees is lush green tree table top from the top of the mountain with one or two minor buildings exposed. Attracts local daily walkers, joggers etc.
Info S — Google review
Wonderful place to spend some good time as well as body work. The walking path is so good and feel so much energy. The place is kept so clean and feeling refreshed once we reach the peak point
Micheal R — Google review
It was a decent hike overall. I went up to Indian Seats twice to help out a lost group. 5.1 miles total. Lots of rocks and tree roots. Wear boots. There is not much scenery except the fairy houses and the Indian Seats viewing deck. I got stung by a bee around the fairy houses. Lots of spider webs. There are many down trees, but the trail is apparent from them. The trail is well-marked, and maps are available in the parking lot. I followed along using the AllTrails app.
Corey B — Google review
Shawnee mountain offers 0.75 one way ( 1.5 mile) hike with Bettis gap trail that could be good for kids and those who want to do easy homes. It also offer another hike that's 2 miles each. The trail take you to the top of mountain with beautiful view of blue Ridge range and trail of tears etc. The visitor center has great resources and information. The rest rooms are clean and there are water fountains next to rest rooms.
Kusuma Y — Google review
4.7
(1799)
•
4.6
(324)
4075 Spot Rd, Cumming, GA 30040, USA
http://parks.forsythco.com/
(770) 781-2217
7

Oakland Cemetery

Mentioned on 
+55 other lists 
Cemetery
Sights & Landmarks
Oakland Cemetery, originally known as Atlanta Cemetery, is a historic burial site founded in the 1850s. It is a Victorian-style cemetery with a significant historical background, having been the location of Civil War battles. The 48-acre public park serves as the final resting place for over 70,000 individuals and features walking trails among headstones, decorative sculptures, and mausoleums.
One could definitely spend the whole day going through this cemetery. The area is beautiful and it's always interesting to see the epitaphs from those who have based long ago vs. in the past 90 or so years. And the stained glass in some of the crypts when the sun hits them are beautiful. Definitely make sure to carry water if it's hot out. And also make sure to check out the gift shop. It was a pleasant surprise and actually found quite a lot of gifts there. There's road work going on right outside the main gate, where the GPS was trying to take us to park, but we found parking right on the street nearby.
Tonia C — Google review
Historic cemetery that is now a park. Lots of families and dog walkers but not too busy. Visitor Center with cute gift shop and restrooms. We booked a tour with Jihan. She gave a fantastic talk about the history, focusing on “We Shall Overcome”
Val W — Google review
I am so glad we visited this historic cemetery. The history was fascinating. The various plants and trees were beautiful. We walked from our hotel which was closer to Centennial Olympic Park and had to walk through a questionable neighborhood though. If we were to do it again, I would Uber.
Prudence L — Google review
This place is rad. If you like cemeteries you'd is a must see. They have some things I've never seen before. Have a few famous sites like Kenny Rogers. It's just a neat ol cemetery. I walked around in here for over an hour looking at all of it. Probably one of the best I've visited. Don't know about parking because I walked here. 🤷
Herb B — Google review
There is so much history in this historical cemetery located in Atlanta. So peaceful , gorgeous flowers, statues, mausoleum, headstones, and pathways. They have a gift store & welcome center across from the cemetery. Events often take place here. The cemetery is free to go to, except if it is having an event.
Melloney C — Google review
I attended Capturing the Spirit of Oakland for the first time and I found it to be incredible! During a time when so much of our history is being erased it was nice to know that important stories are still being told. Highly recommend everyone go and enjoy this event.
Brooke L — Google review
20/10. My FAVORITE place in Atlanta. Dead serious 🖤 The history mixed with the incredible gardens mixed with the intricate architecture of the headstones and mausoleums is always fascinating. The entire cemetery feels so peaceful and welcoming, even in the winter months. Every time I come, it feels like seeing it for the first time. I truly truly love Oakland! Shout out to all the volunteers who dedicate their time and knowledge to helping preserve and grow such a beautiful memorial to those buried there. As far as gardens go, it definitely takes an army to maintain and they do so expertly! The grounds are a welcome oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of ATL. Last night I was able to attend the Illumine event for the first time and it was SO so cool! Awesome music, art installations and lighting! Seeing the cemetery at night like that was killer. Can’t wait for next year! Just to clarify, there is no entry fee just to visit on a normal day. These photos are from the Illumine event which is ticketed.
Ashley R — Google review
A magical celebration at Oakland Cemetery! The Dia de los Muertos event was absolutely stunning — vibrant altars, beautiful performances, and such a warm sense of community. You could feel the love and reverence for tradition in every corner. The colors, music, and food made it both reflective and joyful, a perfect blend of remembrance and celebration. Oakland’s historic setting added a hauntingly beautiful backdrop that made the evening feel timeless. Can’t wait to come back next year!
Amith K — Google review
4.7
(398)
•
4.6
(1167)
PJXG+66, 374 M.L.K. Jr Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30312, USA
http://www.oaklandcemetery.com/
(404) 549-8932
8

Zoo Atlanta

Mentioned on 
+77 other lists 
Zoo
Zoos & Aquariums
Zoo Atlanta is a large and modern zoo that houses over 1,500 animals from 220 different species. One of its most popular exhibits is the Asian Forest, which is home to giant pandas Lun Lun and Yang Yang, along with their offspring Mei Lan and Xi Lan. The zoo, located in historic Grant Park just minutes from downtown Atlanta, features a diverse array of wildlife including lemurs, monkeys, elephants, giraffes, kangaroos, lions, and more.
Great and clean zoo with lots of animals in large enclosures, largest of Zoos I have previously visited. The zoo itself was cleaned and maintained well. Prices in gift shop were way to high and ended up not getting even a t-shirt, it was well over 50.00 for a normal shirt, that part is ridiculous. Much better pricing at Aquarium for souvenirs. Make sure to buy City Pass and save. Was easy to use and redeem the tickets at all locations. Went on a Friday and was bummed not many shows were available. Feeding the giraffe was nice and quick. The VR ride was nice but a little short for price.
Patrick B — Google review
The zoo is nice, plenty of activities for children. There appeared to be several animals not in their exhibits, which was slightly disappointing. There was quite a bit of construction going on, however it did not prohibit my movement on the walkway. I saw the entire zoo within two hours. I must add that I was alone therefore I moved much faster than others who were with children, the elderly or with an additional person. They recognize veterans, which is great.
Veronica W — Google review
Really nice zoo. Its small but mighty! I have gone with a wide range of people and there is truly something for everyone. From 5 years old to 70 years old, I and my guests have never had a bad experience. I even often go as a solo adult in her thirties and I love spending time here!
Jessica C — Google review
Zoo Atlanta was very easy to navigate. They have handicap electric chairs you can rent for $40 all day. The paths are easy to walk or ride. The exhibits are very nice. Plenty of maps, Information and bathrooms spread throughout. They have snack stands a cafe and Ice cream stands. The also have a well equipped children's section that includes a jungle gym, zipline, rides and games. There is a gift shop and plenty of parking which you pay for the day for $12. It was a lot of fun. Very recommended.
Maria M — Google review
We had a great day at Zoo Atlanta. We came on a Sunday around 10am. There was no line to wait in to buy tickets. We spent time at every exhibit and saw animals being active. The animals here look healthy and are given decent sized enclosures. I love the employees who are near exhibits who talk to you about the animals and give you facts and tell you about their conservation efforts. Our kids fed the giraffe, that was a hit! We ate at nourish cafe. The food was good. We had Sonoma burgers and fries and our kids split a chicken finger basket. We also got the refillable souvenir cups. We did everything in the children’s area. Train, carousel, treetop trail, and playground. Our kids had a blast. Lastly, we hit the gift shop. The souvenirs will give you sticker shock but they had a lot of cute stuff. From buying tickets to walking out we spent $300 for a family of 4.
Karla A — Google review
Today, Monday, we went to the zoo and had a great time learning more about the animals and their habitats, their environment, and their care. Everything was clean and well-organized. Highly recommended! The three lion brothers, the giraffes, the elephants, the Sumatran tiger, and all the other animals that live in this great zoo were spectacular. You can have a great day out with the family. Highly recommended.
César T — Google review
We came on a Friday right at opening, thinking it would be quiet. Nope. About nine school buses rolled in and it stayed busy most of the morning. Parking isn’t free, and that adds to the overall cost. For what it is, the price felt high. The staff we met were friendly and helpful. No complaints there. My gripe is the layout and visibility. The gorillas were set far back and up on an incline, which made them tough to see for long. I’ve been to zoos like St. Louis where you can look down into the habitat and actually watch the animals move around. That kind of view makes a huge difference. Another surprise was the gift shop. There were plushies and sweaters for animals we didn’t see in the zoo. When we asked, we were told those animals aren’t here anymore. If they’re gone, it’s confusing to still sell the merch. Also, some food and drink spots weren’t open on the weekday morning we visited, so plan ahead. Bottom line: nice people, some pretty habitats, but the experience didn’t match the price for us, especially with the crowds and the tricky sightlines. If you go, I’d try a Monday to Wednesday morning and study the map first.
Jason P — Google review
Great zoo! Lots of great animals. I love the fact that they still give out a paper map that also shows all of the keeper talks and feeding times. A bit on the expensive side especially after $3/hour to park.
Adam L — Google review
4.5
(23273)
•
4.2
(3735)
800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315, USA
https://zooatlanta.org/
(404) 624-5600
9

Margaritaville at Lanier Islands

Amusement center
Water & Amusement Parks
Margaritaville at Lanier Islands is a lakeside water park featuring thrilling slides, a large wave pool, and various attractions for families to enjoy. It offers an array of experiences that cater to visitors seeking unforgettable moments together, from serene beach vibes to winter escapades and mesmerizing light displays. The venue also includes a mini-golf course, arcades, and snow tubing during the winter season.
Sick of your HOA pool? A getaway that reminds you of that great cottage area on a lake mixed with Carrinean vibes, high end boats, music, floating obstacle course, wave pool and many generations of waterslides. Go here for family fun in the summer and unique snow tubing in the winter.
Bryson B — Google review
We didn't stay overnight, we just visited the water park. Park was clean and well maintained. Staff (early twenties age group) were nice, helpful and seemed to enjoy their jobs. Buy your ticket at the gate if you are eligible for a military discount, price will still be right at $100 for two people, but worth the savings.
Dusty T — Google review
we stayed in the campground and it was wonderful. it was during the off season so the water park wasn't open. Our site was very nice and clean. The wifi worked wonderful. We would recommend this place for camping to anyone. We drove up to Helen for Octoberfest.
Teresa F — Google review
Amilya was amazing. Always made sure we were taken care of all week. Great bartender. Awesome service with the Margaritaville golf cart stopping at our campsite. And great server. Definitely made our experience worth while
Tyler F — Google review
We recently visited Margaritaville lol, and it was a fun and relaxing experience from start to finish! The combination of lakeside views, beach vibes, and family-friendly activities made it a memorable outing. The water park was a highlight—clean, well-maintained, and full of attractions for all ages. The slides were thrilling, the wave pool was a blast, and the lazy river was the perfect place to unwind. We also appreciated the variety of food and drink options throughout the park. The frozen margaritas lived up to the name, and the beachside grill offered solid options for both kids and adults. One of the best parts was the laid-back, island-style atmosphere. Music was playing, the staff was friendly, and everything felt very well organized. Renting a cabana by the lake made our day even more enjoyable and gave us a comfortable spot to cool off and relax. Parking and entry were smooth, though it's worth arriving early on weekends to avoid crowds. The prices were reasonable for a full-day experience, especially considering the range of amenities. Margaritaville is a great summer destination whether you’re visiting with family, a group of friends, or just looking for a mini getaway without leaving Georgia. We’ll definitely be back!
Carlos P — Google review
Fun slides. Not very long lines. Food was meh. I didn't have any cocktails, but there were bees buzzing around the bar anyway. Kids had a great time, so that's what counts. Parents might be a bit disappointed with the food and drink, though.
Dave M — Google review
Just beware of the waterpark especially if your family has dietary restrictions. We called in advance to ensure we can bring in safe food for our family with allergies and they said no problem. At the gate our cooler with lunch was denied entry altogether. Very frustrating miscommunication. They’ll also make you pour out waters for children, and adults, despite it being 100 degrees.
Hannah C — Google review
Listen if you live close and I’m gonna come more than a few times during the summer by the season pass. If you just go with a daily pass, you’re gonna pay an arm and a leg. This place is a lot of fun once you get in but for my family of four for one day we spent $350-$400 for about six hours. Honestly, if they just made the prices reasonable, you’d probably have a lot more people coming.
Steven H — Google review
4.2
(4141)
•
3.5
(541)
7650 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Buford, GA 30518, USA
https://www.margaritavilleresorts.com/margaritaville-at-lanier-islands?utm_source=google&utm_medium=listing&utm_campaign=margaritaville+at+lanier+islands
(470) 323-3440
10

Gas South Arena

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Arena
Concert hall
Gas South Arena is a versatile 13,000-seat venue that hosts an array of events including concerts, sporting events, ballet, rodeos, conventions and trade shows. The arena has welcomed renowned artists like Paul McCartney, Ed Sheeran and Andrea Bocelli. Visitors have praised the well-organized setup of the arena and its convenient parking facilities. Guests attending concerts have appreciated the smooth arrival process and excellent views from their seats.
An amazing experience to be able to go to my first ever concert with my oldest son. We went to see Sleep Token's first concert for their 2025 tour in the USA. This place was easy to park and easy to get out. The facility was as good as you could wish for comfort and cleanliness. Looking forward to come back for more.
Felix R — Google review
Came here to see Nine Inch Nails and was NOT disappointed. This place was very efficient, clean, and fully staffed. I was happy to see all the food choices with friendly people. We were up on the second floor and could still hear everything well. It had a more intimate feel. A lot of times when you sit on a second floor the magic of the concert can be lost because of bad sound quality or not being able to see good. I liked how everything was set up. This place was fabulous.
Laura — Google review
Gas South Arena is a solid venue for concerts, family shows, and sporting events. The arena is clean, modern, and well-organized. The acoustics are generally good, and the seating layout makes it easy to see the stage from most angles. Staff is usually friendly and helpful, and the facility feels safe and well-managed. Parking was not challenging. Traffic can get backed up before big events, and getting out of the parking lot afterwards was a breeze. It’s definitely worth arriving a little early to avoid the rush. Overall, Great place to see a show — just plan ahead for parking.
Aleksandr S — Google review
This is our second time attending a concert here. Both times have been great experiences. The entire complex is very clean and kept nice. The parking garages are very close to the building so it's an easy walk. The staff are quick at getting everyone through the lines and inside the building. All of the staff we dealt with were extremely friendly. Would highly recommending attending an event here.
Zack T — Google review
Great venue. Looks like every seat had a great view! Plenty of food vendors that moved quickly. Clean bathrooms! Took a star away for parking! Easy in, GROSS out. We sat trying to get OUT of the parking lot long than the dang concert! Next time would 1 do valet or 2 park near an exit and walk. Police "help" was awful/non-existent!
Julie C — Google review
Nice venue however the seats in front of us were folding chairs like on the ground level and didn't have cup holders like people seated left and right of us. Nonetheless, the ticket price is the same. Bathroom lines are long. Concession lines are long but go fast. Handicapped parking in front and center. Wasn't bad exiting.
Dorsha ( — Google review
Such an awesome and fun venue! Easy in and out, accessible for the whole family and all abilities. Great events (sports, music and more!); easy parking (prepaid or pay when you arrive; friendly attendants); helpful and friendly staff; clean restrooms and affordable pricing! Nestled in a gorgeous area with plenty of options for dining, shopping and more.
Valerie J — Google review
First time here seeing Bryan Adams and it was a blast. STAFF super friendly parking in and out pretty easy and great seats (on floor...although $$) drinks were great but bring only a card or phone no cash accepted to help move things along. Great experience.
T&K R — Google review
4.5
(10211)
•
4.4
(258)
6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Duluth, GA 30097, USA
https://www.gassouthdistrict.com/venues/detail/arena
(770) 813-7500
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11

Stone Mountain

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
Mountain peak
Sights & Landmarks
Monuments & Statues
Stone Mountain is a massive monolith in Georgia, featuring a carving of Confederate figures. Visitors can access the peak via a cable car or hike up the trail, which offers scenic views and takes about 45 minutes to reach the summit. The park also offers a 5.5-mile loop trail with attractions such as a mill house, lake, and wildlife sightings. Additionally, there's an option for a sky ride experience at an additional cost.
Hike in the main trail from the bottom lot to the top of Stone Mountain is a must do for anyone visiting Atlanta or any resident. The energy of others climbing the mountain and cheering you on is an outstanding feeling and one worth experiencing if you plan to come more than once by the parking pass for $40 instead of the $25 day pass.
Shana C — Google review
Wonderful experience. You may want to see the sunrise and sunset here. Amazing place for self and family visitors. Highly recommended.
Jun J — Google review
Went on Saturday morning 7/5/25 felt so good out there with a nice breeze and low humidity that morning. It was a good hike, with it being my very first hike at Stone Mountain. I normally go to KENNESAW Mountain but that day I decided to go to Stone Mountain to hike over there for the first time and I will definitely be coming back more often I enjoyed it. I was expecting myself to make it to the top within 45 minutes to an hour, but nope I got there sooner. I got there to the top in 30 minutes and 24 seconds from the walk up trail parking lot With 4 stops along the way to catch my breath lasting at least 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Cristobal S — Google review
Pros: - Parking is relatively cheap inside the park; $20 a car per day, or $40 a car for a whole year. Access is also technically free if you can find parking within the town of Stone Mountain and then just walk into the park. - The natural landscape is pretty beautiful and peaceful (aside from a rather hideous carving on one side of the mountain's face), especially on a sunny day with blue sky. You might even get a close look at some interesting wildlife, like deer, owls, and hawks. - The hike up the mountain poses a good challenge for hikers, runners, or just anyone looking to get in a workout. Took us about 40 minutes from parking lot to peak moving at a steady pace with a couple rest stops. I would rate the difficulty somewhere between 6/10 to 8/10. It is filled with smooth rocky steps that can be a bit slippery and there are sections that get REALLY steep. - At the peak, offers some spectacular views of the surrounding park and lake. On a clear day, you can also see the Metro Atlanta skyline from Downtown to Buckhead to Sandy Springs. I also appreciated the wind and breeze at the peak since this was in the middle of summer. Cons: - A lot of areas on the hiking trail don't have much tree cover, and the mountain feels like one giant smooth slab of concrete, which means on a hot sunny day, the heat can be pretty brutal. Plan and pack accordingly! - I found the Welcome Center at the top to be a little disappointing. Refreshments seemed expensive. At least they had bathrooms and AC.
Abdul-Azeez R — Google review
Amazing experience. We have been there twice, in winter for Christmas and in summer for the 4th of July. I strongly recommend this place. A lot of activities most of them for kids but not only. The nature is amazing and there is also a camping site by the lake. Magical ambiance at night with the Christmas decorations and it is even if it snows. The 4th of July show with drones and fireworks is also amazing. I would go again for a weekend retreat.
Vass G — Google review
Climbed it for a sunrise mountaintop experience, very much worth it. Brought my 3 year old daughter and she was able to walk up most of it only needing help in the very steep parts. Legs were burning but the air was clear and the sunrise was beautiful. Would recommend.
Jon A — Google review
One of the most beautiful places I visited in Atlanta so far. The view is amazing, wonderful sunset, and clean track. You can enter for free by the pedestrians entrance, but I believe you should pay a fee to go by car until the park lot.
Leonildo A — Google review
Wanted to hike while visiting one of my close childhood friends and we ended up settling for this place the day before I had to head back home. For parking it was $20 so just keep that and mind and it was also $20 for the sky ride if you would like to experience that as well. We had a really good time and are glad we went when we did because we got to watch the sunset which made this hike 10000% better. You can see the whole sky and trees from all different parts of this mountain so makes it cool for a couple different stops. For sure should at least check this place out once if you haven’t been there before..
Tony A — Google review
4.5
(609)
•
4.5
(1111)
Georgia 30087, USA
12

Stone Mountain Park

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
Park
Nature & Parks
Stone Mountain Park is a vast and scenic park offering a wide range of activities, including golf, lodging options, and a cable car ride to the historic carved peak. The park features breathtaking views, numerous trails to explore, and various areas to visit. Visitors are advised to drive between the different trails due to the park's expansive size. The mountain itself is impressive in person with intricate stone carvings that depict stories of the past.
We had such a great time at Stone Mountain! There’s so much for kids to do, and a lot of the areas are completely free — perfect for letting little ones get their wiggles out. You do have to pay a $20 entrance fee since it’s a national park, but if you’re coming from far away and it’s during the week, they might let it slide (shhh 🤫). On weekends, though, the $20 fee definitely applies. We visited during the Pumpkin Festival, and it was nonstop fun! My little one had the best time — there were so many cool things to see, activities for all ages, and plenty of food spots for the whole family to enjoy. The Pumpkin Festival tickets are extra (about $35 each), but kids under 2–3 get in free. The ticket includes awesome experiences like a Skyride, a scenic train ride, and so much more! If you plan to visit, definitely bring a wagon because the kids will be tired after such a full day of fun. Also pack some lawn chairs and blankets so you can relax and enjoy the beautiful light show in the evening. Overall, Stone Mountain is such a fun and memorable place for families — totally worth the trip!
Dora M — Google review
If you’re looking for a quick escape from the city without driving too far, Stone Mountain Park is a must-do. The walk-up trail is about 2 miles round trip and gives you a surprisingly good workout; it starts easy, then turns into a steep granite climb that will get your heart racing. It’s short enough for beginners but rewarding enough for regular hikers. The views from the summit are spectacular, on a clear day you can see downtown Atlanta, Kennesaw, and even the Appalachian foothills. The exposed granite top has a strange, lunar feel that makes the climb feel otherworldly. If you don’t want to hike both ways, the Summit Skyride cable car is a fun option. It’s a glass-enclosed gondola that glides over the mountain and offers panoramic views. Many hikers take the cable car down after trekking up - it saves your knees and lets you soak in the scenery without effort. Just note that the Skyride ticket is separate from the $20 park entry fee, and lines can get long on weekends. The only downsides: the trail can get crowded, especially late mornings, and the granite gets slippery when wet. Bring plenty of water, good shoes with grip, and go early to catch sunrise or late evening for cooler weather. Overall, Stone Mountain is one of Atlanta’s best quick treks, a mix of natural beauty, light adventure, and a cable car view that feels straight out of a travel ad. Whether you hike, ride, or do both, it’s absolutely worth it. ⭐ Rating: 4.6 / 5 📍 Best Time: Early morning or sunset 🎫 Tips: Bring water, sunblock, and take the Skyride down for the best combo of effort and ease.
Amith K — Google review
Day trip to Stone Mountain Park. Good experience exploring the sights of Atlanta, one of it being this amazing and natural attraction. Walked around the park, took the cable car up to the “summit” and soaked in the views at the top of the stone. The views at the top were fantastic and the whole experience was fruitful. The attraction can be a bit far from downtown Atlanta, you can expect a USD 30-35 Lyft ride one way from downtown if you plan to visit this attraction. A 5* trip, and will recommend to experience once if your travels passes by Atlanta.
Tong T — Google review
Hi everyone! My family and I visited this very interesting park. It was nice to climb up that mountain. If you have the chance, be sure to go up and look from above! You can see everything around you, the forest is very beautiful, and the panorama looks beautiful. I think climbing the mountain is good for your health. If the walking is difficult, there's an escalator! There's a large parking lot and plenty of entertainment. The kids really enjoyed it, and so did the adults. If possible, we'll come back here again and climb it again. There are also toilets (clean). There are trash bins along the way. There are places to eat and stay. Everything is great!
Anri — Google review
Beautiful today because ....FALL! The leaves are beautiful. Everything is set up for the light show tonight and the winter wonderland. Seems a little pricey for the tickets but everything seems to be about 50 bucks a piece at places. Get a map for sure. There is so much to see other than the mountain. Grist mill, lakes, trails, waterside.
Amanda B — Google review
We had beautiful weather. All we need was camp and hike. We did not go on the mountain. There are a number of hiking trails and we loved the campground. It was nice to see the changing of the trees as well
David H — Google review
I haven’t taken the scenic skyride, but I usually go hiking instead. For those who enjoy hiking, this is a very easy trail, and for beginner hikers, it offers just the right amount of challenge. Once you reach the top, you’ll get a full 360-degree view of Atlanta — it’s beautiful! Parking is $20 for a one-time visit, and $40 for a season pass. Hope this helps!
Hyejin C — Google review
The Best Fall Festival Ever! Stone Mountain Park truly outdid themselves with the Pumpkin Festival! We went as a family and were completely blown away by the "Play by Day, Glow by Night" experience. Everything was fantastic: the glowing jack-o'-lanterns, the parade, and the sheer amount of family fun. It's magical, well-organized, and worth every penny. Highly, highly recommend this for anyone looking for the perfect fall outing! Go make those memories!
Zlatusha T — Google review
4.6
(41880)
•
4.0
(5184)
1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083, USA
http://stonemountainpark.com/
(478) 478-6686
13

Summit Skyride

Mountain cable car
Transportation
Swiss-style gondola cable car offering scenic rides to the peak of Stone Mountain.
Such an amazing view. This is great for the whole family. The sky ride is only 2 minutes long, feels a little scary but is soooo worth it. Clean bathrooms, snack shop and indoor area up top. As you go up, you have a great view of the carving in Stone Mountain. It's so big and amazing to see that close. I absolutely recommend this experience if you go to Stone Mountain. This is included in your day pass or membership.
Veronica G — Google review
Wow covers it. You go up fast . You really get the vastness for the mountain. You see why it's the largest granite outcropping in the world 5 me round 825 ft High. Several miles below ground. At the top you can look out and see downtown Atlanta. There is a small gift shop ,coin machine to make souvenir coins and there's like a restaurant cafeteria up there. You can walk out on the top of the mountain they've got you know safety ropes and everything that you can actually walk out and take pictures it is an awesome site
Daniel M — Google review
I love the skyline, but now they charge you a one-way ticket or round-trip ticket. Two prices. If you want to ride up and walk down, I guess it's great. If you want a round-trip, you'll pay extra. If you paid for a park admission you can ride up and down all day if you want to. It is an incredible view that you really should see.
Bryon H — Google review
Great place. we were on Saturday afternoon. there weren't many people. you can have a delicious snack on the grounds.
TY Z — Google review
I have been to stone mountain maybe once before MANY MOONS ago but this was my first time take the sky ride to the top of the mountain. It is definitely an experience worth trying at least once and I am glad I got to enjoy it with my family. We had a blast and for it to be hot, it felt amazing the breeze from the top was refreshing and made the view that much more enjoyable.
Lady H — Google review
It has been awhile, it is a smooth ride to the top as always! Love the view from the top. I am disappointed in the hours of concessions on the snack bar at the top of the mountain, otherwise it is a pleasant experience.
Steven W — Google review
If you are going to be at Stone Mountain, you have to ride the Skyride to the top. You just have to. The car is going to be packed, but try to get on the right side so you can see the carving on the mountain. It's a long wait to get on to go up, but there is no waiting at all to come back down. When we were ready to go back we just hopped right on a car.
Tracy — Google review
Great way to get up to the top of the mountain. Views are amazing. A bit pricey for a round trip especially when they don't check for tickets anyways.
June P — Google review
4.7
(2362)
•
4.5
(376)
1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083, USA
https://stonemountainpark.com/activity/attractions/summit-skyride/
(478) 478-6686
14

Aurora Theatre

Mentioned on 
5 lists 
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Theaters
Aurora Theatre, located in historic downtown Lawrenceville, is a former church turned into a vibrant cultural center. With over 700 events annually, it offers a diverse range of entertainment including professional plays, Broadway productions, musicals, stand-up comedy, concerts, and children's programs. The theater has garnered praise for its top-tier performances and innovative contemporary theatre.
Wonderful theatre! I’ve seen a few musicals here and I’m always impressed by the quality of the sets and performances. I love that they have live orchestras as well!
Anna M — Google review
This place is one of the best theaters in the entire Atlanta area. My wife and I have seen a few shows here and we are always pleased. We caught the last show on the series “Waitress”. It was truly moving and inspirational. Cast was very talented. The theatre staff extremely helpful.
J- H — Google review
Last night was our first visit to the Aurora Theatre. We went to see a preview of The Wiz and it was absolutely amazing! From the warm customer service and convenient parking to the tasty concessions, beautiful artwork, & outstanding performance, everything was top tier. It’s such a treat to enjoy a Broadway-quality show without having to drive into the city!
Sidra S — Google review
I've taken my 8 year old son here to see the holiday juggling show and now the summer break magic show. Both were excellent! He was laughing and enjoying himself the whole time! The venue was clean, the staff at the ticket desk were very kind and helpful, clean restrooms, free parking, and a good, clean, kid friendly show! Will definitely be returning for more children's programs!
Cheryl — Google review
Wonderful theatre, always a great show. Buy a season pass, well worth it! Plus, In the Heights is coming back in May 2026
Adrienne P — Google review
Surprised my sister with tickets to see the Wiz here. Amazing venue, friendly staff and free parking.
LaKesha T — Google review
Such a gem in Lawrenceville... we saw The Wiz and it made us laugh a couple of times. The cast was great and everything flowed smoothly. They gave the story their own flavor which was such fun. I'd go back for another play.
Kanaya S — Google review
Stunning theater in the heart of Lawrenceville. It’s big and beautiful, with a cute interior and a small concessions stand. I think just about any seat in this theater would be great…it’s not too big and not too small. A great size and shape for a community theater! Beautiful lighting and sound…wonderful orchestra!!!
Jessica R — Google review
4.8
(1253)
•
4.7
(232)
128 E Pike St, Lawrenceville, GA 30046, USA
https://www.auroratheatre.com/
(678) 226-6222
15

Chateau Elan Winery & Resort

Mentioned on 
6 lists 
Resort hotel
Food & Drink
Nestled on 3,500 acres of picturesque grounds, Chateau Elan Winery & Resort is a luxurious French-style chateau hotel offering an array of amenities. The resort features a renowned winery where guests can take part in tasting tours and learn about the wine-making process. With over 30 wines produced from locally grown grapes, it has gained recognition as one of the largest and most acclaimed wineries on the East Coast.
Words cannot express what a wonderful time my party had when we stayed on the grounds for my niece’s birthday. We enjoyed the tour of the winery, the wine tasting experience, and stayed at the Villa for the night. India did an amazing job giving us a tour of the winery, Kai was phenomenal with her knowledge of the wines. Both ladies made our tasting experience magical!!! Dalia was also extremely helpful. The ladies treated us with such VIP treatment and wines were excellent! I would highly recommend to anyone to come to visit these beautiful grounds with excellent service!!!
Claudette R — Google review
The grounds were absolutely beautiful—lush, well-kept, and really set the tone for a relaxing stay. My husband especially loved the golf courses at the two different locations we visited; he couldn’t stop talking about how well-maintained and scenic they were. That alone was a big highlight for us. The restaurants were great too, with good variety and consistently solid food. And overall, the customer service throughout the property was excellent—everyone we interacted with was friendly and helpful. The front desk experience, though, could be better—not because of the staff, who were always polite and professional—but because the process tends to create long lines at times. When I checked out today, I stood in line for several minutes behind one guest with no movement. It wasn’t until another couple walked up behind me that the front desk clerk finally rang the buzzer to call for additional help. That was a little frustrating—especially after I’d already been waiting for a while—because she easily could’ve done that sooner. As for the rooms—they were fine, but for the price, they felt a bit underwhelming. The hotel’s overall interior is gorgeous, but the rooms themselves didn’t quite reflect the same level of quality or finish. All in all, it was a good experience. We enjoyed the stay—especially the golf—but it’s definitely on the pricier side, and I’m not sure the room quality fully lines up with the cost.
Yolanda W — Google review
Unfortunately, there were so many issues during our stay that I felt compelled to leave a review. This resort is undeniably beautiful and has tremendous potential, which made our experience all the more disappointing. This was meant to be a ladies’ weekend getaway. Check-in was smooth and welcoming, but things quickly went downhill once we visited the pool. The service was extremely poor. Since a 22% service charge is automatically added to every bill, the waitstaff seemed uninterested in providing attentive care. We paid an exorbitant price for a very mediocre lunch, only to discover there weren’t even enough utensils provided. One of my friends ended up eating her $30 scoop of chicken with a shared plastic spoon because no one returned to check on us. The issues continued with the accommodations. Our room had visible mold and filthy vents, which felt unacceptable for a property of this caliber. Dining at Marks one evening was also unsettling—we noticed a dead cockroach in the corner near our table. For the rates they charge, I expect far higher standards of cleanliness and service. On a positive note, the spa was excellent—truly the highlight of the trip and worth every penny. Unfortunately, beyond that, the overall experience fell far short of expectations. For the prices charged, I would not return to stay at the resort or dine in its restaurants--great for a spa day only!
Tracy R — Google review
Beautiful resort and facilities. The property is gorgeous and all of the grounds and buildings are designed very nicely. The pool and hot tub are great and centrally located. There’s plenty of restaurants and bars on the property - we loved Marc’s. The spa is very relaxing snd has a nice view of a small lake in the back. The vineyard is massive and the wine tasting is a great deal. I’m only giving 4 stars because of the rooms - they are spacious but could be more modern with better appliances; most of the outlets didn’t work and the iron did not work properly either. Overall we enjoyed our stay and will be back!
Neel B — Google review
Q= BEST TOUR GUIDE EVER!! Stopped by for a Day Tour and tasting. Beautiful property. It's good value for what you pay. Wines are delicious & reasonably priced, plus there's lots of dining areas. Would love to stay in the future and experience the spa and other amenities. Grabbed lunch at the Irish pub- overall 4/5 Wings - 4/5 buffalo and lemon pepper Pretzels 5/5 Burger and side salad (made as cobb w/blue cheese). 4/5 Very solid meal. Would definitely return for any of these quick bites.
Miracle R — Google review
This is an overall very lovely resort but it falls short in some ways. My mom and I stayed at the spa for her birthday and the people who worked there were amazing. There are two reasons why I am giving 3 stars. The food is extremely overpriced for what you get. $20 for a Cesar salad is insane. Especially since it was below average. Additionally the main pedi I got at the spa was the worst I've ever received, and simultaneously the most expensive. The woman who did my treatment insulted me multiple times, making comments about bumps on my legs and how I needed a lot of extra work and that's why it was taking so long. The truth is she was just extremely slow and took SO long just cutting my nails and cuticles. There was nothing relaxing about that treatment and there wasn't even a massage ! That's the best part of any pedicure. I would go back but would not eat at the resort nor ever book another nail service.
Natalie T — Google review
We checked in straight from our wedding for two nights and left unimpressed. We did not receive the value we paid for. The mini fridge was left ajar and therefore warm upon our arrival while the bar across the lobby closed early "at their discretion", so we couldn't even enjoy a wedding toast... while checked in at a winery resort. The winery was ironically closed the next day due to a private event (not advertised when we booked) and the same bar from before also closed again due to filming a commercial. We did finally get to enjoy a wine from the mini fridge the next day once it did chill, but we did have to wait at the front desk for wine glasses because room service did not answer (we called 3x over an hour during the printed operating hours but only got to voicemail). The TV channels must be satellite-based as several channels we tried to watch would not play due to connectivity issues, and the TVs don't offer streaming services like modern hotels. The room itself was clean, large, and updated. TC over at Paddy's was wonderful - we did enjoy an early dinner and some good pours from her. Matias was also a delight at the hotel restaurant with an improvised wine tasting (since winery was closed). Overall, the staff was all great but we expected a much better experience with the resort amenities and therefore cannot recommend.
Chadd M — Google review
I had dinner here with my mother, ordering one pasta dish and a steak. The total came to $177, yet it turned out to be one of the most disappointing dining experiences I’ve had. Although I requested the steak medium, it was served cold in the center, which is completely unacceptable. The pasta was overwhelmingly salty, and the seafood tasted as though it had been frozen, lacking any freshness. The dining environment was also unpleasant. The room was excessively loud to the point that it hurt my ears, and I waited nearly an hour before receiving my food. What made the experience worse was the seating arrangement. Despite the restaurant being largely empty from the time I entered until I left, I was placed at the very last table with no view. I asked multiple times to be moved, yet was repeatedly denied. It left me questioning whether this treatment was due to my ethnicity. For the price paid, the quality of both the food and service fell far below expectation.
Bo J — Google review
4.3
(2460)
•
4.5
(358)
100 Rue Charlemagne Dr, Braselton, GA 30517, USA
https://www.chateauelan.com/?utm_medium=organic&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=business_listing
(678) 425-0900
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16

The Spa at Château Élan

Spa
Food & Drink
Nestled in the tranquil North Georgia countryside, The Spa at Château Élan offers a peaceful retreat focused on holistic wellness. Guests can indulge in innovative spa treatments, partake in indoor and outdoor fitness classes, and savor mindful dining experiences. Visitors rave about the exceptional service and skilled therapists, with particular praise for the hot stone massage. The serene facilities provide a rejuvenating atmosphere, complete with luxurious amenities such as steam rooms and lounge areas.
The Spa at Chateau Elan was the highlight of my weekend. Derrick was PHEMONEMAL!! And every detail thought out in the women’s locker room from the dry sauna and the steam room to all the toiletries and luxuries you might need after a day at the spa. I WILL BE BACK and will bring my swimsuit for the indoor pool! Love love love!! Brunch at Fleur de Lis was also exceptional! Husband had the steak sandwich and I had the butternut squash soup and brussel sprout Caesar! 10/10!!!
Whitley W — Google review
Visted Chateau Elan in Georgia in Sept. 2024 and lodged in their SPA side which was absolutely amazing! The greetings you receive make you feel really special! Joe, the manager was there at check in and check out and he was absolutely accommodating from beginning to end! Gave us complimentary wine upon arrival and even watched our bags until we took a restroom break after the travel. Thanks Joe! So many amenities when you stay in a SPA ROOM like a huge spacious luxury room that has amazing views of the lake and garden which has hammocks, reclining outdoor covered loungers and tranquil music! Access to the Hot tub, Amazing Women's locker room ( OMG), a magazine cover sitting, sipping room and SO MUCH MORE! I felt like I won some of the BIG MEGA!😆 I want to also note that there is a shuttle service that takes you all over their grounds. Mark picked us up many of the times! He was cheerful and very informative! Thanks Joe, Mark and SPA Staff for making our stay memorable!
Karla M — Google review
This would be a 5 star review had it not been for the discourteous and nssty attitude of Amaya, a lower level employee who apparently hates her job. I asked her to unlock my locker. It was my first time there, as my daugjter in law treated me to a day of pampering. I asked Miss Attitude to unlock the locker and honestly I forgot which one and she opened 2 until she got to the right one. It should have been a light hearted moment but she acted as though it hurt her hands to assist me. All she was doing was folding towels.I thanked her and she pretended not to hear me until I looked her in her face and thanked her again for her "help", at which point she nodded her head.. Nasty as heck. Pretty is as pretty does. Othewise a wonderful day. Lee was magic with the massage! 10 stars for him!!
E L — Google review
From entrance to exit, this spa delivered an incredible experience. The moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the two lovely ladies at the front desk who made check-in seamless and pleasant. Shortly after, a gentleman greeted us at the bottom of the stairs and gave us a thorough tour—his service and hospitality truly set the tone for the day. The atmosphere was peaceful and luxurious, and the outdoor amenities were perfect. We enjoyed the hot tub, pool, and beautifully maintained grounds—it all felt like a mini escape. The entire staff was amazing, but a special shoutout to Yami, the nail specialist. She made my husband and me feel completely relaxed and taken care of. Her gentle approach and professionalism stood out. We also enjoyed service by Janice S. If you're looking for a relaxing, high-quality spa experience with outstanding service, this is the place. We’ll definitely be back!
Jazmine F — Google review
Chateau Elan SPA is amazing! Their BEST (consistent) massage therapists are Shawana and Dawn!!!!! My mother & I will only book services if we can get on their schedule. Their massages are an experience!! I also enjoy visits there for breakfast, massages & facials. It's a sweet local getaway less than one hour away for a few hours of me time, DAY away or overnight to take a BREAK from Life's stress and merry-go-round. :-)
L W — Google review
Absolutely wonderful experience! This spa was such a treat, I felt pampered and taken care of and most importantly, very relaxed. The facilities are beautiful and serene, so much you kinda forget you are in Georgia. I got an 80 minute massage and it was the most peaceful time. I also loved the locker/lounge area and enjoyed the steam room the most! Overall top tier experience, can’t wait to be back.
Yarelis G — Google review
I visited this spa a couple of weeks ago and had a mix of good and not-so-good experiences. There’s a lot of potential here, and while I did enjoy parts of my visit, there are definitely some things that need improvement. The facility itself feels outdated and could really benefit from some renovations. It was also extremely hot inside not just in the sauna areas, but throughout the building which made it a bit uncomfortable at times. Some better ventilation or temperature control would go a long way. That said, I loved how robe-friendly the entire space was even in the upstairs restaurant. That little detail made the experience feel much more relaxed and spa-like. What truly stood out during my visit was the kindness and attentiveness of a few staff members downstairs. Yami was a total gem friendly, patient, and always happy to help. She assisted me with my locker more than once and never made me feel like a bother. Veronica was just as amazing. She not only helped me get a glass of wine but went far beyond expectations when I realized I had left a necklace in my robe. Even though the laundry had already been taken back, she went out of her way to search through it to find my necklace. That level of care is rare, and I’m genuinely grateful to both of them they truly made me feel cared for. On the other hand, I had a disappointing interaction with a staff member named Amara upstairs, who wasn’t very welcoming and seemed to brush me off. It felt dismissive and was in stark contrast to the warmth I experienced downstairs. I also had a negative interaction with Jonathan at the downstairs desk. The way he spoke to me came across as condescending like I was a lost child and that really took away from the overall vibe I was hoping for. The steam room was definitely a highlight, and while the pool was on the smaller side, I really liked that it had jets so I could swim in place a thoughtful touch that helped make up for the size. Overall, I appreciated the robe-friendly environment, the steam room, and most of all, the incredible help from Yami and Veronica. They were the true highlight of my visit. With some updates to the space and more consistent customer service across all staff, this place could be something special. For now, it was a decent visit not perfect, but not without its bright spots either.
Alek F — Google review
I arrived 10–15 minutes early for my scheduled spa treatments and was warmly welcomed by one of the front desk associates, whose name I regrettably did not catch. I promptly provided my partner’s full name, under which the reservation was made, as well as my own. Unfortunately, the second receptionist repeatedly asked for my name—despite clearly viewing the appointment details on her screen. She then handed me a waiver form. When I mentioned that my partner and I had already completed it online, she curtly stated that the digital version was outdated. I complied and filled it out again, though the interaction felt unnecessarily terse. Her demeanor was more interrogative than welcoming—an unsettling contrast to the level of service one would expect, especially considering our visit totaled over $1,000. After some back and forth, she finally acknowledged my name on the screen and remarked, “Oh, you're Tess,” in a tone that felt oddly dismissive. She proceeded to request my ID and credit card. When I explained that everything had been booked under my partner’s name, she informed me I would need to wait for him—though doing so would have caused me to miss the start of my treatment. Notably, the moment she overheard his voice during a quick phone call, her tone shifted completely. She immediately told me I could proceed downstairs and said she would notify his massage therapist that he would be running alittle behind. The contrast in how I was treated before and after that call left me wondering why his voice seemed to carry more credibility than my presence at the front desk. Thankfully, the experience improved significantly from there. Elle greeted me downstairs with warmth and professionalism, and every staff member I encountered afterward was equally courteous and attentive. I had nearly forgotten the awkward check-in until we returned to the desk to check out. A different receptionist—gracious and welcoming—asked if we were celebrating anything special. When my partner mentioned it was my birthday, she kindly presented me with a small gift bag. While the spa facilities are somewhat dated, the service providers delivered a lovely experience. That said, I’m unlikely to return. The front desk team would benefit from additional training in guest relations and professional etiquette to ensure every visitor feels equally acknowledged and respected. First impressions matter—especially at a property that serves people from all over the world.
Tess A — Google review
4.3
(469)
•
4.5
(345)
100 Rue Charlemagne Dr, Braselton, GA 30517, USA
https://spa.chateauelan.com/
(678) 425-0900
17

Bear Hollow Wildlife Trail

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
Wildlife park
Zoos & Aquariums
Zoos
Bear Hollow Wildlife Trail is a 225-acre park featuring woodlands, wetlands, and a historic cabin. The visitors' center offers interactive exhibits for the public to enjoy. Currently undergoing renovations, the park has new fences that look much better than the old ones. However, some of the gates were locked which caused concern among visitors. The animal sanctuaries are in poor condition and resemble Yellow River Game Ranch during its decline.
Great family place! Lots of saved animals and great views. Even had my sons 10th birthday there! They brought out 3 different animals for them to pet and learn about.
John A — Google review
Will laid out Sanctuary for non-returnable to the wild animals nice winding paved trail leading passed many different habitats including black bear river otter bald eagle and whitetail deer Plus two species of owl and wild turkey unfortunately some of the habitats were unoccupied ,several of the reptiles were not visible due to the cool temperature. a great place for an outing with the family, especially if you have young children. The staff were very friendly and informative donations are accepted I did not see any entrance fee listed
Mark Y — Google review
Enjoyable little free zoo. Very hot day to visit. Felt bad for some of the animals due to the heat. Never saw the fox, river otter,or spotted fox. Maybe they were hiding to beat the heat.
BRAD B — Google review
We came 30 minutes prior to closing my daughter really enjoyed it a ton on the left before you reach parking they also have a playground great for toddlers and what looks like a dog park but no pets in zoo part.
Tippy E — Google review
Small, but seems to be well kept. Quiet. Fun to watch the animals!
Jennie W — Google review
It's more like a wildlife preserve than a zoo, but it is still really nice! It's well kept. They seem to be doing some renovations, but that's always a good sign. The animals were mostly napping when we went, but the few that weren't were amazing to see and observe. They also give facts about the species, and they tell you exactly what you're looking at. The bald eagle was my absolute favorite. They even had turkeys, which was nice to see just to see not for sport. My daughter liked it too. She's loves animals. Best part is it is free!
Corey G — Google review
Small rehab zoo with free entry. Otters, beavers, small reptiles, deer, an alligator, owls, a skunk, a fox, bears, turkeys, and a bald eagle. Some lovely relatively new murals now too. The nearby Birchmore Trail and Memorial Park with playground, small lake, and dog park are worth checking out.
Christine B — Google review
It's a little bit more rundown than it was when we visited in 2019. They are in the middle of some renovations that look very nice. The new fences look much better than the old ones. I don't know why some of the gates were locked. It was a little troubling. The biggest detractor right now is the condition of the animal sanctuaries. Kind of reminds me how yellow River game ranch was in their decline. Have to keep in mind that this is a free to the public zoo. If you go to their website there are options to help to support them if we don't want to see something like this disappear.
Broocks R — Google review
4.7
(431)
•
4.5
(263)
293 Gran Ellen Dr, Athens, GA 30606, USA
http://www.accgov.com/bearhollow
(706) 613-3580
18

Sanford Stadium

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
Stadium
Sights & Landmarks
Sanford Stadium, the 92,000-seat football stadium located at the University of Georgia and home to their Bulldogs team, is a popular venue for sports enthusiasts. The stadium is well-maintained with clean facilities and restrooms that have attendants on hand. Visitors are advised to rent a stadium chair as the bleacher seating can be cramped during peak attendance times. Only card payments are accepted for purchases made throughout the premises. Exiting from the top parking deck may cause delays due to heavy traffic.
GO DAWGS!!! I love this place! I love the bugle at the beginning and the red coat band at halftime! The excitement of the music and the fireworks and the lights and the team running out on the field! Everybody should be between the hedges at least once in their lifetime.love the new seat back design, too. The mesh was way cooler than the previous vinyl coverings.
Ramona C — Google review
What can I say, gotta love Sanford Stadium!! This is one of those venues where people seem just genuinely happy to be there. Concessions are ok. Parking is a pain, but probably no worse than any other college football stadium. The reason I couldn’t give 5 stars….the aftermath. Getting out of there is atrocious. And it’s not clearly marked where to catch the shuttles either. Other than that, solid experience. GO DAWGS!!!
Stacie B — Google review
Came as a fan of the opposing team. Fans were all nice. Of course you have some students that are obnoxious. But overall great interactions with the home fans. Concession prices are very reasonable and there were hydration stations for water fill-ups. I really appreciated being able to affordably eat inside the stadium. We couldn’t really watch anything on the (1) video board and there was distortion in the audio system. We had 600 level seats. The fireworks and light up wristbands were cool, though. Post game traffic and exiting was horrible. This town and area is not meant to host 100,000+ people. We had a parking pass for the Hull Street deck. I arrived to my car at approximately 11:39pm, pulled out and got in line to leave. We then proceeded to sit in our car for an hour and a half and finally was able to exit the parking lot well after 1am. Unacceptable. Very cool venue. I enjoyed the SEC Road environment despite a subpar technology and parking experience.
Tolliver G — Google review
Beautiful campus and great experience at the game. The concession prices were comparable to a local high school football game. Every seat in the stadium seemed to have a good view of the game!
Blair A — Google review
Watching on tv is one thing. Being there and living it is simply amazing. Great organization to enter and exit, fast and easy. The vibe and the adrenaline is crazy in the field. Love it.
George K — Google review
The atmosphere was out of this world! First game of the season with my little bro! Was a little hot but it was worth it had a great time!
Marlon J — Google review
Being proud alumni we were both excited to take our daughter for a campus tour - regardless of if she selects UGA for her first four years. It was very informative and the students giving the tours were great about spending time with each prospective student and answering general questions that everyone has. It is always nice to see Sanford Stadium and this tour brought back a lot of good memories.
Chris M — Google review
No the most modern stadium but what a huge one, well situated close to the beautiful downtown core of Athens Georgia
Félix S — Google review
4.8
(3470)
•
4.7
(387)
100 Sanford Dr, Athens, GA 30602, USA
http://www.ugastadium.com/
(706) 542-9036
19

The State Botanical Garden of Georgia

Mentioned on 
9 lists 
Botanical garden
Nature & Parks
The State Botanical Garden of Georgia is a vast 313-acre horticultural conservatory that offers free admission to visitors. The garden boasts picturesque walking paths and provides educational programs for both adults and children. While some negative reviews exist, the gardens are well-prepared during winter and offer an excellent opportunity for photography. There's ample parking available, although it might get crowded on weekends. Visitors can donate if they wish to support the establishment, with a small donation box located near the entrance.
It's Free. A very beautiful garden. It's huge. A great place to take pictures. Great views of flowers and plants. Nature at its best. I recommend this place. We went during our trip to Atlanta. We made the drive out there not too bad, about an hour or so.
T. F — Google review
Visiting the State Botanical Garden of Georgia during Christmas was honestly such a peaceful and magical experience. The lights throughout the garden added this soft, warm glow that made everything feel a little extra special—like a quiet winter wonderland tucked into Athens. It wasn’t overly crowded, which made it easy to stroll through the paths, take in all the decorated trees and glowing displays, and just enjoy the calm. If you love holiday vibes but want something more serene than chaotic, this place is such a sweet spot. Plus, the lights reflecting off the plants and walkways made for some really pretty photos without even trying. A cozy, festive little escape that felt equal parts relaxing and joyful.
Anitsirhc Y — Google review
This past weekend I was visiting my alma mater, The University of Georgia. I got my master's there in 1999 and haven't really been back since. My first daughter was little when we were there and we take her for hikes in the Botanical Garden. Back then there was one little garden and the conservatory was brand new. Today the gardens have grown! Not only have the plants nature's, but there's now many different gardens. I'm not much of a gardener so I won't pretend, but I can say they're all beautiful. The conservatory is the same, but it's got a partner building that houses the most amazing and beautiful porcelain collection. Again, I'm not much into dishes or figurines, but to imagine that one person collected all of this stirs the imagination. It sounds boring, but trust me it's a must see. I went to relieve the holes we took with my daughter, and I found a wonderful fairy land of plants and new experiences. If you get to Athens GA for any reason, the State Botanical Garden is good couple of hours experience, more of your into plants!
Jason L — Google review
It’s free 😀 but it would be worth visiting even if it wasn’t! Pick a beautiful day and head out for a relaxing time surrounded by beautiful plants. There are also a lot of fun facts on the signs I found really intriguing, and I’m no plant nerd. So many different types of plants and environments, with the hill of wildflowers especially amazing! Also go visit the porcelain museum—I thought it sounded lame but it is also really neat!
Heather P — Google review
Beautiful gardens with plenty of parking. No entry fee, but donations accepted. There's a gift shop. What they really need is a cafe or at least a snack bar. We enjoyed our visit.
Chris B — Google review
Couldn't possibly do this place justice with words. Go! Bring a picnic. Bring everyone you know. This was a revelation in what a community can provide for it's residents and visitors. I have paid large sums to have less fun and relaxation. The children's garden and flying squirrels nest are not to be missed. Perfectly manicured and curated ornamental gardens on a sprawling, truly gorgeous property.
Yona G — Google review
This place is absolutely awesome! The children's area is amazing, and my 3-year-old enjoys playing there. Entrance is free, but donations are encouraged. I also took my elderly mother there, and they provided a scooter for her to enjoy (check the website for details on availability). Overall, an amazing place, and I recommend everyone visit.
S H — Google review
It is really nice. If you like plants or just nice scenic trails to walk on, you will like this place. There are also a couple of play areas for kids that look pretty awesome too. The pocelain museum onsite is worth a visit too - it is pretty amazing, and no it is not porcelain toilets. Honestly I think this place should charge admission. The outdoor areas are on par with the Atlanta Botanical gardens in my opinion, and Atlanta Botanical is a bit pricey on the admission. I have attached a picture of the map for those who would like to see the layout. Its a pretty big place. I spent about 3 hours there.
DaZid D — Google review
4.8
(3835)
•
4.7
(676)
2450 S Milledge Ave, Athens, GA 30605, USA
http://botgarden.uga.edu/
(706) 542-1244
20

Callaway Historic Site

Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Absolutely beautiful place. So much history to explore and enjoy. So much to learn. Mule day every year is definitely a cool event worth going too
C P — Google review
I had great afternoon visiting Callaway Plantation. There is a lot to see both within the main house and the grounds. I had a wonderful time talking with Rhonda in the General Store. She was very knowledgeable about local history, the house architecture, and the history of the plantation. I certainly plan on returning when I have more time to spend there. Perhaps during the Mule Day Festival!
Eddie W — Google review
Great little campground. Awesome host. Was not able to take a guided tour because of timing. Nice pull through level site. Full hookups.
Chuck A — Google review
This was an awesome day trip. The plantation is beautifully reserved and Suzanne, our tour guide, was very knowledgeable in answering all of our questions. You can tell that a lot of love has been put into restoring these homes to their original era in time. The brick house was definitely a grand mansion in its day. I loved hearing all of the stories that Suzanne shared with us. She is truly a gem. Looking forward to going back in October for Mule Day!! When you're finished touring the plantation, be sure to go to The Pig & Bull Grill and get the Killa!! Tell Eric & DJ that I sent you lol Both of these places were an amazing find and looking forward to going back soon!! I hope you enjoy it as much as we did!!
Rachael T — Google review
I think this is part of my geneology line! Mom's maiden name is Callaway. The plantation was more than I expected. So many outbuildings/support structures and in a beautiful, beautiful setting. Unfortunately we went on a day they are not open, so no interior tours. We were able to peek through the windows to get a glimpse of the rooms. Family cemetery on site too. On site camping available too. Amazingly enough it suits across from a small county airport, but it doesn't take away from the charm of the remaining Callaway plantation acreage. Thank you so much for deeding this property to the city to keep it maintained.
Rhonda — Google review
What a great jewel! Fabulous restored plantation house. It was great that they allow you full access to the rooms. The tickets are purchased at the gift shop. We did not have a guided tour. It would be nice to have an audio tour or something.
Cheryl P — Google review
Went to Mule Day - Southern Heritage Festival. Had a blast. Also took in the history of the plantation. Walked the grounds and toured the house. It was very interesting and had so much original furniture and decor still in there. I definitely will be reading more on it tonight to be able to appreciate what we saw.
Jon W — Google review
Unfortunately the times were not updated on the website and we drove an hour on Wednesday to find a closed site. The two persons working there said it would be ok to walk around. There is a variety of buildings and a beautiful herb garden around the main plantation house. You can view the great wood joinery on the log home. Nice placards describing the buildings. Facility hosts many activities throughout the year. Parking seems to be abundant... especially when it’s closed.
Simon R — Google review
4.7
(149)
•
5.0
(63)
2160 Lexington Rd, Washington, GA 30673, USA
(706) 678-7060
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21

Hickory Knob State Park And Resort

State park
Nature & Parks
Resort & state park offering lodge-style accommodations, an 18-hole golf course, campsites & trails.
We had a great weekend! We rented one of the rooms and it was clean and comfortable. Having dock access for our boat was convenient and allowed us time to enjoy all that Hickory Knob had to offer! We really enjoyed the breakfast buffet!!! Pricing was fair and there was a variety for all of us to enjoy. We'll be back for sure!
Kristina S — Google review
This is the second stay on an MLK weekend. The resort area seems very nice, the golf course seems nice, the hiking trails are good, but there is a huge missed opportunity on the campground. Sites are very unlevel and designed as "slight incline". The step of our camper was ridiculously high off of the ground. Most sites have no gravel and are nothing but sticky red mud when it rains. Apparently the campground was developed way back when to target tent campers and has not evolved from that. There are some better sites but not along the water. Most sites have great views of the water. The bathhouse has always been clean and nice to use. Many families, like ours, travel with pets which eliminates the resort as an option. Would love to see some improvements to the campground so that more people have their RV as an option here.
Dollene R — Google review
Park is beautiful. Lake is big and lots of fishing. Hiking and biking trails were fine. Golf course (not played) looked pretty nice. Everyone was nice. Rooms are in need of a refresh. It’s a park hotel so expectations weren’t high. Shower controls didn’t work and hot water was off or full blast and very hot. Room was otherwise fine.
Benjamin G — Google review
Camped for 6 nights and enjoyed the lake and golf course. Perfect for our small popup camper. Golf course was lovely and we greatly enjoyed ourselves. Andrew at the golf course was particularly kind to our son who loves golf.
Sarah M — Google review
Nice state park resort glad I stayed in lodge so I was able to be close the restaurant and pool if I would have brought my camper I probably wouldn't have made it to this side of the park.
Jodie B — Google review
Can't, for the life of me, figure out why this place wasn't more busy. Beautiful place. Unbeatable price on camping and rentals. Friendly staff. Clean facilities. Couldn't ask for me. My family is excited to go back!
Mike T — Google review
This was our first visit, but definitely not the last. We absolutely loved our campsite with access to the lake. Some of the site are difficult to access for bigger rigs.... luckily we didn't have an issue. Bathhouse was clean, and things were surprisingly quiet for new years eve. We treated ourselves to the New Year's buffet at the park restaurant & it was good. Overall great experience!
Kimberlee W — Google review
Nice sites, good staff, and amazing views and golf course. Great place to spend a weekend
Barron T — Google review
4.4
(1096)
•
3.5
(63)
1591 Resort Dr, McCormick, SC 29835, USA
http://southcarolinaparks.com/hickoryknob/introduction.aspx
(864) 391-2450
22

Newberry Opera House

Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
This renovated 400-seat French Gothic–inspired facility presents a variety of live concerts & shows.
The facility recently underwent a full restoration. It turned out wonderfully. Very beautiful decor and not a bad seat in the house. They bring a wide range of high quality performances, including Chubby Checker and A Christmas With CS Lewis.
Joseph B — Google review
Beautiful building outside. Did get to see the lobby only. Did try seeing the stage and seating area but the young lady that we asked said that the troupe that came in did not want us to come in since they had just arrived and were about to set up and didn’t want to be disturbed. We drove a long distance to see this historic place and considered a show after we saw the lineup. But…! The young lady was nice to us and tried for us, and we thank you. We signed the register and decided to move onto our next city (Greenville). We’ll come back another time maybe.
Kevin P — Google review
Adorable place, small and quaint. I sat in orchestra on the side which was a good thing, cause if I sat on the floor being short at only 4'11" with big ladies standing up and dancing, i wouldn't see a thing!! Also they say no pictures or videos. They dont endorse that at all. Otherwise, it would have gotten a 5 star.
Sheri H — Google review
What a Great place to catch an intimate show/concert. I was told its been redone and its very nice. Not a bad seat in the house. Do note that the balcony seats on right side upper are single file. Meaning if you buy 2 together you will face the stage and also stare at the back of your partners head! (Single file seats facing fwd) They offer booze (beer&wine!) Bathrooms are clean nice and updated. Staff was excellent. Saw a Ben Folds show(Indie piano guy) and the mix was done great. Slight hum on right side speakers but that was easily ignored.
Rhine D — Google review
Great venue for concerts. Very interesting decor as a smallish version of the 'Grand Old Opry House' with plenty of comfy seating. A major plus is their excellent sound system. Staff is friendly and helpful. We'll visit again soon!
Harold L — Google review
Newberry Opera House provides comfortable, small venue for classic groups and shows you won't find elsewhere. Feel up close and great seats throughout. Earth Wind and Fire Tribute band even came into spacious lobby post-show for greetings! Great time, always, at the lovely Opera House!
Ed G — Google review
I had a wonderful time at the Newberry Opera House! The place was packed, and every seat was a great view. I got to see Black Violin in concert, and I would definitely return to this venue. The opera house is beautiful and easy to find.
Candace Y — Google review
Awesome venue. Small intimate but able to feel like it is the center of the universe no matter what show you see.
Leroy G — Google review
4.8
(857)
•
4.5
(139)
1201 McKibben St, Newberry, SC 29108, USA
http://www.newberryoperahouse.com/
(803) 276-6264
23

Better Boating - Irmo

Boat rental service
Tours
Boating instructor
Canoe & kayak rental service
Water sports equipment rental service
Water Sports
We had an amazing time with Better Boating. Professional check-in, excellent condition of the boat and a patient introduction of the biat features. The day was great and returning the boat after refueling was easy, convenient and without any surprises. Everyone was extremely friendly, we will definitely return. Thank you!
R — Google review
Its 2025 and as usual im using Better Boating for my summer fun on the lake. I went out last weekend 8/16 and we had the hottest boat on the lake. Full sized Bennington Tri-Toon with a Yamaha 200. iT moved efforlessly through the water. We did have a slower then usual checkin. I was told there was only one tablet that day. that aside the dock crew was freindly and helpful. I keep thinking I want to buy a boat but with this level of service. My rent for a couple more years..
Eric H — Google review
Booked a Pontoon Boat online for around $500 for a Half the Day on 07/16/2022. Check in time was at 11:30am to 5pm.The boat was beautiful and amazingly all to us (party of 5) We had such a wonderful time plenty of beautiful and interesting thing to see and the best part of it is when we needed to cool off. We just drop anchor and jumped in lake to cool off (we did that four different time) and also enjoyed lunch at one of the few dock-restaurant on Lake Murray (shot out to Cat-Fish Joe’s) the teriyaki wings were delicious and to top it off a live band was playing sweet music outside-- we will definitely visit again Con: Customer service needs improvement. I had to ask different personnel for direction during check-in time and Return time. Same thing just needed better help of direction instead of assuming that all customer should know what to where to and how to. Pro:Everything else went well. The safety instructor and the guide coach “who was with us” stay until we were comfortable to take over the wheel. The pontoon boat was beautiful, comfortable and well maintain. I forgot my bag in one of the seats (all seats are storage space) and didn’t realize it until we got home. I call to report it and shortly after they call to report that they found the bag. At that time they were closed but stayed open for me to pick up my belongings. we will definitely visit again
Puni M — Google review
I have booked a few times with Better Boating and have previously really enjoyed the experience. I understand that companies have to have policies, but I was extremely disappointed in how our process was handled. I made a reservation for a group of friends and paid the deposit (weeks in advance of our travel date)--to only come to find out that our reservation was later canceled. Again, I understand policies and I am not removing myself from any blame--but I think that this policy is a bit nonsensical. I have been extremely busy and apparently missed their call and email to complete their orientation and failed to respond within the allotted timeframe--resulting in them completely canceling our reservation. I was thoroughly disappointed not only in this cancelation but in the way that the discussion with supervision was handled--very dismissive and generally unapologetic--"we can't just hold boats". I think it is misleading to take a deposit from someone if at the end of the day, that deposit means nothing in terms of holding the reservation. It would make more sense in my opinion to charge the full fee on the day of the reservation if someone decides to no-show instead of canceling a reservation of a loyal customer just because they failed to respond within a couple of days of receiving an email.
Courtnie C — Google review
Our family took Bravo out for the day to explore the lake and just joy ride. The boat was in great shape and handled very well. It was clean and ready at the dock when we arrived. Check in was seamless as was gassing up and return. The best part was being able to bring our dog with us! Thank you for being dog friendly!
Magen H — Google review
Pretty awful and careless experience tbh. My boyfriend reserved a boat for my birthday (7/18) 3 weeks in advance and AFTER taking his money and AFTER signing the contract we came in DAY OF just for them to tell us he is “too young” (a week and a half until his 25th birthday) for the rental and the deposit couldn’t be transferred to our of age friend that we had onsite and ruined the rest of our day. They refused to work with us even though it was completely their fault. They then told us “nobody on lake Murray would rent to someone under 25” which just isn’t true there was places across the lake that had no problem renting to us literally that day. Thank God they gave us a refund but that was the only good thing they did. Would not recommend at all.
Raven L — Google review
Better boats has been a breeze, we ended up having more people than originally scheduled and they quickly located a larger boat to accommodate everyone. The boat was extra clean and the staff is incredibly friendly!
Kayla — Google review
My mom and I rented paddle boards from Better Boating yesterday and I must say we had an incredible experience! A lady called the day before our reservation to confirm our information. She was incredibly kind and answered the questions I had. When we got to the dock, the employee was nice and helpful with helping us sign paperwork and getting the boards into the water. We only reserved two hours, which was the perfect amount of time to relax on the water and watch the turtles. I would rent from Better Boating again in a heartbeat!
Faith B — Google review
4.5
(134)
•
5.0
(52)
1602 Marina Rd, Irmo, SC 29063, USA
https://www.betterboatrental.com/
(803) 407-2929
24

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden

Mentioned on 
+68 other lists 
Zoo
Zoos & Aquariums
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden in South Carolina is a popular tourist destination that offers a unique combination of a botanical garden and a mid-size zoo. The 70-acre themed gardens feature over 4,200 species of native and exotic plants, including a rose garden, Asian garden, Walled Garden, and Waterfall Junction with children's attractions. The 170-acre zoo is home to more than 2,000 creatures from various habitats.
We visited the zoo on a Sunday. It was moderately busy but not too bad. It had a variety of exhibits. Definitely could easily spend 2-4 hours here. Lots to see, lots of food and drink options. Tickets were $25 per person. We really enjoyed our afternoon. The bathrooms were clean, lines were short. We visited the botanical gardens in the back. Those are not worth seeing. Very basic, nothing special. Lots of walking to get to them… so I’d skip if we returned. Great place for family & kids or even just a date spot. My only complaint is the special exhibits close early, and earlier than they state. I wanted to ride a camel and see the giraffes up close and both closed “at 6” and actually closed at 5:30. So we missed that opportunity.
Kenzie K — Google review
We bought tickets online ahead of time and they were slightly cheaper and you paid for parking right then too. The park was great, we went for my son's first birthday and just walked around and enjoyed everything!! I used to go there as a kid so I wanted to take him there as well. We drove from Savannah, GA! Would definitely recommend for a family trip. Great place, looks clean, nice staff, easy pathways, animals look well taken care of. Fun all around!!
Nicole Z — Google review
We were visiting from out of town and looking for something to do and what a pleasant surprise we loved the zoo and gardens! There's lots of animals to see, some we hadn't seen in any zoos back home. Then you can take their new sky tram (included in ticket) to visit the garden side. I'm not a huge fan of plants so I didn't have high expectations, but that side was excellent as well! Right now they have Lego sculptures on display which is fun. Lots of paths to explore and a huge kid area with water features (seasonal) and other fun things. If I were local I would definitely buy a membership.
Ashley C — Google review
I can’t believe this place is only an hour and a half from my house—how have I never been here before? I was absolutely blown away from top to bottom. The entire zoo is incredibly elaborate, and you get to see every type of animal, bird, reptile, and fish you can imagine. It was truly unbelievable. I saw stuff i never saw before and I am a zoo addict. The closeness to animals was amazing. Every animal looked happy and well cared for, and the enclosures were spotless. The price was very reasonable, and the staff was extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. I’m still shocked by how many different animals you can see here. Five stars doesn’t even come close to doing it justice. If you’ve never been, you need to go. I visited at a time when there was almost no one there, but I’ve heard it can get busy, and annoying —so definitely try to pick your timing. Either way, it’s worth every minute and penny. Im coming back this week with my little brother sponsor.
Matt — Google review
Always love a trip to the Zoo with the family. This time we headed to the botanical gardens. Did not disappoint. Amazing staff, lots to see and the air ride over the lake was great amd saved us a walk between the Zoo and botanical gardens. Will definitely return in the spring.
Keisa C — Google review
Went on a fairly busy day, but were able to move through everything in about 3.5 hrs with two young kids. Loved this zoo. Its not too big and provides a lot of shade on the paths and theres a good mix of indoor/outdoor exhibits, so going in summer won't be horrible. Theres a lot of events for kids like animal feeding, obstacle courses, carousel, and lots of food/bathroom stations scattered around. For 2 adults and 2 kids, it was over $100 to get in, but that didnt include the extra costs for animal feeding and extra events.
Andrew Y — Google review
We’ve been here twice already, and we really love this place! Everything is compact, so you don’t have to walk too much. There are so many animals, all of them are adorable. Sometimes you can even see the feeding time, usually around noon. The area is clean and well-kept. I love animals, so I try to come here as often as I can.
Lina G — Google review
The animals at Riverbanks Zoo are well cared for and very well fed. The zoo is small enough to walk in an afternoon but has so many animals and things to see that you could easily spend the entire day! Definitely get the upgraded family membership. Feeding the animals over and over was a must when we went.
Audrey K — Google review
4.7
(22179)
•
4.6
(2976)
500 Wildlife Pkwy, Columbia, SC 29210, USA
http://www.riverbanks.org/
(803) 779-8717
25

South Carolina State Museum

Mentioned on 
+59 other lists 
Museum
Local history museum
Specialty Museums
Nestled in a former textile mill, the South Carolina State Museum stands as a beacon of knowledge and creativity, showcasing an impressive collection of 70,000 artifacts across four expansive floors. This interactive museum invites visitors to explore the rich tapestry of South Carolina's art, history, nature, and science from prehistoric times to modern-day. Families will find it particularly engaging with its planetarium featuring rotating shows and an observatory equipped with cutting-edge telescopes.
I thought this was a great museum and a great price point. It was only $13 for adults, $33 if you did the extra Disney exhibit. The exhibits were interesting and ranged from early history to war-time era. I really enjoyed the visiting Disney exhibit. It was really neat to see all the costumes from different films.
Niki P — Google review
There are 4 floors with so much to look at. We started on the 4th floor and worked our way down. 3 hours and I don't think we were able to see everything. I have a mobility cart and it was so easy to move around and see the displays. Reasonably priced admission and well worth it.
Jeannie C — Google review
Had a great time here! Went on the first Sunday so admission was just 1 dollar. Even though there was a good sized crowd, it wasn’t so large that I wasn’t able to see everything I wanted to. Great place for a family outing or just something to do to pass the time. Would definitely go back again for some of the other paid exhibits.
Larinda R — Google review
Disney’s Heroes and Villains costume exhibit was well worth a visit. It featured a captivating collection of iconic outfits worn by renowned actors and actresses in beloved films. Seeing the costumes up close was magical. The museum's broader exhibit was extensive, covering a wide range of subjects and historical periods. The displays were engaging, with some interactive elements that added to the experience.
Kye — Google review
Had a good time here at The South Carolina State Museum! Went on the first Sunday so admission was only a 1 dollar. Lots of exhibits to wander through and a nice gift shop!
Sarah S — Google review
Overall an enjoyable experience, but extreme cold from too much air conditioning and poor working order for many exhibits affects recommendation for visiting the museum. I estimate that 25% of the exhibits are at some state of disrepair. In addition, the planetarium show I went to, while very informative, was more of an academic lecture than an entertaining show. Regarding the 4D Coastal Predators show, the production value was descent, but it was only 10 minutes long. Lastly, the attached photo provides a perfect example of improvement opportunities throughout the museum.
Paul S — Google review
My adult daughter and I had the best time at the museum and loved the heroes and villains expo! We're planning another trip back before it ends!
Kim B — Google review
I had assumed there would be the expected exhibits: We farmed rice and indigo... We defeated the British when they tried to take over Charleston the first time... oops on the second time ...Slavery was a stain on our history... General Sherman tore us up... And, oh, here comes a railroad. What I was *not* expecting was the collection of early telescopes covering several hundred years and the observatory on the fourth floor. Seriously, it's a museum and you need to go to it.
Michael S — Google review
4.7
(3979)
•
4.4
(659)
301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201, USA
https://scmuseum.org/
(803) 898-4921
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26

South Carolina State House

Mentioned on 
+56 other lists 
State government office
Sights & Landmarks
The South Carolina State House is a grand building that houses the state's House, Senate, and Governor's office. Visitors can enjoy free guided or self-guided tours from Monday to Friday to learn about the history of South Carolina. The grounds are surrounded by lush greenery and visitors can spot six bronze stars marking where Union forces damaged the walls during the Civil War. One unique feature is the false dome in the main lobby covered by an outer dome made of copper, visible from outside.
We really enjoyed our visit to the South Carolina State House. The building is absolutely beautiful—inside and out. The architecture is impressive, with tall columns, detailed stonework, and a peaceful atmosphere that invites you to slow down and take it all in. We walked the grounds first, which are spacious and full of history. There are several statues and memorials, each telling a piece of South Carolina’s story. One especially meaningful stop was the African American History Monument—it’s thoughtfully designed and gave us a moment to pause and reflect. Inside, the building was clean and well cared for. We weren’t part of a guided tour, but we were still able to walk around, read the plaques, and take in the details of the rotunda and chambers. Security was friendly and helpful, and it felt like a welcoming space to learn and explore. Toward the end of our visit, we stopped by the gift shop, which turned out to be a lovely surprise. It had a warm, welcoming feel and offered more than just the usual souvenirs. There were South Carolina-themed gifts, local specialty items, books, artwork, and even small-batch goodies made in the state. It was the perfect place to pick up something meaningful to remember the visit. If you’re in Columbia, this is definitely worth a visit—whether you’re into history, architecture, or just want a quiet moment in a beautiful place. It gave us a deeper appreciation for the area and its history.
Clemson T — Google review
This statehouse was beautiful from the outside. However I was disappointed that it wasn't open for self guided tours on the Sunday that I was passing through. Regardless, toured the grounds and checked out all of the statues there. Enjoyed the design of the dome. It was very different than most. I'll put this on my list of visited capitals but unseen from the inside.
Brian D — Google review
One of the coolest state houses I've visited! Unfortunately I only saw it from the outside but even then the whole area is clean, beautiful and well maintained! The state house itself has very beautiful architecture. If you are in Columbia definitely stop by and walk the grounds of the South Carolina State House!
George F — Google review
Definitely recommend a stop here. There is also a parking garage near by and a short walk to the main street area as well. We spent a solid hour just outside walking around the grounds. Very beautiful building and interesting history here. Lots of it. The stairs and view outside is worth going to view alone. When facing the building from main street the original building was a little to the right until it was burnt down in a war. The city was great to view and enjoy for the bringing in of the new year. The fireworks were great and wonderful to watch from the middle of main street and the oldest streets in the city.
Brittany H — Google review
My son Cian went here before. He sent me beautiful photos of the ceiling. The whole building is extraordinary. I visited to really get a feel for it. The security guards were melting. Their faces were rimmed with welts and rashes. A fire coiled in the corner, slowly engulfing the walls. Their faces metal detectors went haywire as they combusted into flame. Despite this, nothing was burnt when I stomped the fire out. At least my feet hurt now. It gave me something to feel. The building must be incredibly indestructible!
Dana W — Google review
The South Carolina State House is very impressive from the outside. You can walk around this impressive building, and it looks different from every angle.
Bianca。。 。 — Google review
Beautiful place, lovely grounds, quiet on the weekends. Highly recommended.
Chris — Google review
Visited the State House on Saturday after visiting the Soda City Market a block away. The security guard was very friendly & courteous. We removed our personal belongings to be x-rayed & walked through the metal detector without issue. We did not take the free tour, but wandered around on our own. 3 floors & not all rooms are open. There’s a gift shop on exit. Make sure you walk around the grounds outside. Very nice state house.
Hung D — Google review
4.7
(516)
•
4.6
(676)
1100 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
https://www.scstatehouse.gov/
(803) 734-5049
27

University of South Carolina

Mentioned on 
12 lists 
Public university
Sights & Landmarks
The University of South Carolina, established in 1801, boasts a picturesque 218-acre campus featuring historic buildings and museums. The Horseshoe, named after its U shape, is a must-visit area on the campus with its historic buildings that were part of the college's original campus. It's an ideal spot for picnics, bike rides, and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.
It's Amazing and full of a large, sprawling scope if SC history. An impressive collection of primary sources of all kinds.
Bryan — Google review
Lotta places to get a drink. A scotch is $11 at most places so it's comparable to just about anywhere but still has that city proximity to more nuanced establishments. 8/10 location
William O — Google review
It’s time to fire Beamer. Instead of wasting millions on stadium upgrades, USC should invest that money in getting a better coach and recruiting better players. The program is going backward, and no amount of fancy facilities can make up for poor leadership on the field.
Thomas S — Google review
Quiet and good place to focus on your school away from other busy cities. There are great teachers who are willing to help you if you ask. A lot services are provided by the school to help students with their school and social work. It get boring sometimes because it is a small city but overall there are a lot of activities to do
A. ( — Google review
Nice campus, friendlystudents and staff. Lots of food options to pick from. The only negative is parking
Benjie B — Google review
Great campus, visited for daughter's orientation. Really well done program.
Joe F — Google review
Fantastic campus setting. First time visit and was impressed with the architecture and upkeep of the entire area. It will be a great 1st year experience for my son.
Jeff W — Google review
Traffic, "both foot and automobile" are somewhat out of sync around the university and there is a true attitude problem with the students and fac ulty believing that they own the roads. Little attention is paid to the traffic signals for pedestrians and it is a fairly unsafe place to be in general. There needs to be a stronger yet friendly police presence there.
Zach M — Google review
4.5
(614)
•
4.7
(426)
1501 Pendleton St, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
https://sc.edu/
(803) 777-0169
28

Middleton Place

Mentioned on 
+106 other lists 
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
Middleton Place is a historic plantation located about fifteen miles northwest of Charleston, with roots dating back to the 1730s. Once home to the influential Middleton family, it holds significant historical value as the residence of notable figures such as Henry Middleton and Arthur Middleton, who played key roles in American history. The property suffered damage during various conflicts, including being ransacked by British troops and burned by Union soldiers.
I was completely impressed by the value for the price of the tickets both for the general admission and the house tour. The grounds are not only gorgeous, but all the staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating. I spent the better part of a day there meandering through at my own pace. Will absolutely return whenever possible!
Audra M — Google review
I highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance. It made the entrance easy and was able to plan ahead to think about what guided tours we wanted to do in advance. The grounds at Middleton are gorgeous! We learned about the Middleton family, some of the people who worked on the plantation through the years and the historical significance of plantation in shaping history. I wished the docent were more explicit about why the black slaves did not runaway or when they did the harsh repercussions. There was vert discussion about the psychological scarring of slavery and the fear instilled upon all.
Rachael N — Google review
It’s like taking a step back in time when entering this rice plantation. The gardens are kept in a way that you can feel the history and age. The knowledge from the staff and the few tours we did was impressive. We spent about 4hrs doing two small tours and enjoying the grounds.
David R — Google review
I’m really glad I had the opportunity to visit this plantation. Its story is at the heart of America’s colonial beginnings. Several tours are included with the price of admission and I appreciated their Garden Tour as well as their Beyond Slavery Tour. Whether your walking the grounds, coming for lunch, or learning it’s deep history, one could easily spend the day here.
Lisa — Google review
My daughters and I visited yesterday. We took the Beyond the Fields tour, about the Enslaved People's experience, with Linda. We all found it to be very informative and even emotional. The property is well preserved and tended and the docents are quite knowledgeable. The Middleton Oak is magnificent. Being mid-August, the weather was hot and humid which, combined with an approaching thunderstorm, cut our visit short. We agreed that our visit was a highlight of the trip.
Tara B — Google review
This place is absolutely beautiful and the guides are great! Put on your walking shoes and prepare to see alligators. I would like to see access to the house included in admission price as it is not cheap. Also please have sandwiches/wraps in snack bar that is at entrance.
Suzanne K — Google review
We were in town from Michigan to attend a Sunday wedding. The wind was very strong and the temperature really dropped. The wedding was held outside by the large trees. It was very scenic but quite a walk from the parking lot to spot wearing high heels. The parlor where the reception was held was a bit overwhelmed by the number of guests. There were no cocktail tables to place snacks and cocktails prior to the reception starting. The food was great and the bartenders were very attentive. It was a romantic spot for a wedding but from a logistics perspective, very challenging to get transportation to and from our hotel. Guests had to take the shuttle to and from the venue. The reception ended by 10:30 PM to account for the return shuttles to the hotel. Family and friends made it a wonderful event.
Olga L — Google review
I could have spent days here instead of just a few hours. The vast grounds offer dazzling landscapes. There are tours and stories about the generations of families who lived here, both the enslaved and the plantation owners. It is a trip back in time.
Sherry B — Google review
4.7
(2934)
•
4.5
(4440)
4300 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, USA
https://www.middletonplace.org/
(843) 556-6020
29

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

Mentioned on 
+134 other lists 
$$$$cheap
Garden
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a historic plantation in Charleston, dating back nearly 400 years. It offers visitors a glimpse into plantation life and its impact on American history. The 464-acre property features lush gardens, buildings, a maze, petting zoo, conservatory, cafe, and a theatre showcasing the plantations' history through a short film. Visitors can also enjoy train and boat tours around the grounds.
This is the first spot we visited in Charleston, It didn’t disappoint! We opted for the House Tour and glad that we did. Our guide, Madison, was kind and knowledgeable. The property is vast and breathtaking at every angle. The gardens you could get lost in. (But pack bug spray!) The wildlife area and the cafe were both pleasant surprises. We appreciated the clean bathrooms and water refill station as we brought our own water bottle. The salve to freedom cabin tour guided by, John, was excellent. The passion he felt about the topic was expressive and nearly brought me to tears. I recommend coming to Magnolia!
Reilly B — Google review
A Deeply Moving and Enriching Experience** Visiting this former plantation was both emotional and educational. The tours through the plantation house and the slave quarters were thoughtfully designed and offered a powerful insight into the lives of enslaved people. The beauty of the grounds—with centuries-old trees and a well-kept garden landscape—adds a peaceful atmosphere to the experience. What truly stood out was the exceptional staff: incredibly kind, knowledgeable, and passionate about sharing history. Both the lady in the main house and the one in the slave quarters were outstanding in their presentation and expertise. I truly appreciated the time spent here and left with a deeper understanding and valuable perspective. Thank you for this unforgettable experience!
Yassin A — Google review
Loved our day at Magnolia Plantation & Garden! Beautiful and serene surroundings and fascinating history. Enjoyed the water tour and all the pretty birds and saw my first gators in the wild!!! The home tour was interesting and I’m so grateful that we were able to see and learn so much by touring the home. Highly recommend a visit!
T T — Google review
Beautiful place to take long walks and tours of the Plantation house,gardens,and rice fields. It is an adventure filled with history and nature. The boat tour was fun and interesting. My family had an enjoyable day.
Redsquirrel — Google review
I was very leery of the venue due to its history, and although it would not ever be my personal choice for an event, it was absolutely gorgeous. It was extremely well tended to and immaculately landscaped. The venue areas were gorgeous, clean and had the perfect amount of space for a large gathering.
Jessyee B — Google review
Before you read any further... BUG SPRAY!! The grounds are stunning and well kept. We did the boat tour and our guide was very knowledgeable. It is great to see wildlife being taken care of. Saw some baby gators too! Trails are covered however there are lots of mosquitoes. The history at this location is unbelievable.
Theresa R — Google review
Gardens are English style, with proper expectations they are stunning. Great journey through checkered history of the land. Family owned and it shows. The generations of caretakers here shows in the beauty. It’s clear that the people here take great pride in preserving this part of history. The restrooms are clean and well maintained. Snack bar isn’t great and very expensive for what you get. The guides were very knowledgeable and each added a personal touch. John stood out in the Slavery to Freedom tour. If you’re able to spend time with him, consider yourself blessed. He spoke with such reverence and compassion for the heartbreaking circumstances the slaves endured, it brought my wife and I to tears. He makes the experience personal with details about families (both the plantation owners and generations of slaves) that I’ve not experienced before. When we were researching Magnolia, we saw a bad (and quite frankly, racist) review dismissing the Slavery to Freedom tour given by “a white Irishman”. Don’t let that kind of closed mindedness deter you. John may be white, and he may be Irish, but his heartfelt conviction about sharing history and moving beyond the horrors of slavery is second to none!
Greg — Google review
This is probably the one of the best paid attractions that you need to visit when you're in Charleston. There is a lot to see here for the money that you paid for and the whole place is beautiful. They have like a mini petting zoo. Their gardens is really fun to explore. Be sure to take advantage of some of the free attractions like their train tour. Sometimes they actually have a free guided tour of their gardens which is a must in my opinion. We did actually pay for the boat tours which I totally think was worth it we saw a lot of wildlife while we were on this tour. Don't expect a very manicured garden because they focus more on natural wildlife. One thing I highly highly advise when you go there make sure let you spray yourself with an off lotion as the mosquitoes are very persistent and you are guaranteed to get bit if you don't spray yourself. Skip the bug bracelets as it will not work and I was wearing five and it did not help at all. One thing to that I wish is that they paved the roads going into the plantation itself. But overall totally worth it because the ticket is for 2 days which is an awesome value!
Paolo G — Google review
4.5
(9246)
•
4.3
(7544)
Charleston, SC 29414, USA
https://www.magnoliaplantation.com/
(843) 571-1266
30

Drayton Hall

Mentioned on 
+62 other lists 
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Nestled along the serene banks of the Ashley River, Drayton Hall stands as a remarkable testament to 18th-century architecture and history. This antebellum plantation, renowned for its stunning Palladian design, is not only the oldest preserved plantation house in America but also a National Historic Landmark that has withstood the trials of both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Visitors can explore its tranquil grounds, which include an African-American cemetery that adds depth to its rich narrative.
We spent a couple of fun hours at Drayton Hall. People visiting should be aware out that the hall is a preservation project and not a restoration, meaning there is no furniture within the hall. I have to say the grounds are stunning. The pictures do not do it justice!
Maxwell A — Google review
A well preserved piece of history that was not restored on purpose. It is not the most known place in Charleston but for my daughter it was a place she needed to see. She is majoring in historical preservation and this place is a perfect example of a piece of history that is preserved but not restored. The grounds were beautiful and the place is still being researched and preserved to this day. The tour was very well presented.
James N — Google review
Every inch of Drayton Hall is absolutely gorgeous! I had the opportunity to take my children yesterday to visit Drayton Hall and view the current archeological excavation. It was fantastic!! Drayton Hall is absolutely beautiful and the guides are so knowledgeable. It was not only a fun experience but highly educational. It was amazing to see the artifacts they are recovering and the beautiful restoration of the house. They have a Phillip Simmons gate there as well. I highly recommend visiting. Their gift shop is amazing too, beautiful pieces from local artists and fantastic books. We had an amazing experience and will be bringing our family back in a few weeks when they come to visit.
Jamey C — Google review
This is a beautiful place and the history of the home and families that lived in the home is quite interesting. The story was told very well on our tour. Wear your walking shoes.
Bobbie H — Google review
Great historical look at an I preserved plantation. It gives you a sense of what life was like and connects you to history in a way that books, documentaries can’t. Unique in its unrestored state.
David W — Google review
House tour was okay, tour guide was informative but not very interesting. Loved the house architecture and the grounds were nice to walk around.
April J — Google review
Loved the experience. It was great to get the tour, and then be able to also do a self-guided tour as well.
P — Google review
I loved this tour and museum. Our tour guide Cody did a wonderful job, and was very knowledgeable. We had a small group, and it was a quiet day, so he took extra time with us, and went into more detail. You're able to wander the grounds on your own. Id highly recommend walking down to the Ashley River to appreciate the stunning view.
Josie S — Google review
4.6
(809)
•
4.4
(2059)
3380 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29414, USA
http://www.draytonhall.org/
(843) 769-2600
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