Atlanta: Day Trips

Athens Home to the University of Georgia, this historically rich city has in recent years earned an international reputation as an important breeding ground for indie music (like R.E.M. and the B-52s) and art. Athens; 73 miles east of Atlanta; www.visitathensga.com
culture | music | trendy | historic | art

Callaway Gardens Pamper yourself Appalachian-style at this stunning 14,000-acre Pine Mountain resort featuring luscious gardens, scenic hiking trails, a butterfly conservatory, several golf courses, and a full menu of spa treatments. 79 miles southwest of Atlanta; 800-225-5292; www.callawaygardens.com
golf | hiking | spas | smart splurge

Decatur Once the area’s biggest towns, in the 1830’s Decatur opted not to be the southernmost stop on the Western and Atlantic Railroad; as a result, Atlanta was born, and Decatur retained all of its lovely old world Southern charm. Decatur; 6 miles east of downtown Atlanta; www.decatur-ga.com
architecture | historic

Macon Steeped in history and Southern hospitality, Macon is also home to the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, and the Tubman African American Museum. Macon; 84 miles south of Atlanta; www.maconga.org
music | museum | historic | sports

Stone Mountain Park Georgia’s most popular tourist attraction covers 3,200 acres of park, lake, and woodlands straddling the world’s largest free-standing piece of exposed granite. 16 miles east of downtown Atlanta; www.stonemountainpark.com
family | live music | camping