Day Trips from Atlanta
← All Atlanta day tripsDay Trips from Atlanta: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Atlanta, GA. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Atlanta
Chilhowee Mountain Overlook
Benton, TN 37307
Just 2 hrs 19 min from Atlanta, rated 4.9 stars by 402 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
RBR Hogpen - Dodd Creek Lookout
Helen, GA 30528
Just 1 hr 48 min from Atlanta, rated 4.9 stars by 104 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Fort Mountain Scenic Overlook
GA 30705, USA
Just 1 hr 41 min from Atlanta, rated 4.9 stars by 222 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Best Scenic Overlook #2
Cleveland, GA 30528
Just 1 hr 49 min from Atlanta, rated 4.8 stars by 270 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Canyon View Overlook
AL 35967, USA
Just 2 hrs 6 min from Atlanta, rated 4.8 stars by 162 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Chattahoochie River Overlook
Whitesburg, GA 30185
Just 1 hr 2 min from Atlanta, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Amicalola Upper Falls Observation Platform
Dawsonville, GA 30534
Just 1 hr 26 min from Atlanta, rated 4.8 stars by 341 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Hwy Lookout
Georgia 30528, USA
Just 1 hr 46 min from Atlanta, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Russell–Brasstown Scenic Byway
GA 30545, USA
Just 1 hr 36 min from Atlanta, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Overlook Deck
Sandy Springs, GA 30339
Just 22 min from Atlanta, rated 4.8 stars by 194 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scenic Overlook
GA 30738, USA
Just 2 hrs 12 min from Atlanta, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Sky Valley Overlook
Sky Valley, GA 30537
Just 2 hrs 2 min from Atlanta, rated 4.8 stars by 508 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Atlanta
What are the best scenic drives near Atlanta, GA?
The best scenic drives near Atlanta include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Atlanta?
Most scenic drives near Atlanta range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Atlanta?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Atlanta, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Atlanta?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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