HELEN, GA

If a quaint little town that embraces its history is what you're looking for head northward to Helen, GA.  Home to Oktoberfest in the fall, Helen caters both to its beer guzzling and family crowds.  Spend the day tubing down the Chattahoochee River, hiking through Anna Ruby Falls, or wandering through the little shops and restaurants nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains.  If you have kids make sure to stop at the Cabbage Patch Kids General Hospital to see how the little dolls are grown.  Only about an hour and 45 minute drive away, Helen is a must see for a summer escape.  www.helenga.org

ATHENS, GA

Home to bands such as R.E.M and Widespread Panic, Athens is renowned for its music scene especially for its up and coming artists.  Whether you're a UGA fan or not, Athens has an amazing nightlife with hundreds of bars and restaurants to occupy your time.  Only an hour and a half drive from Atlanta, this college town is definitely not just for the students. www.visitathensga.com

AMICALOLA FALLS STATE PARK

Named for the Cherokee word meaning "falling waters" , Amicalola Falls is home one of the most mesmerizing sites in Georgia.  With a cascading 729 foot waterfall and numerous trail of varying distances, this state park provides a day's worth of entertainment.  So hit the trails, but don't forget your swimsuit because you'll want to take a dip in the gorgeous falls to cool down. www.gastateparks.org/amicalola

LAKE LANIER ISLANDS 

Snuggled next to the blue shores of Lake Lanier, Lake Lanier Islands offers activities for the whole family.  Beaches, boat rentals, water parks, and a spa are just a few of the amenities Lake Lanier Islands has that will keep you and your family busy.  Only 45 minutes outside of Atlanta this lake oasis can help you escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. www.lakelanierislands.com

GEORGIA'S LITTLE GRAND CANYON

If getting back to nature is a little bit more your style check out Providence Canyon State Park, a mere 3 hours south in Lumpkin, GA.  Relax your mind, body and soul as you hike along 150 foot deep gullies with sharply cut clay walls that don some of the most beautiful shades of purple, orange, and red you will ever see.  Georgia's own Little Grand Canyon is definitely worth the drive if you are looking escape for the day. www.gastateparks.org/providence

(Source: The Sunday Paper)