Nestled below the Blue Ridge Mountains, Athens is a harmony of old and new: wedding-perfect Antebellum architecture, contemporary art and eclectic nightlife, a Victorian-era downtown teeming with trendy shops and one of the South's most progressive culinary scenes. The eclectic college town of Athens is 61 miles northeast of Atlanta, nestled just below the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. A vibrant, restored Victorian-era downtown teems with art galleries, trendy shops, world-renowned nightclubs and distinctive dining. Historic architecture and impressive gardens complete the unique blend of traditional heritage and trend-setting southern culture. The vibe and energy that gave birth to R.E.M and the B-52’s are alive and well today.

Get a real taste of Athens' unique flavor in their distinctive local shops, which have regularly appeared in national media. Five Points is a sophisticated, 1920s-era neighborhood with the perfect blend of traditional charm and retro flare. From cultured eating locales like Five & Ten that have gained national attention to the charming Two Story Coffee House, boutiques, and Five Points Bottle Shop and Five Points Growlers known for their expertise and selection, Five Points is the perfect place to spend some lovely hours in Athens. The shops here also feature the finest in fashion, gifts, antiques, and original art. You can also buy high end gemstone and diamond jewelry in Athens.

Step back in time exploring the museums and houses of Athens. Check out the The Taylor-Grady House, a National Historic Landmark and collegiate home of newspaper editor Henry W. Grady, whose New South speech largely shaped post-war views. Nearby, the Ware-Lyndon Historic House is one of the few remaining antebellum homes in Athens that incorporate Italianate elements.

Athens is a fun and educational destination for kids of all ages. From hands-on nature exhibits and art activities to great outdoor recreation, kids are sure to uncover an adventure in Athens. Named after former City of Athens Mayor Julius Bishop, this park offers a variety of programs and amenities. This 33-acre park features athletic fields, pool, and is the home of the Athens Clarke Gymnastics Academy, perfect for a day of fresh air and exercise. For a more adventurous way to spend the day, head to Active Climbing. Explore and have fun on spectacular boulders up to 20 feet high, with textures and forms that will blow you away, and terrain you'll find at pro comps.

By night, Athens is alive with a variety of music clubs and bars that offer entertainment suited to every taste. No visit would be complete without sampling a bit of Athens' world-renowned music scene. World-famous venues, such as the 40 Watt Club and the Georgia Theatre, continue to attract up-and-coming musical acts as well as old favorites. With jazz, classical, blues, country, and rock performances occurring on a regular basis, Athens provides one of the most diverse and affordable music scenes in the world.

You can’t leave Athens before eating breakfast (or brunch) at Mama’s Boy. Whether you are up bright and early or recovering well into the later afternoon, Mama’s Boys flexible hours provide a brunch that you can’t miss. The savory taste of the buttered biscuits and fried chicken will have you feeling like at home. Don’t forget to try the loaded French toast, with bananas and whipped cream.

If you’re looking for the perfect balance between action packed and laid back, Athens is your place to be at

Atlanta is the sprawling capital of Georgia. In Atlanta, fine dining, shopping and rich history combine with inspiration-inducing attractions to create a city with Southern charm and world-class sophistication. It’s easy to see why Atlanta, Georgia is one of the most popular destinations in the Southeast to live and to visit.

From boutiques to art galleries, antique and outlet centres, Atlanta shopping is everywhere. Venture into Buck head for luxurious Atlanta shopping, featuring top brands at Lenox Square Mall and Phipps Plaza.

Discover the hottest boutiques in neighborhood shopping districts, from Midtown and Virginia Highland to funky vintage finds in Little Five Points. In the market for home goods? Don’t miss the design district in Atlanta’s West-side. You can also get affordable engagement rings in Georgia.

Downtown Atlanta, Georgia's walk able attractions loop is where you can see the Cola, Georgia, Inside CNN Studio Tour, The Children's Museum of Atlanta and Sky View Atlanta, all surrounding Centennial Olympic Park. Atlanta attractions will help you get back to nature at Zoo Atlanta and Stone Mountain Park.

Atlanta is a city full of history and robust with heritage. From its role in the Civil War and Sherman’s destructive march through Atlanta streets, Georgia’s capital has been a place wrought with history-making events. Later, as Martin Luther King, Jr., made Atlanta the home of the civil rights movement, this hub of the Southeast once again took center stage in events that would alter the course of history.

Atlanta has been burned to the ground, has risen and grown stronger with each historical moment the city encounters. Discover Atlanta and explore its rich history, from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement.

Atlanta’s outdoor activities are your chance to explore the beautiful landscape of the city. Piedmont Park and the PATH Trails provide a wide variety of activities like Atlanta outdoor hiking for those who want to become one with nature. And there is plenty of nature to see. Atlanta features a beautiful tree canopy with a sea of green spilling across its surprisingly hilly landscape.

Whether by land or by sea – or river, if you will - climb to the top of Stone Mountain or “Shoot the Hooch” with the locals. If you prefer to stay closer to home or hotel, hop on the Atlanta Belt Line for urban hiking and bike paths.

When the sun sets, Atlanta nightlife starts heating up! Explore our official Atlanta nightlife and entertainment guide and discover the best of the best when it comes to Atlanta lounges and nightclubs, bars and live music venues. Consider Atlanta nightlife the ultimate melting pot of fun, allowing you to choose between the laid-back vibes of Virginia Highland, the chic style in Buckhead or a trendy scene in Midtown. No matter what style of nightlife you're craving, you're sure to find it in Atlanta! Havana Club and Koo Koo Room should be on your list of places to visit.

With plenty to see and do in Atlanta, it is no wonder then that the city is one of the most visited destinations in the United States.

Sandy Springs is close to all the Atlanta attractions yet is a Cozy community offering an alternative to staying downtown. Proudly boasting the Southern Hospitality and charm that Georgia is famous for, the city is the sixth largest in the state. At Sandy Springs you can enjoy the best of the modern South, because you can enjoy the big city one moment and the warm hospitality of the hundreds of independently-owned restaurants and shops the next.

Sandy Springs has plenty of shopping malls for the big spenders. However, the charm of the city is the independently owned shops. Here you can find everything from trinkets, antiques, funky clothes, shoes and handicrafts. The city also has a bustling diamond market and you can buy diamond and gemstone engagement rings in Sandy Springs. You can also shop online for diamond jewelry. The Sandy Springs Farmers Market, which runs from spring until the end of October, is a great way to spend a Saturday morning. Not only can you grab some fresh produce but also farm fresh eggs, pasture-raised meat products and lots of tasty cheeses and prepared foods like fresh salsa. The kids can get their faces painted while mom and dad nosh on freshly baked bread and sip on hot coffee.

The crowning jewel in Sandy Springs was established only a few years ago. Heritage Sandy Springs is a nonprofit organization that operates the Heritage Green Park site as well as the Sandy Springs Society and Entertainment Lawn and the Heritage Sandy Springs Museum. Heritage Sandy Springs holds concerts, festivals, the Rhythm and Brews Thursday night concerts and Concerts by the springs. Be sure and check out the restored Williams-Payne House on your visit.

There are plenty of beautiful parks and green spaces located throughout Sandy Springs. They include the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, Hammond Park, Morgan Falls Overlook, John Ripley Forbes and Ridgeview Park.

Dining out in Sandy Springs can be a treat. There are plenty of unique restaurants in the area. The Flavor Cafe and Mirage are two highly popular Persian eateries. Flavor Cafe serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and also boasts a takeout bakery and they cater. Mirage, on the other hand, is more vegetarian-friendly. Café Sunflower has been firing up the tofu since 1994 and shows no signs of slowing. Regulars will tell you to order carefully and get recommendations from your server.

For a taste of the simple life with just the right amount rush, Sandy Springs is the place to be at.

Established in 1733, Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia and the location of one of the largest National Historic Landmark districts in the country. This eccentric Southern city beguiles with Old World glamour and romance, culture, and entertainment. Savannah's stunning architecture, 21 historic squares and Low Country landscape make the city a top travel destination. Savannah is where you'll find amazing architecture, spooky cemeteries and rich history-along with global sophistication, funky nightlife and fabulous food. It's where history resonates into the present day, and where memories are still being made.

The city is also a shopper’s paradise. Shopping is truly a favorite pastime in Savannah. The charming stores, upscale boutiques, antique shops, and delightful markets nestled throughout historic Savannah reflect the city’s timeless appeal. From specialty stores and shopping malls to t-shirt shops and art galleries, you’re certain to find a treasure along the coast of Savannah, Georgia. Discover something for everyone on your shopping list in Georgia’s First City! Located in one of the oldest buildings on Victory Drive, this restored cottage is directly across from Johnny Harris Restaurant and features over 40 dealers offering fine furniture, art, vintage bric-a-brac, clothing and accessories. The city also has a thriving market to buy classic jewelry.

Savannha’s coastline is ripe with romance. Savannah’s moss-strewn live oaks and charming parks and squares make the perfect backdrop for a dose of romance. The historic district’s magical charm has made it a world-famous destination for lovers who often can be spotted strolling the cobblestone streets hand-in-hand. Join the quixotic crowd for a getaway that will transport you back more than 125 years and make you fall in love all over again. Book a room at the Azalea Inn & Gardens, where the restored 19th century architecture features 21st century amenities like a hidden garden pool and 10 rooms with private baths — some with jetted tubs or gas fireplaces.

Be sure to tour the city’s historic waterways, squares, mansions, forts and historic sites. Visit Revolutionary and Civil War landmarks. Take a riverboat ride or a dolphin tour from River Street. Investigate the paranormal in “America’s Most Haunted City.” From walking tours to trolley tours, there are so many ways to learn about Savannah. Savannah vacations are never complete without a sightseeing tour!

Revitalize your spirit at one of Savannah’s historic houses of worship. Serving all denominations, our churches and synagogues provide an uplifting atmosphere where you can practice your faith. Visit the St. Luke’s Lutheran Cathedral, known for being user friendly and open to the public.

Whatever the season, Savannah is the perfect family-friendly vacation destination with so many things to do. Packed with history and recreational opportunities, Savannah offers plenty of family fun. Rent a bike to explore historic Savannah or relax on the sandy beaches of Tybee Island. Tour Savannah’s museums and antebellum mansions. Check out areas of historic interest and see magnificent architecture set in the grid of the city’s majestic squares.