Georgia

With dramatic cliffs and deep gulleys, rainbow-hued soil and lush forests, Providence Canyon in southwest Georgia rightfully earned its nickname, the Little Grand Canyon. Ironically, this striking natural beauty was caused by poor farming practices during the 1800s. Enjoy hiking, camping, astronomy programs and outstanding photography opportunities.

Georgia’s largest natural spring pumps 265,000 liters of refreshing, 20-degree Celsius water per minute, earning its place among the Seven Natural Wonders of Georgia. This scenic park outside Albany was once home to a casino and resort. Today, it’s perfect for a stroll or a picnic.

This bucolic destination was made famous by Franklin D. Roosevelt’s search for a polio cure in its soothing natural hot springs. Visit FDR’s Little White House, browse downtown boutique and savor traditional Southern fried chicken and homemade biscuits at the Bulloch House. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike more than 60 kilometers of trails at F.D. Roosevelt State Park, the largest in Georgia.

In 1970, daredevil Karl Wallenda walked a tightrope across the Tallulah Gorge, a 304-meter-deep, 3.2-kilometer-long gorge carved out by the Tallulah River. (Tip: You can still see the towers that held his tightrope.) Pick up a free permit that allows you to hike to the gorge floor, where a suspension bridge crosses the rushing river.

Experience the mystery and beauty of the largest blackwater swamp in North America, the 163,000-hectare Okefenokee Swamp. Established in 1936 to protect migrating birds and wildlife, this refuge offers fishing, paddling, camping and fantastic views from boardwalks and observation towers.

Northern Georgia is home to the USA’s third-highest waterfall east of the Mississippi River, the 222-meter Amicalola Falls. The waterfall is easily accessed, inviting picnickers and hikers alike to relax and listen the soothing sounds. The adjacent state park and lodge of the same name offer outdoor activities and overnight stays. This natural escape is just 1.5 hours north of Atlanta.

One of the largest aquariums in the world, the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta offers an up close look at thousands of unique aquatic species including penguins, dolphins, sharks, otters, fish and reptiles. In addition to shows and animal demonstrations, the aquarium offers behind-the-scenes tours, animal encounters and swim-and-dive experiences.

Located in rural central Georgia, the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site is home to the 39th president's boyhood farm, high school and presidential campaign headquarters (housed in a historic train depot). Walk the tranquil butterfly trail established by his wife, Rosalynn Carter.

Whitewater rafting in the heart of a city? It’s true. In Columbus, located on Georgia’s western border, you can enjoy the longest urban whitewater rafting in the world. This man-made whitewater on the Chattahoochee River boasts a four-kilometer stretch of Class II-V rapids, which you can experience on a guided paddling adventure.

Board a ferry in St. Marys to Cumberland Island, an undeveloped barrier island off the southern Georgia coast. Explore hiking trails, go boating, visit the historic Dungeness Mansion ruins, or just relax on the sand. Island camping is available and on clear nights, the stargazing is absolutely stunning.