. Unique among states south of the Mason-Dixon Line, Georgia contains several different landscapes that make for great driving as well as great eating.
Indeed, Georgia’s culinary offerings are as diverse as its landscapes, from the coastal plains in the south to the Appalachian foothills in the northwest. You can find world-class BBQ and seafood here, of course, but did you know that Georgia also produces olives?
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So buckle your seat belt and unbuckle your belt-belt—here’s a guide to the ultimate foodie road trip in Georgia.
Atlanta
Start your journey in Georgia’s capital city and be sure to allow at least one full day (three meals) to explore. We recommend a bit of caffeine in the morning because there’s a lot to see here!
Why go to Atlanta
Not only is Atlanta the capital of Georgia, but it’s the heart of Georgia, too. In this city, you’ll find plenty to eat and plenty to explore, from historic sites and botanical gardens to incredible art and music. Each suburb sings with its own rhythms and flavors—and they’re beautiful from behind the wheel, too.
($): You could spend weeks in Atlanta and not try every delicious meal on offer. But if you only have one day in town, here are a few restaurants you should consider. For lunch, try the Red Eyed Mule (beloved by Alton Brown) for burgers.
Take DeKalb Avenue east from downtown for 15 minutes and you’ll arrive in the suburb of Decatur. Here, the food is hip and the people are younger. Don’t leave the Atlanta area without stopping here.
: If you need a snack for the road, stop by the Dekalb Farmers Market.
Key Takeaway Don’t be afraid to cruise the suburbs—you’ll find some of the best meals away from downtown.
Athens
An hour and a half east on US-78 will take you to Athens. There’s no need to spend a full day here, but it’s worth stopping for breakfast or lunch and a quick stroll.
Why go to Athens
Athens plays host to a vibrant music industry. It’s also the seat of the University of Georgia, which means there are lots of fun activities and food. The State Botanical Garden of Georgia is here, and Sandy Creek Park makes for a pleasant afternoon stroll.
($$$): For lunch or dinner, try Five & Ten for contemporary Southern classics in an upscale setting.
King of Pops ($): If it’s hot and humid, go straight to King of Pops to get some peach popsicles.
Augusta
Continue east on US-78 for another two hours and you’ll arrive in Augusta, the second oldest city in the state. With the feel of a resort town, Augusta is a fun stop on your foodie road trip in
Augusta is mostly known for hosting the Masters Golf Tournament, but it’s also the home of the oldest medical school in Georgia—and home to James Brown.
would be complete without visiting the south’s food epicenter: Savannah. Drive just two and a half hours south from Augusta and you’ll hit the Atlantic. If you can, plan to stay in this area for at least two days—including at least one meal on Tybee Island.
Why go to Savannah and Tybee Island
If you like arts and culture, history, food, beautiful buildings, and walkability—you’ll never want to leave Savannah.
Once you’ve recovered from eating the world in Savannah, drive three hours south to Lakeland. First, you’ll follow I-95 along the coast, and then take US-82 west along a wildlife refuge to reach the "City of Murals."
Why go to Lakeland
Lakeland is off-the-beaten-path for most foodies, but that’s why we like it. You can slow down and explore the Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge or marvel at murals that depict life in the 1920s.
: The major attraction here is Georgia Olive Farms, one of just a few olive farms in the entire state. When you stroll the groves and sample the fresh olive oil, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in Italy instead of Lakeland.
($$): If you need a full meal, head to Ray’s Millpond Cafe. It’s not fancy, but it’s always packed with locals and the view of the wetlands can’t be beaten.
Pro tips
It’s legal to drive without shoes in Georgia! Kick off your sneakers and relax into your trip.
You can drive up to 70 mph on a freeway outside the city limits, but slow down once you approach an urban area.
There’s something special about a simple, small, southern Georgia town. Sure, Atlanta is impressive, but the Azalea City (Valdosta’s nickname) will remind you what Georgia’s food trail is all about: connection to the community.
($): Finally, let loose at Ashley Street Station, a (very) dive-y bar with live music that will serve as the perfect backdrop to celebrate the culmination of your adventure.
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