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Scenic Summer Road Trips to Take from Columbus, GA




Living in Georgia, you have access to beautiful, varied terrains that provide the perfect opportunity for a summer road trip. In addition, the state has many public parks, historic sites, and delightful small towns to visit while traveling.


  • With so many places to see, there are many Georgia scenic drives and weekend trips you can take for a summer adventure.

  • Zelmo’s Zip In has everything you need for a pleasant ride through the north Georgia mountains or the historic towns.


Hiawassee, Georgia

Plan a drive to Hiawassee for a summer road trip full of picturesque scenery. Fuel up at a Texaco gas station in Columbus, GA, then head straight toward Atlanta by going north or take a more scenic route through Auburn, Alabama. Hiawassee is home to Brasstown Bald, Georgia's highest peak. Next, take the beautiful Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway through the southern Appalachians. You will enjoy the waterfalls, mountains, streams, and spectacular views of the Chattahoochee National Forest.

Consider These Stops

Take your time on your road trip and plan some stops along the way. Some of the places you may want to visit:


  • Auburn, Alabama

  • Atlanta

  • Helen

  • Dahlonega

Things to Do:

Once in Hiawassee, there are many things to see and do. Check out some of the many attractions, including:


  • Brasstown Bald

  • Hamilton Gardens

  • High Shoals Falls

  • Bell Mountain

  • Lake Chatuge

Cherokee, North Carolina

Plan a fun drive along Georgia’s Blue Ridge Parkway. This 469-mile route winds around the stunning peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is the longest continuous park in the United States, running from the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. Driving the entire length takes at least three days. However, many people break it into several short trips to see different areas each time they visit.

Stops Along the Way

Fill up your tank at a Zelmo’s Zip In Texaco gas station. Then, take a couple of days to enjoy the natural wonders of Georgia. Stop for food and fun on the route at the following places:


  • Metro Atlanta

  • Helen

  • Nantahala Outdoor Center

Things to Do:

Some things to see and do at the gateway to the parkway in North Carolina include:


  • Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

  • Tuckaleechee Caverns

  • Cliffside Lake

  • Lost Sea

Callaway Gardens

There are many beautiful road trips from Atlanta. A trip to Callaway Gardens is the perfect way for families of all kinds to enjoy a weekend together on the road. This resort offers various activities for people of all ages.

Places to See On Your Way

Even though Callaway Resort & Gardens is only a short drive from Columbus, make a day of it by stopping at these areas on the way:


  • Fortson

  • Hunters Pub and Steakhouse

  • North Butts Mill Road


You can also explore Pine Mountain, where there are plenty of attractions, restaurants, shops, and outdoor activities.

Things to Do:

Experience the appeal of a small town with the liveliness of a city in this area. Many activities await, such as:


  • Gardens

  • Spa

  • Golfing

  • Hiking

  • Bike trails

  • Ziplining

  • Wild animal safari

  • Watersports on Robin Lake

  • Fishing


It is always the perfect time to take a journey when there are numerous Georgia scenic drives and road trips from Atlanta to consider. Whether you plan a short road trip or a long adventure, Zelmo’s Zip In has everything you need for your travels. Stock up on snacks, refreshments, and fuel. Then, get some cash from the ATM for your stops along the way. Relax with your friends and family, see the countryside and enjoy the beauty of Georgia with a scenic drive. Contact us with any questions before you hit the road.



Image Credit: Soloviova Liudmyla/Shutterstock

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