By Penelope Lane
Georgia is a popular vacation destination for urban aficionados, outdoor enthusiasts and small-town travelers. As a state that experiences four distinct seasons and peak periods of tourism, plentiful hotels offer cheap accommodations. Savvy travelers need only to discover areas of Georgia that offer great rates and the most opportune time to travel the northern mountains, coastal region and urban city center.
The North Georgia Mountains: Dahlonega
Quaint shops abound in Dahlonega.
Located just an hour's drive north of Atlanta, the charming town of Dahlonega offers visitors inexpensive accommodations and plentiful attractions. Nestled in the lush North Georgia mountains, Dahlonega offers a refreshing escape from the summer heat. While this city is well-known for its boutique shops, antique stores, quaint dining and quiet streets, Dahlonega has much more to offer, including access to the Appalachian Trail, an easy drive to exciting Atlanta and nearby award-winning Georgia wineries. Additionally, Dahlonega is a northern gateway to charming small towns-- such as Cleveland, Elijay and Helen--and dramatic mountain villages (such as Blue Ridge). Rent a cabin during the winter season for beautiful mountain views and relaxed, southern hospitality. Looking to spot some spectacular fall foliage? The North Georgia mountains offer vistas of red, orange, yellow and brown; however, hotels and bed-and-breakfasts often have increased rates during this peak season.
Coastal Escapes: Savannah
Spanish Moss adorns a lamppost in Savannah.
Travelers yearning for a coastal Georgia escape should check out the elegant, historic city of Savannah. A perfect destination for the budget-conscious, Savannah offers small-town charm with big-city excitement. Popular activities include shopping along River Street, dining at Lady & Son's Restaurant, taking a spooky nighttime ghost tour and enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride through historic downtown. Cheap hotel options are abundant in Savannah during off-peak seasons, such as the sweltering, humid summer months, when the tourists retreat to cooler climates. Look for hotels located a short walk away from the historic center and River Street to save on cash. Ensure you'll see all the sights of Savannah by booking a cheap hotel near the Savannah History Museum and Visitor's Center, where many tours and trolleys have their first stop. Be aware that during prime-wedding season, accommodations will be hard to come by (such as the spring, when flowers are in full bloom, or in the fall when tree foliage is at it's peak). Added tip? Avoid travel during the annual St. Patrick's Day festival, as tourists flock to Savannah by the thousands and hotel rates skyrocket.
Urban Attractions: Atlanta
View of Atlanta Skyline from Turner Field
Atlanta, Georgia is a hot spot for urban southern tourism. Home to the New World of Coca-Cola, CNN Center, Georgia Aquarium, the 1996 Olympics and successful professional sports teams, Atlanta is a bustling hub of activity for families, couples and singles alike. While Atlanta enjoys year-round tourism, cheap hotel rates can still be found for last-minute travelers, those who feel comfortable utilizing Atlanta's public transportation system (MARTA) and savvy travel researchers. Consider booking a room on the cheap in business hub Dunwoody, Georgia. Just a few quick MARTA stops north of downtown Atlanta, travelers can save on money and get to all major Atlanta attractions--from Buckhead to Turner Field to the High Museum of Art--within 30 minutes. Hoping to stay in a charming part of town? Check out hotels in trendy Virginia Highland, a part of town popular for nightclubs, high-class bars and boutique-shopping. Many family-owned, historic inns and bed-and-breakfasts have cut rates to fuel business.
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