Discover 14 Extraordinary Unique Places to Stay in Georgia
Introduction
Georgia, a state known for its rich history, diverse landscapes, and Southern charm, offers travelers a wide array of unique places to stay. From cozy treehouses nestled in the mountains to luxurious coastal retreats, the Peach State has something for every type of traveler seeking an extraordinary lodging experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore some of the most unique places to stay in Georgia, providing you with inspiration for your next unforgettable getaway.
Treehouse Retreats
Secluded Canopy Escapes
For those seeking a truly unique place to stay in Georgia, treehouse accommodations offer an unparalleled experience. These elevated escapes provide a perfect blend of nature and comfort, allowing guests to reconnect with their surroundings while enjoying modern amenities.
One of the most popular treehouse destinations in Georgia is the Atlanta Treehouse. This urban oasis, located just minutes from downtown Atlanta, features three beautifully crafted treehouses connected by rope bridges. Each treehouse offers a different living space, including a sitting room, bedroom, and deck area, providing guests with a magical forest retreat in the heart of the city.
Another fantastic option for treehouse enthusiasts is the Treehouse at Candlelight Forest in Chickamauga. This charming accommodation is perched high in the trees, offering stunning views of the surrounding forest. The treehouse features a cozy interior with rustic-chic decor, a kitchenette, and a private deck perfect for stargazing.
Converted Spaces
From Schoolhouses to Firehouses
Georgia is home to several unique accommodations that have been cleverly converted from their original purposes. These repurposed spaces offer a distinctive blend of history and modern comfort, making them some of the most unique places to stay in Georgia.
The Old School House in Rabun Gap is a prime example of this trend. This former one-room schoolhouse has been transformed into a cozy vacation rental, complete with vintage decor and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the charm of a bygone era while still having access to Wi-Fi and a fully equipped kitchen.
For a truly unique experience, consider staying at the Firehouse Inn in Bainbridge. This former fire station has been converted into a boutique inn, preserving many of its original features, including the fire pole! Each room is individually decorated with firefighting memorabilia, offering guests a one-of-a-kind stay steeped in local history.
Glamping Experiences
Luxury Camping in the Georgian Wilderness
For those who want to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort, glamping provides the perfect solution. Georgia offers several glamping options that combine the beauty of nature with luxurious amenities, making them some of the most unique places to stay in the state.
Sweetwater Creek State Park, located just outside Atlanta, offers yurt accommodations that provide a perfect glamping experience. These circular, tent-like structures feature comfortable beds, furniture, and electricity, allowing guests to enjoy nature without roughing it. The park’s location offers easy access to hiking trails, fishing, and kayaking opportunities.
Another exceptional glamping option is the North Georgia Canopy Tours in Lula. Here, guests can stay in safari-style tents equipped with real beds, private decks, and stunning views of the surrounding forest. The site also offers zip-lining adventures, making it an ideal choice for thrill-seekers looking for unique places to stay in Georgia.
Historic Inns and B&Bs
Step Back in Time
Georgia’s rich history is reflected in its many historic inns and bed and breakfasts, offering guests a chance to step back in time while enjoying modern comforts. These unique places to stay in Georgia often feature period-appropriate decor, antique furnishings, and a wealth of stories from the past.
The Forsyth Park Inn in Savannah is a prime example of a historic accommodation that seamlessly blends past and present. This Victorian-era mansion, overlooking the famous Forsyth Park, features 11 beautifully appointed rooms, each with its own unique character. Guests can enjoy Southern hospitality at its finest, with gourmet breakfasts and afternoon tea served daily.
For a taste of antebellum charm, consider staying at the Twelve Oaks Bed and Breakfast in Covington. This grand mansion, which inspired the Twelve Oaks plantation in “Gone with the Wind,” offers guests a luxurious stay in a meticulously restored 1836 estate. Each room is decorated with period antiques and modern amenities, providing a unique and comfortable experience.
Coastal Retreats
Oceanfront Escapes and Island Getaways
Georgia’s coastline offers some of the most unique places to stay in the state, with options ranging from historic lighthouses to private island rentals. These coastal retreats provide guests with stunning ocean views, access to pristine beaches, and a chance to experience the natural beauty of Georgia’s barrier islands.
The St. Simons Island Light Keeper’s Dwelling, located on St. Simons Island, offers a truly unique coastal experience. This historic home, adjacent to the functioning lighthouse, has been converted into a museum and vacation rental. Guests can climb the lighthouse tower for panoramic views of the island and learn about the area’s maritime history.
For those seeking the ultimate in privacy and luxury, Little Raccoon Key offers a one-of-a-kind island getaway. This private island, located off the coast of Jekyll Island, features a single, eco-friendly glamping tent with all the amenities of a luxury hotel. Guests can enjoy activities like fishing, kayaking, and stargazing in complete seclusion.
Mountain Cabins
Rustic Luxury in the North Georgia Mountains
The North Georgia Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for some of the most unique places to stay in Georgia. Rustic cabins and mountain lodges offer guests a chance to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying comfortable accommodations and breathtaking views.
Blue Ridge, Georgia, is home to numerous unique cabin rentals, including treehouses and A-frame cabins with stunning mountain vistas. Many of these rentals feature hot tubs, fire pits, and wraparound decks, allowing guests to fully appreciate the beauty of their surroundings.
For a more luxurious mountain experience, consider staying at Barnsley Resort in Adairsville. This sprawling estate features a variety of accommodation options, including cottages and a recently renovated inn. The resort’s 3,000 acres offer activities like golfing, horseback riding, and clay shooting, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Houseboat Rentals
Floating Accommodations on Georgia’s Lakes
For a truly unique place to stay in Georgia, consider renting a houseboat on one of the state’s many lakes. These floating accommodations offer guests the opportunity to explore Georgia’s waterways while enjoying all the comforts of home.
Lake Lanier, located just north of Atlanta, is a popular destination for houseboat rentals. Companies like Lake Lanier Luxury Houseboat Rentals offer a variety of vessels, from cozy boats perfect for couples to large, multi-story houseboats that can accommodate entire families or groups of friends. These rentals typically include fully equipped kitchens, comfortable sleeping quarters, and outdoor decks perfect for sunbathing or fishing.
Another great option for houseboat enthusiasts is Lake Allatoona. This scenic lake offers several houseboat rental options, allowing guests to explore its 12,000 acres of water and 270 miles of shoreline at their own pace. Many of these rentals come with additional amenities like water slides, hot tubs, and even satellite TV, ensuring a comfortable and entertaining stay on the water.
Farm Stays
Agricultural Adventures in the Georgia Countryside
For those looking to experience rural life and connect with nature, farm stays offer some of the most unique places to stay in Georgia. These accommodations allow guests to immerse themselves in agricultural settings, often with opportunities to participate in farm activities and enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences.
Serenbe, located just outside Atlanta, is a unique community that offers several farm stay options. The Inn at Serenbe features rooms and cottages spread across a 36-acre property, complete with a working organic farm. Guests can participate in farm tours, cooking classes, and even help with harvesting, providing a hands-on agricultural experience.
Another excellent option for farm enthusiasts is the White Oak Pastures Farm Stay in Bluffton. This working farm offers guests the chance to stay in cabins or campsites on the property, allowing them to experience life on a regenerative farm. Visitors can participate in farm tours, learn about sustainable agriculture practices, and enjoy meals prepared with ingredients straight from the farm.
Eco-Friendly Accommodations
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Sustainable Stays in the Peach State
As environmental awareness grows, so does the demand for eco-friendly accommodations. Georgia offers several unique places to stay that prioritize sustainability and minimal environmental impact.
The Lodge at Smithgall Woods in Helen is a prime example of eco-friendly luxury. This state park lodge features six beautifully appointed cottages nestled in a 5,664-acre nature preserve. The lodge emphasizes conservation and education, offering guests opportunities to learn about the local ecosystem through guided hikes and wildlife viewing programs.
For a more rustic eco-friendly experience, consider staying at the Len Foote Hike Inn in Dawsonville. This backcountry lodge is only accessible via a five-mile hike from Amicalola Falls State Park. The inn uses solar power, composting toilets, and other sustainable practices to minimize its environmental impact while providing comfortable accommodations for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Unique Urban Stays
Distinctive Accommodations in Georgia’s Cities
While Georgia’s rural areas offer many unique places to stay, the state’s cities also provide distinctive lodging options for urban explorers. From boutique hotels to quirky vacation rentals, these accommodations offer a different perspective on city life.
In Atlanta, the Clermont Hotel stands out as one of the most unique places to stay in Georgia. This boutique hotel, housed in a renovated 1920s building, features stylish rooms with vintage-inspired decor and modern amenities. The hotel’s rooftop bar offers stunning views of the Atlanta skyline, while its infamous basement lounge pays homage to the building’s colorful history.
Savannah, known for its historic charm, offers several unique urban accommodations. The Thunderbird Inn, dubbed the “hippest hotel in Savannah,” embraces a retro 1960s aesthetic with modern comforts. This pet-friendly motel features brightly colored rooms, complimentary RC Cola and MoonPies, and a prime location for exploring Savannah’s historic district.
Haunted Hotels
Spooky Stays for the Brave
For those seeking a thrilling and unique place to stay in Georgia, the state offers several allegedly haunted hotels and inns. These accommodations combine history, mystery, and the possibility of paranormal encounters for guests brave enough to spend the night.
The Marshall House in Savannah is often cited as one of the most haunted hotels in Georgia. Built in 1851, the hotel served as a hospital during the Civil War and yellow fever epidemics. Guests have reported numerous ghostly encounters, including sightings of Union soldiers and the sounds of children running through the halls.
Another famously haunted accommodation is the Kehoe House, also located in Savannah. This 1892 Renaissance Revival mansion-turned-boutique hotel is said to be haunted by the ghosts of the Kehoe children. Guests have reported hearing children’s laughter and feeling the presence of unseen entities in various rooms of the house.
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Seasonal Accommodations
Unique Places to Stay in Georgia Throughout the Year
Georgia’s diverse climate and landscapes offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy unique seasonal accommodations year-round. Each season brings its own charm and distinctive lodging options that showcase the best of what Georgia has to offer.
During winter, the North Georgia Mountains transform into a winter wonderland, perfect for those seeking cozy retreats with easy access to skiing and snowboarding. The Copper Creek Cottage in Dahlonega offers a prime example of winter lodging. This charming cabin features a stone fireplace, hot tub, and stunning mountain views. Its proximity to the Chattahoochee National Forest provides guests with opportunities for winter hiking and wildlife viewing.
Spring in Georgia is synonymous with cherry blossoms, particularly in Macon, known as the “Cherry Blossom Capital of the World.” The 1842 Inn, a historic antebellum mansion turned bed and breakfast, offers a unique spring accommodation experience. Guests can enjoy the inn’s beautiful gardens bursting with cherry blossoms and participate in the annual Cherry Blossom Festival activities.
Summer calls for beachfront stays, and Tybee Island offers some of the most unique coastal accommodations in Georgia. The Tybee Island Light Station and Museum provides a truly distinctive summer lodging option. Guests can stay in the head lighthouse keeper’s cottage, a beautifully restored 3-bedroom home adjacent to the historic lighthouse. Visitors enjoy private after-hours access to the lighthouse grounds and unparalleled ocean views.
As autumn paints the Georgia landscape in vibrant hues, the Blue Ridge Mountains become a haven for leaf-peepers. The Blue Ridge Treehouse, perched high among the colorful foliage, offers a unique fall retreat. This luxurious treehouse features floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the autumn colors, a fully equipped kitchen, and a wraparound deck perfect for enjoying crisp mountain evenings.
Pet-Friendly Unique Stays
Extraordinary Accommodations for You and Your Furry Friends
For many travelers, a vacation isn’t complete without their beloved pets. Georgia offers several unique, pet-friendly accommodations that welcome four-legged companions with open arms.
The Len Foote Hike Inn, mentioned earlier for its eco-friendly practices, also stands out as a unique pet-friendly option. This backcountry lodge allows dogs on its premises, offering a rare opportunity for hikers to enjoy a rustic mountain retreat with their canine companions. The inn provides water bowls and designated areas for pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for both humans and dogs.
Cat lovers will appreciate the Kehoe House in Savannah, a pet-friendly historic inn that welcomes feline friends. This Victorian-era mansion offers elegant rooms where guests can relax with their cats, surrounded by antique furnishings and modern amenities. The inn’s small size and quiet atmosphere make it an ideal choice for travelers with cats.
For equestrian enthusiasts, Southern Cross Guest Ranch in Madison offers a unique opportunity to bring your own horse on vacation. This dude ranch features comfortable guest rooms and private cottages, along with stables and pastures for horses. Guests can explore miles of riding trails on the property with their equine companions.
Wellness Retreats
Unique Places to Stay for Health and Relaxation
Georgia’s serene natural settings provide the perfect backdrop for wellness-focused retreats, offering unique accommodations designed to promote health, relaxation, and personal growth.
Elohee Retreat Center in Sautee Nacoochee is a standout destination for those seeking a meditation-focused getaway. Set on 220 acres of undisturbed forest, Elohee offers a variety of accommodation options, including the striking Bald Eagle House, a round house with panoramic mountain views. The center hosts various meditation and mindfulness retreats throughout the year, allowing guests to immerse themselves in contemplative practices amid nature’s beauty.
For yoga enthusiasts, Yoga Farm in Blairsville provides a unique eco-friendly retreat experience. This small organic farm offers yoga classes and workshops in a beautiful outdoor setting. Guests can stay in simple yet comfortable cabins or bring their own tents for camping. The farm-to-table meals, prepared with produce grown on-site, add to the holistic wellness experience.
Warm Springs, Georgia, famous for its natural hot springs, is home to the historic Roosevelt’s Little White House State Historic Site. While the hot springs are no longer used for therapeutic bathing, visitors can stay at the nearby Meriwether Country Inn and enjoy the town’s rich history and healing atmosphere. The inn offers comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions, including the recently renovated warm springs pools at the Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute.
Vineyards and Winery Stays
Unique Accommodations for Wine Enthusiasts
Georgia’s burgeoning wine industry has given rise to several unique accommodations that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the world of winemaking while enjoying distinctive lodging options.
Crane Creek Vineyards in Young Harris offers a charming farmhouse rental overlooking their picturesque vineyards. The Vineyard Farmhouse, a beautifully restored 1886 home, provides guests with a cozy, wine-country retreat. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and even participate in grape harvests during the appropriate season.
For a truly unique winery stay, Wolf Mountain Vineyards in Dahlonega offers the Wine Barrel Room. This distinctive accommodation is crafted from a large, repurposed wine barrel and features a comfortable bed, sitting area, and private bathroom. Guests can wake up to stunning views of the vineyards and enjoy on-site wine tastings and gourmet dining.
Chateau Elan Winery & Resort in Braselton provides a luxurious take on winery accommodations. This expansive resort features an on-site winery, spa, and golf course. Guests can choose from various lodging options, including rooms in the chateau-inspired main building or private villas. The resort’s immersive experiences, such as wine blending classes and cooking demonstrations, offer wine enthusiasts a comprehensive vineyard getaway.
Unique Group Accommodations
Extraordinary Stays for Large Gatherings
Georgia offers several distinctive lodging options for those planning large gatherings, whether it’s a family reunion, corporate retreat, or special celebration.
The Barn at High Point Farms in Flintstone provides a rustic yet elegant setting for group events. This renovated 120-year-old barn can accommodate up to 25 guests and features a commercial kitchen, large common areas, and beautiful outdoor spaces. The working farm setting adds a unique touch to any gathering, with opportunities for farm tours and interactions with friendly farm animals.
For a truly exclusive group getaway, Little St. Simons Island offers private island rentals accommodating up to 32 guests. This 11,000-acre barrier island features seven miles of pristine beaches, ancient maritime forests, and diverse wildlife. The all-inclusive experience includes comfortable lodging in historic cottages, gourmet meals, and naturalist-led excursions, providing groups with an unforgettable coastal retreat.
History buffs and large groups will appreciate the unique opportunity to stay at the Hardman Farm Historic Site in Sautee Nacoochee. The site’s Mansion and Rock House can be rented for group stays, offering a glimpse into 19th-century Georgia life. With a capacity for up to 20 guests, these historic buildings provide a distinctive setting for family gatherings or educational retreats.
Artistic and Creative Retreats
Inspiring Stays for the Artistically Inclined
Georgia’s rich artistic heritage is reflected in its unique accommodations catering to creatives seeking inspiration and skill development.
The Hambidge Center for Creative Arts & Sciences in Rabun Gap offers an artist residency program with on-site lodging. This 600-acre creative sanctuary provides individual cabins and studios to artists, writers, and musicians. While the residency program is selective, the center also offers short-term retreats and workshops open to the public, allowing creative individuals to experience this unique and inspiring environment.
Pottery enthusiasts will find a haven at the Salamander Pottery B&B in Watkinsville. This working pottery studio offers guest rooms in a charming 1930s bungalow. Visitors can take pottery classes, watch demonstrations, and even try their hand at the potter’s wheel. The serene rural setting and creative atmosphere make it a unique destination for those looking to explore their artistic side.
For writers seeking a peaceful retreat, the Lillian E. Smith Center in Clayton provides a distinctive option. This former educational camp, named after the famous Southern author, now serves as a retreat center for writers and artists. Guests can stay in rustic cabins surrounded by the beauty of the North Georgia Mountains, drawing inspiration from the natural setting and the center’s commitment to promoting social justice through art.
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Adventure-Focused Accommodations
Unique Stays for Thrill-Seekers
Georgia’s diverse landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for adventure, and several unique accommodations cater specifically to thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
In Columbus, the Whitewater Express Lodge provides comfortable accommodations right on the Chattahoochee River, home to the longest urban whitewater rafting course in the world. This renovated mill building offers loft-style rooms with river views and easy access to rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining adventures. The lodge’s proximity to the riverwalk and downtown Columbus adds an urban twist to the outdoor experience.
For a unique combination of aerial adventure and distinctive lodging, Historic Banning Mills in Whitesburg offers treehouse rooms connected by swinging bridges. These elevated accommodations are part of a larger adventure resort featuring the world’s largest zip-line canopy tour. Guests can enjoy a variety of thrilling activities, including free-fall jumps, climbing walls, and aerial obstacle courses, all while staying in cozy treehouses high above the forest floor.
Rock climbing enthusiasts will find a unique haven at the Crash Pad in Chattanooga, just across the Georgia border. While technically in Tennessee, this boutique hostel caters to climbers exploring the numerous bouldering and rock climbing sites in northwest Georgia. The hostel offers both shared and private rooms, a community kitchen, and a wealth of information about local climbing spots, making it an ideal base for adventures in the region.
Conclusion
Georgia truly offers a wealth of unique places to stay, catering to every taste and preference. From treehouses and converted schoolhouses to coastal retreats and haunted hotels, the Peach State provides accommodations that go far beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, these distinctive lodging options offer unforgettable experiences that will enhance your exploration of Georgia’s diverse landscapes and rich culture.
As you plan your next trip to Georgia, consider stepping outside the box and choosing one of these unique accommodations. Not only will you create lasting memories, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the state’s natural beauty, history, and hospitality. So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and discover the many unique places to stay in Georgia that await you.