Introduction
Are you planning a romantic weekend getaway from Atlanta is easier than you think. Within 2–4 hours, you can reach scenic mountains, charming small towns, lakeside retreats, and coastal escapes perfect for couples. This guide covers the 12 best weekend trips from Atlanta for couples, with routes, things to do, budgets, where to stay, and the best time to visit.
1. Blue Ridge, Georgia
Distance from Atlanta: 93 miles
Travel Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Why Couples Love It
Blue Ridge is known for cozy cabins, mountain views, wineries, and romantic outdoor activities.
Top Things to Do
- Blue Ridge Scenic Railway
- Mercier Orchards
- Long Creek Falls hike
- Wine tasting at Bear Claw Vineyards
Where to Stay in Blue Ridge & Estimated Cost for Couples
| Type | Example / Notes | Nightly Cost (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Hotel / Motel | Comfort Inn & Suites Blue Ridge | US $100–$130 per night expedia | Basic, clean room; good for budget-conscious travelers. Free parking & breakfast. |
| Mid-range/Vacation Rental / Basic Cabin | Small cabin / rental near town or forest edge | US $120–$180 per night www.kayak.com | Offers more privacy than a hotel; good for couples wanting a cozy stay. |
| Nice Cabin / Private Getaway (Hot Tub / Mountain View) | Cabin rentals or vacation homes around Blue Ridge | US $180–$260 per night expedia | More comfort and amenities — suitable if you want a relaxed weekend trip. |
| Premium/ Luxury Cabin or Rental | Upscale private cabin or fully furnished vacation home | US $250–$400 per night (or more in peak season) expedia | Great for special getaways or vacation-style stays; ideal for couples wanting a “splurge” weekend. |
- Budget-friendly stay: For 2 nights, expect roughly $200–$260 (hotel or basic cabin).
- Mid-range stay: 2 nights in a decent cabin or motel – around $240–$360.
- Comfortable vacation-style cabin: 2 nights cost around $360–$520.
- Luxury cabin getaways: 2 nights could be $500–$800+, depending on season and amenities.
Best Time to Visit
October–November (fall colors), April–June (pleasant weather)
How to Reach (Road Route)
I-75 N → GA-5 N → Blue Ridge.
2. Helen, Georgia
Distance: 86 miles
Travel Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Why Couples Love It
A Bavarian-style village with charming streets, river views, and scenic hikes.
Top Things to Do
- Stroll the Bavarian village
- Anna Ruby Falls
- Unicoi Lake paddle boats
- Wine tasting
Where to Stay in Helen, Georgia — Cost for a Couple
| Budget / Category | Accommodation Example | Approx. Price | Why It’s Good for Couples / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget / Cheap | Red Roof Inn Helen | US $70–$110 / night Expedia.com | Central location, basic amenities — fine for couples on a tight budget or short stay. |
| Budget / Cheap | Alpine Valley Inn | US $53–$90 / night (lowest-price deals found) www.hotelscombined.com | A very economical option — good if you just want a simple room and will spend most time outside. |
| Mid-Range / Comfortable | SureStay Hotel by Best Western Helen Downtown | US $120–$170 / night (typical mid-range range) budgetyourtrip.com | Better amenities, more comfort and convenience — suitable for couples who want a relaxed, pleasant stay. |
| Mid-Range / Comfortable | Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Helen | US $130–$180 / night (mid-range typical) Cozycozy | Often a good balance between comfort and price — nice for 2-3 day stays. |
| Upscale / Resort-Style / Romantic | Valhalla Resort Hotel | US $200–$300+ / night depending on room type & season Booking.com | Resort amenities, nice surroundings — great for couples wanting a more luxurious, relaxing getaway. |
- 2-night stay at budget level: ~$140–$220 total (Red Roof / Alpine)
- Mid-range 2-night stay: ~$240–$360 total (SureStay / Country Inn)
- Upscale/resort 2-night stay: ~$400–$600+ total (Valhalla or similar)
You can pick according to your budget and how “nice” you want the getaway to be.
Best Time
Spring, fall, and Christmas season.
Route
I-85 N → GA-365 N → GA-17 N → Helen.
3. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Distance: 118 miles
Time: 2 hours
Why Couples Love It
A perfect blend of nature, city views, romantic river walks, and unique attractions.
Top Things to Do
- Tennessee Aquarium
- Lookout Mountain
- Ruby Falls
- Walnut Street Bridge sunset walk
Places to Stay in Chattanooga & Estimated Cost for Couples
| Type | Example / Notes | Nightly Cost (Approx.) | What You Get / Good For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget / Cheap Hotel / Motel | Clarion Inn near Lookout Mountain | ≈ US $60–90 per night expedia.com | Basic, clean room; free Wi-Fi |
| Hotel Bo (Days Inn) Downtown Chattanooga | ≈ US $80–105 per night (weekend or off-season deals) travelocity+1 | Downtown location, easy access to city sights | |
| Mid-range Hotels / Comfortable Stays | The Read House Historic Inn & Suites | ≈ US $120–150 per night (standard room) travelocity.com | More comfort, better amenities, central location |
| Any good 3-star hotel in city (average) | ≈ US $115–140 per night (based on city median) Budgetyourtrip.com | Decent rooms, reliability | |
| Nice / Premium / Vacation-Style Stay | Higher-end hotels or well-rated suites in downtown or scenic areas | ≈ US $150–220+ per night depending on season and amenities Tripadvisor.com | Better amenities, possibly extras like pools, good views, nicer interiors |
What This Means for a Couple (2 Adults)
- Low-budget stay (1–2 nights): ~$120–$200 total (for 1 night), ~$240–$300 for 2 nights
- Mid-range stay: ~$230–$300 per night, ~$460–$600 for 2 nights
- Comfortable/premium stay: ~$300–$440+ per night, ~$600–$880+ for 2 nights (depending on hotel and season)
Best Time
March–May, September–November.
Route
I-75 N → Chattanooga.
4. Savannah, Georgia
Distance: 250 miles
Time: 4 hours
Why Couples Love It
A romantic southern city with cobblestone streets, riverfront restaurants, and historic architecture.
Top Things to Do
- Savannah Riverfront walk
- Forsyth Park
- Ghost tour
- Tybee Island day trip
Savannah Stay Options & Estimated Costs (For Couples)
| Budget Level | Stay Option | Description | Estimated Cost per Night (Couple) |
|---|---|---|---|
| (Budget) | Quality Inn Midtown | Simple rooms, good for budget travelers, 15–20 mins from Historic District | $70–$110 |
| (Budget) | Red Roof Inn Savannah | Affordable stay, basic amenities, ideal for saving money | $75–$115 |
| (Mid-Range) | Hampton Inn Savannah Historic District | Great location near River Street, free breakfast | $120–$170 |
| (Mid-Range) | Holiday Inn Express Historic District | Comfortable rooms, walkable area, popular with couples | $130–$180 |
| (Upscale / Boutique) | The Marshall House | Historic boutique hotel, romantic and elegant | $180–$260+ |
| (Luxury) | Perry Lane Hotel | Stylish rooftop, luxury rooms, premium experience | $260–$350+ |
Estimated 2-Night Stay Cost for Couples
| Stay Type | 2-Night Total Cost |
|---|---|
| Budget Stay | $140–$220 |
| Mid-Range Stay | $260–$360 |
| Boutique / Luxury Stay | $360–$700+ |
Best Time
March–June, fall.
Route
I-75 S → I-16 E → Savannah.
5. Asheville, North Carolina
Distance: 208 miles
Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
Why Couples Love It
Mountain views, Blue Ridge Parkway drives, and artsy downtown spots.
Top Things to Do
- Biltmore Estate
- Blue Ridge Parkway scenic drive
- Romantic rooftop dining
- Waterfall hikes
Where to Stay in Asheville — Cost Guide for Couples
Based on recent data, hotel/night costs in Asheville vary by season, hotel type, and demand.
| Tier | Example / Type | Nightly Cost (approx) for 2 adults | What You Get / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget / Economy | Budget hotels / 2-star / motel-type stays | ≈ US $70–$110 expedia.com | Basic room, minimal amenities — good for short stays, travelers on tight budget |
| Mid-range | 3-star hotels, simple B&Bs, good value inns | ≈ US $120–$180 in.hotel.com | Clean rooms, decent comfort — balance of affordability and quality |
| Comfort / Good value 4-star | Well-rated hotels, nice B&Bs, good location | ≈ US $170–$250 (average ~ $170) Budgeryourtrip.com | More comfort, better amenities, often in convenient areas |
| Upscale / Luxury / Boutique / High-end B&B or Resort | High-end hotels, premium resorts, boutique stays | ≈ US $250–$400+ Budgetyourtrip.com | High-quality stay, premium facilities, great location — ideal for splurge trips |
What This Means for a Couple Weekend Trip (2 Nights)
- Budget stay: ~$140–$220 total (hotel/motel)
- Mid-range stay: ~$240–$360 total
- Comfortable stay: ~$340–$500 total
- Luxury / resort-style stay: ~$500–$800+ total (depending on season & amenities)
Given the average hotel price in Asheville is around $170 per night, and mid-season or high-season rates may jump higher.
Best Time
Fall, spring.
Route
I-85 N → I-26 W → Asheville.
6. Lake Oconee, Georgia
Distance: 76 miles
Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Why Couples Love It
Quiet lakeside retreats, golf resorts, and spa experiences.
Top Things to Do
- Boat rentals
- Lakeside picnic
- Golf courses
- Spa at Ritz-Carlton
Where to Stay in Lake Oconee & Estimated Cost for Couples
| Type | Hotel / Stay Example | Nightly Cost Estimate (for couple) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget-Friendly / Basic | Local inns / budget motels near Greensboro / Eatonton | US $70 – $110 | Basic comfort, simple amenities — works for budget-conscious travelers looking for quick getaway |
| Mid-Range / Standard Lakeside Hotel | The Lodge on Lake Oconee (or similar) | US $100 – $150 | Moderate comfort, lake proximity, decent amenities, ideal for a relaxed weekend |
| Nice / Cabin-style or Riverside Stay | Private rental cabin / small lakeside lodge | US $140 – $200 | More privacy, possibly kitchen / lake view / quiet surroundings — good for couples |
| Premium / Resort-style / Luxury Stay | High-end lakefront resort or upscale cabin / villa | US $200 – $300+ (or more depending on season/amenities) | Best comfort, lakefront views, high-end amenities — ideal for a treat / special weekend |
What This Means for a Typical 2-Night Stay (Couple)
| Stay Type | Estimated 2-Night Total (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Budget-Friendly | $140 – $220 |
| Mid-Range | $200 – $300 |
| Nice / Lakeside Cabin | $280 – $400 |
| Premium / Resort-style | $400 – $600+ |
(Costs vary by season, demand, and how early you book — summer & holidays tend to be higher.)
Best Time
March–October.
Route
I-20 E → Greensboro → Lake Oconee.
7. Greenville, South Carolina
Distance: 145 miles
Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Why Couples Love It
Walkable downtown, falls park bridge, restaurants, and scenic drives.
Top Things to Do
- Falls Park on the Reedy
- Liberty Bridge
- Downtown food tour
- Paris Mountain State Park
Where to Stay in Greenville, SC (for Couples — Budget to Mid-Range)
| Stay Type | Example / Notes | Typical Nightly Cost (for 2 people) | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget-Friendly Hotel / Motel | A simple inn or basic hotel near downtown / highway | US $70–$110/night | Good for travelers on a budget; basic amenities, easy access to downtown or highways. |
| Mid-Range Hotel | Well-rated hotel within city or near downtown/parks | US $100–$160/night | Comfortable rooms, decent amenities — good balance of cost and comfort for couples. |
| Nice Hotel / Comfortable Stay | 3★ or 4★ hotel, good reviews, maybe close to attractions or parks | US $140–$200/night | More comfort and convenience — better for couples wanting slightly nicer stay. |
What This Means for a Weekend Trip (2 Nights for a Couple)
- Budget stay: 2 nights – $140–$220 total
- Mid-range stay: 2 nights – $200–$320 total
- Comfortable stay: 2 nights – $280–$400 total
Best Time
Year-round.
Route
I-85 N → Greenville
8. Tybee Island, Georgia
Distance: 265 miles
Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Why Couples Love It
Beach sunsets, lighthouse views, and peaceful coastal vibes.
Top Things to Do
- Tybee Lighthouse
- Sunset kayaking
- South Beach
- Dolphin tours
Where to Stay in Tybee Island, Georgia (with estimated cost for couples)
Budget-Friendly / Affordable:
| Hotel / Stay | Estimated Nightly Cost (Couple) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sea & Breeze Hotel | $80–$120 / night | Simple, budget-friendly rooms; close to beach and local eateries |
| Admiral’s Inn | $90–$130 / night | Modest comfort, near main street — good for budget travelers |
Mid-Range:
| Hotel / Stay | Estimated Nightly Cost (Couple) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sandpiper Beach Resort | $140–$190 / night | Good balance of comfort and beach access; ideal for couples |
| Ocean Plaza Beach Resort | $150–$200 / night | Comfortable rooms, decent amenities, near beach & city center |
| Hotel / Stay | Estimated Nightly Cost (Couple) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private Beachfront Rental / Vacation Home | $220–$350+ / night (can go higher during peak season) | Great for couples wanting privacy, kitchen access, beach view |
| Luxury Condo / Premium Resort Apartment | $200–$300 / night | Best for special getaways, more amenities and comfort |
What This Means for a Weekend Stay (2 Nights for Couple)
- Budget stay: ~$160–$240 total (basic hotel)
- Mid-range stay: ~$280–$380 total
- Upscale / vacation rental: ~$440–$700+ total (depending on season & exact property)
Best Time
April–October.
Route
I-75 S → I-16 E → Tybee Island.
9. Highlands, North Carolina
Distance: 125 miles
Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Why Couples Love It
Waterfalls, mountain restaurants, and quiet romantic getaway vibes.
Top Things to Do
- Dry Falls
- Sunset Rock
- Bridal Veil Falls
- Downtown Highlands
Where to Stay in Highlands, North Carolina (for Couples + Estimated Costs)
Budget & Mid-range Hotels / Inns
| Stay Type / Hotel | Approx. Cost (per night, 2 people) | What to Expect / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic / 2-star hotels or budget inns nearby Highlands | ≈ US $100–$140 HotelPlanner.com | Simple, clean rooms — good if you want to save money while exploring mountains or waterfalls. |
| Standard 3-star hotels / Inns / Guesthouses in Highlands | ≈ US $130–$180 HotelPlanner.com | Comfortable stay with decent amenities, often closer to town or easier access to nature/hiking spots. |
Mid-range / Cozy Cabins & Small Lodges
| Stay Type / Cabin / Lodge | Approx. Cost (per night) | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Cabins / Lodges / Guesthouses in forests or outskirts | ≈ US $160–$230 expedia.com | Cozy cabins, often with a rustic vibe — ideal if you want a mountain-stay feel. |
| Cabins / Lodges with Extra Comfort — nice interiors, proximity to nature | ≈ US $200–$300 Tripadvisor.com | Better amenities, possibly hot tubs or scenic views — good for couples who prefer comfort + nature. |
| Stay Type / Hotel / Resort | Typical Cost (per night) | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Old Edwards Inn & Spa or similar premium resort-style stays | ≈ US $300–$400+ (depending on season & room type) Tripadvisor.com | Luxury rooms or suites, spa facilities, premium comforts — perfect for a romantic or special getaway. |
| High-end cabins / vacation rentals / premium lodges near waterfalls or mountain overlooks | ≈ US $250–$350+ travelocity.com | Great privacy, scenic surroundings, often with extra amenities (hot tubs, fireplaces, nature views). |
What this means for a couple:
- Budget-friendly stay: 2 nights in a basic hotel or cabin — ~$200–$280 total.
- Comfortable mid-range stay: 2 nights in a decent cabin or mid-range hotel — ~$260–$360 total.
- Comfort + nature (cabin stay): 2 nights — ~$320–$460.
- Luxury / special-occasion stay: 2 nights — ~$500–$800+ depending on the hotel/resort and season.
Best Time
Summer, fall.
Route
I-85 N → US-23 N → Highlands.
10. Jekyll Island, Georgia
Distance: 315 miles
Time: 5 hours
Why Couples Love It
Historic cottages, beaches, biking, and quiet romantic stays.
Top Things to Do
- Driftwood Beach
- Jekyll Island Club Resort area
- Biking trails
- Georgia Sea Turtle Center
Where to Stay in Jekyll Island (Estimated Cost for Couples)
| Type of Stay | Hotel / Resort / Option | Approximate Nightly Cost (couple) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget / Low-Cost | Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Jekyll Island | US $90–$120 per night expedia.com | Simple but clean — good for budget-minded travellers; basic amenities, near beach/central island area. |
| Budget / Low-Cost | Best Western Plus Jekyll Island | US $100–$140 per night | Free breakfast & WiFi, close to beach; decent comfort on budget side. |
| Mid-Range Stay | Hampton Inn & Suites Jekyll Island | US $140–$200 per night | Better comfort, additional amenities — good balance of budget & comfort. |
| Mid-Range / Good Value Beach-side | Jekyll Ocean Club | US $180–$240 per night | Beach-proximity, resort-style — good for couples wanting a relaxed stay. |
| Premium / Resort Level | Jekyll Island Club Resort | US $240–$350+ per night (varies by season) Jekyllclub.com | Historic resort vibe — good for special occasions, romantic stays, beach & resort amenities. |
Best Time
April–June, September–November.
Route
I-75 S → I-16 E → I-95 S.
11. Dahlonega, Georgia
Distance: 68 miles
Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Why Couples Love It
Wineries, gold rush history, and quiet mountain views.
Top Things to Do
- Dahlonega Wine Trail
- Crisson Gold Mine
- Appalachian Trail approach
- Town Square restaurants
| Type | Example / Notes | Typical Nightly Cost (Couple / 2 Adults) | Good For / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Accommodation | Quality Inn Dahlonega Near University / Dahlonega Mountain Inn / similar 2-star motels | ≈ US $70–$100 per night HotelPlanner.com | Basic but functional — good for budget-conscious couples or quick stays |
| Mid-Range Hotel / Motel or Simple Cabin | Mid-rated hotels / simple cabin rentals / modest vacation rental | ≈ US $100–$170 per night BudgetYourTrip.com | Comfortable stay with basic amenities — for couple trips wanting comfort but on budget |
| Nice Cabin / Vacation Rental / Boutique-style Stay | Vacation rentals / cabins or lodges near Dahlonega (2-bedroom or scenic) | ≈ US $150–$250+ per night depending on amenities & season hometogo.com | Good for romantic getaways, more privacy, and a relaxed stay — ideal for weekend escapes |
| Premium Cabin / Resort-style / Luxury Stay | High-end cabins or vacation homes / resort-style stays in mountains | ≈ US $250–$400+ per night (especially in high-season) Budgetyourtrip.com | Best for a special or longer getaway — more comfort, scenic views, better amenities |
What This Means for a Couple Visiting Dahlonega
- Budget stay for 2 nights: ~$140–$200 — great if you want to save and spend more on experiences.
- Mid-range stay for 2 nights: ~$200–$340 — balanced comfort and cost.
- Comfortable cabin/ rental for 2 nights: ~$300–$500 — good mid-to-luxury experience.
- Luxury stay for 2 nights: ~$500–$800+ — when you want to splurge, relax, and enjoy full amenities.
Best Time
Spring–fall.
Route
GA-400 N → Dahlonega.
12. Callaway Gardens, Georgia
Distance: 82 miles
Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Why Couples Love It
Beautiful gardens, butterfly center, lake activities, and romantic nature walks.
Top Things to Do
- Butterfly Center
- Mountain Creek Lake
- Bicycle trails
- Gardens walkways
Where to Stay in Callaway Gardens (with Estimated Cost for Couples)
| Stay Type | Hotel / Resort Option | What Couples Get | Estimated Cost per Night (Couple) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Mountain Creek Inn | Simple rooms, close to gardens, free parking | $90–$140 | Best low-cost option for weekend trips |
| Mid-Range | The Lodge & Spa at Callaway Resort | Resort access, pool, spa, lake, gardens | $199–$235 (room only) + $40 resort fee | Most popular choice for couples |
| Luxury | Cottages / Villas at Callaway Resort | Private units, premium comfort, lake/forest views | $280–$400+ | Good for romantic & private getaways |
| Mid-Range (Nearby) | Pine Mountain Budget Inns | Affordable rooms, 5–10 min from Callaway | $70–$110 | Great for couples on a tight budget |
Estimated 2-Night Weekend Cost for Couples
| Stay Category | Total Cost for 2 Nights |
|---|---|
| Budget (Mountain Creek Inn) | $180–$280 |
| Mid-Range (Lodge & Spa) | $480–$560 including resort fees |
| Luxury (Cottage / Villa) | $600–$800+ |
| Nearby Budget Inn | $140–$220 |
Best Time
Spring, early summer.
Route
I-85 S → US-27 S → Callaway Gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best romantic weekend getaway from Atlanta?
Blue Ridge and Helen are the top picks for couples.
2. What is the best time for weekend trips from Atlanta?
Spring and fall offer the best weather.
3. What is the best beach near Atlanta for couples?
Tybee Island and Jekyll Island.
4. What is the average budget for a couple’s weekend trip?
₹10,000–₹35,000 depending on hotel and activities.
Conclusion
From mountains to beaches, small towns to historic cities, these weekend trips from Atlanta offer couples plenty of options for a romantic and refreshing 2–3 day getaway. Whether you prefer cozy cabins, scenic drives, wineries, or coastal views, this guide covers everything you need to plan your perfect escape in 2025.
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