8 Best Full-Day Tours In Atlanta

Atlanta’s reputation as a vibrant city with rich cultural scenes, stunning natural beauty, and a lively food and drink culture makes it a perfect base for full-day tours. Whether you want to explore North Georgia’s waterfalls, indulge in local wines, trace the civil rights movement, or visit iconic TV filming locations, Atlanta offers something for every interest.

We’ve selectively picked the top eight options, including outdoor adventures like the Full Day Waterfalls Tour, cultural walks through Atlanta’s historic districts, and immersive experiences like Civil Rights history.

Some tours focus on natural beauty, others on history or pop culture, giving you a well-rounded choice regardless of your mood or travel style.

What makes Atlanta stand out is its ability to blend city life with outdoor escapes and cultural insights in one trip. Our favorite? The Full Day Tour from Atlanta to Amicalola Falls and Blue Ridge combines stunning mountain scenery with a chance to experience the Appalachian Trail, all within a manageable day trip.

1. Full Day Tour from Atlanta to Amicalola Falls and Blue Ridge

At number one, this 9-hour tour offers a beautiful drive through North Georgia’s rugged landscape. You start at Atlanta and head towards Amicalola Falls State Park, home to the tallest waterfall in Georgia at 729 feet. Visitors rave about the chance to walk near the falls and explore the visitor center, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers.

The tour then continues to Blue Ridge, a charming mountain town with over 106,000 acres of national forest, 300 miles of hiking trails, and the Appalachian Trail’s starting point. You’ll enjoy a 1-hour 15-minute visit to Blue Ridge, soaking in views and local charm.

The tour concludes with a visit to Mercier Orchards, the largest orchard in the South, where you can sample fresh apples and homemade treats.

This tour is valued for its comprehensive itinerary—combining scenic drives with outdoor activity and local flavors. It’s especially good if you want a relaxed day with plenty of photo stops and nature walks. The reviews highlight the quality of the scenery and the friendly guide who shares interesting facts about the region.

Bottom line: This tour is ideal for outdoor lovers who want to combine waterfalls, mountain scenery, and a sweet orchard visit into a single day. Price point ($390) reflects the full experience, including transportation and entry fees.

2. From Atlanta: Half-Day or Full-Day Wine Country Tasting Trip

Rated 4.6 out of 5 from 17 reviews, this wine tasting tour offers flexibility for those who want a relaxing day with great vino. For around $115 per person, you can choose a half-day or full-day experience visiting two to three wineries, including Buckley Wineyards and Ott Farms and Vineyards.

The tour includes 9-12 wine tastings, where you’ll learn about Georgia’s burgeoning wine scene and enjoy scenic views of the North Georgia Mountains. The guide provides insights into how local wines are made, making the experience both educational and flavorful.

Guests love the laid-back atmosphere and the chance to sample a variety of wines without the hassle of driving. The tour is perfect if you’re keen on exploring Georgia’s wine scene, especially since it includes visits to well-known wineries with diverse tasting options. The trip is well-paced, offering enough time at each stop to savor the wines and take in the mountain scenery.

Bottom line: A great choice for wine enthusiasts who want a guided, relaxed day amid beautiful mountain views, at a reasonable price and with highly positive reviews.

3. Full-Day Wine Country Wine Tastings From Atlanta

At number three, this full-day winery tour from Atlanta visits three celebrated wineries, including Canoe Winery, Chateau Meichtry, and Ott Farms. For about $130, you’ll enjoy approximately a dozen tastings across the day, with transportation included. The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to explore each vineyard’s unique offerings and learn about Georgia’s wine-making traditions.

Guests appreciate the seamless logistics—being driven from winery to winery means you can relax and truly savor each glass.

This tour is perfect for those who want to deepen their understanding of local wines and enjoy an immersive experience without the stress of planning. The reviews mention the informative guides and the beautiful views of the North Georgia mountains. The itinerary balances wine tasting with scenic drives and some free time at each location.

Bottom line: Ideal for wine lovers seeking a full day of tastings with expert commentary, especially if you want to avoid the hassle of driving yourself.

4. Atlanta Vineyards and Wines Full-Day Private Tour

This private tour, priced at over $1,500 per person, offers a personalized experience through Georgia’s best vineyards. It begins with a pickup in Atlanta, then heads straight to Dahlonega’s wineries, where you’ll sample some of the state’s finest wines amid mountain views. Next, the tour moves to Helen, a Bavarian-style village, where you’ll taste German wines and explore the charming streets.

This tour is all about exclusivity. The guide customizes the experience, making it perfect for small groups or special occasions. The 9-hour journey offers the chance to visit four locations, including private tastings and a relaxed lunch.

Guests love the flexibility and attentive service, with some describing it as “the ultimate wine getaway.” The main drawback is the cost, but for those seeking a VIP experience, this tour offers exceptional value.

Bottom line: Best suited for private groups or those celebrating a special event who want a curated, intimate day of wine and scenery.

5. All Day VIP Pass

For just $25, the All Day VIP Pass unlocks access to over 30 photo zones in Atlanta’s most Instagrammable space. This activity is less about touring sights and more about creating fun, memorable images. It’s perfect for social media lovers or anyone wanting a lighthearted, creative break in the city.

You’ll find props, professional lighting, and diverse themed zones designed for perfect shots. While not a traditional tour, it’s a great way to spend a few hours, especially if you love photography or want to showcase your trip on Instagram. The reviews are positive, noting the high-quality props and friendly staff who help you get that perfect shot.

Bottom line: Ideal for a quick, fun-filled activity that’s all about capturing memories and having a good time without a long commitment.

6. Atlanta Civil Rights Full-Day Guided Walking Tour

With a focus on history and culture, this 6.5-hour tour takes you through Atlanta’s most important civil rights landmarks. Visiting sites like Ebenezer Baptist Church and the APEX Museum, it offers a deeply personal look at the city’s role in the civil rights movement.

The tour’s detailed storytelling is led by an experienced guide, who shares personal insights and lesser-known stories. Guests often mention how the experience is more than just sightseeing—it’s an emotional journey.

Highlights include walking through the Sweet Auburn District, hearing sermons from Dr. King’s church, and exploring exhibits at the APEX Museum. The tour is praised for its intimate pacing and in-depth coverage. It suits visitors who want a meaningful connection with Atlanta’s history and its ongoing cultural legacy. Some find the walking demanding, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Bottom line: A compelling choice for history lovers and those interested in civil rights, offering a meaningful, well-guided experience.

7. All-Day Private Stranger Things Location Tour in Atlanta

This 7-hour tour takes fans of the hit Netflix series to filming locations around Atlanta, including the homes of the Wheelers and the Sinclairs. Costing around $350 per person, it’s perfect for Stranger Things fans eager to see the real-world backdrops of Hawkins, Indiana.

The guide takes you to the Hawkins High School, the Skull Rock, Billy’s house, and the Nesting Place of the Mindflayer—all locations used in filming.

Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the chance to relive scenes from the series. The tour also offers behind-the-scenes stories and local trivia, making it a fun, nostalgic trip. Because it’s a private tour, it’s customizable, allowing fans to focus on their favorite episodes or locations. The only downside: the price reflects its niche appeal.

Bottom line: A must-do for Stranger Things fans who want to step into the show’s world while visiting Atlanta.

8. Full Day Waterfalls Tour in North Georgia with Scenic Hikes

Though it currently has no reviews, this 11-hour tour is a nature lover’s dream. It features visits to Georgia’s tallest waterfall, Amicalola, along with hikes to Helton Creek Falls, Dukes Creek Falls, and Anna Ruby Falls.

The tour also stops in Helen, where you can explore the Bavarian-style town, with options for lunch. The hikes vary from easy to moderate, offering plenty of opportunities for photography and outdoor activity.

This tour is ideal for those who want to spend a full day immersed in the mountain landscape, with guided hikes and scenic stops. The itinerary is packed with natural beauty, making it perfect for outdoor adventurers and photographers. Its main challenge is the long duration, so it suits active travelers prepared for a full day outside.

Bottom line: Excellent for outdoor enthusiasts eager to see multiple waterfalls and enjoy scenic hikes in North Georgia.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If you’re a nature lover, Tours 1 and 8 offer impressive waterfalls and mountain scenery. For wine aficionados, Tours 2 and 3 provide relaxing tastings and vineyard visits. History buffs will find the Civil Rights Tour rewarding, while pop culture fans can’t miss the Stranger Things Location Tour.

For those traveling with a group or celebrating a special occasion, the Private Vineyard Tour offers flexibility and exclusivity. Budget travelers may prefer the All Day VIP Pass, which is perfect for a fun, casual activity without breaking the bank.

Book early, especially for the popular wine and waterfall tours, and choose the experience that best matches your interests and energy level.

Final Thoughts

From outdoor adventures to cultural insights and pop culture tours, Atlanta’s full-day options are diverse and engaging. If you want a scenic escape into the mountains, the Full Day Tour from Atlanta to Amicalola Falls and Blue Ridge offers a scenic, well-rounded day. For wine lovers, Tours 2 and 3 deliver tastings and vineyard visits with great reviews.

History enthusiasts should prioritize the Civil Rights Tour, which provides a meaningful look at Atlanta’s pivotal role in social change.

No matter which you choose, these tours give you the chance to explore beyond the city’s skyline and dive into Georgia’s natural beauty, history, and pop culture. Planning ahead and booking early will ensure you get the most out of your Atlanta adventure.