Governor Brian P. Kemp and the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s tourism division, Explore Georgia, have announced the release of the 2026 Georgia Travel Guide. The guide is intended to help visitors plan trips across the state as Georgia prepares to host events such as the FIFA World Cup 2026 and America’s 250th birthday celebrations. The 130-page publication features images and stories highlighting various regions in Georgia.
“Georgia is excited to welcome a historic number of visitors from around the world this year as we host the FIFA World Cup 2026 and celebrate America’s 250th birthday,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “As a record number of travelers choose to spend time in Georgia, this travel guide will provide them a glimpse into the people and places that make this state so great. Whether the Peach State is their destination or they are just passing through, we hope this resource inspires our visitors to keep Georgia on their mind as they learn about everything we have to offer.”
The cover of the guide displays different landscapes and attractions throughout Georgia, including Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Plains Train Depot in Plains, Fort Frederica National Monument on St. Simons Island, and Cloudland at McLemore Resort’s Highlands Course in Rising Fawn.
“With the global spotlight on Georgia in 2026, this moment gives us a unique opportunity to bring visitors from nearby and around the globe into cities and towns across Georgia and invite them to ‘Make Yourself at Home.’ Hospitality, natural beauty, and a welcoming atmosphere define every corner of our state, and our new travel guide will convey that message to all of our guests,” said Pat Wilson, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development. “That’s because every visit to Georgia counts, supporting our hospitality workforce and sustaining the businesses that power our local communities.”
The guide includes tools for planning trips such as itineraries, a foldout map of the state, transportation details, accessibility information, and features on local products. Articles within cover topics like sports events—including coverage of FIFA World Cup 2026—family activities in Atlanta, culinary recommendations from local chefs including MICHELIN-starred restaurants, filming locations for movies and TV shows shot in Georgia, historical sites related to civil rights history, seasonal activities throughout the year, suggestions for scenic detours off main routes, opportunities for relaxation at retreats or luxury getaways, destinations with new offerings for 2026 such as an overnight safari conservation park or sites connected with America’s Revolution during its anniversary year.
Jay Markwalter, Deputy Commissioner of Tourism at GDEcD stated: “Georgia is home to incredible natural wonders, charming small towns, major cities with rich cultural offerings, iconic filming locations, and vibrant arts scenes – everything today’s travelers are looking for – and this guide delivers a roadmap to experience it all. Thanks to the leadership of Governor Kemp and our General Assembly, as well as the effectiveness of our statewide tourism industry and visitor-driven marketing strategies like this travel guide, Georgia’s visitor economy is stronger than ever. This guide will further our mission to inspire visitation and spending across all regions of Georgia.”
Recent data shows that tourism has seen growth over three consecutive years in Georgia. In 2024 alone there were 174.2 million visitors who spent $45.2 billion within the state; these expenditures generated $82 billion in economic impact statewide while supporting over 470 thousand jobs.
Copies of the travel guide can be requested by filling out an online form or calling 1-800-VISIT-GA; they are also available at Visitor Information Centers across nine locations statewide along with other city/county welcome centers.
Explore Georgia serves as the official destination marketing organization for tourism under GDEcD.
For more information about travel options within Georgia visit ExploreGeorgia.org.
