Dahlonega Gold Museum and State Historic Site. Enjoy a glimpse of mining history in the gold rush town of Dahlonega, nestled in the Cherokee Nation in northern Georgia. The U.S. Branch Mint in Dahlonega coined more than $6 million between 1838 and 1861. No. 1 Public Square, Dahlonega 30533. 706-864-2257. 65 miles from downtown Atlanta.

Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site. The Etowah Indian mounds are known for being the most intact Mississippian culture site in the southeastern United States. For about 500 years, 1000 to 1550, the Etowah Native Americans lived in the area. Visitors can view artifacts and stone effigies as well as tour museum exhibits. 813 Indian Mounds Road S.E., Cartersville 30120. 770-387-3747. 44 miles from downtown Atlanta.

Jarrell Plantation. Take a step back in time and tour an 1847 plantation home that contains the largest collection of original family artifacts of the 1847-1945 time period in Georgia. Visit 20 historic buildings, including the mill complex, blacksmith and carpentry shops. Watch live demonstrations of craftsmen. 711 Jarrell Plantation Road, Juliette 31046. 478-986-5172. 70 miles from downtown Atlanta.

Little White House. Franklin Delano Roosevelt's second home was built in 1932, a year before his inauguration as president. FDR sought relief in the warm springs for his paralysis caused by polio. This site contains a home with carefully preserved furnishings, guest house, servants quarters, and a museum with memorabilia, as well as a film showing historic footage of Roosevelt. 401 Little White House Road, Ga. 85/Alt. U.S. 27, Warm Springs 31830. 706-655-5870. 72 miles from downtown Atlanta.

New Echota Cherokee Capital State Historic Site. Prior to being displaced during the Trail of Tears, the Cherokee national legislature established its capital, New Echota. Visitors can enjoy original and reconstructed buildings, a historical film, the Cherokee Supreme Courthouse and Council House, and a Cherokee homestead. 1211 Chatsworth Highway N.E., Calhoun 30701. 706-624-1321. 69 miles from downtown Atlanta.

Chief Vann House State Historic Site. The first brick home within the Cherokee nation, this beautiful structure was built in 1804 by its owner, James Vann. The mansion boasts exquisite hand carvings and a "floating" staircase, in addition to many antiques. 82 Ga. 225 North, Chatsworth 30705. 706-695-2598. 83 miles from downtown Atlanta.

Pickett's Mill Battlefield State Historic Site. For those interested in the Civil War, Pickett's Mill Battlefield is known for being one of the best-preserved historical battlefields in the nation. 765 acres, visitors center with exhibits and 17-minute film, earthworks, hiking, picnic tables, group shelter. 4432 Mount Tabor Church Road, Dallas 30132. 770-443-7850. 37 miles from downtown Atlanta.