Adventures to Check Off Your Georgia Bucket List

Georgia offers a number of unique vacation opportunities, whether you're looking for a family getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime thrilling adventure. The tourism industry is big business in Georgia, where it's the state's fifth largest employing sector, providing a total economic impact of $51.2 billion, according to Georgia.org.

Adventure Seekers

If the typical sight-seeing tours and hotel confines are too tame for your blood, Georgia offers plenty of opportunity for thrills and unique experiences. While these adventures may not be easy on the wallet, they offer priceless adventure and unmatched opportunities.

Enjoy Georgia's ultimate treetop zip line adventure in Lula. Consisting of two tour options, one lasting approximately two hours with nine zip lines and one lasting three hours with 12 zip lines, this is an adventure difficult to duplicate. Sky bridges, nature walks and water features await you. Tours are led by certified eco-trained guides who will describe forest, wildlife, culture and a bit about local history. You will receive individualized safety training before your adventure begins. Prices start at $69. Visit the North Georgia Canopy Tours official website for more about rates, discounts and details.

Baby Mooners

Expectant parents can set aside the due date calculator app, Lamaze class notes and nursery furniture catalogs just long enough to spend one last trip together as a childless couple, enjoying each other's company and all Georgia has to offer. While riding the rapids or horseback trots probably won't make the list, there are plenty of activities perfectly suited for couples.

For the last dozen years, Lucille's Mountain Top Inn & Spa has welcomed couples looking for a romantic getaway in a unique setting. Nestled atop a small mountain just off the historic Unicoi Turnpike, the Inn's architecture offers breathtaking views of the scenic Sautee Valley and the famous Blue Ridge Mountains. Just adjacent to the inn, a full-service day spa offers more opportunity for relaxing. Special couple packages start at $499 for one night, including spa, breakfast and dessert.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the Atlanta Food and Wine Festival. The 2014 dates are May 29 - Jun. 1. Savor the south's rich culture through a multitude of tasting tents. You can also enjoy a cooking or cocktail class, or take in a special dinner or party hosted by some of the cooking industry's premier chefs. This festival is only for those 21 years of age and older. Ticket prices are available beginning in February.

Family Fun

Planning a trip that includes adults and children takes a bit of finesse, but depending on what region you plan to travel, there are plenty of opportunities the whole family will find memorable.

The Georgia Aquarium is a must-see for children and adults alike. Located in downtown Atlanta, the aquarium is open 365 days a year. As the world's largest aquarium, it is home to more living creatures than any other facility of its kind. The sprawling structure contains more than 10 million gallons of water and 60 exhibits to captivate your family. With a strong emphasis on education, the aquarium provides a global look at the world's living seas. Ticket prices are $29.95 for adults, $23.95 for children ages 3-12, and $25.95 for seniors 65 and over.

Nothing says summer like America's favorite pastime. The whole family can enjoy a Braves game at Turner Field. Tickets typically start at $10 for general admission and climb upward from there, including opportunities to buy clubhouse seats. Plan to take in a tour of the Braves Museum and Hall of Fame during your trip and learn about the Braves' rich history, the team was home to baseball great Hammerin' Hank Aaron after all.