It's a bird. It's a plane. Nope, it’s a thrill seeker in Georgia high in the air.
Those who crave a sky-high rush will find a variety of adventures in Georgia in general and the Atlanta area in particular.
Here are five places to hit the heights in Georgia:
Amicalola Falls State Park, Dawsonville
All cars require a $5 Georgia State Park Pass
Amicalola means "tumbling waters" in the Cherokee language and the Falls' water tumbles from great heights: 729 feet to be exact. Those who don't suffer any sort of fear of heights can hike to the top alongside the multiple tiers of white water, catch stunning views at the crest and come back down along cool, streamlined paths.
Credit: Contributed by Adrenaline, Inc.
Credit: Contributed by Adrenaline, Inc.
Cumming
Starts at $250 per person with minimum of two
You may not get to Oz but hot air ballooning from the base in Cumming, Georgia guarantees 360-degree views of Lake Lanier, the Chattahoochee River and Stone Mountain. The trip combines the romance of a champagne toast and hors d'oeuvres with behind-the-scenes science of hot air balloon flights. You can even help set up the balloon if that's your thing. Full disclosure: the exact time of the ride changes depending on the time of year, but it's always going to be early (sunrise viewing is guaranteed by the company!)
Cedartown
Starting at around $189
Go ahead and jump! This free fall starts 14,000 feet up and reaches speeds of up to 120 mph. That's followed by a canopy tour/gentle descent of the landing area. You don't need to be particularly fit, though the max weight is 280 pounds and they'll charge you extra if you weigh more than 200. And don't worry about what you don't know: training is included in the gig and the jump zone is affiliated with the United States Parachute Association and governed by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Acrophobia Thrill Ride at Six Flags Over Georgia
Austell
Daily ticket prices start at about $57, memberships start at about $7 per month for a year and individual season passes start at about $87 if purchased individually
Afraid of heights? This is not for you. The free fall drop tower stands 200 feet. The ride itinerary: ascend slowly, taking in an Atlanta skyline view; spin at a vertical tilt; drop 100 stories down, facing the ground part of the time. Restoring heartbeat to normal levels is the last step, times vary.
Credit: Contributed by Viator.com
Credit: Contributed by Viator.com
Helicopter ride over downtown Savannah and Whitemarsh Island
Savannah
Starting at $155
Literally take to the air to admire the beauty of downtown Savannah and the waterfront mansions on Whitemarsh Island, then on to Old Fort Jackson. This is a great compromise for couples that include one daredevil and one history-home design buff.
