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 a free resource intended to help travelers plan visits across the state as Georgia prepares for an influx of visitors during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The 130-page publication features images and stories from different regions in Georgia. Copies can be requested online or picked up at any of the nine Visitor Information Centers throughout the state.
“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 design highlights several locations, including Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta and Fort Frederica National Monument on St. Simons Island.
“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.”
Travelers using the guide will find trip-planning tools such as itineraries, maps, transportation information, accessibility tips, and spotlights on locally produced goods. Featured articles include topics like sports events—including coverage of FIFA World Cup 2026—recommended destinations for 2026 trips, culinary experiences with dishes suggested by local chefs (including restaurants recognized by MICHELIN), guides for film fans highlighting filming locations in real-life towns across Georgia, routes along civil rights landmarks within the state, seasonal activities throughout spring to winter, hidden road trip detours off main highways, nature escapes ranging from rustic retreats to luxury getaways, and explorations into small towns’ histories.
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…Georgia’s visitor economy is stronger than ever. This guide will further our mission to inspire visitation and spending across all regions of Georgia.”
According to recent data provided by Explore Georgia (the tourism division), visitor numbers reached new highs in 2024 with over 174 million tourists spending $45.2 billion statewide; overall economic impact was reported at $82 billion while supporting more than 470 thousand jobs.
Free copies can be requested via an online mailing form or by calling 1-800-VISIT-GA; they are also distributed through Visitor Information Centers as well as city/county welcome centers across Georgia.
For additional travel resources or inspiration about visiting sites highlighted in connection with film productions or historical events during America’s upcoming anniversary year celebrations—and especially ahead of major sporting events like FIFA World Cup—visit ExploreGeorgia.org.
