How to Take a Digital Detox in Georgia

8 Unique Places to Unplug and Reconnect near Atlanta

As someone who works in the social media space, I'm the first to admit I spend too much time on my phone. And, as much as I love what I do, I find that whenever I can lean into a digital detox, I am better for it. I'm not saying going phone-free for a few days cures everything or will make you a better person (it will), but it's important to step out of your comfort zone, while we still can, and remember what it means to be fully present

If you're looking for a break, I've rounded up 8 unique places I've experienced in Georgia where you can step away from the screen and simply be -- either with yourself, someone you love, or the world around you.

This cabin in Suches, GA, comes with a "cell phone lock box"

#1: ☎️ Lock Your Phone Away at Postcard Cabins

Sometimes the best way to disconnect is to lock your devices away. At Postcard Cabins, each of the tiny cabins includes a phone lockbox to encourage screen-free time. My daughter and I took a getaway here last summer, and instead of scrolling, we roasted marshmallows, played card games, and spent a lot of time outside.

TIP: Grab my round-up of our experience and all the free things to do nearby, even if you can't spend the night!

#2: 🤫 Take a Vow of Silence at this Monastery

For the ultimate digital detox experience, consider a silent retreat at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers, GA. The monastery offers various retreat options, from guided weekend experiences to private retreats where you can create your own schedule (choose to go silent, turn off your phone, etc). Read more about my experience here.

TIP: If you don't have time for a full stay, enjoy a few silent hours by visiting the abbey and museum, walking the grounds, including the Meditative Magnolia walk, and the 9 miles of trails surrounding the property.

The Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers, GA

#3: 🤫 Find Zen at an All-Inclusive Yoga Retreat

Nestled in the mountains, Elohee Retreat Center offers all-inclusive wellness retreats that encourage you to put down your devices and pick up mindfulness practices. Their Rest & Relaxation retreats are perfect for beginners who want to dip their toes into the wellness world without feeling overwhelmed.

All meals are included in addition to optional classes. You'll find a private waterfall, a tea room, nature trails, and add-ons like massage and reiki. And, for all that's included, it's more affordable than you might think. Read all about my experience here.

Elohee in Sautee Nacoochee, GA

#4: 🥾 Hike to this Inn Accessible Only by Foot

Len Foote Hike Inn is a one-of-a-kind eco lodge in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains in Dawsonville, Georgia, only accessible by a 5-mile hike through the woods. Once you arrive, you'll find bunk-style accommodations, family-style meals, and unique opportunities to learn about the inn and reconnect -- play games and puzzles in the game room and watch the sunrise. I visited with my daughter a few years ago, and it remains one of our most treasured memories.

TIP: Cell phone use is discouraged, and you won't find outlets in the bunkrooms, but there are solar chargers in the lobby if you need one.

Watching the sunrise at Len Foote Hike Inn in Dawsonville, GA

#5: 💦 Sweat it Out at a Traditional Korean Spa

No cell phone chatting allowed in the communal saunas at JeJu Spa, an authentic Korean wellness center in Duluth, Georgia. And there are absolutely no phones allowed in the private bath, steam, and treatment areas. This is one of the most unique experiences you can have near Atlanta. Grab my first-timer's guide to JeJu here.

One of the saunas at JeJu in Duluth, GA

#6: 📚 Read in Silence with Strangers

You've probably heard of a silent book club by now, affectionately called "the introverts' happy hour." It's a club where people meet in a designated space and read together. That's it. I tried it, and after a few moments wondering if it was really that simple, I loved it. Humans crave connection and a reason to converge, and reading is the perfect excuse. Find a local chapter here.

Silent Book Club meeting at Wild Aster Books in Chamblee, GA

#7 🏰 Visit a Temple

Baps Swaminarayan Sanstha temple in Lilburn is one of the most beautiful places in all of metro Atlanta, maybe even the entire state of Georgia. I wish I could show you pictures of the inside, but one of the beautiful things about this place is their no-camera/cell phone policy. So, the only way to see this architectural masterpiece is to experience it in person. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is open and free to the public, although I recommend the $5 audio tour.

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Lilburn, GA

#8 ⛳️ BONUS: Go Big at The Masters

While tickets to The Masters are hard to come by, if you're lucky enough to attend, you'll experience one of the most elegant digital detoxes in the world. Augusta National maintains a strict no-phone policy, creating a rare and wonderful experience of living fully in the moment.

TIP: Cameras are allowed during the practice rounds, and there are free phone booths available, so bring those phone numbers with you!

No cell phones, just phone booths at The Masters in Augusta, GA

TIPS FOR UNPLUGGING AT HOME

You don't have to take a vow of silence, hike five miles, or win the Masters' ticket lottery to enjoy a digital detox. Below are some of my favorite hacks to unplug at home. It takes work, and I'll admit I am far from perfect, but I'm trying.

💡Creation Before Consumption: This is my favorite tip. I make it a point to create something before I consume any digital content. This helps me stay focused and productive.

🚫 Phone Free Zones: I make a point to charge my phone in a separate room for at least an hour a day.

🌳 Walk In Peace: I love listening to podcasts, but when I am in the woods -- it's silence for me.

🙈 Out of Sight: I try to tuck my phone away when I'm talking to someone -- even if I'm not actively using it, it can be a visual distraction.

So many screen hours sacrificed for this.