Jewish Travel Guide to Georgia

**Overview**
Georgia is a diverse state stretching from the Appalachian Mountains in the north to the Atlantic coast in the southeast. It blends Southern hospitality, antebellum charm, and modern innovation. Jewish life here dates back to the colony’s founding in Savannah in 1733 and continues to thrive today in its major cities.

**Jewish Heritage & Community**
- Savannah’s Congregation Mickve Israel, founded by Sephardic Jews in 1733, is one of the oldest Jewish congregations in the United States and offers a museum chronicling Georgia’s early Jewish history.  Travelers can tour the Gothic synagogue and learn how Jewish settlers helped shape the colony.
- Atlanta’s Hebrew Benevolent Congregation, known simply as “The Temple,” was established in 1867 and played a major role in the civil rights era.  The city is also home to the Breman Museum, which presents exhibits on Jewish heritage and the Holocaust.
- Smaller communities thrive in Augusta, Macon and Columbus.  The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta coordinates cultural programs and educational resources across the state.

**Kosher Dining**
- Atlanta offers numerous kosher restaurants and markets, particularly in the Toco Hills area.  Popular spots include Fuego Mundo (Latin grill), Pita Grille for falafel and shawarma, and The Spicy Peach gourmet market and deli.
- For baked goods and bagels, try Bagel Palace in Toco Hills.  Kosher groceries are available at Publix and Kroger locations with kosher sections.
- In Savannah and other smaller cities, kosher options are limited; plan ahead or contact local congregations for recommendations.

**Shabbat & Synagogues**
- Atlanta has congregations representing all streams of Judaism.  The Temple (Reform) in Midtown welcomes visitors, Congregation Beth Jacob in Toco Hills is a large Orthodox synagogue with daily minyanim, and Young Israel of Toco Hills and Congregation Or VeShalom serve Orthodox and Sephardic communities.
- Savannah features Congregation Mickve Israel (Reform) and Bnai B’rith Jacob Synagogue (Orthodox).  Both welcome travelers and may help arrange Shabbat meals.
- In Augusta, visit Congregation Children of Israel (Reform) or Adas Yeshurun Synagogue (Orthodox).  Always call ahead to confirm service times and security procedures.

**Must‑See Attractions**
- Stroll the oak‑shaded squares and historic homes of Savannah’s Historic District and visit nearby Forsyth Park and Bonaventure Cemetery.
- In Atlanta, the Breman Museum, National Center for Civil and Human Rights, and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park provide deep insights into American history.  Families will enjoy the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca‑Cola.
- Outdoor enthusiasts can hike in the North Georgia mountains, bike along the Silver Comet Trail, or explore coastal Tybee Island and Cumberland Island.

**Travel Tips**
- Georgia’s summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild.  Dress for the heat, stay hydrated, and use sunscreen, especially if you’re exploring Savannah or coastal areas.
- Atlanta is a sprawling city; renting a car or using rideshare services makes it easier to reach synagogues and restaurants scattered throughout the metro area.
- Many kosher restaurants in smaller markets have limited hours or require advance notice, so plan your meals ahead of time.