Georgia’s Top Tourist Picks


February 22, 2016 Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Google+ Latest Articles



Explore the Grandeur of Georgia

By Ambrish S Kumar

Georgia is a spectacular combination of tradition and modernity. The wilderness, amazing mountain ranges, exotic national parks comprising rare flora and fauna majestically intertwine with the sophisticated cities. Whether you are visiting Georgia for fun, adventure, romance, or are on a business appointment, it is sure you won’t return disappointed. Georgia has several attractions that are worth exploring.

Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Encompassing huge swaths of green forests, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is a real treat to the eyes. It is a perfect destination for those who want to escape the hectic and tension-filled city life. The Chattahoochee National Forest covers 18 Georgia counties and comprises around ten wildernesses. Besides, the picturesque surroundings that appeal to tourists; here you can indulge in some very exciting sports. Kayaking, horseback riding, hiking and fishing are just some of the activities that would keep you entertained. Spend some time at Helen, a small village located in the forests. A replica of a Bavarian alpine town, Helen is a favorite getaway for families out on vacation.

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site

Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site throws valuable light on the work and life of Martin Luther King, Jr, one of the greatest civil rights champions during the 20th century. The historic site comprises several buildings associated with King such as his birthplace and childhood home. Take a walk down to Ebenezer Baptist Church, where King was baptized as a child. In 1960 King became a co-pastor at the church and remained in this position till his death in 1968. Another place worth visiting is The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, Inc. The center was established by King’s wife Coretta Scott King in 1968. Here you can view the final resting place of King as well as exhibits of Mahatma Gandhi. The personal belongings of King as well as his family are also exhibited at the historic site.

Fox Theatre

Situated in one of Georgia’s biggest towns, Atlanta, Fox Theatre is an amazing piece of architecture. It’s Moorish design indicates that the theatre was initially designed as a religious shrine, instead a theatre was built here. The theatre opened in 1929. Today it hosts a number of events such as the Atlanta Ballet as well as enchanting performances by touring companies of Broadway shows. One of the most amazing features that make the theatre stand out from the other buildings in its vicinity is its minarets and beautiful onion domes.

Jekyll Island

If you want some time of your own and are looking for a place which provides you with a bit of solitude but does not get boring then Jekyll Island is a place which you ought to visit. Apart from watching the splendid surroundings, there are many activities to keep you occupied. These include walks along the beaches, bike trails and a water park. Take a walk down the marshes and you can view stunning species of birds and reptiles. The Horton House, which is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Jekyll Island, is a major tourist attraction. The house dates back to the times of the British rule in Georgia. Built in 1742, the house was occupied by Major William Horton who is also known to have brewed beer in Georgia’s first brewery. The brewery, situated near the house, is now in shambles. A paradise for travelers, many scenes of the X-Men: First Class were filmed in Jekyll Island.

Stone Mountain Park

Spread over 3,200 acres of land, Stone Mountain Park comprises magnificent forests and fantastic theme parks. Just a 15-minute drive from downtown Atlanta, the park offers traveler many amazing sites and activities. 15 miles of nature trails, golf courses, treetop rope climbing and other such activities would keep you busy during your stay at the park. Here you can also view the world’s largest high-relief sculpture. This incredible carving depicts Jefferson Davis, Robert E Lee and Thomas Stonewall Jackson, the three leading figures of the Confederate Civil War.

Amicalola Falls

Of the many spectacular sights that Georgia has to offer Amicalola Falls is just one of them. Considered one of the seven natural wonders of Georgia, the 729 foot Amicalola Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in Georgia State. Hiking trails, campground, guest lodge, restaurant cabins are some the facilities that the Amicalola Falls State Park offers to visitors looking to explore the wild side of Georgia.

Georgia Aquarium

Time would fly at the Georgia Aquarium. It is an astonishing treasure-trove of different types of marine life. The aquarium is home to more than 100,000 animals, which represent over 500 species. Georgia Aquarium opened in 2005 and at that time was considered to be one of the biggest aquariums in the world. Some of the most popular species that visitors can find at the aquarium include the huge beluga whales, manta rays, the dangerous whale sharks and playful bottlenose dolphins.

Callaway Gardens

Located amidst serene and tranquil environments, it seems as if heavens have descended on earth. The gardens are frequented by more than half a million tourists from around the world. The habitat, which was created by industrialist Cason Callaway in 1952, comprises gardens of magnolias and azaleas, a butterfly house and well-maintained artificial lakes. Cycling enthusiasts and avid walkers would find the place charming as the garden has several trails apt for both walking as well as cycling. As you cruise on your cycle through the Discovery Bike Trail spanning 16 kilometers, you will witness amazing scenic beauty unfold before your eyes. It is also home to the Robin Lake Beach, which holds the distinction of being the largest man-made white sand beach in the world. You can also indulge in the game of golf at the two sprawling golf courses in the gardens.

Forsyth Park

A visit to Forsyth Park would make you wonder at the immense care and effort that God has put in to create the world. Enchanting fountains, walking trails offering a spectacular view of the scenery around, trees with green leaves, and loads of fresh air are just a few of the attractions that would compel you to come back to this place. Built in the 1800 Forsyth Park is one of the largest parks in Savannah. Concerts are also regularly held at the park for the entertainment of the people.

Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

If you are interested to know more about United States’ 39th President Jimmy Carter, then a visit to the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site becomes a must. Located in southwest Georgia, the site comprises many structures and memories associated with Jimmy Carter. These include the school where he studied, his residence, boyhood farm as well as the town railroad depot. Here visitors would get an insight into the upbringing of Carter that eventually shaped his career as well as personality.

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