Georgia: The Goober State
- Kaitlen Daigle
- May 21, 2024
- 3 min read
Fun fact: While Georgia is nicknamed the Peach State, it actually grows more peanuts than peaches. Goobers are a name some southerners used for peanuts so, over time, people started referring to Georgia as The Goober State.
My time in Georgia was sadly not related to peanuts or peaches for that matter. Luckily, I spent my time in Georgia in Savannah, which is one of my favorite cities I've visited in the U.S. This city is famous for its 22 historic squares, each with its own unique character and charm. These squares are surrounded by beautiful oak trees, Spanish moss, and historic homes, creating picturesque settings throughout the city. I just loved walking around and looking at everything. It was pretty warm when we were there so we got some alcoholic slushees and that was refreshing to drink while we walked around. My parents had just read Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, which is set in Savannah, so they were enjoying relating what they were seeing to the book. Savannah is often referred to as one of the most haunted cities in America. With its long history, numerous ghost stories, and historic cemeteries, the city attracts paranormal enthusiasts from around the world. There were many ghost toured offered in the city, so I definitely recommend checking that out.
If you want to visit Georgia, here's a list of possible things to see and do:
Atlanta: Explore the vibrant capital city of Georgia. Visit the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, and the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Don't miss the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and the Atlanta History Center for a dose of history.
Savannah: Wander through the charming streets of Savannah's historic district, known for its well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture. Take a stroll through Forsyth Park, visit the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, and explore the Bonaventure Cemetery.
Stone Mountain Park: Discover the massive granite rock outcrop of Stone Mountain. Enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, and taking the Summit Skyride for panoramic views. The park also features the Confederate Memorial Carving and a laser light show.
Athens: Experience the vibrant college town of Athens, home to the University of Georgia. Explore the historic North Campus, visit the Georgia Museum of Art, and take a walk through the beautiful State Botanical Garden of Georgia.
Blue Ridge Mountains: Head to the north Georgia mountains for outdoor adventures. Explore towns like Blue Ridge and Helen, known for their scenic beauty, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and zip-lining.
Callaway Gardens: Escape to this resort in Pine Mountain, Georgia, known for its stunning gardens, recreational activities, and educational programs. Enjoy biking, hiking, golfing, and exploring the Butterfly Center and Birds of Prey shows.
Chattahoochee National Forest: Immerse yourself in nature in the Chattahoochee National Forest. Explore waterfalls like Anna Ruby Falls and Amicalola Falls, hike the Appalachian Trail, and go camping or fishing in this picturesque wilderness.
Jekyll Island: Relax on the pristine beaches of Jekyll Island. Visit the historic district, once the exclusive winter retreat for America's wealthiest families, and explore sites like the Jekyll Island Club and the Georgia Sea Turtle Center.
Okefenokee Swamp: Discover the unique ecosystem of the Okefenokee Swamp. Take a guided boat tour to see alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species, or explore the swamp's trails and boardwalks on foot.
Sightseeing Train Rides: Experience Georgia's scenic beauty aboard historic sightseeing trains like the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and the SAM Shortline Excursion Train, offering unique perspectives on the state's landscapes.
If you want more suggestions on what to do in Georgia, I suggest you check out their tourism website.
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