Top 10 Fun Facts about Georgia
Known as the Peach State, Georgia is the sweet spot of the south that has so much to offer! It’s the epicenter of southern culture, history, food, and of course, its world-famous hospitality. Home to a number of national brands, including Chick-Fil-A, Coca-Cola, and Delta Airlines. These 10 fun facts about Georgia will help you get to know the Empire State of the South even better!
Georgia is home to 50 state parks
Georgia has become a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks in part to its impressive collection of state parks. The oldest park, Indian Springs State Park, is located in Flovilla and spans more than 500 acres. Other notable parks include Tallulah Gorge, Cloudland Canyon (a mini version of the Grand Canyon, according to some), and Fort Mountain.
One GA town was the site of a major gold rush
The charming little town of Dahlonega is a major player in Georgia’s history. It’s most famously known for its former gold mine, which has been converted into a major tourist attraction. Visitors can pan for gold flakes and tour the old mines. The town pays homage to its golden roots with an annual Gold Rush celebration.
The watermelon capital of the world is located in Georgia
If you thought Georgia was only known for its peaches, think again. The town of Cordele grows more watermelons than anywhere, particularly the red seedless variety. Visitors from all over look forward to the annual watermelon festival each summer.
The Masters golf tournament is played in Augusta each spring
One of golf’s most notable events happens in Augusta, GA each year. Between 40,000 and 50,000 people attend this event each year.
The cotton gin was invented in Georgia
Known for its booming agriculture economy, it’s no surprise that some of farming’s most advanced innovations were started here. You can see a real cotton gin in the Georgia Museum of Agriculture. Another notable invention in Georgia: Coca-Cola.
Georgia was the first state to start growing grapes
Georgia, particularly in the mountains, is well known for its collection of wineries. The state is a leading producer of muscadine grapes, which are a fan favorite for local wines. Tourists can take a wine bus tour to some of the state’s most beloved wineries.
Savannah was the first planned city in the country
The iconic grid-like layout that many cities channel today started in Savannah. It originally consisted of 24 squares, 22 of which remain today in Savannah’s historic district. Today, Savannah remains of the best Georgia towns to see on foot.
Blackbeard Island got its name from the infamous pirate
One of Georgia’s barrier islands was once home to Edward Teach, or most notably known as Blackbeard the Pirate. Today, the island is a national wildlife refuge that you can visit.
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest in the world
The aquarium is home to more than 100,000 animals. Those who can’t make it to visit the animals in person can view special webcams via the website for live-streamed fun.
Georgia’s famous Stone Mountain isn’t a mountain
Stone Mountain is actually made entirely of granite. It has been transformed into one of the state’s most iconic parks, complete with an aerial tram that takes you to the top of the “mountain” for views of the Atlanta skyline.
