Georgia is a state located in the southeastern United States, and not to be confused with the country of Georgia in Central Asia. The state of Georgia is known for several agricultural crop production, its interesting festivals, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to sample some delicious local food or experience a unique tradition, Georgia has something to offer.
What Is Georgia Known For?
Georgia is known for its peaches, its southern hospitality, and for being the birthplace of some of the most influential people in the world including Martin Luther King.
But there is much more to Georgia than just that. The state of Georgia is also famous for its beautiful state parks, its role in American history and the civil war, as well as subtropical climate.
Here are some of the things that Georgia is known for that make the state unique and worth exploring. Be sure to check out and experience some of them when visit as they also reflect the interesting and fun facts about Georgia state.
Famous Food In Georgia State
The Peach State And Peaching Farming
While Georgia is known as The Peach State, it also grows other fruits and vegetables. More than 9 million acres of farmland are devoted to agriculture in Georgia, and the state ranks first in the nation for the production of peanuts, pecans, and Vidalia onions.
Peaches were introduced to the state in the 1500s by Franciscan monks. With a suitable climate, it is no surprise that Georgia is known for its delicious peaches. However, Georgia is not the top peach production state in the US; that title belongs to California.
Nonetheless, while you’re in Georgia, be sure to pick up some locally grown fruits and vegetables at one of the state’s many farmers” markets. Or take a tour of a working farm, such as Dickey Farms in Musella, which has been in operation since 1897.
Peanut Production And Boiled Peanuts
Georgia produces more peanuts than any other state in the country, and they are a beloved snack. If you’re not from the South, you may not be familiar with boiled peanuts, but they are definitely worth trying.
These salty snacks are made by boiling raw peanuts in water for hours until they soften. You can find boiled peanuts all over Georgia, and sometimes in a variety of flavors like Cajun and Hot & Spicy.
Sweet Tea
No list of things Georgia is famous for would be complete without sweet tea. This Southern staple is so beloved that it even has its own holiday: National Sweet Tea Day is celebrated on June 10th.
Sweet tea is traditionally made by brewing black tea with sugar and then adding water or milk. In recent years, however, many people have started adding fruit juices or flavored syrups to their tea.
If you want to try a true Georgia sweet tea, head to Mama’s Boy in Athens. This local restaurant is known for its all-day breakfast, but it also serves up some of the best sweet tea in the state.
Pecans
Georgia is the leading producer of pecans in the United States, and these tasty nuts are used in all sorts of dishes, from pies and cakes to salads and main courses. Pecans are native to the southeastern U.S., and they have been grown in Georgia since the early 1800s.
If you’re looking for a delicious pecan-based treat, be sure to try some pecan pralines. These hand-crafted confections are made with fresh pecans, butter, and sugar, and they sometimes come in a variety of flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, and cinnamon.
History, Culture, And Traditions
History As “Empire State of the South”
Georgia has a long and rich history, and it is known as the “Empire State of the South.” The state was founded in 1733 by James Oglethorpe, and it was one of the original 13 colonies.
Georgia played a pivotal role in the American Civil War, and it was the last Confederate state to secede from the Union. After the war, the state underwent a period of Reconstruction, during which Atlanta was rebuilt.
Today, Georgia is home to a number of historical sites and museums, such as the Atlanta History Center and the Carter Presidential Library and Museum. If you’re interested in learning more about the state’s history, be sure to visit one of these sites during your trip.
Home To World’s Largest Drive-in Restaurant
The Varsity is the world’s largest drive-in restaurant, and it has been serving up burgers, fries, and Coca-Colas since 1928. The original location in Atlanta is just a few blocks from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and it now has several satellite locations around the city.
The Varsity is famous for its chili dogs and onion rings, but it also has a menu full of other American classics, including burgers, chicken sandwiches, and milkshakes. If you’re visiting Atlanta, be sure to stop by The Varsity for a taste of Georgia history.
Subtropical Climate And Warm Weather
Georgia has a subtropical climate, which means it has warm weather year-round. The average summer temperature in Georgia is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit (27 degrees Celsius), and the average winter temperature is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius).
This makes Georgia a great place to visit any time of year. If you’re looking to escape the cold weather, head to the beach in Georgia’s coastal region. Or if you want to enjoy the autumn leaves, head to the mountains in North Georgia.
There are plenty of things to do in Georgia no matter what time of year it is. So pack your bags and head to The Peach State for a vacation!
Annual Possum Drop
Every New Year’s Eve, the small town of Brasstown, Georgia, celebrates with an event called the Possum Drop. A live possum is placed in a clear plastic box and lowered from a pole at the stroke of midnight.
This quirky tradition started in Clay’s Corner General Store in 1974, and it has now become a major tourist attraction. Every year, people come from all over the state (and even from other parts of the country) to watch the Possum Drop and ring in the New Year.
Invention of Coca-Cola
Georgia is also home to one of the most famous soft drinks in the world: Coca-Cola. The drink was invented by pharmacist John Pemberton in 1886, and it was first sold at a drugstore in Atlanta.
Today, you can visit the World of Coca-Cola museum to learn more about the history of this beloved beverage. The museum features more than 1,200 artifacts, including a replica of the first Coca-Cola recipe. You can also sample more than 100 different types of Coke from around the world.
Geechee and Gullah Culture
The Geechee and Gullah people are the descendants of African slaves who were brought to the coastal regions of Georgia and South Carolina. These cultures have unique traditions, dialects, and cuisine that are still present today.
If you want to learn more about Geechee and Gullah culture, there are several museums and cultural centers that offer tours and exhibits. The Geechee Kunda Cultural Center in Riceboro is a great place to start. This center is dedicated to preserving and promoting Geechee culture, and it offers classes on everything from basket-weaving to quilt-making.
The Birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement
Georgia played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, and many of the state’s historic sites are now part of the National Park Service’s Civil Rights Trail.
Start your journey in Atlanta, where you can visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, which includes King’s childhood home, Ebenezer Baptist Church (where he preached), and the tomb where he and his wife, Coretta Scott King, are buried. Then head to Albany to tour the Old Slave Mart Museum, which was once a slave auction house.
In 1961, civil rights activist Charles Sherrod began leading sit-ins and marches in southwest Georgia to protest racial segregation and voter suppression. These protests culminated in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches, which helped lead to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
You can learn more about this period of history at the National Voting Rights Museum in Selma, the Rosa Parks Library and Museum in Montgomery, and the King Center in Atlanta.
The Movie Capital
Georgia has become a mecca for film and television production, thanks to its generous tax incentives for filmmakers. As a result, major movies and TV shows such as The Hunger Games, Ant-Man, The Walking Dead, and Stranger Things have all been filmed in the state.
You can take a behind-the-scenes tour of some of these film and TV sets at the Atlanta Movie Tours in Atlanta. Or visit the Georgia Film Academy in Senoia, which offers classes and workshops for those interested in a career in the film industry.
Whether you’re a movie buff or just looking for something fun to do, Georgia’s film and TV scene is sure to please.
Wild Horses On Cumberland Island
Cumberland Island is a remote barrier island off the coast of Georgia that is home to wild horses, pristine beaches, and old-growth forests. The island is only accessible by ferry, and there are no cars allowed, so it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The wild horses on Cumberland Island are descendants of horses brought over by the Spanish in the 16th century. Today, there are more than 150 wild horses roaming the island, and they can be a majestic sight when galloping around.
If you want to see the wild horses up close, there are several guided tours available. Or you can explore the island on your own by hiking or biking the many trails.
Sports In Georgia State
The Masters Tournament
Held every April, The Masters is one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world. The tournament is held at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, and it attracts some of the best golfers from all over the globe.
If you’re lucky enough to snag tickets to The Masters, you’ll definitely want to dress the part. Many fans wear green jackets (just like the ones worn by the winners), and it’s not uncommon to see people sporting khaki pants and visors.
Quail Hunting Capital of the World
Georgia is known as the “Quail Hunting Capital of the World,” and it’s not hard to see why. The state is home to more than 50 different species of quail, and it has more than 1 million acres of public land available for hunting. It is a popular sport, particularly in Southwest Georgia.
If you’re an experienced hunter, you can apply for a quail hunting license online. If you’re new to the sport, there are plenty of guides and outfitters who can help you get started. Either way, be sure to brush up on your quail hunting etiquette before heading out into the field.
Cities And Travel Destinations
Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is the capital of Georgia and the largest city in the state. The city is home to more than five million people, and it is a major center for culture, business, and politics. Similarly, the diverse foods of Atlanta are also diverse and appealing.
Atlanta is known for its busy airport, which is the world’s busiest airport by passenger traffic. The city is also home to several professional sports teams, including the Atlanta Falcons (NFL) and the Atlanta Braves (MLB).
If you’re visiting Atlanta, be sure to check out the Georgia Aquarium, the world’s largest aquarium. The aquarium is home to more than 100,000 animals, including beluga whales, penguins, and sharks.
Or take a stroll through Piedmont Park, a 185-acre urban park located in the heart of Atlanta. The park is home to a scenic lake, as well as a popular walking and biking trail.
Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is a beautiful city located on the Georgia coast. The city is known for its historic architecture, including the iconic Georgian mansions that line the streets. Savannah is also a popular destination for tourists, with its many art galleries, museums, and restaurants.
The Historic District of Savannah is the largest National Historic Landmark District in the United States. This area of the city is full of historic buildings, including the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts.
If you’re looking for a place to relax, head to Forsyth Park, a 30-acre urban park in the center of Savannah. The park is home to a Confederate monument, as well as a beautiful fountain that was built in 1858.
Athens, Georgia
Athens is a city in northeastern Georgia that is home to the University of Georgia. The university is the largest in the state, and it enrolls more than 33,000 students.
Athens is also known for its music scene, and it has been called the “New Orleans of the South.” The city is home to several live music venues, including the Georgia Theatre and the Classic Center.
If you’re visiting Athens, be sure to check out the State Botanical Garden of Georgia, a 533-acre garden that is home to more than 4,000 plant species. Or take a walk through downtown Athens, where you’ll find historic buildings, eclectic shops, and a variety of restaurants.
Famous People From Georgia State
Martin Luther King, Jr.
Martin Luther King, Jr. was a civil rights leader who was born in Atlanta, Georgia. King is best known for his work in the Civil Rights Movement, and he is considered one of the most influential figures in American history.
King was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964, and he is the only African American to have been awarded the prize. In 1986, King’s birthday was designated a national holiday.
Jimmy Carter
Jimmy Carter was the 39th president of the United States, and he was born in Plains, Georgia. Carter is a member of the Democratic Party, and he served as president from 1977 to 1981.
After leaving office, Carter founded the Carter Center, a nonprofit organization that works to promote peace and democracy around the world. He has also been active in Habitat for Humanity, an organization that builds homes for people in need.
Ty Cobb
Ty Cobb was a professional baseball player who was born in rural Georgia. Cobb is considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time, and he played for the Detroit Tigers from 1905 to 1928.
Cobb is well-known for his aggressive style of play. He still holds several major league records, including the most career batting average (.366). Cobb was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936.
Architecture And Landmarks
Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is a protected wetland in the southern part of the state. It is home to a variety of plants and animals, including alligators, black bears, and wood storks.
The refuge is also famous for its “queen” flowers, which bloom in June and July. These beautiful flowers can be seen throughout the refuge, and they attract a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
If you’re looking for a unique place to explore, the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge is definitely worth a visit.
Providence Canyon State Park
Providence Canyon State Park is a state park in southwestern Georgia. The park is known for its canyons, which were formed by erosion over millions of years.
Today, the canyons are popular hiking destinations, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In addition to hiking, the park also offers camping, picnicking, and fishing.
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy the outdoors, Providence Canyon State Park is a great option.
Stone Mountain Park
Stone Mountain Park is a 3,200-acre park located in Stone Mountain, Georgia. The park has a massive granite rock that is carved into the likenesses of Confederate generals Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson.
The park also features a laser show, a Civil War museum, and a scenic train ride. Stone Mountain Park is one of the most popular attractions in Georgia, and it is definitely worth a visit.
The Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, and popular tourist destination in Atlanta. The aquarium houses hundreds of species and more than 100,000 animals, including beluga whales, dolphins, and penguins.
The Georgia Aquarium is a must-see for any animal lover. It is also a great place to learn about ocean conservation.
Many More Things Georgia State Is Known And Famous For
There are plenty of other things Georgia is known for, but these are just a few of the famous things. From sweet tea and peaches to beautiful state parks and quail hunting, Georgia appeals to both foodies and outdoor lovers.
The various cities and landmarks in Georgia have their unique offerings and history. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or film, there’s something for everyone in this southern state. Be sure to spend some time here and find out more things that Georgia is known for.
Just the birthplace for the most famous drink in the world