Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Calera, Alabama and Winder, Georgia

Calera, Alabama, is a charming city filled with history and outdoor wonders, while Winder, Georgia, is a small town that boasts natural beauty and Southern hospitality. A road trip between the two cities promises to be an exciting and delightful adventure, spanning two states with plenty of stops and attractions along the way. The halfway point of the trip is in Tallapoosa, GA, where travelers can grab a bite to eat or stretch their legs before continuing on their journey.

1. Uncovering History at the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

A blast from the past is what visitors will get when they visit the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark, located in Birmingham, AL. The landmark once operated as a pig iron producing blast furnace and is now a museum which showcases the work and history of the iron industry in America. Visitors can tour the facility, witness live iron pours, or attend an event.

Interesting fact: The Sloss Furnaces has been the set for numerous music videos and movies, including the film "20th Century Women."

2. Hiking the Trails of Oak Mountain State Park

For hikers and nature lovers, Oak Mountain State Park should be on the list of must-visit places on the trip. Along with scenic walking and hiking trails, the park boasts golf courses, swimming areas, bike rentals, ziplining, and a petting zoo. Visitors can explore some of Alabama's natural wonders in the park's six bodies of water and see local wildlife in the area’s dense forest.

Interesting fact: The park is Alabama's largest state park, covering over 9,940-acres of land.

3. Taking a Tour of Tuskegee University

Tuskegee University is a private, historically black university located in Tuskegee, AL. It was founded in 1881 by Booker T. Washington, and its campus holds many historic landmarks. The university is home to an aviation program, which was started in 1941 and became known as the "Tuskegee Airmen" that went on to become one of the most successful bomber escort groups during World War II. Visitors can tour the campus and museums to learn more about the school's history.

Interesting fact: Tuskegee University is home to the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site.

4. Visit the Georgia Guidestones

The Georgia Guidestones located in Elberton, GA, are a mysterious monument that was built in 1980. The monument is made of granite slabs and holds messages in eight different languages, which are ten guidelines that the citizens should follow for a successful, peaceful world. Visitors are welcomed to read and decipher the enigmatic messages etched on the stones and speculate on the identity and purpose of their creators.

Interesting fact: The identity of the individual who commissioned and paid for the monument is still unknown to this day.

5. Strolling Along the Streets of Athens Georgia

Athens, GA, is located an hour from Winder and showcases trendy shopping and dining opportunities, as well as many local musicians and artists who perform in the area. Visitors can see the historic district, museums, and watch a Bulldogs sports game. For music lovers, the Georgia Theatre, Classic Center and the 40 Watt Club are some venues to check out.

Interesting fact: Athens, GA is considered to be the birthplace of the American alternative music genre due to its connection with the band R.E.M.

After visiting all the destinations, the total driving time between Calera, Alabama, and Winder, Georgia, is approximately five hours and 45 minutes, covering approximately 365 miles of scenic routes. In conclusion, this road trip offers a diverse range of attractions and beautiful views that will surely give travelers an unforgettable experience of Southern hospitality and culture.