Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Calhoun, Georgia to Athens-Clarke County Unified Government, Georgia

Are you planning a road trip from Calhoun to Athens-Clarke County? This drive can take approximately two and a half hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose. However, these five unexpected places along the way will make the trip more enjoyable and memorable.

Halfway Point: Sandy Springs, GA (Bolded)

Sandy Springs is a city in northern Fulton County, just outside of Atlanta. It is worth stopping by because of its great shops, restaurants, and recreational activities. It has two public parks, Ridgeview Park and Hammond Park, both of which offer various sports facilities, playgrounds, and picnic areas.

When it comes to dining, there is an abundance of options in Sandy Springs. One of the top foodie destinations is J. Christopher's, which serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Try their signature sweet potato pancakes or their fried egg sandwich. Other notable establishments in the area are 'Cue Barbecue, which offers Southern-style BBQ, and the Iberian Pig, which serves Spanish tapas.

1. Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site (Bolded)

The Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site is located just a few miles off of Interstate 75 near Cartersville. These ruins were once home to Native Americans who lived in the area around AD 1000 to 1550. The visitor center contains exhibits on the history of the site, while the mounds themselves are preserved in a loop around the grounds.

While visitors cannot climb the mounds, there is a 1.5-mile trail that loops around the site, and the view is spectacular. Those interested in history and nature will appreciate this site.

When it comes to food, Cartersville has both chain and independent dining establishments. For some traditional Southern-style cooking, head over to the Appalachian Grill, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Try their chicken and dumplings or their fried chicken.

2. Lockerly Arboretum (Bolded)

The Lockerly Arboretum is a beautiful garden in Milledgeville, which is home to a range of plants native to the southeastern region of the US. The Arboretum also includes two historic houses, the Jones-Stewart Mansion and Rose Hill, which can be toured by visitors.

In addition, the Arboretum has several trails that are perfect for walking and taking in the natural beauty of the grounds. If you are interested in birds, Lockerly is home to dozens of species of birds, making it a great place to bird-watch.

When it comes to dining, try the Homestyle Buffet in nearby Sandersville. This restaurant offers delicious southern comfort food, such as fried green tomatoes and macaroni and cheese.

3. Lake Oconee (Bolded)

Located midway between Atlanta and Augusta, Lake Oconee is a man-made lake that covers 19,000 acres in central Georgia. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, swimming, and other water activities.

Visitors can also enjoy several golf courses and luxury resorts in the area. For a relaxing day at the lake, try Lake Oconee Kayak Rentals, where you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes.

When it comes to dining, try the Fresh Air BBQ, which has been serving BBQ since the 1920s. They have several locations in the area, and you can't go wrong with their pulled pork sandwich.

4. Madison, GA (Bolded)

Madison is a historic town located in Morgan County, GA, known for its antebellum architecture and beautiful historic homes. This town has an excellent historic district, with shops, art galleries, restaurants, and walking tours.

The main street is a mile long and is home to authentic shops, restaurants, and boutiques. The Madison-Morgan Cultural Center is another must-see attraction in the area, showcasing local art collections, theater performances, and musical concerts.

When it comes to dining, try Amici's Pizza Café, serving Italian cuisine. Their pizza is a must-try, but their calzones and pasta dishes are also excellent.

Conclusion

Overall, the route from Calhoun to Athens-Clarke County Unified Government has several hidden gems that are worth a visit. From historic towns and beautiful gardens to man-made lakes and Native American ruins, there is something for everyone on this journey.

Whether you are exploring the outdoors, history, or food, these five unexpected places will make your trip more enjoyable. So why not take a break from the highway and explore these off-the-beaten-path destinations along the way?