Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cedartown, Georgia to Irondale, Georgia

Cedartown and Irondale are two delightful towns located in the state of Georgia and are separated by a distance of approximately 170 miles. The road trip from Cedartown to Irondale offers several interesting spots to explore that are scattered throughout the picturesque landscapes of Georgia. The journey passes through the charming town of Douglasville, GA, which is considered the halfway point between the two towns. Here are some of the top attractions that one should definitely check out during the road trip.

The Top 5 Things to do on the Road Trip

1. Visit the Talladega National Forest

The Talladega National Forest is a massive 392,567-acre forest located just off the route between Cedartown and Irondale. The forest is a haven of tranquility that provides an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Alabama's wilderness. It's a perfect spot for hiking, camping, and fishing. The forest also harbors several waterfalls and streams that are a treat to watch. Consider taking a dip in the Cheaha Falls and Lake Chinnabee while enjoying the serenity of the forest.

Interesting Fact: The Talladega National Forest is home to the largest population of the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker in the world!

2. Learn Unique Civil War History at the Historic Lincoln Church and Cemetery

The Historic Lincoln Church is located on the Old Talladega Highway off of the U.S. Route 78, approximately 24 miles from Cedartown. The church played a significant role during the Civil War as it was used as a hospital by Union and Confederate forces. The cemetery is the final resting place of many Civil War soldiers who lost their lives in the battles fought in this region. This historic site offers visitors a chance to learn about the life and times of the soldiers and citizens of Lincoln during the war.

Interesting Fact: The church building was constructed in 1881, replacing an older building that had been used as a hospital during the Civil War.

3. Visit the Peanut Capital of the World - Dothan, AL

Dothan, AL is a city that sits just off Route 231, approximately 80 miles from Cedartown. Dothan is the "peanut capital of the world" because it produces more peanuts than any other place globally. The city is home to the National Peanut Festival, where visitors can witness a parade, live music, and indulge in various peanut-based foods. Additionally, it has interesting spots such as Walt Disney World's original home, Landmark Park, and the Dothan Opera House.

Interesting Fact: The world's smallest city block, the Ellicott Micro-Building, sits in downtown Dothan and measures only 10 feet by 6 feet!

4. Go Fishing at Lake Martin

Lake Martin is a massive man-made lake that spreads across 44,000 acres in Alabama and is approximately 140 miles away from Cedartown. It is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other water activities. The lake hosts species such as sunfish, bass, trout, and many others. Its crystal-clear waters make it an excellent spot for swimming and sailing. If you are lucky, you might spot an alligator or turtle too!

Interesting Fact: Lake Martin has its own version of the Loch Ness Monster, known as the "Martin Lake Monster."

5. Explore the Unique Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is located in Birmingham, AL, approximately 130 miles from Cedartown. The museum is dedicated to promoting the lesson learned during the civil rights struggles in the United States and offers visitors an interactive and enlightening experience. It showcases the experiences of people who have endured the struggle to gain equal rights and educates visitors on the evolution of the civil rights movement.

Interesting Fact: The institute is home to one of the 'comfort rooms', used by the Freedom Riders, that still bears the original graffiti created while they awaited trial.

Conclusion

The road trip from Cedartown to Irondale offers an excellent opportunity to indulge in nature's beauty, explore Alabama's unique history, and enjoy some of the finest peanut-based foods. The route takes approximately three hours, excluding pit stops, which can be quite a journey for some. This journey's beauty lies not just in the destinations but also in the stops in between, such as the Old Talladega Highway and the U.S. Route 78. So, open the windows, turn the music up, and embark on an unforgettable road trip!