12 Historical Places In Georgia, USA

historical places in georgia
Louise
Louise 
Updated
| 4 min read

Nesting on the southeastern side of the United States, Georgia is a US state that boasts breathtaking beaches, mountainous areas, farmlands, and the best romantic hotels. Its capital is Atlanta city in which you can see the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site and the Georgia Aquarium. You will also find the city of Savannah in Georgia. It is popular for its old colonial architecture. While in Georgia, you might want to visit St. Simons and Tybee Island and enjoy a day at the beach. On the other hand, Georgia is not only a state filled with wonderful beaches, spa resorts, and fascinating landscapes, but It is also an area rich in historic sites and remarkable landmarks. If you want to dip into the history of this destination, here is a list of historical places in Georgia, USA, that you should check out on your next visit.

1. Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site

Wattle and daub house, Etowah Indian Mounds
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user JJonahJackalope used under CC BY-SA 4.0

In Georgia’s heart, this historic site unveils the brilliance of the Mississippian Culture. Spanning 54 acres (21.85 hectares), it celebrates the era from 1000-1550 A.D., when Native Americans shaped a bustling community. Six preserved mounds punctuate the landscape, with the tallest, a majestic 63 feet (19.20 meters), believed to be a priest-chief’s platform.

A riverside trail uncovers an age-old fish trap, highlighting the community’s harmony with nature. Burial mounds reveal the cultural reverence for their nobility, with ornate artifacts accompanying them for eternity.

Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site

Address: 813 Indian Mounds Road SE, Cartersville, GA 30120, Bartow County

Website: Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

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2. Dahlonega Gold Museum

Dahlonega - Gold Museum
Source: Photo by Flickr user Mike Finn used under CC BY 2.0

In the heart of Dahlonega, Georgia, this historic museum celebrates the fervor of America’s earliest gold fever. Housed in the venerable 1836 Lumpkin County Courthouse, it unveils an era before the famed California gold rush, featuring treasures such as locally minted coins and a gleaming five-ounce nugget. Guests step back to the 1830s, navigating exhibits that echo the town’s golden heritage. With features such as the authentic judge’s chambers and vintage 1889 chapel seats, the museum offers a glimpse of the past.

Dahlonega Gold Museum

Address: 1 Public Square N, Dahlonega, GA 30533, United States

Website: Dahlonega Gold Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Sun: 9am - 4:45pm; Sun: 10am - 4:45pm

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3. Fort Pulaski National Monument

FtPulaskiInside
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user en:user:Bubba73 used under CC BY 3.0

Fort Pulaski National Monument is a historic site in Savannah, Georgia that is significant to the American Civil War. It showcases war artifacts and chambers. Its fascinating 19th-century masonry fortifications is one of the best well-preserved US landmarks. If you plan to visit the Fort Pulaski National Monument, you will be treated to a wonderful time of fort orientation, introduction to historical weaponry, and a guided tour to the whole landmark.

Fort Pulaski National Monument

Address: US-80, Savannah, GA 31410, USA

Website: Fort Pulaski National Monument

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: From 10 USD

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4. Green-Meldrim House

Green meldrim house
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Kmf164 used under CC BY-SA 2.5

If you happen to drop by Savannah, you should not miss checking out this historic attraction in Georgia. During the Civil War, General William Tecumseh Sherman turned this property into their headquarters. It tells so much history of war, tragedies, and victories. It showcases fascinating century old sophisticated architecture and well-preserved decor. It also displays old photographs of American war heroes and significant events in the country’s history.

Green-Meldrim House

Address: 14 W Macon St, Savannah, GA 31401, USA

Website: Green-Meldrim House

Opening hours: Tues - Fri: 10am - 4pm; Sat: 10am - 1pm (Closed on Sun & Mon)

Price: From 5 USD

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5. Bellevue Mansion


Situated in 204 Ben Hill Street in LaGrange, Georgia, Bellevue Mansion is a historic landmark that was established in 1853 -1855. It was popular for being the home of late Senator Benjamin Harvey Hill. It showcases the beauty and grandeur of Greek Revival Architecture. Many tourists who visit Georgia make sure to see this majestic mansion and take picture souvenirs. Plus, the Bellevue Mansion is also available for booking for special occasions in case you have an important milestone to celebrate.

Bellevue Mansion

Address: 204 Ben Hill St, LaGrange, GA 30240, USA

Website: Bellevue Mansion

Opening hours: Tues - Sat: 10am - 1pm, 2pm - 5pm (Closed on Sun & Mon)

Price: From 3 USD

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6. Fort Hawkins


Also known as the Pentagon of the South, this historical landmark in Georgia was established by President Thomas Jefferson and agent Benjamin Hawkins in 1806 to serve as an army fort and a venue for meeting and trading with Indian Americans. It features a series of forts found in the US frontier. Most tourists who visit Georgia make sure to visit Fort Hawkins and learn more about the place that has great significance to the history of America. While in this landmark, don’t forget to take some selfies for a souvenir.

Fort Hawkins

Address: Emery Hwy, Macon, GA 31217, USA

Website: Fort Hawkins

Opening hours: Mon - Thurs: 9am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 9am - 10:30pm; Sun: 12:30pm - 8pm

Price: Free admission

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7. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park


Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park is a fascinating landmark in Atlanta that tells the story of the young dreamer named Martin Luther King. This is also his hometown and the place where he played and wandered as a child. From this location, you will get to visit the church where there are stories about how he influenced and touched other people’s lives. Visit Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park and know more about Martin Luther King’s legacy.

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

Address: 450 Auburn Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30312, USA

Website: Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: Free admission

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8. Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

historical places in georgia | jimmy carter national historic site
Source: instagram

If you want to learn more about the 39th president of the United States, what better way to do so than by visiting his hometown and learning more about his first steps in becoming a catalyst for social change and leadership. Learn how a town as small as Plains had influenced a young boy to become an exceptional president of America. Jimmy Carter National Historic Site includes The Historic District of Plains, The Plains Train Depot, The Plains High School, The Carter Boyhood Farm, The Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Trail, and especially, The Carter Private Residence and Compound.

Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

Address: 300 N Bond St, Plains, GA 31780, USA

Website: Jimmy Carter National Historic Site

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: Free admission

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9. Swan House at Atlanta History Center


Found in the beautiful city of Atlanta, Swan House at Atlanta History Center is a significant landmark in the history of the US. It depicts stories of culture, heritage, business, and comfort. It was established in 1928 as the home of Mr. and Mrs. Edward and Emily Inman. It showcases a marvelous mansion with century-old architecture and a majestic swan house lawn. If you have spare time, be sure to check out this mansion and take as many photographs as you like.

Swan House at Atlanta History Center

Address: 130 West Paces Ferry Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30305, USA

Website: Swan House at Atlanta History Center

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 4pm; Sun: 1pm - 4pm

Price: From 9 USD

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10. Lapham-Patterson House

Thomasville GA Lapham-Patterson06
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ebyabe used under CC BY-SA 2.5

Found in North Dawson Street, Thomasville, the Lapham Patterson House is one of the many fascinating ancient sites in Georgia. It was established between the years 1884 - 1885 as a vacation home, during the winter, for C.W. Lapham, who is a wealthy businessman from Chicago. It showcases a marvelous Victorian-inspired architecture and breathtaking antique decor. Because of its beauty, elegance, and architectural significance, it was declared as a National Historic Landmark in the year 1975.

Lapham-Patterson House

Address: 626 N Dawson St, Thomasville, GA 31792, USA

Website: Lapham-Patterson House

Opening hours: Fri: 1pm - 5pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm (Closed on Sun - Thurs)

Price: From 5 USD

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11. Georgia State Capitol


The Georgia State Capitol is found in Atlanta, Georgia. It is a remarkable building which is a significant part of the history of the United States of America. It is the venue and primary office of Georgia’s government. Its architecture is considered a resemblance of Neoclassical architectural style, almost identical to the United States Capitol, in Washington, D.C. Georgia State Capitol also features a museum within the capitol. It showcases exhibits and artifacts related to the native Americans.

Georgia State Capitol

Address: 206 Washington St SW, Atlanta, GA 30334, USA

Website: Georgia State Capitol

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm (Closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: Free admission

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12. Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters (from USD 21.0)

If you have extra time to spare while in Georgia, you might want to book a tour package to the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters. This includes passes to three of Savannah’s remarkable museums such as the Jepson Center Art Museum, Telfair Academy, and the Owens-Thomas House. This tour will provide you with an in-depth talk and understanding of the history of Georgia and most importantly the slavery aspect in the past.

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Owens Thomas House & Slave Quarters, Jepson Center, Telfair Academy Ticket Combo

Duration: 1 to 3 hours

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Historic side of Georgia

Georgia is not only a state filled with rich culture, breathtaking beaches, fascinating architecture, and exciting attractions, but it is also a place with so much history to be told. If you want to know more about the historic side of the state of Georgia, we have compiled for you a list of landmarks and places that you should check out for your next visit. Feel free to remember it by heart and use it as your guide for a more memorable Georgia escapade.

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Frequently asked questions about historical places in Georgia, USA


  • Which historical places serve as great attractions in Georgia?

    Georgia boasts numerous historical attractions. Fort Pulaski National Monument showcases Civil War history. The Lapham-Patterson House is a Victorian-era gem. Other must-visit places include the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park, and Jimmy Carter National Historic Site.

  • Which historical sites in Georgia are open during weekends?

    There are several historical sites in Georgia open during weekends. Some notable ones include Fort Pulaski National Monument, Fort Hawkins, and Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich history of the state.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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