I said Georgia
Ray Charles
Oh Georgia, no peace I find
Just an old sweet song
Keeps Georgia on my mind (Georgia on my mind)
I’ve been busier than a cat covering crap on a marble floor this summer, y’all—and as funny as that sounds, I’m not kidding. I’m only just now getting around to sharing things that happened months ago. Maybe that’s why I’ve got Georgia on my mind.
Back in June, Belle and I took a little road trip down to Georgia—something that’s becoming our summertime tradition. She spends time with her besties, I catch up over drinks with one of mine, and we always end up with stories to tell.
So, what did we get up to this time? I’ve laid out our itinerary below—enjoy the ride!
Georgia On My Mind
Warm Springs
Our first stop was the tiny town of Warm Springs—population just under 500—and about as charming as a postcard. Its biggest claim to fame? The mineral springs that drew FDR here in the 1920s as therapy for his polio. A small town with big history? You know I couldn’t pass that up.
We browsed through the sweetest little antique shops, then grabbed lunch at the Bulloch House Restaurant. The building itself is steeped in history—first a mercantile, later a Victorian tea room—and now home to a country-style buffet that is absolutely worth loosening your belt for. It’s a bit pricey, sure, but the food is so good I’d go back in a heartbeat.
The Little White House
After lunch, we headed to The Little White House, FDR’s private retreat. We started in the museum, where the vintage cars and WWII-era memorabilia set the scene, then walked over to the house itself.
I expected something grand and opulent—but instead found a surprisingly humble home. And here’s what really floored me: Roosevelt actually died there in 1945. He was sitting for a watercolor portrait with his mistress when he complained of a headache and collapsed.
The historic pools were closed for maintenance during our visit, but we did get to see the famous Unfinished Portrait—a haunting reminder of that day.
Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park
Next, we wound our way up Pine Mountain in Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park. Even after several trips to Georgia, I didn’t realize how close we were to Appalachia. The views from the top were a beautiful, unexpected surprise—rolling hills stretching as far as the eye could see, with a quiet that makes you forget the world exists beyond the trees.
Callaway Gardens
After soaking in the mountain views, we headed to Callaway Gardens. Y’all recommended it so often, I had to see it for myself. The moment we stepped into the Butterfly Center, it all clicked. Surrounded by flowers, pools, and butterflies from every corner of the globe, I felt like Snow White. It was magical—and exactly what the doctor ordered for a sunny afternoon.
The Cannon Brewpub
On our second day, we slowed down a bit but still managed a legendary lunch in downtown Columbus at The Cannon Brewpub. I had a burger the size of my head—spicy, juicy, and absolutely delicious. If you’re ever in the area, do yourself a favor and go. Your taste buds will thank you.
Providence Canyon State Park
Before heading home, Belle and I stopped at Providence Canyon State Park, something she missed on our first trip. Standing on the edge of the “Little Grand Canyon,” it’s hard not to marvel at how something so destructive—poor farming practices literally eroding the earth—can also be so stunningly beautiful. Belle soaked it all in, and we snapped a few photos before pointing the tires back toward North Carolina.
Georgia never fails to surprise me, y’all. From tiny towns steeped in history to gardens that feel like fairy tales, it’s a state full of stories, beauty, and charm. Don’t get me wrong, it’s no North Carolina – but it ain’t bad. 😉
