What is Georgia Known For? Discover Georgia’s Famous Facts, Foods, and Landmarks

A true representation of Southern charm and hospitality, Georgia is a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a long-time Georgian or considering relocating to the state, you might be wondering: what is Georgia known for?

From hidden gems to iconic landmarks, and beloved foods, Georgia is famous for so much. Read on to find out why living in Georgia is so appealing, whether you’re buying a home in Atlanta, renting an apartment in Savannah, or just passing through.

Thriving economy and job opportunities

Georgia boasts a diverse and growing economy, excelling in industries such as film production, agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. Atlanta, the state’s capital, is a major business hub home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, including Coca-Cola, Delta Air Lines, and Home Depot. The state’s robust agricultural sector produces peanuts, peaches, and poultry, solidifying Georgia’s reputation as a leader in these areas.

Key cities in industrial and technological innovation include Augusta, known for its healthcare and cyber-security sectors, and Athens, recognized for its educational and research institutions.

Georgia’s top five employers

Delta Air Lines
The Home Depot
Coca-Cola Company
Emory University and Healthcare
Southern Company

Must-visit tourist attractions

Georgia is renowned for its diverse attractions, from historical sites to natural wonders and vibrant cities.

The Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta: One of the largest aquariums in the world, home to thousands of marine species.
Savannah Historic District: A beautiful area filled with cobblestone streets, historic homes, and lush squares.
Stone Mountain Park: Known for its massive granite monolith and family-friendly attractions.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, Atlanta: Dedicated to the civil rights leader, including his childhood home and church.
Jekyll Island: A serene getaway with beautiful beaches, golf courses, and historic landmarks.

Fun fact: Stone Mountain Park features the largest bas-relief sculpture in the world, depicting Confederate leaders Jefferson Davis, Robert E. Lee, and Stonewall Jackson.

Delicious cuisine across the state

Georgia’s cuisine reflects its Southern roots, offering a culinary experience that ranges from comfort food to fine dining. From the world-famous peach cobbler and fried chicken to Brunswick stew and shrimp and grits, the state’s food scene is both rich and varied.

Five famous restaurants in Georgia

The Varsity in Atlanta: An iconic fast-food drive-in known for its chili dogs and frosted oranges.
Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room in Savannah: Communal Southern dining at its best.
The Grey in Savannah: Housed in a restored Greyhound bus terminal, offering modern Southern cuisine.
Mary Mac’s Tea Room in Atlanta: A beloved spot for traditional Southern fare.
Bones in Atlanta: A top-rated steakhouse renowned for its exceptional service and cuisine.

Fun fact: The iconic Coca-Cola beverage was created in Georgia by Dr. John Pemberton in 1886. It was initially sold at Jacob’s Pharmacy in Atlanta, making Georgia the birthplace of this globally recognized soft drink.

Rich culture and entertainment

Georgia’s culture is a blend of its historical heritage and contemporary influences. The state is a hub for the arts, music, and film, with Atlanta often referred to as the “Hollywood of the South” due to its booming film industry. Museums such as the High Museum of Art in Atlanta and the Telfair Museums in Savannah highlight the state’s rich artistic legacy.

Five great places to see a show in Georgia

Fox Theatre in Atlanta: A historic theater known for its grand architecture and diverse performances.
The Tabernacle in Atlanta: A popular music venue set in a converted church.
Savannah Theatre: One of the oldest continually operating theaters in the U.S.
The Classic Center in Athens: Hosting concerts, performances, and conferences.
Macon City Auditorium: A historic venue for concerts and theatrical productions.

Top-notch higher education

Georgia is home to prestigious universities known for their research and academic excellence. Institutions like the Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University offer top-tier education and contribute significantly to the state’s innovation and development.

Here are six of the top colleges in Georgia

Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech)
Emory University
University of Georgia (UGA)
Georgia State University
Spelman College
Morehouse College

Stunning natural resources

Georgia’s landscape is incredibly varied, featuring mountains, beaches, forests, and rivers. The state is known for its beautiful natural parks and conservation efforts. From the Appalachian Mountains in the north to the barrier islands on the coast, Georgia offers a wealth of outdoor activities.

Five great state parks in Georgia

Amicalola Falls State Park: Home to Georgia’s tallest waterfall.
Cloudland Canyon State Park: Known for its stunning canyons and scenic vistas.
Tallulah Gorge State Park: Featuring one of the most spectacular gorges in the Southeast.
Vogel State Park: One of Georgia’s oldest and most popular state parks.
Skidaway Island State Park: Located near Savannah, offering trails through maritime forests and salt marshes.

Did you know? The Masters Tournament, one of the four major championships in professional golf, is held annually at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia.

Being a sports haven

Georgia’s diverse landscape and favorable climate make it an ideal destination for sports enthusiasts. The state is home to professional teams across various leagues and hosts numerous sporting events throughout the year. Additionally, whether you’re hitting the links at the Augusta National Golf Club for the Masters Tournament or kayaking along the Chattahoochee River, Georgia offers an array of outdoor activities for every taste.

Professional sports teams

Atlanta Braves (MLB)
Atlanta Falcons (NFL)
Atlanta Hawks (NBA)
Atlanta United FC (MLS)
Georgia Bulldogs (NCAA)

Popular Georgia phrases

“Y’all”: A common Southern contraction for “you all.”
“Bless your heart”: A phrase with multiple meanings, often used empathetically or sarcastically.
“Fixing to”: Means getting ready to do something.
“Sweet tea”: A staple beverage in Georgia, typically very sweet iced tea.
“The Peach State”: Georgia’s nickname, reflecting its reputation for producing high-quality peaches.
“Hush puppies”: Refers to a popular Southern fried cornbread ball, often served as a side dish.
“Coke”: In Georgia, “Coke” can refer to any type of soft drink, not just Coca-Cola.
“Gone with the Wind”: Refers to the famous novel and film set in Georgia, often used to describe something quintessentially Southern.
“Fried green tomatoes”: A beloved Southern dish and a term often used to represent Southern cuisine and culture.

More things Georgia is known for

Healthcare: Georgia is home to renowned healthcare institutions such as Emory Healthcare and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Tech innovation: Atlanta is a growing tech hub, with an increasing number of startups and tech companies setting up operations.
Music: Georgia has a rich musical heritage, being the birthplace of artists like Ray Charles, Otis Redding, and the Allman Brothers Band.
History: From Civil War battlefields to Civil Rights Movement landmarks, Georgia’s historical sites offer a deep dive into American history.
Southern hospitality: Georgia is renowned for its warm, friendly, and welcoming residents, embodying true Southern hospitality.

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