15 Startling Facts Americans Should Know About Georgia
15 Facts Americans Don’t Know About Georgia
Georgia, often recognized for its iconic peaches, holds many surprises that many people might not know about. From unique laws to record-breaking sites, this state has a mix of fun, quirky, and impressive facts. Let’s explore some interesting things that make Georgia stand out!
1. Georgia: The Peach State and More
Georgia is commonly known as the Peach State, celebrated for its juicy, sweet peaches. But did you know it is also the leading producer of peanuts and pecans in the United States? This makes Georgia a vital player in producing some of America’s favorite snacks and ingredients.
2. Cumberland Island’s Wild Horses
On Cumberland Island National Seashore, you can witness a stunning sight of wild horses roaming freely along the beaches. This unique feature adds to the island’s natural beauty and provides a magical experience for visitors exploring the seashore.
3. Wesleyan College’s Historic First
Wesleyan College in Georgia has the distinction of being the first college in the world to grant degrees to women. This milestone highlights Georgia’s forward-thinking approach to women’s education from as early as the 19th century.
4. A Quirky Ice Cream Law
In Georgia, there’s a peculiar law that makes it illegal to keep an ice cream cone in your back pocket on Sundays. This odd law is a throwback to old, unconventional methods of horse theft, where thieves would use ice cream to lure horses away.
5. Georgia’s Sizeable Stature
Georgia holds the title of being the largest state east of the Mississippi River. This vast area allows for a diverse range of landscapes, from sprawling mountains to vibrant cities and long, winding coastlines.
6. The Varsity: A Drive-in Like No Other
The Varsity in Atlanta claims the title of one of the world’s largest drive-in restaurants. This iconic spot is a favorite among locals and tourists, serving up classic American drive-in fare in a bustling, nostalgic setting.
7. Savannah: Planned Perfection
The city of Savannah enjoys the distinction of being the first planned city in the U.S. Its well-laid-out streets and squares, filled with historic charm, make it a delightful destination for history buffs and tourists alike.
8. Georgia Aquarium’s Underwater World
The Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta is one of the largest aquariums globally, home to over 100,000 aquatic creatures. Its massive tanks offer visitors a glimpse into the vast and vibrant world of underwater life.
9. Indian Springs: A Historic State Park
Georgia is proud to host Indian Springs State Park, the oldest state park in the nation. The park is steeped in history and natural beauty, offering a peaceful retreat with its mineral springs historically thought to have healing properties.
10. Gainesville’s Unique Chicken Law
In Gainesville, known as the Chicken Capital of the World, there’s a unique law that makes it illegal to eat chicken with a fork. This curious law emphasizes the traditional, finger-licking-good way to enjoy chicken in Gainesville.
11. The Naming of Georgia
Georgia was named after King George II of Great Britain, reflecting the state’s origins as one of the original British colonies in North America. This historical tie points to Georgia’s deep-rooted connections to its colonial past.
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12. The Grandeur of Stone Mountain
Stone Mountain near Atlanta is recognized as one of the largest single masses of exposed granite in the world. This natural marvel is a popular attraction, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the geological history of the region.
13. Georgia’s County Count
With 159 counties, Georgia has more counties than any other state east of the Mississippi River. This high number of counties speaks to the state’s complex local governance and rich diversity of local cultures.
14. The Little Grand Canyon
In Lumpkin, Georgia, you can find the “Little Grand Canyon,” a striking geological formation caused by poor farming practices in the 1800s. Today, it serves as a stark reminder of the impact of human activity on the environment and a beautiful sight for visitors.
15. Vidalia Onions: Georgia’s Sweet Gems
Vidalia onions, famous worldwide for their unique sweetness, are legally only grown in specific regions of Georgia. This exclusivity makes these onions highly sought after for their distinct flavor, perfect for a variety of culinary uses.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.