Best Places to See When Driving from Alpharetta, Georgia to Fairfield Glade, Tennessee
Road trips are the perfect opportunity to discover new places, create unforgettable memories, and have a great time with your loved ones. If you're planning a road trip from Alpharetta, Georgia, to Fairfield Glade, Tennessee, consider yourself lucky because there are plenty of beautiful stops along the way. From impressive mountain views to quaint towns, this journey is sure to offer something for everyone. Here are the top places to see when driving from Alpharetta to Fairfield Glade.
Blue Ridge Mountains
No road trip from Georgia to Tennessee is complete without a stop at the Blue Ridge Mountains. This mountain range, located in the eastern United States, boasts some of the most stunning views in the region. The scenic drive offers several overlooks, hiking trails, and waterfalls for you to explore.
Make sure to stop at Brasstown Bald Mountain, the highest point in Georgia. The observation deck provides breathtaking views of Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Another must-see spot in the Blue Ridge Mountains is the Anna Ruby Falls. This picturesque waterfall is located near Helen, GA, and is worth a small hike. Don't forget your camera!
Historic Dahlonega
Dahlonega is a charming town located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Since it was founded in 1828, Dahlonega has been a hub for gold mining. Today, visitors can learn about the town's history by visiting the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site.
Besides history, Dahlonega's vibrant downtown area has many art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants that attract visitors all year long. Take a stroll on the square, enjoy local live music, and indulge in some of the town's famous chocolate treats.
Chattanooga
Chattanooga, located in southeastern Tennessee, offers something for everyone – from outdoor enthusiasts to history buffs. Once you arrive, start your day by visiting the Tennessee Aquarium – home to over 12,000 animals and 800 different species. From there, take a ride on the famous Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, one of the steepest passenger railways in the world.
If you are looking to explore the city's history, visit the Chattanooga Choo Choo Historic Hotel and Museum, which tells the story of the Golden Age of rail travel. Downtown Chattanooga also has many great restaurants and breweries, perfect for a night cap.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
For all the nature lovers out there, make sure to stop at the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. The park spans three states – Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee – and is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The park is also home to the historic Cumberland Gap tunnel, where settlers, soldiers, and explorers traveled through to reach the western frontier.
The park offers many trails with different difficulty levels. Make sure to visit the Hensley Settlement, a living history museum, which tells the story of a self-sufficient Appalachian mountain community.
Rock City Gardens
Rock City, located on Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, is a popular family-friendly attraction that offers panoramic views of seven states. Start your journey on the Enchanted Trail, which leads visitors to unique rock formations, waterfalls, and lush gardens.
One of the most famous spots at Rock City is the Lover's Leap, which offers visitors stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. The gardens also feature the Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village, where you can meet classic childhood characters.
Conclusion
Driving from Alpharetta to Fairfield Glade provides a great opportunity to explore some of the most famous and beautiful sites in the southeast. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, small-town charm or big-city excitement, this road trip has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and hit the road, as this journey promises to be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your lifetime.