The Best Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Auburn, AL to Lovejoy, GA

Are you looking for a fun and educational road trip through Alabama and Georgia? Look no further! This road trip from Auburn, AL to Lovejoy, GA has everything you could want, from museums and parks to historic landmarks. Pack your bags and let's hit the road!

Did you know that Auburn, AL is home to Auburn University? Known for its great academics and unbeatable sports teams, it's a must-see for college sports enthusiasts. Similarly, Lovejoy, GA is famous for its rich history as a depot for cotton and textiles, and its many landmarks – from Civil War battle facilities to stunning plantation houses – will take you back in time.

The halfway point of this road trip is Hogansville, GA, a quaint little town that's perfect for a lunch break or a quick stroll. It's known for its historic architecture and vibrant community, make sure to check it out!

The total distance from Auburn, AL to Lovejoy, GA is around 150 miles, but this trip can easily be completed in a day. However, if you have time to spare, it's a great opportunity to explore unique areas of Alabama and Georgia, and make unforgettable memories along the way.

Here are the top five places to visit on this road trip:

1. FDR State Park

Located in Pine Mountain, GA, FDR State Park is a massive 9,049-acre park that includes beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, and picnic areas. It's named after Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, who spent many vacations in the area. If you love nature and the outdoors, FDR State Park is the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy breathtaking views.

Recommended point of interest: Take a hike up to Overlook 3 for a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and forests.

2. Callaway Gardens

Another must-visit nature site is Callaway Gardens, located in Pine Mountain, GA. This luxurious 13,000-acre resort destination is famous for its greenhouses, butterfly conservatory, and aquatic center. Featuring a variety of events and activities, from paddle boating to golfing, to zip-lining, Callaway Gardens is a perfect destination for adventurous families.

Recommended point of interest: During the winter, visitors can go ice skating and observe holiday lighting displays.

3. The Little White House

Located in Warm Springs, GA, The Little White House is a 5,000-square-foot museum that served as a residence for Franklin D. Roosevelt during his presidency. The humble white cottage has since been transformed into a historical landmark, featuring exhibits on FDR's life and career, as well as the events surrounding his death.

Recommended point of interest: Visitors can take a tour unaccompanied by a guide and explore the house and gardens.

4. Auburn University Museum of Natural History

As previously mentioned, Auburn University is a must-see on this road trip for college sports fans. But it also features the Auburn University Museum of Natural History (AUMNH), which has been located in Funchess Hall since 1992. Visitors can expect to see a wide range of exhibits, containing specimens from birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians! AUMNH houses over 50,000 specimens, including the largest mammal collection in Alabama.

Recommended point of interest: Visit during one of the museum's "Snake Days," where you can learn about venomous and non-venomous snakes.

5. Ashley Oaks Mansion

The Ashley Oaks Mansion is a historic house located in Lovejoy, GA. Built in the early 1800s, the mansion features stunning Italianate architecture and is surrounded by lovely gardens and fountains. Tours here are inexpensive, and are led by local curators who will guide you through the history of the mansion and its many intriguing inhabitants.

Recommended point of interest: Visit during the Lovejoy Heritage Festival, held annually in June, to celebrate the heritage of Lovejoy and the surrounding area.

In conclusion, this road trip from Auburn, AL to Lovejoy, GA is a fantastic way to explore some of the most beautiful and historically significant areas of Alabama and Georgia. With a wide variety of museums, parks, and landmarks, there's truly something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your GPS, and embark on a road trip of a lifetime!