Museums, Parks & Landmarks to Visit on a Roadtrip from Buford to Good Hope
If you're looking for a leisurely road trip that's rich in history and natural beauty, set your sights on a journey from Buford, GA, to Good Hope, GA. This route will take you through several iconic landmarks, significant historical sites, and beautiful parks. Keep reading for our top picks for places to visit along the way.
Fun Fact: Believe it or not, Buford used to be called "Slabtown" because of the abundance of sawmills and resulting wood scraps. However, the town was renamed to honor Algernon Sidney Buford, president of the Atlanta and Richmond Air-Line Railway.
Halfway point: Bethlehem, GA
Bethlehem is a small town with a big claim to holiday fame—the postmark for its Christmas-themed post office has become a collector's item. The town also features a quaint bakery and restored antebellum homes.
The Length of the Trip
The drive from Buford to Good Hope is just over an hour, depending on traffic and which route you take. But why rush? Take your time and enjoy the exhibits, trails, and scenic views at each destination.
Top 5 Places to Visit
- Buford Dam Park
Located off of Buford Dam Road, this park is a popular spot for kayaking, swimming, and leisurely picnics by Lake Lanier. Bring a fishing rod or rent a boat to make the most of your visit. Don't forget sunscreen and bug spray!
Point of interest: At the dam, you can take a guided tour to learn about the history and function of the dam and hydroelectric power plant.
- Vines Park
If you're traveling with kids, stop at Vines Park in Loganville for a fun playground, plenty of picnic spots, and sports fields. The park's walking and biking trails will get you moving and enjoying the great outdoors.
Point of interest: Take a quick detour to the Big Indian Creek Wetlands for a glimpse of local wildlife and fascinating flora.
- The Georgia Guidestones
Located in Elbert County, Georgia, about an hour's drive from Buford, these mysterious stones have intrigued visitors for decades. The inscriptions and messages etched into the stones have inspired conspiracy theories and debate about their purpose.
Point of interest: The stones are aligned with astronomical events, making them a popular destination for stargazers and astrologers.
- Hard Labor Creek State Park
To experience the natural beauty of Georgia, spend some time at Hard Labor Creek State Park in Rutledge. With over 5,800 acres of forest, lakes, and hiking trails, there's something for everyone here. You can camp, fish, or take a tour of the pioneer camp and learn about the history of the area.
Point of interest: See if you can spot some rare wildlife, such as the Red-Cockaded Woodpecker, that calls the park home.
- Southern Cross Guest Ranch
Experience some southern charm at the Southern Cross Guest Ranch in Madison. This historic ranch offers trail rides, polo lessons, and even horseback riding lessons for beginners. You can stay overnight in one of the guest rooms or cabins and enjoy southern-style meals in the dining hall.
Point of interest: Don't miss the chance to see the ranch's Lipizzaner horses perform their famous "airs above the ground" routine.
Conclusion
This road trip from Buford to Good Hope offers something for everyone. Whether you're a lover of nature, history, or entertainment, there's plenty to see and do on this scenic drive. Take your time, soak up the sights and sounds, and enjoy the journey along the way. The trip can take anywhere from a day trip to two days, depending on how long you stay at each location. Whatever your pace, we hope you enjoy this opportunity to explore some of Georgia's finest landmarks and parks.