Georgia Downtown Rehabilitation Projects Recognized by The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation

Several Georgia downtowns and communities were recently recognized by The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation through its 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation and Preservation Service Awards, honoring projects and local efforts that demonstrate the power of preservation to support community identity, economic vitality, and downtown revitalization.

The awards highlight communities across the state that are bringing historic buildings back into active use while preserving the character-defining features that make them meaningful.

Rome-Floyd County: Historic Clock Tower

Rome-Floyd County received the 2026 Marguerite Williams Award for the rehabilitation of the Historic Clock Tower, one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. Presented annually to the project with the greatest impact on preservation in the state, the award recognizes the careful restoration of the tower, which has overlooked downtown Rome from Neely Hill since the 1870s.

Originally constructed as the city’s first water reservoir, the Clock Tower later became a defining feature of Rome’s skyline. The recent rehabilitation addressed structural concerns, water infiltration, timber reinforcement, clock face restoration, gilded detailing, and copper roof repairs. At a time when the community is also grieving the tragic fire at the historic Floyd County Courthouse, the project serves as a meaningful reminder of the importance of preserving the places that tell a community’s story.

Americus-Sumter County: Allison Building

Americus-Sumter County was recognized with a 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation Award for the Allison Building in downtown Americus. Constructed in 1906, the building has long contributed to the character of West Lamar Street and Americus’ historic commercial district.

The rehabilitation adapted the building for modern use with upper-floor residential units and street-level commercial space while preserving historic features such as arched windows, masonry walls, timber framing, decorative wood columns, beadboard ceilings, and salvaged wood flooring. The project reflects a strong community commitment to downtown reinvestment and adaptive reuse.

Athens-Clarke County: Bell Hotel

Athens-Clarke County received a 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation Award for the Bell Hotel, a boutique hotel created through the rehabilitation of a former Southern Bell telegraph and telephone exchange building.

Constructed in 1916 and located within the Athens West Downtown Historic District, the Neoclassical building was carefully adapted for hospitality use while preserving its historic character. The project incorporated archival research, public collaboration, restoration of significant historic elements, and sensitive integration of new features, creating a new downtown destination rooted in Athens’ history.

Monroe-Walton County: J. L. McGarity Ford Building

Monroe-Walton County was honored with a 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation Award for the J. L. McGarity Ford Building. Built in 1921, the former automobile dealership reflects the early rise of automotive commerce in downtown Monroe.

The rehabilitation transformed the long-underused building into a brewery and restaurant, bringing new activity to the downtown district. Historic features including the brick façade, steel trusses, interior plaster, and original steel windows were restored, while life-safety upgrades and new gathering spaces were carefully integrated. The project demonstrates how historic tax credit projects can support both preservation and local economic development.

Bainbridge-Decatur County: Old Post Office

Bainbridge-Decatur County received a 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation Award for the Old Post Office, a downtown landmark that has anchored a prominent corner of the square since 1914.

Originally serving as a post office and later as a federal courthouse, the Classical Revival building has been adapted into an event venue with guest suites and a speakeasy-style bar. The rehabilitation restored major interior spaces, including the grand lobby and former mail-sorting room, while preserving original hardwood floors, converted gas light fixtures, and the postal inspector’s catwalk. The project returned a vacant civic landmark to active use in the heart of downtown Bainbridge.

Gainesville-Hall County: Walton Jackson Building

Gainesville-Hall County was recognized with a 2026 Excellence in Rehabilitation Award for the Walton Jackson Building. Constructed between 1936 and 1939 following Gainesville’s devastating tornado, the Art Deco building reflects the city’s resilience and recovery.

The rehabilitation preserved defining features such as the white marble exterior, green marble accents, Greek key detailing, exposed steel trusses, brick walls, heart pine elements, and concrete floors. Now home to a meeting venue, gallery, and locally owned businesses, the building has been reactivated as a downtown commercial and community asset.

The City of Canton received a 2026 Preservation Service Award for its leadership in making historic preservation a central part of community planning, public investment, and economic development.

Through its Main Street program, expanded local historic district, and long-range planning efforts, Canton has demonstrated a strong commitment to preservation as a tool for sustainable growth. Since 2018, the City has invested nearly $29 million in major preservation projects, including the Jones Mercantile Building, the former Canton High School now serving as City Hall, historic public safety facilities, and the continued stewardship of the Canton Theatre.

Together, these award-winning projects show how Georgia communities are using preservation to strengthen downtowns, support local businesses, create new housing and gathering spaces, and protect the places that give each community its unique sense of identity.

The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) and the Georgia Cities Foundation (GCF) have announced that the cities of Clarkston, Perry, Union City and Warner Robins have successfully completed the Georgia Economic Placemaking Collaborative (GEPC), a two-year initiative designed to help communities strengthen downtowns and neighborhood centers through community-driven economic development strategies.

The graduating cities will be formally recognized during the 2026 GMA Annual Convention in Savannah.

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Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs

While Dahlonega has been a big tourism draw in Georgia over the past few decades, it has had a stubbornly high poverty rate.

Booming Business: Deb Rowe, right, owner of Shenanigans Restaurant & Irish Pub and co-owner of Bourbon Street Grille, received funding and coaching from ACE. Photo credit: Contributed

“There was very little capital there, so we decided to take a chance on Dahlonega,” says Martina Edwards, president and CEO of Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs, Georgia’s largest community development financial institution dedicated to small businesses.

ACE created access to 27 small business loans worth $8.6 million in Lumpkin County, which includes Dahlonega, creating or retaining 258 jobs.

“We transformed the footprint of Downtown Dahlonega,” Edwards says. “When you stand in the square and look north, south, east and west, almost every business you see has been funded by ACE.”

Once-seasonal businesses are booming year-round – just try landing a table quickly at a restaurant.

“We stand in the gaps,” Edwards says, “and provide flexible capital for every entrepreneur regardless of their ZIP code. We help people who have trouble accessing funding from banks and more traditional sources.”

With offices in Metro Atlanta, Cleveland and Tifton, and a Women’s Business Center in Norcross, ACE’s program of mentoring, counseling and networking helps new business owners succeed with payroll, supply chain and marketing.

ACE started in 1997 by doling out $500 to $5,000 loans but now reaches every county in Georgia with loans from $15,000 to $1 million with a focus on the “missing middle” of businesses that need between $50,000 to $250,000 – too large for microfinance organizations, but too small and risky for traditional banks.

A window-blind company that started in a client’s basement now boasts a staff of 40 and is in negotiations with big-box retailers, Edwards says. “We help people’s dreams come true.” 

This article appears in the April 2026 issue of Georgia Trend.
Candice Dyer

The Hartwell Downtown Development Authority is pleased to announce that the Hart County Community Theatre has been awarded a $300,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to support continued improvements to this historic downtown landmark.

The grant will fund critical upgrades to the theatre’s lobby, concessions area, balcony, and technical booth, helping to preserve and enhance one of downtown Hartwell’s most valued cultural assets. Combined with $300,000 in matching support from Fox Gives through its 2024 Multiyear Grant, the project represents a significant investment in the future of the theatre and the broader Hartwell community.

The Hart County Community Theatre serves as more than a performance venue. It is a cornerstone of downtown Hartwell’s identity, providing space for arts, entertainment, and community gathering while also contributing to local economic activity and downtown vitality.

This investment underscores the importance of strategic partnerships and continued support for historic preservation, arts programming, and rural downtown development. Improvements to the theatre will help preserve an important piece of Hartwell’s historic built environment, expand opportunities for community and cultural programming, and strengthen downtown Hartwell as a destination for both residents and visitors.

The Hartwell Downtown Development Authority extends its sincere appreciation to the Appalachian Regional Commission, Fox Gives, the Hart County Community Theatre, the University of Georgia Archway Partnership, and the many partners who have helped make this investment possible. Their support reflects a shared commitment to Hartwell’s future and to the lasting value created through thoughtful investment in rural communities.

Albany, GA – The Downtown Manager’s Office announces that Don Borowski, owner of Albany’s Best Running,
will bring his specialty athletic retail business to Downtown Albany. The store will be located at 108 Pine Avenue
in the Front Street Market, with an anticipated opening in Summer 2026.

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The Downtown Development Authority of the City of Vidalia has been awarded $250,000 through the Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ Downtown Development Revolving Loan Fund to support a redevelopment project in the heart of downtown. The funding will assist with the renovation of property at 110 East First Street, helping transform the space into new ground-floor storefronts with loft-style apartments above. This award highlights an important investment in downtown Vidalia and reflects the value of public-private partnerships in bringing new life, business activity, and housing opportunities to the district.

 MACON, GA  — The Macon Christmas Light Extravaganza announces the economic impact and visitation findings for the 2025/2026 season. Despite a shorter calendar window than the 2023–2024 season, this year’s event outperformed it across virtually every category.
According to data from Visit Macon, the 2025/2026 event drew 723,000 non-resident visits, a 10.3% increase over the 652,800 recorded in the prior season. Non-resident visits are all visits by people not living in the Business Improvement District (BID) footprint, including commuters and traditional visitors.
Long-distance visitors, defined as those traveling 50 or more miles, grew 4.6% to reach 116,440, underscoring the event’s standing as a regional attraction drawing visitors to Macon. The total economic impact was $7.359 million, averaging $193,678 per event day.
During peak viewing hours of 6–10 PM, the blocks of Poplar and Third Street recorded 107,700 evening visitors, a 12% jump over the previous year.
The 2025/2026 season continued to draw visitors from across the Southeast, with Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Tennessee rounding out the top five home states.
The lights didn’t just bring people downtown; they kept them spending. Data shows that 21.3% of visitors dined or shopped before the light show, and 26.4% did so afterward, a strong signal for local restaurants and retailers.
This season also marked the debut of the Marché de Noël, Macon’s first European-style Christmas market. The inaugural run attracted 18,199 shoppers across 10 days, with peak foot traffic on December 13. For a first-year event, that kind of turnout speaks to a real appetite for new downtown experiences and sets a promising foundation for seasons ahead.
Bryan Nichols, Technical Director and Stage Manager of the Macon Christmas Light Extravaganza, summed it up best: “What a season. Record-breaking economic impact, a bustling Marché de Noël bringing Cherry Street Plaza to life, and a 38-foot snowman welcoming visitors on Poplar Street at Rosa Parks Square. Watching this event grow while still delivering that same magic for families never gets old, and none of it would be possible without our incredible sponsors, partners, and volunteers. The best is still ahead: this coming year is our 10th anniversary, and Macon, you won’t want to miss it.”
Source: All data provided by Visit Macon
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About NewTown Macon
We are an independent nonprofit that focuses on economic development and revitalizing Downtown Macon. We make it safe and beautiful and fun and affordable. And we keep it local. We are located at 555 Poplar Street, Macon, GA 31201 and can be reached at (478) 722-9909. For more information, please visit newtownmacon.com.

Americus, GA — The City of Americus will receive $1.7 million in FY26 Community Project Funding for downtown streetscape improvements. Congressman Sanford D. Bishop Jr. will present the funding during a formal check presentation on Friday, February 20 at 10:00 a.m. at City Hall.

Federal Support for Downtown Americus

Congressman Bishop, a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, supported the passage of H.R. 7148, a bipartisan funding bill for Fiscal Year 2026. As part of that process, the City of Americus submitted a request for downtown streetscape improvements.

As a result, Americus was selected as one of 15 projects from Georgia’s Second Congressional District to receive Community Project Funding. The City will receive $1.7 million to support infrastructure improvements in downtown Americus.

What the Funding Will Support

The funding will improve sidewalks, streetscape infrastructure, accessibility, and overall safety in downtown Americus. In addition, the project will enhance the experience for residents, visitors, and business owners.

These improvements support the City’s long-term commitment to downtown revitalization. By investing in infrastructure, the City of Americus continues to strengthen its historic downtown district and position it for future growth.

“Securing $1.7 million in federal funding is a significant milestone for our community,” said Qaijuan Willis, Main Street & DDA Director for the City of Americus. “This investment allows us to move forward with critical downtown streetscape improvements and build on the momentum we have worked hard to create.”

A Major Step — With More Work Ahead

Although this funding represents a major step forward, additional funding will be necessary to complete improvements throughout the entire downtown district. However, the City of Americus will use these funds strategically and responsibly. Officials will ensure full compliance with federal guidelines while maximizing impact.

Big Check Presentation Details

Congressman Bishop will present a ceremonial check during the February 20 event. Members of the Americus Main Street Board, Downtown Development Authority Board, Mayor and City Council, and Interim City Manager will attend.

Community members and media representatives are invited to join the celebration at City Hall.

For additional information about the downtown streetscape improvements or the FY26 Community Project Funding award, please contact the Main Street office at (229) 928-6059 or email qwillis@americusga.gov

January 27, 2026

Nine cities across Georgia have been named as 2026 Visionary City Award honorees by the Georgia Municipal Association and Georgia Trend. The awards, a joint effort between the two organizations, honors cities that have turned thoughtful planning into measurable results for their residents.

“These communities share a common approach: listening to residents, working collaboratively, and following through,” said Ben Young, publisher and editor-in-chief of Georgia Trend. “Their work shows that visionary leadership doesn’t depend on size or geography—it depends on purpose.”

The nine honorees represent small, medium, and large cities from across the state, addressing challenges from flood mitigation and land conservation to youth entrepreneurship and public safety—all grounded in strong partnerships and community input.

Here’s a closer look at the winning projects in a Georgia Downtown.

Hartwell

The City of Hartwell’s StartUP Hart program connects students with educators, entrepreneurs, and civic leaders to turn business concepts into real ventures rooted in the local economy. Developed with Georgia Power’s CREATE program, Hart County Schools, and downtown development partners, the initiative combines mentorship, financial literacy training, and a pitch competition providing seed funding. Student-led businesses are now operating downtown, helping young people see a future in their hometown.

Suwanee

The City of Suwanee’s Town Center on Main completes a long-standing vision to unify Suwanee’s downtown by rerouting Main Street to connect historic Old Town with Town Center. The project unlocked new greenspace and improved walkability, adding gathering areas, water features, a pedestrian bridge, a Veterans Memorial, and Suwanee Circle, a municipally integrated food truck park. The result blends transportation improvements with placemaking to support both community life and economic vitality.

What connects these nine cities is a willingness to plan carefully, partner broadly, and act with purpose.

“Each of these initiatives reflects the kind of thoughtful, community-driven work happening in cities across Georgia every day,” said Larry Hanson, CEO and executive director of the Georgia Municipal Association. “They highlight strong ideas and strong partnerships, and offer examples other cities can learn from.”

View Entire Article Here

Chicago, IL- We are proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Backing Small Businesses grant program, supported by American Express. This nationwide initiative has awarded 400 grants of $10,000 to locally significant small businesses across the country, helping them fuel growth and continue to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

The 400 grant recipients demonstrated both resilience and a strong local impact and vision for the future in their applications.

Grantees from Georgia:

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Thomaston, GA-  At the start of Tuesday’s meeting of the Thomaston Mayor and Council, Mayor J.D. Stallings announced Congressman Brian Jack is sending $3 Million to City Hall for its proposed Downtown Pedestrian Safety Program– Apparently the largest appropriation in the 3rd District. The Mayor mentioned that the Congressman is sending Pike County some funding also with the passage of the House appropriations bill.

City Hall has been working with G-DOT and the University of Georgia on the Downtown Pedestrian Safety Project and the Mayor said he spoke with Congressman Jack Tuesday and learned of the $3 Million coming from Washington for the project and thanked him for the funding. It was mentioned during the meeting 16,000 vehicles cross the Downtown Square daily so the Pedestrian Safety Project has high priority.

Via National Main Street Center: We are proud to announce the eight recipients of our Small Business Accelerator Grant Program, presented in partnership with The Hartford. This $2 million, multi-year initiative supports the launch, growth, or expansion of new and existing small business accelerator spaces in Main Street communities across the country. From shared storefronts and mentorship hubs to subgrants for local small business owners, the program is designed to create more inclusive, resilient local economies.

Three established accelerator sites, including Sweet Auburn, have been awarded $25,000 grants to strengthen their operational infrastructure and increase their community reach. These funds will support strategic enhancements that improve service delivery, streamline operational efficiency, and increase their ability to serve local entrepreneurs. Congrats, Sweet Auburn!

The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation presented 23 awards recognizing the best of preservation in Georgia during its 48th annual Preservation Awards ceremony in Brunswick this past Saturday. Night Sky Coffee Roasters in Winder (pictured) received the Michael L. Starr Award, presented to a project that best exemplifies the highest standards of historic rehabilitation and has a significant impact on the downtown of the city in which it is located. Several #gamainst communities were highlighted, including Thomasville and Hawkinsville for downtown commercial properties. Congratulations!

The GM on Main Street Grant Program has awarded five $60,000 grants to nonprofit organizations and municipal government entities near GM facilities and to a tribal community within the Main Street network to implement innovative transportation initiatives in their local districts. Included among the recipients is the city of Avondale Estates, GA. Presented by General Motors, the GM on Main Street Grant Program champions place-based solutions that prioritize pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, inclusive urban design, and sustainable mobility.
The 2025 grant recipients include the City of Elgin (Elgin, TX), the Heart of Scottsville, Inc. (Scottsville, KY), the City of Avondale Estates (Avondale Estates, GA), the Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City Transportation Department (Kansas City, KS), and the Forest County Potawatomi Community (Forest County, WI).

THOMASVILLE, GA – April 21, 2025 – The Rose City continues to shine nationally after receiving

recognition in various USA Today’s 10Best Lists. Following a nationwide vote, Thomasville garnered

fourth place for “Best Small Town Food Scene 2025”, seventh place for “Best Small Town in the South

2025,” and tenth place in “Best Flower Festivals in the US 2025.” The national recognition continues to

cement Thomasville’s status as a standout destination for travelers near and far.

“It is a significant accomplishment for USA Today travel experts to, once again, recognize us on each of

these lists,” said April Norton, City of Thomasville Managing Director of Marketing &

Communications. “To know that people across the country voted Thomasville in the top ten of each list,

is a true testament to the strength of the collaborative efforts necessary by our citizens, merchants, and

City leadership to make Thomasville the wonderful destination that it is.”

Lewisburg, West Virginia once again topped the list as the “Best Small Town Food Scene 2025,” with

Thomasville ranking fourth as the only city on the list from the state of Georgia. According to USA

Today, Thomasville is known for its quaint, timeless charm and diverse food scene featuring Southern

specialties and traditional comfort food, welcoming guests to experience a vast range of dining delights.

Thomasville also took home seventh place as the “Best Small Town in the South 2025.” This category

included towns with populations of less than 25,000, and USA Today noted Thomasville’s deep history

and Downtown overflowing with specialty shops and local cuisine. Thomasville was the only city in

Georgia included on the national list. For the second year in a row Starkville, Mississippi topped this

year’s list.

With roses in full bloom, the Rose Show & Festival was also recognized as one of the “Best Flower

Festivals in the US 2025.” The Rose Show landed tenth on the list with our neighbors from Ball Ground,

Georgia the Daffodil Festival at Gibbs Gardens taking the top spot. Breathtaking displays of roses,

Orchids on Parade, the Annual Standard Flower Show, a lively parade, and live music were among the

highlights identified by USA Today.

Thomasville also earned recognition in the USA Today 10 Best Lists in 2024 for both “Best Small Town

in the South” and “Best Small Town Food Scene.”

USA Today publishes their annual 10Best results throughout March and April. Travel experts and

editors across the country created the top ten lists, presenting the finalists to readers who could vote for

their favorites up to one time per day over the course of a month.

“A culinary scene with something for everyone, a vibrant and welcoming small town ambiance, and a

Rose Show & Festival that has blossomed every spring for the last 104 years, we are truly blessed with

the ability to provide locals and visitors with a diverse entertainment scene,” said Norton. “This

recognition reaffirms our standing as a must-visit travel destination.”

CHICAGO, ILL., – Main Street America announced Josh Rogers, President & CEO at NewTown Macon, as a 2025 Mary Means Leadership Award recipient. This prestigious award is Main Street America’s top honor recognizing individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership in the field of comprehensive preservation-based economic development and commercial district revitalization. The award highlights the impact of these individuals and amplifies the critical role that leaders play in shaping the Main Street Movement. The 2025 Mary Means Leadership Award was presented at the closing plenary for the Main Street Now Conference in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Nominated by former colleagues, and selected by a national jury, Josh Rogers is being recognized for his visionary leadership as President & CEO at NewTown Macon, and his pioneering work in community-driven revitalization.

“Josh Rogers was one of the most impactful leaders the Main Street movement has ever known. He didn’t just transform Macon’s downtown; he transformed the very framework for how Main Street programs across the country think about inclusive revitalization,” said Erin Barnes, President and CEO at Main Street America.  “His legacy is one of courage, creativity, and a relentless belief in the power of building local. We are honored to celebrate Josh’s visionary leadership and the lasting impression he left on the national Main Street community.”

Though he passed unexpectedly in November 2024, Josh’s impact will resonate for generations to come through the values he embedded into his community. Josh was a transformative and visionary leader whose legacy lives on in the streets, storefronts, and residents of Macon, Georgia. Under his leadership at both Historic Macon Foundation and NewTown Macon, Josh shaped a new future for his Main Street built on innovation and equity.

Josh believed in providing Macon residents with the tools they needed to build wealth and prosperity in their own backyard. At Historic Macon Foundation, he leveraged tax credits not only to restore historic buildings, but also to build a model for sustainable redevelopment. These efforts led Macon to complete more historic tax credit projects than any other Main Street community in the nation.

As President and CEO of NewTown Macon, he expanded this approach with the Developer’s Academy, teaching Maconites to renovate and revitalize income-producing properties.  His leadership also contributed to the formation of Central Georgia’s first and only Community Development Financial Institution, providing capital for housing and small business development.

Under Josh’s stewardship, NewTown Macon catalyzed over $1 billion in public-private investment, growing storefront occupancy from 56% to 89%, creating 830 lofts housing over 1,000 residents, and increasing Black-owned businesses from 18% to 29%.

Josh Rogers’ leadership, innovation, and ceaseless commitment to equity embodies the spirit of the Mary Means Leadership Award. His legacy is solidified in the foundations of NewTown Macon and into the hearts of everyone who had the privilege to work alongside him. He leaves behind not just a stronger more resilient Main Street, but a stronger, more resilient Main Street movement.

Exciting news! Two cities in Georgia received the T-Mobile grant:

Comer, GA: Renovate the Perch Community Center, offering a more inviting and useful gathering place for a local Farmers Market and community events.
Eastman, GA: Update Eastman City Park, including resurfacing outdoor courts, providing a place for the community to play basketball, pickleball and tennis without risking injury.

T‑Mobile recently announced its latest 25 Hometown Grant recipients, bringing the total number of communities impacted to 375 across 48 states and one U.S. territory. To date, Hometown Grants have awarded over $16 million to support local development projects and generated more than 150,000 volunteer hours, bringing people together to uplift their communities in big ways. Read the full article here.

Downtown Gainesville was awarded a Science Discovery on Main Street Grant to research and identify unique aspects of their city in relation to science. This grant from Main Street America aims to help Main Street communities inspire curiosity, joy, and pride in what makes each community unique through creating engaging science-inspired attractions, events, and activities.

Through the Science Discovery on Main Street grant program, Gainesville will explore unique aspects of their community in relation to science. With the funding, grantees will build relationships with partners and plan science-centered events and programming for residents and visitors. Gainesville and the other grantees will also have opportunities to collaborate, learn together, and share their experiences with each other. Congrats to Downtown Gainesville!

Cartersville made HGTV’s list of the most charming small towns in the country and here’s why:

Cartersville is a city in Bartow County with plenty to see and do. According to HGTV, Cartersville is known for its “world-class” Tellus Science Museum. The museum houses a life-size Tyrannosaurus rex as well as a 9-foot wide jaw of a Megaladon shark. The town also has the world’s largest Western art exhibition space at the Booth Western Art Museum, which “is the only museum of its kind in the Southeast and was named 2020, 2021 and 2022 USA Today’s 10 Best “Peoples’ Choice Award for best art museum in the country,” according to the museum’s website. Read the full article here.

Congratulations to Dahlonega, Macon and Thomasville on being featured in Southern Living’s “18 Most Beautiful Places in Georgia” list! “Growing up somewhere, it can be easy to become immune to its unique virtues. Georgia is home to sweeping farmlands and soaring mountain ranges, lush pine forests and breezy barrier islands, and even bustling cities and charming small towns. With no shortage of topographies and landmarks to explore, the Peach State won’t leave any visitor wondering about its natural appeal.” Read the full article here.