Rome

Few cities can compare to the natural beauty and charm of Georgia's Rome. Tucked in the foothills of the ancient Appalachian mountains, Rome is known as the place "where the rivers meet and the mountains begin."

Its three gentle rivers — the Etowah, Oostanaula and Coosa — wind through the heart of the city. Visitors enjoy the rivers for their scenery, canoeing, kayaking, boating and fishing. Consider an excursion on the Sulzbacher Roman Holiday, a tour boat that shows off scenic beauty and details how the rivers shaped the town, or renting a tube or kayak to explore on your own. 

While you're in town, don't miss the chance to see picturesque Berry College, founded in 1902 and boasting historical buildings and homes, the world's largest wooden overshot waterwheel and 50 miles of rolling trails trails open to visitors. Rome itself is also home to a greenway that connects riverside trails to parks, restaurants and other sights. The Meditation Garden on Myrtle Hill is another serene spot to soak up the crisp mountain air.

Spend a day shopping and dining downtown or sipping a craft brew on an outdoor patio. Earn that brew by climbing the 107 steps to the top of the historical clock tower for epic views. During baseball season, catch the Rome Emperors, High-A affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, in action just a short drive from downtown.

Throughout the decades, this classic city has grown in sophistication to become a unique portrait of Southern heritage and hospitality.