Follow the Steps of Our Presidents
Georgia’s many contributions to American history include several presidents with ties to the state. Experience the state through their eyes by planning a road trip through the communities where these famous men grew up and spent time.
Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum in Atlanta, Georgia. Photo by @gcalebjones
Atlanta
Start at the state capital, where Jimmy Carter served as governor before becoming president. His statue sits on the Capitol grounds. Move on to the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, where you can see his Nobel Peace Prize and other artifacts. Grab a post-tour bite at Manuel’s Tavern, where Carter launched his campaign for governor.
Little White House in Warm Springs, Georgia
Warm Springs
While Franklin Delano Roosevelt hailed from New York, it was Georgia where he made his second home at the Little White House. Visitors can tour the home and see his unfinished portrait at the adjacent museum. The historic pools where many came for polio treatment are another must-see. The best bite in town is the fried chicken at The Bulloch House Restaurant. Spend the night at Hotel Warm Springs Bed & Breakfast Inn, which hosted visiting dignitaries during Roosevelt’s stay.
Jimmy Carter National Historical Park in Plains, Georgia. Photo by @benjamingalland
Plains
Begin at the Plains High School visitors center of Jimmy Carter National Historical Park, now a museum, before driving to the Carter Boyhood Home to learn about his modest upbringing. The Plains Depot was the town’s train depot, but later served as the Carter campaign headquarters. Pay your respects to President Jimmy and First Lady Rosalynn Carter at the peaceful memorial garden on the grounds of their longtime residence in Plains.
Since Plains is peanut country, don’t miss the famous peanut butter ice cream at Plain Peanuts. The Carters also had a hand in the Plains Historic Inn & Antiques Mall, with each of the seven rooms representing a period of history, and you’ll find several locations on Rosalynn’s Butterfly Trail.
Windsor Hotel in Americus, Georgia
Americus
Nearby, Americus also sees Carter's presence, including the Windsor Hotel, where they were honored with the Presidential Suite. Start your day with coffee from Cafe Campesino, which started as a project with Habitat for Humanity, of which the Carters were lifelong supporters.
The Partridge Inn in Augusta, Georgia
The Commander in Chief slept here
Did you know that you can stay in hotels that have hosted past presidents?
The Georgian Terrace in Atlanta
The Beaux-Arts beauty opened in 1911 and later hosted the gala following the premiere of “Gone with the Wind.” Several celebrities and politicians have stayed here, including presidents Warren G. Harding and Calvin Coolidge.
The Partridge Inn in Augusta
Originally a private home, the Partridge Inn is known for its location near Augusta National Golf Club, site of the annual Masters golf tournament. So it’s no surprise that famous names choose to spend their time here. President Harding had a gala here in 1923. Just a short drive away, you can see the Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson, who lived with his family in Augusta between 1858 and 1870.
The Cloister at Sea Island on Sea Island
The famed resort on the Georgia coast hasn’t just hosted presidents, but also leaders from around the world for the 2004 G8 Summit. Admire the Presidential Oaks planted around the property by past presidents, including George H.W. Bush, who spent his honeymoon here.
