Georgia's Legacy & Lore Trail: Discover the Extraordinary History & Heartbeat of the South

For travelers who are all-in on exploring life’s most intriguing places, Georgia’s 100-mile-long Trail of Legacy & Lore offers a mix of culture, heritage, attractions, and surprises. You’ll discover quintessential Southern locales and folklore – the historical and the contemporary – and the traditions and advancements that shaped the region about an hour east of Atlanta. Explore fascinating locales such as Madison, Athens, Milledgeville, Eatonton, Oconee County, Old Clinton, and Macon.

At LegacyLoreGA.org, learn about each of the sites that make up the self-guided trail, and build your itinerary by exploring what interests you most. Discover the culture, history, architectural landmarks, and stories that define the area’s distinctive identity, as well as accommodations with historic significance. 

You may want to dive into all the spots that inspired literary greats such as Flannery O’Connor and Alice Walker. Or tour the various architectural styles represented in this part of Georgia. Get a peek at what you’ll find along the trail with the suggested itinerary below.

Athens & nearby Oconee County: Start the Legacy & Lore Trail

Just over 60 miles from Atlanta, begin your Trail of Legacy & Lore getaway in Athens and venture south from there. Athens is considered the birthplace of higher education in the U.S. Stroll through the University of Georgia’s historic North Campus, then cross over Broad Street and follow the Athens Music Walk of Fame, which passes by iconic music venues where you can enjoy live music every night of the week. 

In Oconee County, that classic small-town Southern charm washes over you as you explore the main streets and neighborhoods. Travel back to 1800 with a visit to the Eagle Tavern Museum, plus enjoy a trail ride at Georgia’s only Clydesdale farm.

Historic museums in Madison & Eatonton

Speaking of Southern charm, an excursion to Madison reveals one of the nation’s most picturesque communities. Stroll through one of Georgia’s largest historic districts with distinctive house museums that each offer a glimpse into local life across the centuries. Plus, explore the permanent exhibits at the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center and the unique perspectives of Black heritage at the Morgan County African-American Museum. 

Then, walk in the footsteps of local heroes in Eatonton. Discover impressive Native American effigies and tour museums celebrating the region’s literary legacy and rich local history – including those dedicated to Alice Walker, Joel Chandler Harris, and Flannery O’Connor.

Ancient homes in Milledgeville

In Milledgeville, you can also tour Flannery O’Connor’s former home, “Andalusia,” where the pastoral setting inspired most of her works. The city was the state capital of Georgia during the Civil War and is known for its preserved architecture, which is reflected in the Old State Capitol building and Old Governor’s Mansion.

Historic sites in Gray & beyond

In Gray, the Old Clinton Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places. During Sherman’s March to the Sea in the Civil War, opposing forces met here, and almost two-thirds of the town was destroyed. In addition, just outside of town, the Jarrell Plantation State Historic Site features 20 period buildings, including the main house, sawmill, and blacksmith shop.

Macon's rich heritage

In Macon, you can visit the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, the homeland of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and an Indigenous capital city. Findings point to more than 17,000 years of continuous human habitation, and the park still holds the record for the largest archaeological dig in the nation.

Then, tour the majestic Hay House, referred to as the “Palace of the South,” and the museum collections of the Cannonball House – famous for enduring a cannonball shot during the Civil War. Also, plan to fully explore the area’s abundant music heritage, which includes global artists Otis Redding, Little Richard, the Allman Brothers Band, and the expansive songbook and iconic Studio A of Capricorn Records.

Go to LegacyLoreGA.org to begin your adventure. Then, explore the storied history and heritage, culture, architecture, music, and artistry that define this impressive region.