Rome (Georgia) Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Rome (Georgia) with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, local culture, and more!


Introduction to Rome (Georgia)

Located in the West High Country of Georgia, Rome is a delightful destination that blends Southern charm with history and culture. Often referred to as the “City of Seven Hills,” Rome has a unique landscape that offers some of the best scenic views in the state. The city has a rich history, from Native American settlements to a thriving cotton industry, and is home to several museums and historical sites that showcase its past. Additionally, Rome has a vibrant food scene, offering traditional Southern cuisine, craft beer, and local wine. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Rome has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Rome (Georgia)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Chieftains Museum/Major Ridge Home: A National Historic Landmark that was once home to Cherokee leader Major Ridge, this museum offers a glimpse into the Native American history of Rome.
  • Oak Hill and The Martha Berry Museum: A historic mansion that belonged to Martha Berry, an education pioneer who founded a school for underprivileged children in Rome. The museum showcases her life and legacy.
  • Myrtle Hill Cemetery: A beautiful cemetery with impressive tombstones and stunning views of Rome. The cemetery is the final resting place of several notable figures, including Confederate soldiers and former U.S. Congressman G. Elliott Hagan.

Natural Attractions of Rome (Georgia): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Berry Trail: A 10-mile trail that winds through scenic forests and along ridges, offering breathtaking views of Rome.
  • Berry College: A sprawling campus with beautiful grounds, including the Old Mill, the Ford Buildings, and the House o’ Dreams. The college also has several trails for hiking and birdwatching.
  • Etowah Park: A riverside park with a beautiful waterfall, picnic areas, and walking trails.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rome (Georgia)

Rome is a fantastic destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. There are several trails and routes to explore, including:

  • Ridge Ferry Park Trail: An easy, scenic, and flat trail that follows the Oostanaula River and offers beautiful views of the water.
  • Rome Braves Trail: A moderate trail that winds through the woods and along the river, with a few steep inclines that offer a challenge.
  • Clinton Nature Preserve Trail: A challenging trail that offers beautiful views of woods, creeks, and historic homesteads.

Best Things to Do in Rome (Georgia): Activities and Tours

  • Rome Area History Center: A museum that tells the story of Rome and its people through interactive exhibits and artifacts.
  • The Forum River Center: A popular venue for concerts, exhibitions, and events, with stunning views of the Coosa River.
  • Rome City Brewing Company: A local brewery that offers craft beer and tours of its facilities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rome (Georgia)

Day 1: Visit Oak Hill and The Martha Berry Museum, and explore the trails at Berry College. Have dinner at Harvest Moon Cafe.

Day 2: Visit Chieftains Museum/Major Ridge Home, and hike the Mount Berry Trail. Have dinner at Crawdaddy’s Cajun Cuisine.

Day 3: Explore downtown Rome, including the Rome Area History Center and Myrtle Hill Cemetery. Have dinner at 400 Block.

Day 4: Visit the Berry College campus, and hike the trails at the Clinton Nature Preserve. Have breakfast at Swift & Finch, and dinner at Schroeder’s New Deli.

Day 5: Take a river tour of Rome with River Dog Paddle Co. Have dinner at The Foundry Growler Station.

Day 6: Visit the Georgia’s Rome Office of Tourism, and have lunch at Moe’s Original BBQ. Take a tour of the Rome City Brewing Company.

Day 7: Spend the day at Etowah Park, and have dinner at the Barnsley Resort.

Food and Drink Scene of Rome (Georgia)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Chicken: A Southern classic that can be found at several restaurants in Rome, including The Chicken House and Crawdaddy’s Cajun Cuisine.
  • Pimento Cheese Sandwich: Another Southern staple that can be found at many eateries in Rome, including Harvest Moon Cafe and The Tavern at Hotel Rome.

Local Beverages

  • Cherokee Red Soda: A refreshing beverage that has been manufactured in Rome since the 1920s. It has a unique taste that comes from a blend of cherry and grape flavors.
  • Wine: Rome is home to several vineyards, including Cave Spring Cellars and Chateau Meichtry Family Vineyard and Winery, which produce high-quality wines.

Where to Stay in Rome (Georgia): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Claremont House: A beautiful bed and breakfast with charming rooms and a fantastic location in downtown Rome.
  • Hampton Inn and Suites Rome: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms and excellent amenities, including free breakfast.
  • Quality Inn: A budget-friendly option with basic amenities and a convenient location near several attractions.

What to Buy in Rome (Georgia): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cherokee Red Soda: Take home a few bottles of this iconic soda for a unique flavor experience.
  • Handmade Crafts: Rome has several local artisans who make unique crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles. Check out the Rome Area Council for the Arts for a list of local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Rome (Georgia)

Rome has a unique culture that is heavily influenced by Southern traditions and the city’s history. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and they take pride in their community. Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during events like the Rome International Film Festival and the Rome Shakespeare Festival.

Best Time to Visit Rome (Georgia)

The best time to visit Rome is during the fall and spring, when the weather is mild, and the foliage is beautiful. The summer months can be hot and humid, while winter can be chilly and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rome (Georgia)

Do:

  • Do try traditional Southern cuisine, including fried chicken, grits, and collard greens.
  • Do take a river tour of Rome to see the city from a different perspective.
  • Do explore the local hiking and biking trails.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter. Keep Rome beautiful by disposing of trash properly.
  • Don’t forget to tip at restaurants. It’s customary to tip 15 to 20 percent of the total bill.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rome (Georgia)

Rome is a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and take basic precautions, such as avoiding dark and isolated areas at night.

Health in Rome (Georgia)

Visitors to Rome should be up to date on their routine vaccinations and consider getting a hepatitis A vaccine. They should also take precautions against tick bites when hiking or spending time outdoors.

Getting to Rome (Georgia): Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several ways to get to Rome, including:

  • By Car: Rome is easily accessible from major highways, including I-75 and I-20.
  • By Air: The closest airport to Rome is Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, located approximately 70 miles away.
  • By Bus: Greyhound Bus Lines and Southeastern Stages both offer travel to Rome.

Airports Near Rome (Georgia)

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: Located approximately 70 miles away from Rome.

Bus Stations Near Rome (Georgia)

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Located in downtown Rome.
  • Southeastern Stages: Located in Calhoun, approximately 25 miles away from Rome.

Other Options

  • Rail: The Amtrak station in Atlanta is approximately 75 miles away from Rome and offers travel throughout the Southeast.

How to Get Around in Rome (Georgia)

The best way to get around Rome is by car, especially if you want to explore the surrounding countryside and parks. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in the city.

Where to Go Next from Rome (Georgia): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Atlanta: Located approximately 70 miles away, Atlanta is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions, including the Georgia Aquarium and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.
  • Chattanooga: Located approximately 60 miles away, Chattanooga is another charming Southern city with plenty of things to see and do, including the Tennessee Aquarium and Rock City Gardens.

Conclusion

Rome, Georgia, is a charming destination that offers plenty of things to see and do, from hiking and biking to exploring local museums and historical sites. Whether you’re interested in Southern cuisine, local wine, or outdoor adventures, you’ll find something to enjoy in Rome. Plan your trip today and discover all that this lovely destination has to offer.