Nestled in the rolling hills of Northwest Georgia, where the Etowah and Oostanaula rivers converge to form the mighty Coosa, lies the enchanting city of Rome. This historic gem, the largest city in Floyd County, boasts a population of around 38,000, yet retains the intimate feel of a close-knit community.Â
With its charming cobblestone streets, moss-draped trees, and stunning Victorian architecture, Rome, GA, feels like a step back in time.
The city’s rich history, deeply intertwined with both Native American heritage and the Civil War era, whispers from every corner.Â
From ancient mounds built by indigenous civilizations to grand antebellum homes, Rome offers a captivating journey through the past. But it’s not just about history; Rome is a vibrant hub of culture, outdoor adventure, and Southern hospitality.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a charming escape, Rome, GA, has something special to offer.Â
This comprehensive guide will help you uncover the 20 best and most fun things to do in this remarkable city, ensuring your visit is filled with unforgettable memories.
Things to Do in Rome, GA
1. Ascend the Iconic Clock Tower
Clock Tower
Standing proudly atop one of Rome’s seven hills, the historic Clock Tower is an unmistakable symbol of the city. Built in 1871, this beautiful structure was originally a water tower. Today, it offers breathtaking panoramic views.
A climb to the top is a must-do experience. You’ll be rewarded with incredible vistas of Rome’s downtown, the meandering rivers, and the picturesque surrounding countryside. It’s an ideal spot for photographers and anyone looking to gain a unique perspective of the city.
Tours of the Clock Tower are available and provide fascinating insights into its history and engineering. Be aware that the small parking lot may require some planning, but the views are well worth the effort.
Address: 410 E 2nd St, Rome, GA 30161
2. Wander Through Myrtle Hill Cemetery
Myrtle Hill Cemetery
More than just a burial ground, Myrtle Hill Cemetery is a captivating historic site and a place of serene beauty. Overlooking the confluence of Rome’s three rivers, it’s the final resting place of many notable figures, including a U.S. Congressman and the “Woman Who Saved Football.”
Explore the winding paths and discover unique tombstones and monuments, each with a story to tell. The cemetery’s Meditation Garden, designed to represent Rome’s seven hills and three rivers, offers a peaceful spot for reflection.Â
This beautifully landscaped garden is a hidden gem, providing a tranquil escape year-round.
Address: 20 Myrtle Street, Rome, GA 30161
3. Explore Oak Hill & The Martha Berry Museum
Oak Hill & The Martha Berry Museum
Step back in time at Oak Hill, the historic home of Martha Berry, founder of Berry College. This beautifully preserved estate offers a glimpse into the life of one of Georgia’s most influential women. The museum showcases her remarkable journey and the college’s founding principles.
Docent-led tours provide an engaging narrative of Berry’s vision and dedication to education. You’ll see original furnishings, personal artifacts, and learn about the “Miracle in the Mountains” – the inspiring story of how she established the world’s largest college campus.
Plan to spend a couple of hours exploring the house, the museum, and the surrounding gardens. Check their website for tour times, as the last tour often begins in the early afternoon.
Address: 24 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Rome, GA 30161
4. Delve into History at the Rome Area History Center
For a comprehensive understanding of Rome and Floyd County’s past, a visit to the Rome Area History Center is essential. Located downtown, this museum features engaging exhibits covering everything from Native American history to the city’s role in the Civil War and its industrial development.
You’ll find artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the past to life. It’s an excellent resource for all ages, offering educational insights into the forces that shaped this unique community.
The center often hosts special events and rotating exhibits, so it’s worth checking their schedule before your visit. It’s a great starting point for any historical exploration of Rome.
Address: 305 Broad Street, Rome, GA 30161
5. Discover Chieftains Museum/Major Ridge Home
Chieftains Museum/Major Ridge Home
The museum offers a poignant look at Cherokee culture, the complexities of their interactions with American settlers, and the tragic events of the forced removal. You can explore the historic house, a replica ferry dock, and the Major Ridge Demonstration Garden.
This site provides a vital understanding of the region’s pre-colonial and early American history. It’s an educational and moving experience that sheds light on a significant chapter in the nation’s past.
Address: 501 Riverside Parkway NE, Rome, GA 30161
6. Experience Berry College Campus
Berry College Campus
Prepare to be amazed by Berry College, the world’s largest college campus by acreage. Spanning over 27,000 acres, this stunning campus is a destination in itself, offering a blend of academic excellence and natural beauty.
Drive or bike through the vast grounds, taking in the picturesque lakes, pristine forests, and historic buildings. Don’t miss the iconic Ford Buildings, an architectural marvel. The campus is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including a large population of deer, often seen grazing peacefully.
Beyond sightseeing, visitors can enjoy hiking and biking trails, and even interact with the college’s working farm animals. It’s a fantastic place for outdoor recreation and appreciating the grandeur of Martha Berry’s legacy.
Address: 2277 Martha Berry Hwy NW, Mount Berry, GA 30149
7. Darlington School Campus
Darlington School Campus
Explore one of Georgia’s most prestigious preparatory schools at Darlington School, where stunning architecture and beautiful landscapes create an inspiring educational environment. Founded in 1905, this historic campus features Gothic Revival buildings, tree-lined walkways, and immaculate grounds that showcase classical academic architecture.
The campus centerpiece is the magnificent Huffman Chapel, a Gothic masterpiece featuring soaring ceilings, intricate stonework, and stunning stained glass windows.
Other notable buildings include the historic academic halls, modern athletic facilities, and the charming dining hall that exudes collegiate atmosphere.
Guided tours highlight the school’s educational philosophy, architectural significance, and role in Rome’s cultural development. The campus also hosts community events, concerts, and art exhibitions throughout the year. Visitors are welcomed during school hours with advance arrangements through the admissions office.
Address: 1014 Cave Spring Rd SW, Rome, GA 30161
8. Take a Day Trip to Barnsley Resort
Barnsley Resort
Barnsley Resort is a world-class destination featuring championship golf, elegant accommodations, and fascinating ruins of a 19th-century estate. Located just 30 minutes from Rome, this resort combines outdoor recreation with historical intrigue in a stunning natural setting.
The resort’s centerpiece is the haunting ruins of Godfrey Barnsley’s antebellum mansion, destroyed during the Civil War but preserved as romantic garden ruins surrounded by beautiful landscaping. Two championship golf courses challenge players while showcasing North Georgia’s rolling terrain and mountain vistas.
Additional amenities include a full-service spa, fine dining restaurants, hiking and biking trails, and seasonal activities like hayrides and outdoor concerts. The resort welcomes day visitors for dining, golf, and spa services, making it accessible for Rome area travelers. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for all services.
Address: 597 Barnsley Gardens Rd NW, Adairsville, GA 30103
9. Discover Forum River Center
Forum River Center
Experience Rome’s commitment to community wellness and recreation at the Forum River Center, a state-of-the-art facility offering fitness opportunities, aquatic programs, and community gathering spaces. This modern complex serves both residents and visitors with comprehensive recreational amenities and scenic river views.
The center features multiple swimming pools, including a competition pool, therapy pool, and children’s play area with water features. Fitness facilities include modern exercise equipment, group fitness studios, and walking/jogging tracks with panoramic river vistas. The facility also offers personal training and fitness classes.
Community programs include swimming lessons, water aerobics, youth sports leagues, and special events throughout the year. The center’s riverside location provides beautiful views and easy access to walking trails. Day passes are available for visitors, making it a great option for maintaining fitness routines while traveling.
Address: 301 Riverside Pkwy NE, Rome, GA 30161
10. Visit Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site
Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site
Just a short drive from Rome, the Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site in Cartersville offers a profound look into the lives of the Mississippian culture. This significant archaeological site features impressive earthen mounds built by Native Americans between 1000 A.D. and 1550 A.D.
Explore the ceremonial mounds, visit the museum to see artifacts unearthed from the site, and learn about the complex societal structures of this ancient civilization. Walking trails throughout the site provide opportunities to envision the ancient city.
This is a fantastic day trip for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in Native American heritage. Allow at least half a day to fully explore the site.
Address: 813 Indian Mounds Road SE, Cartersville, GA 30120
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11. Experience Coosa Country Club
Indulge in classic Southern elegance at Coosa Country Club, where manicured golf courses and stunning river views create an unforgettable recreational experience. This prestigious club, welcoming to visitors, features an 18-hole championship course designed to challenge players while showcasing Northwest Georgia’s natural beauty.
The course winds through rolling terrain with strategically placed water hazards, mature trees, and immaculate greens that have hosted numerous regional tournaments. The clubhouse exudes Old South charm with its columned facade, elegant dining rooms, and panoramic views of the Coosa River valley.
Golf packages for visitors include equipment rentals and access to practice facilities. The club’s restaurant serves exceptional Southern cuisine with an upscale twist, making it popular for special occasions and business meetings. Advance reservations are required for both golf and dining.
Address: 110 Branham Ave SW, Rome, GA 30161
12. Coosa River
Embark on a scenic river adventure along the Coosa River, where gentle currents carry you through Rome’s natural splendor. The river system, formed by the convergence of the Etowah and Oostanaula rivers, creates perfect conditions for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing adventures suitable for all skill levels.
Local outfitters provide equipment rentals and shuttle services, making river exploration accessible to everyone. Wildlife sightings include great blue herons, kingfishers, turtles, and occasionally deer drinking at the water’s edge. The peaceful journey offers unique perspectives of Rome’s historic buildings and natural landscapes.
Summer months provide ideal water conditions, while spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and stunning foliage reflections. Half-day and full-day trips are available, with several put-in and take-out points throughout the area. Reservations are recommended during peak season.
13. Unwind at Ridge Ferry Park
Ridge Ferry Park is Rome’s premier public park, offering a wide range of recreational activities for all ages. Located along the Oostanaula River, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
The park features playgrounds, picnic shelters, sand volleyball courts, and ample green space for relaxation. It also provides excellent river access for fishing and launching kayaks or canoes.
Don’t miss the Rome-Floyd E.C.O. River Education Center and Pollinator Garden within the park, offering educational exhibits about the local ecosystem. Ridge Ferry Park is a fantastic place for a family outing or a peaceful afternoon outdoors.
Address: 393 Riverside Pkwy, Rome, GA 30161
14. Discover the Charm of Jackson Hill Trail System
Jackson Hill
The trails offer a mix of paved and unpaved sections, suitable for walking, running, and mountain biking. You’ll find interpretive signs detailing the area’s historical significance, making for an informative as well as invigorating experience.
A hidden gem on Jackson Hill is the Rome Labyrinth, a serene spot for meditation and reflection. The Georgia’s Rome Welcome Center & Gift Shop is conveniently located adjacent to the trails, offering maps and information.
Address: 402 Civic Center Drive, Rome, GA 30161
15. Catch a Show at the Rome City Auditorium
Rome City Auditorium
For a taste of Rome’s performing arts scene, check the schedule at the Historic Rome City Auditorium. Opened in 1916, this elegant venue is a cultural cornerstone of the community.
The auditorium hosts a variety of events, including concerts, theatrical performances, dance recitals, and community events. Its classic architecture and intimate setting make for a memorable experience.
Check their website or local listings for upcoming shows during your visit. It’s a great way to enjoy an evening of entertainment in a historic setting.
Address: 601 Broad Street, Rome, GA 30161
16. Relax at Rocky Mountain Recreation Area
Escape the city hustle and immerse yourself in nature at the Rocky Mountain Recreation Area. This expansive area offers a serene setting for outdoor activities, particularly fishing and picnicking.
The recreation area features a large lake, popular for bass, crappie, and catfish fishing. There are also designated picnic areas with grills, perfect for a leisurely meal surrounded by scenic beauty.
Hiking trails are available for those who want to explore further. It’s an ideal spot for a tranquil day trip, whether you’re an avid angler or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.
Address: 4054 Big Texas Valley Road NW, Rome, GA 30165
17. Discover Reservoir Park
Escape to nature at Reservoir Park, Rome’s premier outdoor recreation destination featuring a pristine 60-acre lake surrounded by hiking trails, picnic areas, and recreational facilities. This family-friendly park offers something for everyone, from peaceful fishing spots to challenging mountain bike trails winding through dense forests.
The park’s crown jewel is its well-stocked lake, popular with anglers seeking bass, catfish, and bream. Paddle boat and kayak rentals provide relaxing water activities, while the swimming area offers relief during hot summer months. The park also features playgrounds, tennis courts, and covered pavilions perfect for family gatherings.
Multiple trail options accommodate different skill levels, from easy lakeside walks to moderate forest hikes offering scenic overlooks. The park’s diverse ecosystems support abundant wildlife, making it excellent for nature photography and bird watching. Restroom facilities and parking are available throughout the park.
Address: 469 Reservoir St NE, Rome, GA 30161
18. Harvest Moon Cafe
Harvest Moon Cafe
Harvest Moon Cafe on Rome’s historic Broad Street offers a culinary embrace with its rustic, brick-walled interior, exuding a cozy, inviting atmosphere. This popular Southern cafe lets you feel downtown Rome’s history while enjoying a modern dining experience.
The menu emphasizes fresh, flavorful Southern-inspired cuisine. Their “big Sunday brunch” is renowned, and a unique highlight is the dog-friendly roof bar, perfect for enjoying the vibrant downtown scene. It’s an ideal spot for casual lunches, lively dinners, or relaxed weekend gatherings.
With a strong reputation and positive reviews, Harvest Moon Cafe consistently delivers quality food and memorable dining. Whether you crave Southern classics, a lively brunch, or a drink with a view, this cafe is a must-visit, embodying the charming spirit of Rome’s culinary landscape.
Address: 234 Broad St, Rome, GA 30161
19. Visit Lavender Mountain Hardware & Garden
Lavender Mountain Hardware & Garden
For a unique blend of shopping and outdoor inspiration, head to Lavender Mountain Hardware & Garden. This charming establishment is more than just a hardware store; it’s a destination for gardening enthusiasts and those seeking unique home and garden items.
Browse a wide selection of plants, tools, and decorative elements for your outdoor spaces. They often host special events like plant sales, which are popular with locals.
Even if you’re not a seasoned gardener, the inviting atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a pleasant place to explore and find a unique souvenir. It’s a delightful example of Rome’s local character.
Address: 4065 Martha Berry Hwy NW, Rome, GA 30165
20. Experience Capitol Theatre
Step into the golden age of entertainment at the Capitol Theatre, a beautifully restored 1920s movie palace that now serves as Rome’s premier performing arts venue. This architectural gem features original decorative elements, vintage charm, and modern technical capabilities that create an intimate setting for live performances.
The theater’s diverse programming includes touring Broadway shows, local theatrical productions, concerts, and special events throughout the year. The restored interior showcases period details like ornate plasterwork, vintage light fixtures, and classic theater seating that transport audiences to entertainment’s bygone era.
Behind-the-scenes tours reveal the theater’s fascinating history and restoration efforts, while pre-show dining at nearby restaurants makes for perfect evening entertainment packages. The theater’s central downtown location puts visitors within walking distance of shops, galleries, and additional attractions.
Address: 19 2nd Ave, Rome, GA 30161
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Conclusion
Rome, Georgia, is a city that truly captivates the soul. From its ancient origins and significant Civil War history to its thriving downtown and abundant natural beauty, it offers a travel experience that is both enriching and remarkably fun. The confluence of its three rivers symbolizes the harmonious blend of past and present, culture and adventure, that defines this charming Southern city.
Whether you’re exploring the grand halls of Martha Berry’s estate, paddling down the tranquil rivers, cheering on a future baseball star, or simply savoring a delicious meal on Broad Street, Rome leaves an indelible impression. Its welcoming community and picturesque setting invite you to slow down, explore, and create your own cherished memories. Come discover the magic of Georgia’s Rome – a destination that promises to charm and delight every traveler.
