Here’s a little fun fact for you: It’s Georgia’s birthday. Most people don’t know that Georgia does, in fact, have a birthday. Now, before you go asking her how old she is (Answer: very, and she might take offense), we’ve decided to share some more tidbits of information regarding Georgia Day.
We say birthday, they say Georgia Day. On February 12, 1733, James Oglethorpe landed the first settlers in the Ann, at what was to become Georgia’s first city (and later the first state capital), Savannah. Although it’s not exactly a public holiday, Georgia Day is still a very important part of Georgia’s history. So important, in fact, that we decided to honor it with 10 reasons why Georgia is the BEST state. Have a look:
- The magnificent views from the mountaintops
Flickr. Anish Patel The views in Georgia are absolutely mesmerizing, especially when you climb to the top of a mountain and survey the landscape around you. Like this photo, for example, which was taken at Brasstown Bald, the highest natural point in the state.
- The people and their Southern kindness
Flickr. Jose Maria Cuellar Everyone talks about Southern hospitality, but you don’t quite understand it until you visit Georgia. Not only do the residents extend themselves to you in ways you’re probably unfamiliar with, there also is a compassion and kindness that just radiates from them constantly. You’ll never feel more welcomed than you do when you’re in Georgia.
- The abundance of waterfalls
Flickr. Ryan Mckee There are so many waterfalls throughout the state that are just begging to be admired and photographed. This shot from Amicalola Falls shows just how serene and beautiful the waterfalls are.
- The changing of the seasons
Flickr. M Lane Georgia experiences the wonderment of the four seasons. It’s one of the best states to truly appreciate winter, spring, summer and fall each and every year.
- The delicious array of food that spans many cultures and continents
Flickr. jpellgen The food in Georgia is simply outstanding. You can find authentic Mexican fare, savory Southern cuisine and succulent shrimp and grits, all in the same vicinity.
- The endless amount of hiking trails
Flickr. U.S. Department of Agriculture There are so many trails throughout Georgia to hike, you’ll never get bored. Not only are you exercising your body each time you hike a Georgia trail, but you also are immersing yourself in the magnificence of Georgia wildlife.
- The fact you can drive from the forest to the beach in the same day
Flickr. Ryan McKee Not many states can boast that they have both the forest and the coast, but Georgia has just that. In one day you can celebrate a sunrise in a densely wooded forest, and watch a sunset on the beaches of Tybee Island. It’s the best of both worlds.
- The agriculture and produce that is plentiful
Flickr. Rebecca Siegel Georgia’s agricultural industry plays a huge role in the state’s economy. It ranks in the top tier in national production for blueberries, pecans and peanuts.
- Georgia was ranked as the Top State for Business in 2014.
Flickr. Brendan Lim In 2014, CNBC named Georgia the Top State for Business. Georgia’s solid job growth and rebounding housing market helped it jump in the rankings, making it a great time to be a resident.
- The rich history and culture behind the state
Flickr. Paul Arps If it weren’t for James Oglethorpe, we wouldn’t be celebrating Georgia Day. The history behind this state is so rich and diverse, it’s no wonder Georgians celebrate it proudly.
Sure, there are loads more reasons why Georgia is just the flat-out, best state ever. But, really, I think these 10 hit the mark well, don’t you? Happy Georgia Day, everyone! We’d love to hear your own reasons why you think Georgia is the best state in the comments below!
Flickr. Anish Patel
The views in Georgia are absolutely mesmerizing, especially when you climb to the top of a mountain and survey the landscape around you. Like this photo, for example, which was taken at Brasstown Bald, the highest natural point in the state.
Flickr. Jose Maria Cuellar
Everyone talks about Southern hospitality, but you don’t quite understand it until you visit Georgia. Not only do the residents extend themselves to you in ways you’re probably unfamiliar with, there also is a compassion and kindness that just radiates from them constantly. You’ll never feel more welcomed than you do when you’re in Georgia.
Flickr. Ryan Mckee
There are so many waterfalls throughout the state that are just begging to be admired and photographed. This shot from Amicalola Falls shows just how serene and beautiful the waterfalls are.
Flickr. M Lane
Georgia experiences the wonderment of the four seasons. It’s one of the best states to truly appreciate winter, spring, summer and fall each and every year.
Flickr. jpellgen
The food in Georgia is simply outstanding. You can find authentic Mexican fare, savory Southern cuisine and succulent shrimp and grits, all in the same vicinity.
Flickr. U.S. Department of Agriculture
There are so many trails throughout Georgia to hike, you’ll never get bored. Not only are you exercising your body each time you hike a Georgia trail, but you also are immersing yourself in the magnificence of Georgia wildlife.
Flickr. Ryan McKee
Not many states can boast that they have both the forest and the coast, but Georgia has just that. In one day you can celebrate a sunrise in a densely wooded forest, and watch a sunset on the beaches of Tybee Island. It’s the best of both worlds.
Flickr. Rebecca Siegel
Georgia’s agricultural industry plays a huge role in the state’s economy. It ranks in the top tier in national production for blueberries, pecans and peanuts.
Flickr. Brendan Lim
In 2014, CNBC named Georgia the Top State for Business. Georgia’s solid job growth and rebounding housing market helped it jump in the rankings, making it a great time to be a resident.
Flickr. Paul Arps
If it weren’t for James Oglethorpe, we wouldn’t be celebrating Georgia Day. The history behind this state is so rich and diverse, it’s no wonder Georgians celebrate it proudly.
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