Historic Summerville, Ga

Summerville, Ga.

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DIRT Home Renovations

(706) 620-0064

SUMMERVILLE, GA

Discover Hidden Gems

Beyond the scenic beauty that can be experienced by meandering off the interstate, one can find a hidden treasure unique only to this part of the region. Perhaps, you have taken the backroads through the US routes. Every state route that eventually meanders through town will offer surprises that are waiting around every turn. Summerville is located in NW Georgia south of Walker County. If you have driven to Lookout Mountain, then you have been to Walker County, Georgia. Those who are familiar with Martha Berry will know that she founded Berry College. Mount Berry is an official town inside Floyd County with Rome being the county seat. People have become more familiar due to the contributions of the founding president of Berry College. Route 27 bears the name Martha Berry Highway from the top of the state through the full length of Georgia to its southern border. Travel north and one will discover the scenic beauty of Chattooga County. Visitors pass through the less known towns without considering what they could be missing. Chattooga County is named after the Chattooga River. The interestng piece of trivia will be that the Chattooga River is one of two rivers with the same name. It would be easy to confuse them. The one that begins in Chattooga County travels west into Alabama toward Weis Lake. The other flows into South Carolina. However, the meaning of the river's name is not clear. Chattooga was formed from Walker County & Floyd County, Mentone, Alabama sits atop Lookout Mountain. The Lookout Mountain Parkway meanders above Summerville into Mentone. However, Summerville is a must stop on the scenic route. One of Georgia's best kept secrets is the Sloppy Floyd State Park.

Historic Summerville: A Best Kept Secret

Sloppy Floyd State Park

2800 Sloppy Floyd Lake Rd, Summerville, GA 30747 706-857-0826

SOME PARK AMMENITIES A boardwalk stretches across the entire lake. There are many hiking trails. One of the favorite things to do is a hike to the Marble Mine. There are a variety of trails in the park. The Pinhoti National Recreation Trail comes through the park and is known as one of the most famous through the Appalachian Mountain system. One can relax and fish in the lake. It seems to be well stocked and many eager fishermen enjoy. Regular fishermen may be a father and son over the boardwalk, or a family spending an afternoon. There are boat launches for those who bring their own , or one can rent a paddle boat for a reasonable fee. One can rent canoes and kayaks that is based on availability. You will want to read all the rules about watercraft and fishing. However, it's worth bringing your camera and take all the pictures your heart desire. Campsites and RV sites can be reserved. There are over 500 acres and trails to be explored.

There are several picnic areas, and pavilions that can be reserved. Enjoy the peace and quiet, the scenic beauty, or one of the activities provided at the park. If you have a few days, consider renting one of four cabins. They are really nice. However, you will want to reserve them in advance.

HOWARD FINSTER: PARADISE GARDENS ....Baptist ministers journey of telling the Gospel through art. Called by some the "World's Most Prolific Artist", Howard Finster called Summerville Home. The Paradise Garden Foundation has acquired the preservation of the historic site and home of the artist. Events throughout the year draw visitors in the 1000s annually. Fans from across the nation and internationally will come and see the work of one of the most beloved folk artist. He has been interviewed on programs that are well known, such as the Johnny Carson show. One can tour Paradise Gardens to see his work and some he influenced the most. ONE CAN ACTUALLY STAY ON THE PROPERTY If you want a peaceful night stay, the foundation has remodeled a duplex that once family members of Howard Finster lived. To reserve a night, one can find information on the Airbnb website. The cost is very reasonable. It will be like walking back in time to a slower place when the world seemed to be less complicated. The home is very clean. Enjoy rocking on the front covered porch. Exhibits of the artist can be seen in Atlanta, New York, and other major cities in the US. Yes, they can be seen across the world. So, you can get an idea of why the city owns and treasures their local memory of a very well loved local celebrity.

FOLK ART: A VERY UNIQUE PIECE OF HISTORY

The tenants have access to all the modern conveniences of home with a kitchen, living, and bedroom, There is a microwave, fridge, and other accessories to make your night stay comfortable. Customer service is very helpful and available during your stay. The home is decorated with pieces of art that blend with the ambiance of the home. The talent of the interior designer can be seen throughout the home during the stay. AND...the GARDENS ARE INCLUDED . While you can purchase tickets at Paradise Gardens for a one day tour, the overnight package includes the outside walking tour of the grounds. The indoor exhibit is openned during business hours. The price of the tickets is included when staying inside the Airbnb.

Paradise Gardens

200 N Lewis St, Summerville, GA 30747 (706) 808-0800 www.paradisegardenfoundation.org

Stay on the property

Train Trips Sign up for our email newsletter and keep up with announcements about NW Georgia Train Trips. Call 770-723-6574

Summerville is the county seat and is filled with things throughout the year for a taste of small town flavor . The historic courthouse is listed on the Courthouse trail dotting towns along highway 27 on the 356 mile Georgia corridor. It will draw those who enjoy historical architecture. The historic depot and the train turn-table will be popular for those who travel into town whenever visitors come from Chattanooga by fanning the rail s. It's really cool watching the train turn completely around on the turntable for the trip back to Tennessee. The table will slowly turn for about two hours. Then, passengers can board on the train for the journey home. While waiting, they can eat and shop. These side trips into NW Georgia are scheduled through the Tennessee Valley Railroad when available. Local flavor unique to Summerville can be experienced downtown . Yes, you can find iconic flavor that's been serving folks for over a half century.

Arise early for that favorite cup of coffee hot or cold. Sit a while on the WIFI at a leisurely pace, and that is worth its weight in gold. While looking for a local bakery or ice cream shop for something sweet, find it here. What about the shopping experience? For a small town, it will have you browsing for that special keepsake for a good while. Plus, you want break the budget to find the perfect gift. Boutiques, antiques, thrifts, and even a few specialty shops can be found. Just imagine being able to take a day, an afternoon, or a couple hours on a short trip that makes it seem like your own vacation. That's cool! It's right at our back door. So, you are already saving money on fuel . All that's waiting on you is'nt the gas, but the CALENDAR.

Visitor Information Center 120 Georgia Ave. Summerville, GA (706) 859-0900