Atlanta
This week, we’re headed further south to the “Peach State” – Georgia! Atlanta, the state’s fifth and current capital since 1868, is also the most populous city in the state. It is part of a booming metropolitan area with many fascinating sights! Fun fact: Atlanta was previously named both “Terminus” and “Marthasville.”
Atlanta is the cultural center of the state, with a wide variety of great attractions such as the Atlanta Ballet, Zoo Atlanta, Georgia Aquarium, and the High Museum of Art. Make sure to check out each of these sites on your trip! Atlanta also marks the birthplace of some iconic American brands, including Chick-fil-A and Coca-Cola. You can even take tour at the World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta to dive deeper into its history (and maybe come back with a free soda)!
Atlanta also held an important role in the civil rights movement and continues to do so with their Center for Civil and Human Rights. A key factor in this history is the effort of Martin Luther King, Jr., who was born and raised in Atlanta. Visit the MLK Jr. National Historic Site and take a walk through his childhood home, church, and The King Center to see various exhibits of this great leader.
For fans of Gone with the Wind, you can visit the Margaret Mitchell House and explore the author’s home where she wrote the famous novel! The House is operated by the Atlanta History Center which is host to many more exciting exhibits. The 33-acre Center contains the great Atlanta History Museum, historic houses and gardens, a research center, and the Centennial Olympic Games Museum!
Tour “ATLwood”
Atlanta has become a prominent film and television hub, with hundreds of big name projects being filmed here in recent years. Some of the titles include: The Walking Dead, Hunger Games: Catching Fire, Driving Miss Daisy, We Are Marshall, Remember the Titans, and the Tyler Perry series, among many more. With the booming film industry and the opening of many new productions in the area, Atlanta is often called the “Hollywood of the South.”
While you’re here, find a tour group such as Atlanta Movie Tours and kick back, relax, and experience your favorite movie scenes first-hand! You can even find a specialty tour, such as a zombie- or Gone with the Wind-themed tour. You may be surprised with what you’ll recognize from “behind the screen.”
Valdosta
While we’re visiting Georgia, we couldn’t leave out another great city that is near to our hearts – Valdosta. Valdosta is the home of Martin’s second bakery facility, which opened in 2007 to complement our main Chambersburg facility in response to increased demand for our products. This new facility has been a key part in Martin’s expansion and growth over the recent years. Note: you’ll get another behind-the-scenes look at the plant on our “Throwback Thursday” post later this week!
Valdosta is a beautiful city with great surroundings. While passing through on the way to our next Road Trip stop, take a break at one of the state or amusement parks for a fun, family-friendly experience!
Southern-Style Living
When in Georgia this week, you’ll be sure to notice the “southern hospitality” that is often associated with this area. The warm, welcoming atmosphere will help you feel right at home – it’s no wonder you’ll find plenty of “comfort food” here as well. Along with its famous peaches, Georgia is also known for its “southern-style” dishes like fried chicken, okra, cornbread, collard greens, peanuts, and Brunswick stew.
Featured Recipe:
Get a taste of the South with this recipe for a Fried Chicken and Cole Slaw Sandwich on Martin’s Potato Rolls by Serious Eats.
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