20 Attractions to Explore Near Steffen Thomas Museum of Art

Lake Oconee is a true Georgia gem located in the rolling hills of Morgan County. It boasts over a hundred miles of shoreline perfect for fishing, skiing and boating adventures. The lake is ideal for swimming and leisurely relaxation, with its crystal clear waters that give way to superb views of the natural surroundings. Its size allows plenty of space to explore, with many coves, inlets and trees scattered around its edges that are home to abundant wildlife.

The Madison-Morgan Cultural center, is a beautiful performing arts and education center that provides exciting programs and activities year-round. It offers a 250-seat theater with state-of-the-art lighting and sound, as well as workshops for aspiring performers. Programs include drama and music classes, summer camps for kids, performances by local artists, special movie nights, holiday events, art exhibitions, and more.

Rogers House Museum is a stunning historic home built by William Dudley Rogers for his family in 1901 and is currently administered by the Madison Morgan Cultural Center. Drawing upon its rich history and cultural significance, Rogers House Museum offers a unique glimpse into early 20th century life complete with original furnishings and artifacts from the time period. Visitors can take guided tours of the house to learn about the history of local families.

Madison Historic District, is a colorful reminder of the past. Founded before 1810, the district is largely comprised of 18th and 19th century architecture, including Federal, Greek Revival, Italianate and Gothic styles. Within the district are also several churches and cemeteries. These elements all contribute to the rich history that pervades every corner of Madison Historic District. Famous for hosting Samuel Elbert Day in 1862.

Bonar Hall, is a charming and picturesque antebellum mansion built in 1862 near the Oconee River. The hall was named for William Bonar, the former owner, and for generations has been home to various cotton farmers. Today, it stands as a restored example of Southern hospitality and historical architecture: a reminder of simpler times gone by. Boasting three stories that stretch across nearly 5,000 square feet of living space.

Lake Rutledge is a 650-acre lake in Morgan County. It is a popular fishing and recreation destination, making it an important asset to the local community. Visitors enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, camping and other outdoor activities on the lake’s pristine waters. The lake has a maximum depth of 30 feet and is stocked with different species of fish throughout the year, including largemouth bass and bream which make great catches for anglers.

Hard Labor Creek State Park is an ideal spot for those who enjoy the outdoors. Situated on 6,000 acres along the shores of Lake Rutledge, visitors can explore a variety of nature trails and waterways. Some popular activities include camping, hiking, fishing, boat rentals, swimming and picnicking. The park also has an 18-hole championship golf course with a large pro shop and driving range.

Hard Labor Creek State Park offers a welcoming and peaceful atmosphere for visitors to explore and relax amid nature. Camping areas, cabins, and group lodges are available for overnight stays in the beautiful area. Its many trails provide an opportunity for hikers to discover local wildlife and plants. Fishing is also permitted on Hard Labor Creek Lake where there is an array of largemouth bass, redear sunfish, and catfish waiting to be caught.

The Elder Mill Covered Bridge is a unique and charming structure that bridges the North Oconee River. It was built in 1904 and is still an important transportation link for the surrounding areas, as well as a popular spot for hikers, cyclists, and sightseers. Its 105-foot span is one of the longest single-lane covered bridges in the state. The bridge pays homage to its heritage with its design which features intricate latticework and diamond pattern trusses.

This Wildlife Center, offers a unique opportunity to experience the nature and wildlife of this beautiful area. The center provides access to nearly 10,000 acres of managed wildlife habitats, ranging from upland hardwoods to wetlands. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities from fishing, biking and bird-watching to photography and archery. There are also educational programs centered around conservation, sustainability and appreciation for the environment for all ages.

Lake Sinclair, is a beautiful and serene recreational destination. Covering over 15,000 acres of sparkling waters, the lake has something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a place to boat, camp, fish or just relax in some sunshine, Lake Sinclair offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The surrounding area is also filled with charming shops and boutiques and plenty of southern hospitality. Visitors can find many daily events during all months of the year.

The Timberland Trail is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the state. This 4-mile loop trail shows off some of Georgia's most stunning forests and provides breathtaking views of countless species of plants and animals. Along the way, trail markers provide interesting information about the geology, flora, and fauna found in the area. With many different elevation changes and immaculate terrain.

The McDaniel-Tichenor House, was built in the 1840s by Dr. William and Mary Tichenor. This two-story house served as their family residence until 1865 when it was purchased by Benjamin McDaniel who, along with his wife Frances Jones, resided at the property for four decades. The house is a classic example of Greek revival architecture featuring plastered walls and columns on the front and back facades.

Alcovy Mountain is a prominent geographical feature stands 620 feet tall, its undulating ridge running from the Georgia-North Carolina state line all the way to the bustling Atlanta suburbs. The mountain is a well-known landmark used to orient local residents and visitors, and it was once home to 19th century gold prospectors who aimed to strike it rich in its depths. Nowadays, the mountain's slopes are much quieter, but still draw fans of outdoor recreation.

The first and oldest organized garden club in the United States is the Ladies' Garden Club of Athens, Georgia. It started in 1891 with a gathering of twelve women friends who shared plants and plant cuttings. It was formally organized the following year. is an organized group of people with a shared interest in gardening, gardens, and plants.

Monroe, is a charming small town with a population of about 13,000. Located in the northeast Georgia foothills, Monroe has access to Lake Lanier and the mountains of North Georgia for outdoor activities like fishing, boating and camping. There are plenty of shopping and dining options downtown, including fun family attractions like Puzzle Gardens and Boardtown Games. Monroe also offers diverse cultural attractions such as museums and art galleries that are sure to keep visitors entertained.

The State Botanical Garden of Georgia is a botanical garden of 313 acres in the United States, with a conservatory operated by the University of Georgia. It is located at 2450 South Milledge Avenue, Athens, Georgia. The Garden contains eleven botanical and horticultural collections

Covington Square, is an ideal place to take a stroll and explore some delightful attractions. Its beautifully landscaped park features a gazebo for visitors to relax and a bubbling fountain at its center. For those who prefer to enjoy the outdoors, there are walking trails that weave through nearby woods and gardens blooming with exotic flowers. The historical courthouse and jail sit on the square's perimeter, offering glimpses into the area's fascinating past.

Bear Hollow Zoo, is a wonderful place to take the whole family. The zoo features many different species native to the local region such as black bears, cougars, bobcats, otters and skunks. There are also several interactive activities such as an animal encounter space, nature center and environmental educational programs for children. The vast expanse of the park provides plenty of picturesque pathways for leisurely strolling and allows visitors to observe animal habits up close.

The Chattahoochee–Oconee National Forest in northern Georgia comprises two United States National Forests, the Oconee National Forest in eastern Georgia and the Chattahoochee National Forest located in the North Georgia Mountains. The Chattahoochee National Forest is composed of an eastern and western forest. The western forest contains Johns Mountain, Little Sand Mountain, and Taylor Ridge. One of the beautiful trekking destination in Georgia.