20 Attractions to Explore Near Thomasville Rose Garden

Cherokee Lake Park is a rustic oasis offering visitors a variety of recreational activities and natural beauty. Spend the day fishing or boating on the crystal clear waters of Cherokee Lake, or get your heart rate up by biking the 8-mile crushed stone trail. Enjoy nature watching at one of the three birding sites, including Floyd's Island, try and spot one of the 14 turtle species, or cool off beneath mature hardwood trees. Guests can spend an afternoon picnicking in one of the park’s pavilions.

Downtown Thomasville, the county seat of Thomas County, Georgia, offers a charming slice of Southern hospitality. The streets are lined with beautiful historic buildings and interesting boutiques making it an ideal spot for a day of exploration and shopping. With plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from you'll find something for every taste; whether it's classic Southern soul food, wine tasting at the local winery or grabbing a coffee at one of the cozy cafés downtown.

The Big Oak, is an impressive sight to behold. Standing tall at 135 feet and boasting a canopy width of 165 feet, it is the largest single-trunk live oak tree in the world! As well as its impressive size, it has long been a source of wonder and intrigue; one legend suggests that before the Civil War, Confederate financial documents were rumored to have been hidden beneath it.

The Lapham-Patterson House Historic Site is a piece of colonial era history preserved for the centuries. The grand and sprawling 6,000 square foot house was built by Jonathan and Caroline Lapham from 1889-1891 and has remained in the same family ever since. The house itself has managed to remain surprisingly well preserved with 45 original pieces of furniture kept safe inside its walls.

The Jack Hadley Black History Museum is a special place honoring African-American history with an emphasis on the Gullah Geechee culture of the area. The museum houses a wealth of artifacts, photographs, documents and other items that tell the stories of how people in that corner of the world lived, worked and shaped their community. Visitors to the museum can take advantage of its interactive displays ensuring they gain a greater understanding of significant historic events and key figures.

Country Oaks Golf Course, is an 18-hole course that offers a challenging and enjoyable experience to golfers of all skill levels. Boasting of Bermuda grass on the tees and fairways, along with well-maintained bentgrass greens, this course is sure to make any round special. With five sets of tee boxes ranging from 5331 yards to 7000 yards there's something for everyone looking to challenge themselves.

Pebble Hill Plantation built in the 19th century, it has served multiple purposes, from being used to grow cotton to hosting grand social events. In 1973, Pebble Hill was brought by philanthropist Howard Coffin who donated it to the state of Georgia for conservation. Nowadays, the plantation includes original buildings including a spacious Greek Revival style mansion filled with historical antiques. Touring this antebellum estate is a great way to learn about its history.

Birdsong Nature Center is a naturalist's dream. With over 320 acres of pristine wilderness, it offers an abundance of outdoor activities like canoeing, kayaking, and guided walking tours. The mission of the center is to provide educational and sensory experiences that spark an appreciation for the interconnected web of life we all share. It serves as a gateway to nature’s wonders through programming and individual exploration, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.

The Jefferson County Courthouse Annex is a government building located in Louisville, Kentucky. As an annex to the main Jefferson County Courthouse, it serves as an extension of the county's administrative and judicial functions.

Lake Iamonia is a stunning lake in Leon County, that offers visitors picturesque views and plenty of recreational activities. Home to an impressive array of flora and fauna, the lake is 544 acres of beauty that visitors can enjoy from the lake's piers and boat launches. Containing two islands, Big Gum Island and Reece Island, Lake Iamonia is well known for its bass fishing; however, those who love to swim in crystal clear waters and kayak won't be disappointed either.

Tekesta Park with 12 acres of open green space, visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the park or take advantage of the ball fields, picnic areas and sand volleyball courts. It hosts variety of special events throughout the year that bring in music lovers, foodies and nature enthusiasts alike. There's also a range of recreational activities that appeal to all ages. From kayaking down Wakulla River to visiting local farmer's markets, there's something here for all tastes and interests.

Also known as the Tallahassee Automobile and Collectibles Museum, is an automobile museum in Tallahassee, Leon County, Florida. The museum's collection includes over 160 automobiles

Lake Overstreet located in an oak-filled grove of pine trees, this gorgeous lake is known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors from all around come to do some fishing, swim in the crystal clear waters, or just enjoy the natural beauty. The colorful plants and birdlife that inhabit this area make it easy to spend hours exploring its beauty. As a precautionary measure, visitors are asked to follow all safety guidelines while at the lake to help keep this haven safe.

Lake Hall is a spectacular lake that is perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. It's a shallow freshwater lake, making it safe and fun for swimming and fishing. The area around the lake offers plenty of activities, from canoeing to kayaking to hiking and biking along the shoreline. There are also many amazing wildlife like birds, otters and alligators that can be spotted at Lake Hall. This beautiful lake is an oasis of scenic beauty within Leon County, offering both tranquility and adventure.

This is a huge biosphere reserve located in the heart of Leon county, Florida. The gardens are also a U.S. historic district known as the Killearn Plantation Archeological and Historic District. According to the National Register of Historic Places, it contains 18 historic buildings, 4 structures, and 4 objects. These beautiful ornamental gardens were first planted in 1923 by Alfred. b and Louis Mc lay after they purchased this as their winter home.

Elinor Klapp-Phipps Park is a must-see destination with over 300 acres of trails, meadows and forest, it is the perfect spot for hiking and biking in nature. The park also boasts many native plants, trees and birds, making it a popular spot for wildlife viewing. Other amenities include a large fishing pond and multiple picnic areas throughout the grounds for ample family time outside. With its vast array of activities and natural beauty, this park is an excellent destination.

Lake Jackson is a shallow, prairie lake on the north side of Leon County, Florida. The lake is located in the Red Hills Region, and has fluctuated from periods of being dry to a maximum elevation of 96 feet above sea level.

Lake Lafayette, is a quaint little lake that is incredibly popular among locals. Its shallow waters make it perfect for fishing and swimming, while its size allows visitors to take peaceful walks along the rustic shore. The lake is full of lily pads and aquatic turtles, making it an enjoyable spot for nature lovers. Additionally, because Lake Lafayette is surrounded by many parks and trails, outdoor enthusiasts are sure to have a field day discovering all there is to do in the local area.

Piney Z Lake is a delightful nature spot for those looking for a peaceful natural experience. This serene 24 acre lake is hidden on the western side of Tallahassee and provides a glimpse into Florida's natural landscape. Piney Z Lake offers boating and fishing opportunities, as well as various hiking trails that make the most out of this tranquil environment. Whether it be a calming afternoon of fishing or an invigorating morning hike through the trees, Piney Z Lake has something to offer.

Lafayette Heritage Trail Park is a beautiful spot located close to the downtown area of Tallahassee and bordered by Lafayette Creek and Chaires Crossroads, the park offers many recreational activities for all ages. Visitors can enjoy fishing or kayaking on one of three lakes located within the park, biking along several miles of trails, or geocaching near hidden benches that provide excellent views and relaxation spots. The park also provides plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching.