93 Iconic Buildings to Explore in Georgia

The Gwinnett Historic Courthouse is a beautiful building that was designed by noted architect Gottfried L. Norrman in the early 1880s. Constructed out of red brick with a white granite trim and featuring a distinctive cupola clock tower, it is one of the most recognizable buildings in the county and is an important part of its local history. It has served as a source of justice for generations, carrying out functions like probate court, juvenile court and even serving as an execution site.

The Hargray Capitol Theatre is a 1930's movie theater that has kept its historic charm intact. The theatre was designed with Moorish elements like pointed arches and eye-catching ornamentation. Visitors can watch recently released films on the vintage screen or take a guided tour to learn about the building's past. In addition to the main theater space, there are designated areas for special events throughout the year including concerts, lectures, plays and more.

The Hindu Temple of Atlanta is the first temple built to serve the local Hindu population in 1992 but its awe-inspiring structure can make anyone feel like they are transported far away to a different era. Every inch of the temple has intricate motifs and patterns carved on the walls, pillars and ceilings showcasing the finest traditional carvings on display. The inside also houses priceless Hindu artifacts, such as gold-plated statues and archways decorated with gorgeous sculptures.

Historic Bellevue Mansion is an architectural marvel located in Troup County. From its Greek Revival exterior to its Neo-Gothic interior, it stands as a testament to craftsmanship from the 19th century. Built by Moses Carroll in 1871, this mansion has hosted countless visitors over the years, and remains open for private tours. Just outside the mansion sits a gorgeous outdoor garden filled with vibrant blooms, while inside you will find intricate wood paneling and delicate stained glass windows.

Horton House, is a charming 18th-century plantation house. Built in 1787 by William Horton, the two-story farmhouse was designed with symmetrical architecture featuring Flemish bond brickwork. The home is much more than aesthetically pleasing - it is a national historic landmark and has served as an example of authentic southern plantation life for centuries. It is one of the most well preserved houses in the state, having been continuously occupied over the course of its long history.

The Rockefeller Cottage, also known as Indian Mound Cottage, is a house on Jekyll Island, Georgia. It is next to the Jekyll Island Club. It stands three stories high, and has a total of 25 rooms. There are nine bedrooms, nine bathrooms, and seven servant rooms. The house has many distinguishing features such as an elevator, a cedar-lined walk-in safe, and taps for hot and cold salt water on the bathtub in the master bedroom bath. Tours of the mansion are provided by the Jekyll Island Museum.

The Hay House is a stunning historical landmark in the heart of Macon, Georgia. Built from 1855 to 1859 in the Italian Renaissance Revival Style, the Hay House is open for tours, weddings, and events

This is a National Historic Landmark and the birthplace of Juliette Gordon Low, the founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA. Not only does the landmark provide visitors with insight into the life of an influential American change maker, it also serves as a reminder to recognize the power each person has to make positive impacts in their communities. With stunning gardens and unique tours, better understand Juliette's struggles and successes as she worked towards her goal.

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 Little White House Historic Site in Harris County, is the former home of President Jimmy Carter. The house was built in 1861 and served as a plantation house during the Civil War. In 1867, the house was bought by Rosalynn Carter's grandparents, who turned it into a summer home for their family. The Carters lived in the house from 1971 to 1979, during which time President Carter held meetings with world leaders such as Anwar Sadat and Menachem Begin.

The Ware–Lyndon House is a historic house located at 293 Hoyt Street in Athens, Georgia, at the end of Jackson Street. Built circa 1850, the house is two stories and exhibits an Italianate style. In 1976, it was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is the only surviving structure from the Lickskillet neighborhood of Athens, one of the most fashionable districts of its time.

Ma Rainey House is a must-see for those interested in exploring African-American culture. While it's true that the house wasn't originally built by the legendary blues singer Gertrude "Ma" Rainey, it was definitely where she lived in the early 1920s and wrote some of her biggest hits. The small home preserves original period furnishings and personal items like vinyl records, clothes and photographs that provide insight into the life of one of America's first giant blues stars - Ma Rainey.

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.

The Margaret Mitchell House is a historic site offers visitors the opportunity to experience its striking grounds as well as an exhibits hall full of fascinating artifacts from Mitchell's life. Here, you can learn more about her childhood, career, novels and beloved characters through photographs, documents, and newspaper clippings from her life. The Outdoor Museum hosts many interactive markers as well as sculptures that commemorate several memorable scenes in Gone with the Wind.

Marsh House, is a historic home that has been carefully preserved for over two centuries. At the time of its construction in 1822, it was the first brick house in the area and a fantastic example of pioneer architecture. The house was built by Hugh Marsh using handmade molded bricks which represent the work ethic and dedication of early settlers to the land. Inside, antique furniture, paintings and artifacts tell stories of family life during this period of history.

The Massie Heritage Center, offers patrons the chance to explore the interesting and unique history of this region. From storytelling sessions to educational activities, visitors can learn about how area residents lived over 100 years ago. The facility houses six period-style rooms representing local lifestyles from 1783 through 1828, showcasing military and political items as well as everyday items that were common during that time.

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.

Meadow Garden was the home of George Walton, one of the youngest signers of the Declaration of Independence. The historic house museum has been open to the public since 1901 and is a National Historic Landmark and on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Milledgeville Historic District is a place steeped in history that serves as a reminder of the time when this area was a political and military powerhouse. From 1803-1868, it served as the state capital of Georgia, during which time many important buildings were constructed including the original state capitol building and other government buildings. Now, these same structures constitute an historic neighborhood full of over 700 cultural structures.

The Miller Theater is a treasured landmark. Built in the early 1930s, this beautiful Art Deco theater has been exquisitely preserved with its original features intact while still offering stunningly modern upgrades. It is equipped with state of the art audio and video along with full service concert production capabilities. One can experience any performance or event from plays to concerts in an authentically historic setting that truly evokes an atmosphere unique to the theater industry.