Visitor Guide

‘Sweet Home Alabama’ and Southern Hospitality in Rome

Posted July 22, 2022 by Kenzi Rowell in Family, Film, Landmarks, Life in Rome, Uncategorized

‘Sweet Home Alabama,’ starring Reese Witherspoon, Patrick Dempsey and Josh Lucas, celebrates its 20th anniversary in September. Despite the name of the movie, the majority of ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ was filmed in Georgia. One of these film locations was right here in Rome, Georgia! The hit movie includes scenes from Oak Hill at Berry College. This movie makes you think about all things Southern, and for us that also means Southern Hospitality!

Oak Hill
The Carmichael Plantation in 'Sweet Home Alabama'

The Carmichael Plantation in ‘Sweet Home Alabama’

You can tour Oak Hill, a Greek Revival style house that was home to Berry College founder, Martha Berry. The historical home was used as the set of Melanie Carmichael’s (Reese Witherspoon) family home.

Gardens at Oak Hill

Not only can you visit the beautiful home, but you can also visit the luscious gardens surrounding Oak Hill. Get details on the home and gardens. While in town, you’ll discover our unique charm that makes Rome feel like home away from home!

$1 off Drinks at Cosmic Dog Outpost When It Rains

cosmic dog outpostCosmic Dog Outpost, located in beautiful Downtown Rome, is a local favorite! Whenever it rains, they pour – the popular beer garden offers $1 off draft. We love rainy days!

Missions at The Sharp Sickle
The Sharpe Sickle

The Sharp Sickle

The Sharp Sickle, located in Downtown Rome, offers coffee, teas, baked goods, and wraps – and shares their Southern Hospitality through giving where a portion of all proceeds are donated to missions.

FREE Downtown Shuttle on the Roman Chariot

No need to walk in the rain, cold or heat! Simply text our Roman Chariot for free pick-up and transportation to dining, shopping and attractions in downtown Rome, now that is service!

Paws Are Permitted in Rome
paws permitted pet-friendly Rome

Here in Rome, we extend our warm hospitality to our furry-friends too! Many of our retailers and restaurants leave water bowls out for Fido; outdoor dining areas are pet-friendly and many hotels welcome your furry family members.

Welcome Centers

welcome center

Most towns have one Welcome Center, but in Georgia’s Rome,  we have two! We roll out the welcome mat at our location in Downtown Rome at the Rome Area History Center and on Jackson Hill (across from Applebee’s). Be sure to stop by for information on everything to see and do while in Rome. Plus we offer unique gifts from local artists and fun Rome souvenirs!

About the Author

Hi, I'm Kenzi Rowell, a Marketing Specialist at Georgia's Rome Office of Tourism. I oversee the Downtown Welcome Center, and assist with content and social media marketing. I'm currently studying Marketing at Kennesaw State University. I was born and raised in Rome, Georgia and love the beauty of this town! In my free time, I love being creative and spending time with friends!

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