Rome, Georgia has so much to offer including many hidden attractions that many Romans are not aware of! Here are a few hidden gems to discover in Georgia’s Rome:
1. Meditation Garden at Myrtle Hill Cemetery
This beautiful garden overlooks Myrtle Hill Cemetery, located at the confluence of Rome’s three rivers. The Mediation Garden was landscaped to represent the seven hills and three rivers of Rome. Designed by the late John Schulz, it is a lovely and serene location for relaxation and is beautiful year-around. Get details on how to locate the garden on Myrtle Hill.
2. The ‘Seize the Day’ Mural
Located at ‘The Shoe Box’ on Martha Berry Highway, this huge mural is surprisingly often overlooked. The beautiful piece was painted by Rome Mural CoLab in an effort to highlight landmarks of Rome. However, it also focuses on inclusivity and unification in the Rome-Floyd community. It is a great place to stop and grab a photo!
3. Rome Labyrinth
The Rome Labyrinth is located on beautiful Jackson Hill. Walking a Labyrinth is a form of meditation, with a purpose to focus one’s mind. The site was originally constructed in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration as an erosion control pond, but has been repurposed into a place of serenity. After visiting the Labyrinth, stop by Georgia’s Rome Gift Shop and Welcome center to take home a piece of Rome; and learn about other places to visit nearby.
4. The Woman Who Saved Football
In October of 1897, Richard Von Albade Gammon was playing football at the University of Georgia. Gammon, a Rome native, suffered severe injuries that later led to his death. After the incident, a bill was passed to ban college football in the state of Georgia. Rosalind Burns Gammon, mother of Richard, wrote a letter to her representative which was a plea to veto the bill. The bill was vetoed in December of 1897 by Governor Atkinson. Rosalind Burns Gammon is now known as the Woman who Saved Football. A plaque to honor her is located in the sidewalk at 340 Broad Street. You might also enjoy the Historical Markers Self-Guided Tour; most of the tour is in Downtown, Rome.
5. Rome’s River District
The River District is located right off Broad Street, across the Oostanaula River. This area has many new developments including antiques, art, restaurants, bakery, bike repair shop, hotel, pickleball courts and access to the AdventHealth ECO Greenway. Learn more about attractions and dining options in this growing district.
6. Blossom Hill Trail
This unique trail is hidden just off Jackson Hill and is a trail that many locals do not know about! The 2 mile, unpaved trail features twists and turns and bridges throughout – offering a fun trail for both hikers and mountain bikers. (If you are mountain biking, this trail is not for beginners due to some narrow and challenging terrain.) Learn how to access this hidden trail!
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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