Located in the picturesque foothills of Gordon County, Calhoun is a city rich in history, culture and natural beauty. This charming destination offers diverse experiences for residents and visitors alike, from history enthusiasts to outdoor adventurers — offering peaceful, small-town living with easy access to the amenities of nearby larger cities and suburbs. Located less than 25 miles from Rome, both towns showcase northern Georgia’s rugged beauty while being conveniently located near I-75. Situated in beautiful Rome, senior living at The Spires at Berry College offers a unique opportunity to experience both a lively campus atmosphere and the peaceful freedom of retirement. Here, you can connect with others from across the country, all while benefiting from the convenience of a full continuum of health care services available onsite, should you ever need them.
Calhoun’s rolling hills are steeped in history. Explore the heritage of the Cherokee Nation at New Echota Historic Site. Once the capital of the Cherokee Nation during the 1820s, this site serves as a poignant reminder of the nation’s Native American heritage. Visit Resaca Battlefield, the site of one of the deadliest battles of the Civil War.
Calhoun’s GEM Theatre is another must-see. The original GEM was a movie theater in 1939, but the renovated 461-seat GEM showcases a variety of entertainment today. Another stop is the Harris Arts Center, home to the Roland Hayes Museum for the late, world-renowned, African American vocalist, Ratner Theater, art galleries and The Art Market Gift Shop. HAC features rotating exhibits, instruction and cultural performances. Explore the Rock Garden, filled with over 50 miniature castles, churches and other structures. These mini structures are made from tiny stones, pebbles, shells, odd pieces of broken glass and china, rocks, ceramic tile, cement, wire and other materials designed to imitate their larger counterparts. The garden’s churches, houses and castles are modelled after the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris with stained-glass windows and mini porcelain figures of people and animals. Art lovers and antique treasure hunters will find chic boutiques, a general store and galleries in walkable downtown Calhoun. The Calhoun Outlet Marketplace is adjacent to I-75 and has over 40 stores for bargain shoppers. Calhoun is also known for its culinary delights, including delicious Southern fare, lip-smacking BBQ joints, and plenty of eateries serving locally grown vegetables and featuring farm-to-table cuisine.
Calhoun, Georgia: Outdoor Enthusiast’s Playground
Located in beautiful Gordon County, Calhoun is an outdoor lover’s ideal location — featuring hiking, fishing, canoeing, swimming and golfing. At Chattahoochee National Forest, visitors can picnic, hike, camp, fish and take in breathtaking views. Carter’s Lake is one of the most scenic lakes in the Southeast, featuring 62 miles of shoreline, the highest earth-filled dam east of the Mississippi River and a full-service marina with cabins and boat rental. The lake is a perfect place to camp, hike, bird watch, fish and picnic. At the foot of the Appalachian Mountains, Copper Creek Farm is home to two annual events: Sunflower Festival during the summer and Corn Maze & Pumpkin Fest during the fall. Stop by the general store for glazed pecans, peanut brittle, goat soap, local honey and t-shirts.
For the golf enthusiast, Calhoun is home to two courses. Established in 1953, the Calhoun Elks Golf Club offers a challenge to golfers of all skill levels. James Thomason designed the 18-hole course, which features 5,985 yards of golf from the longest tee on a par 71 golf course. The Fields Ferry Golf Club features meticulously manicured greens and strategic sand traps. Since opening in 1992, the public 18-hole course has been one of the finest courses in North Georgia, attracting players for leisurely rounds and large groups for tournaments.