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Hartwell, Georgia: Where Fun and Adventure Meet – The Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!

Summer is when the lake earns its keep right out here, with the swimming and the boating and the water skiing. Winter moves everything indoors instead, right out to the museum and the theater and the distillery tour. Spring brings the plant sales at the botanical garden right out there as well every time. The fishing charters run right through the year out there as well. Book.

Planning a trip to Hartwell, Georgia and wondering what to do and where to go? Hartwell runs exciting activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Outdoor person, history person, eater, or simply somebody after a slow getaway, Hartwell covers all four.

Set in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Hartwell is a charming town that runs deep on history and natural country. The town is ringed by Hartwell Lake, which carries water activities across the range, swimming and boating and fishing among them. Hartwell also holds several historical sites, the Center of the World Monument and the Hart County Historical Museum among them.

Golfing through shopping, the fun things to do in Hartwell run plenty. You can work the Hart County Botanical Gardens, play a round at the Cateechee Golf Club, or take one of the many events and festivals running across the year. In this article we give you a look at the best and most fun things to do in Hartwell, Georgia.

Key Takeaways

• Hartwell, Georgia is a charming town surrounded by the stunning Hartwell Lake and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, historical sites, and fun events and festivals.
• From golfing to shopping, Hartwell offers something for everyone.

A Glimpse of Hartwell, Georgia

Welcome to Hartwell, Georgia. This charming town in Hart County is known for its history, its southern hospitality and its historic downtown.

Walk the streets of downtown and you notice the quaint shops, restaurants and historic buildings that make up the heart of Hartwell. Take a break from the shopping and grab a bite at one of the many locally-owned restaurants. Some of the strongest southern cooking around is waiting.

History people do well working the many historical sites in Hartwell. The Hart County Historical Museum should not be skipped, showing artifacts and exhibits that carry the town’s past. You can also take the Center of the World monument, which marks the spot where the Cherokee Nation once met to settle important matters.

But Hartwell is not only history. The town also holds Hartwell Lake, which carries outdoor activities across the range, swimming and boating and fishing among them. And if you feel adventurous, try water skiing or jet skiing.

So Hartwell, Georgia is a charming town that carries a little of everything. History, outdoor activities or simply some southern hospitality, none of the three disappoint.

The Great Outdoors

In Hartwell you want as much time outside as possible. The places to do it run plenty. Here are the strongest outdoor spots in the area:

Lake Hartwell

As the largest lake in Georgia, Lake Hartwell should not be skipped. With over 56,000 acres of water, the room for boating, water-skiing and swimming runs long. And fishing people will be glad to know the lake holds large mouth bass and rainbow trout.

Hart State Park

After a place to hike, camp or simply be outdoors? Hart State Park is the spot. With over 700 acres of wetlands, forests and fields, there is plenty to work. And if you stay overnight, the lakeside campsites are there.

Hart County Botanical Garden

For a more tranquil day outdoors, head to the Hart County Botanical Garden. This plant garden runs over 5 acres of flowers, trees and shrubs. And with luck you catch one of their annual plant sales.

Outdoor Recreation in Hartwell Lakeside Park

Finally, for outdoor fun for the whole family, Hartwell Lakeside Park is the answer. This park runs a children’s playground, an amphitheater and a pavilion for picnics and events. And if you feel active, the biking and hiking run plenty.

So get outside and take what Hartwell runs.

Historical Hartwell

History people should be in Hartwell, Georgia. This charming city runs deep on history, with plenty of sites to work. Here are the places not to miss:

Hart County Historical Society

The Hart County Historical Society should not be skipped by anybody interested in the history of Hartwell. This organization works on preserving and promoting the history of the city and the area around it. They hold a wealth of artifacts, photographs and documents that carry Hartwell’s past.

One of the strongest things about the Hart County Historical Society is the guided tours. These tours are led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic volunteers who care about sharing the history of Hartwell. You learn the city’s founding, its growth and development, and the people who made it what it is.

Center of the World Monument

Did you know Hartwell, Georgia is the Center of the World? At least according to one particular monument, it is. The Center of the World Monument is a quirky and fun attraction not to be missed.

The monument marks the spot where the 34th parallel north crosses the 82nd meridian west. That crossing is said to be the center of the world, and the monument marks the fact. It suits a photo, and a selfie or two will happen while you are there.

Hart County Historical Museum

For even more on the history of Hartwell, take the Hart County Historical Museum. This museum holds a strong collection of artifacts, photographs and documents that carry the story of Hartwell and the area around it.

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of Civil War artifacts. You see everything from uniforms and weapons to letters and diaries written by soldiers who fought in the war. It is a close look at a pivotal time in American history.

History person or simply somebody after something fun and interesting in Hartwell, these sites are worth the walk. Take the chance to learn more about this charming city’s past.

Fun Activities and Events

You are in Hartwell, Georgia, and you are after some fun activities and events. You are in luck, because Hartwell runs attractions and entertainment options that keep you busy.

First up is the Hart County Community Theater. In the mood for live theater? This is the place. The theater hosts productions across the year, dramas through comedies through musicals. So grab the popcorn and settle in for the night.

Bluegrass music people should take the Bluegrass Music Hall. This venue hosts some of the strongest bluegrass musicians in the country. The toes start tapping shortly after you sit down.

After something to do during the festive season? Hartwell handles it. The town hosts festive events across the year, parades and festivals and tree-lighting ceremonies among them. So grab the Santa hat and get ready to spread some cheer.

After some trip ideas? Hartwell is the answer. Walk through the town’s historic district, where the architecture and the charming shops are waiting. Or head to Hartwell Lake for outdoor fun, fishing and boating and swimming among them.

Whatever the mood, Hartwell carries it. So grab the friends and family and get ready for a full day in this charming Georgia town.

Food and Drink

Hartwell, GA is a strong town for eating. Southern cooking through artisanal cheeses, something will tempt the taste buds at every turn. Here are the strongest places to eat and drink in Hartwell.

Local Restaurants

For authentic Southern cooking, the local restaurants in Hartwell will not let you down. The Blue Rooster runs fried chicken and biscuits worth the drive. For the sea version, head to The Fish Net for fresh seafood caught right off the coast. And for good old-fashioned barbecue, Big Water Grill should not be skipped.

Coffee Shops

Need a caffeine fix? The coffee shops in Hartwell run plenty. Stop by Market 50 for a strong cup of joe and some made-to-order deli options. Or for something sweet, take The Sweetery for their famous fudge and other treats.

Palmetto Moonshine

After something a little stronger? Palmetto Moonshine is the answer. This family-owned distillery works small-batch moonshine made from locally sourced ingredients. Tour the distillery and take a tasting of the moonshine. And if you feel adventurous, try their Coca-Cola Bottling Machine moonshine, an unusual twist on a classic Southern drink.

A strong meal, a sweet treat or a stiff drink, Hartwell covers all three. Take the chance to taste some of the strongest food and drink in Georgia.

Shopping in Hartwell

After an unusual shopping run? Hartwell, Georgia is the answer. Handmade crafts or fine art, something in this charming town will land.

First stop, Twelve South Gallery. This specialty gift shop and art gallery is the place to find a singular souvenir to take home. With a broad selection of paintings, pottery and jewelry, something will catch the eye. And the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, so the inside story on the artists and their work comes with it.

Next up, Hartwell Windchime Lady. After an unusual gift for that special someone, or simply something for yourself? This is the place. The shop works wind chimes of all shapes and sizes, so the right one for your style is in there. And the owner is a hoot and a half, so a good laugh comes with the visit.

Last, Downtown Cafe. Okay, this is not technically a store, and hear us out. This cozy cafe suits relaxing and refueling after a long day of shopping. And the food holds up. Take the Greek or Italian options, prepared daily using the freshest ingredients, so the quality is settled.

So what is the hold-up? Get out and start working Hartwell’s shopping scene.

Papa Loyds Boys hand you the rods and the reels and the bait and the tackle out there. Cateechee Golf Club does not mind at all that you have never swung a club before. The historical society sends a knowledgeable volunteer out along with you as well. Nobody here expects you to know anything.

Where to Stay

So you are ready to work Hartwell, Georgia, and where are you staying? We have you covered with accommodations to suit any budget and preference.

Hotels and Motels

For a comfortable stay with the amenities, the hotels and motels in Hartwell run plenty. Budget-friendly options through luxury accommodations, something will suit.

Cabins and Cottages

For something more rustic, rent a cabin or cottage. You get the outdoors while keeping a cozy place to come back to. And with options running from basic to luxurious, the stay can be tailored to the budget.

Camping

For the full outdoor version, go camping. Hartwell runs campgrounds across the range, whether the need is a basic tent site or an RV hookup. And with that many natural areas to work, the things to do never run out.

Wherever you stay in Hartwell, the trip holds up. So pack the bags and get ready.

Golfing in Hartwell

After a fun way to spend a day in Hartwell? Try golfing. And there is no better place for it than Cateechee Golf Club.

Between the lush green fairways and the hard holes, Cateechee Golf Club suits showing the skills off. And even if you are not the most experienced golfer, hitting that little white ball still lands well.

But golfing at Cateechee is not only the game. It is also the long views and the natural country around you. As you work round the course, you get vistas of rolling hills, sparkling water and towering trees.

And when the golfing runs long, stop by the clubhouse for a cold drink or a bite. Between the cozy room and the strong menu, it suits relaxing before the greens again.

So what is the hold-up? Grab the clubs and head over to Cateechee Golf Club for a day of fun, laughter and maybe a little competition. You may even find a new passion for the game.

Fishing Tours

Fishing people do well in Hartwell. The lake holds fish species across the range, stripers and bass and catfish among them. And to get the most from the fishing, a guided fishing tour is the call.

Papa Loyds Boys Fishing Charters

One of the strongest fishing charters in Hartwell is Papa Loyds Boys Fishing Charters. This charter service runs an unusual and fun fishing day for anglers at every skill level. The guides are knowledgeable and experienced, and they know the strongest spots for large mouth bass and other fish.

When you book a fishing tour with Papa Loyds Boys, you get everything a successful trip needs. They provide the necessary equipment, rods and reels and bait and tackle among them. All you bring is the enthusiasm and the sense of adventure.

The guides at Papa Loyds Boys are also strong at teaching beginners how to fish. They show you the techniques for catching fish and help you improve. And if you are an experienced angler, they take you to the harder spots where the skills get tested.

So a fishing tour with Papa Loyds Boys is a fun and exciting way to work the beauty of Hartwell Lake. So grab the fishing gear and book a tour.

Getting Around Hartwell

Congratulations. You have made it to Hartwell, Georgia, and now it is time to work what this charming town runs. But how do you get around? We have you covered.

First things first, maps. If old-school navigation is your thing, you can pick up a paper map at the Hart County Chamber of Commerce on Howell St. And if you are the tech-savvy version, use the smartphone to navigate the town. Download a map app and you are set.

Now, for venturing outside Hartwell, the options run a few. Anderson, Pendleton and Clemson all sit within a 30-minute drive, so a day trip out to the surrounding areas is easy. Elberton and Toccoa are also nearby, so add those to the list too.

But back to Hartwell. After an unusual way to see the town? Take a tour. The Hart County Historical Society runs walking tours of the town, which are a strong way to learn the history and architecture of Hartwell. And in March or December you can take a special festive tour of the town’s historic homes.

Staying in Hartwell for a stretch? Consider renting a car. The rental car companies in town run a few, so picking up a car and working at your own pace is easy. And if you arrive by train, the Hartwell Depot on Depot St. is a strong place to start.

Finally, tourism. Hartwell is a popular tourist destination, so the information about things to do and places to stay runs plenty. The Hart County Chamber of Commerce is a strong resource for tourism information, and the official Georgia tourism website carries more ideas.

So there you have it, getting around Hartwell is easy and fun. Walking, driving or taking a tour, working this charming town holds up either way.

Hartwell Dam

So you are in Hartwell, Georgia, and you are after something to do? Take the Hartwell Dam. This concrete embankment structure sits on the Savannah River and was completed in 1962. It suits a peaceful walk, taking the scenery, and learning a little about hydropower and flood control.

The dam was built as part of a larger effort to provide hydroelectric power and flood control to the southeastern United States. It created a 56,000-acre reservoir and is still used for those purposes today. And you will not be bored with a run of concrete, because the swirling water passing through the electrical generating turbines is oddly soothing.

Fishing people will be glad to know the Hartwell Dam is also a strong spot for catching bass, catfish and more. So grab the fishing gear and head over. And if fishing is not your thing, the other things to do in the area run plenty.

One of the strongest things about the Hartwell Dam is the walking path from the entrance at Big Oaks, right next to the dam, out to the end of the dam. It suits some exercise and some fresh air. And you get a close view of the dam and the Savannah River.

So the Hartwell Dam should not be skipped in Hartwell, Georgia. Hydropower and flood control or simply a peaceful walk, neither disappoints.

Hart County Chamber of Commerce

After some fun things to do and places to visit in Hartwell, Georgia? The Hart County Chamber of Commerce is the answer. These folks connect and provide resources for businesses, citizens and visitors alike.

The Chamber’s vision runs on teamwork in promoting economic development, advocating for businesses and organizations, and promoting a fun and healthy place to visit, live, work and play. They have their fingers on the pulse of Hartwell, and they can give you the inside story on the strongest things to do in the area.

Stop by the Chamber’s office at 10 South Carolina St. in Hartwell to pick up brochures and maps, or check out their website at hart-chamber.org for more information. They’re open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The Chamber also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from festivals and celebrations to community gatherings. Check out their event calendar to see what’s coming up. One event you won’t want to miss is the CSP Family Fun Day on Saturday, September 9, 2023. It’s sure to be a blast for the whole family!

So next time you are in Hartwell, stop by the Hart County Chamber of Commerce. They help you make the most of the visit and see you have a strong time in this fun and friendly town.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the deal with the ‘Lost City’ under Lake Hartwell?

You mean the underwater ruins of the old town of Tugaloo? Legend has it the city was flooded when the Hartwell Dam was built in the 1950s. Some say you can still see the old buildings and streets if you dive down deep enough. But do not set the hopes too high, because old beer cans and a sunken boat are the likelier find.

What are the top attractions in Hartwell, besides the ‘Lost City’?

There is the Hartwell Dam and Lake, of course. It suits fishing, boating or simply a walk. The Hart County Botanical Gardens are also worth the walk if flowers and plants are your thing. And do not forget Hart State Park, which runs hiking trails, picnic areas and a beach.

Is it safe to swim in Lake Hartwell, or should I bring my inflatable shark?

You are not going to get eaten by a shark in Lake Hartwell. And there are a few things to keep in mind. First, swim in designated areas only. Second, watch for any signs warning of dangerous currents or other hazards. And finally, wear sunscreen.

What are the best outdoor activities in Hartwell, besides ‘watching paint dry’?

The outdoors in Hartwell runs plenty. You can hike, bike or ride horseback on the many trails in the area. And if you feel adventurous, try zip-lining or whitewater rafting. And for something more laid-back, walk slowly through one of the parks or gardens.

What restaurants in Hartwell won’t give me food poisoning?

We cannot make any guarantees, and there are a few places known for good food and clean kitchens. The Blue Rooster, for example, runs a strong selection of Southern-style dishes and is known for friendly service. And in the mood for pizza, try Gondolier Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria.

What are some day trips from Hartwell that won’t make me want to stay there forever?

For getting out of Hartwell for a day, the nearby attractions run plenty. The city of Athens, home to the University of Georgia, sits a short drive away and carries shopping, dining and cultural activities. And history people should not miss the Andersonville National Historic Site, about an hour’s drive from Hartwell.

Frequently asked questions about Hartwell, Georgia

How big exactly is the whole of Lake Hartwell actually sitting right out there, then, really now, in the end?

I stood on the dam and the water ran over 56,000 acres right out there. Boats worked the far side and the water skiers came past all afternoon out there. The largest lake in Georgia, and it looked every bit of it out there. Large.

How old exactly is the whole of the Hartwell Dam standing on the Savannah River, then, really now, in the end?

It was finished back in 1962 and it has held that reservoir ever since. I walked the path from Big Oaks right out to the end of the dam. Water turned through the generating turbines below and it was oddly soothing out there. Concrete.

How big exactly is the whole of Hart State Park actually running out there, then, really now, in the end?

Over 700 acres of wetlands and forests and fields, and I walked a fraction of it out there. The campsites sat right down by the water and most of them were already taken. Hart County Botanical Garden runs another 5 acres of flowers right nearby. Green.

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