Planes, Trains and Automobiles: A Three-Day Group Tour
Enjoy the ride of your life with a group tour of Georgia's best transportation destinations.
It's no surprise that a state with ample coastline, railways, highways and skyways is a little obsessed with going places. Georgia is home to a wide array of notable transportation-themed destinations, from museums and historic sites to locales offering one-of-a-kind motoring experiences. So whether your group has the need for speed or prefers to enjoy a leisurely outing, you'll be able to find the perfect spot for everyone. Buckle up and spend three days immersed in some of the most memorable tours the state has to offer!
Western and Atlantic Railroad Tunnel, Tunnel Hill
Opened in 1850, the Western and Atlantic Railroad Tunnel, which runs 1,477 feet through the base of Chetoogeta Mountain, became a major thoroughfare connecting Atlanta to Chattanooga. A centerpiece of the Civil War's Great Locomotive Chase, the tunnel was rehabilitated and opened to the public in 2000. Today, you can walk the tunnel and visit the nearby W&A Museum and Heritage Park. Groups of 20 or more receive a reduced rate, as well as customized tours; at least two weeks advance notice is required.
Old Car City USA, White
Take a step back in time at the world's largest known classic car junkyard. Encompassing 32 acres, it boasts more than 4,000 abandoned cars that are at least 40 years old–as well hand-lettered signs and folk art. Much of the family-owned property is forested land, and vegetation has grown over and into the vehicles, providing captivating photo backdrops. Rates are $25 per person for those taking photos and $15 per person to simply walk the site.
Tellus Science Museum, Cartersville
Boasting numerous fascinating artifacts, this museum takes visitors on a 100-year journey through transportation technology. In the Millar Science in Motion Gallery, the permanent exhibit includes displays on the Wright Brothers at Kitty Hawk, advances in automotive manufacturing and the first men who landed on the moon. A rate of $11.95 per person is available for groups of 20 or more.
Overnight in Cartersville
George Washington Carver Park and Park Marina at Lake Allatoona, Acworth and Cartersville
When your groups wants to get out on the water, head to Lake Allatoona's Park Marina to rent a boat (and hire a driver) for an afternoon gliding along the lake. Take a 10-minute trip to George Washington Carver Park, a day-use facility that features a beach, picnic areas and a dining hall that accommodates 200. Groups may rent the entire facility and heave exclusive access to the building and the beach.
Porsche Experience Center, Atlanta
Get behind the wheel of your dream car at the Porsche Experience Center Atlanta. Upon arrival, select your favorite Porsche model and get out on the track with a Porsche drive coach for a 90-minute, hands-on learning experience. Then head to the simulator lab to see what some of the world's greatest racetracks are like. For groups of six or more, contact one of the facility's event program managers, who can design a customized experience based on your group's size and budget.
Delta Flight Museum, Atlanta
Get a high-flying thrill at the newly renovated Delta Flight Museum. Exhibits include displays of restored vintage aircraft from various decades, the historic Boeing 767 (christened "The Spirit of Delta") and the first Boeing 747-400 (you can even walk on the wing!). There's also a Boeing 737 flight simulator, among other hands-on experiences. Admission for groups of 10 or more is $10 per person, and one-hour guided tours can accommodate up to 25 people.
Overnight in Atlanta
Durhamtown Off Road Resort, Union Point
The country's largest off-road track destination is a 6,000-acre facility that welcomes dirt bikes, ATVs, Side x Sides (SXS), 4x4 vehicles and more (and vehicles may be rented here). With 14 tracks, 150 miles of one-way trails and three obstacle/technical areas, Durhamtown is perfect for riders of all ages and skill levels. The resort offers cabins, tent camping and more than 150 RV sites (including power, water and sewer) near Lake Oconee, making it an ideal location for groups. Enjoy Southern fare at Bev's Kitchen, the onsite restaurant open on weekends and holidays.
Swainsboro Raceway, Swainsboro
Every week from March through September, the historic Swainsboro Raceway puts on a spectacular show for race fans. With a new 3/10-mile dirt track and more than 100 cars participating, the facility hosts Saturday night events in six different racing divisions and thirteen Go Kart divisions. Fans come from far and wide to sit in the grandstands and experience racing like never before. Tickets are available on race day, and RV parking is available.
Augusta Canal Petersburg Boat Tours, Augusta
Take a journey into the past, when 19th century textile mills fueled the economy and the Confederate Powder Works provided gunpowder for Southern troops. On these tours, guides enlighten you about the role the canal and surrounding businesses played in Augusta's development as you float along in open-air Petersburg boats. Ticket prices are based on the tour you choose, and groups of 20 or more receive a discount. Boat tour tickets also include admission to the Augusta Canal Discovery Center.
