In southwest Georgia, an American history experience is waiting at the Jimmy Carter National Historical Park. Whether for your next family road trip, Georgia homeschool adventure, or Atlanta day trip, Plains, Georgia is a small town with a big role in US history. This charming Georgia small town, known as the hometown of President Jimmy Carter, provides a unique opportunity to dive into American history, Southern culture, and rural life.
A visit to Plains is more than just a historical stop; it’s a chance to feel connected to one of America’s most beloved presidents and his lasting legacy of peace, human rights, and community service. Here’s what you can expect when visiting Plains and Jimmy Carter’s home.
~~~> If you’re heading out to explore your home state of Georgia or just planning a Georgia road trip, head over to my Georgia road trip destination page for even more ideas.
Why Should I Visit Plains, GA?
Only 2.5 hour south of Atlanta in Sumter County, visiting Plains, Georgia is a quick trip. This hometown of President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalynn brings history to life as it was in this small town that they grew up, went to school together, and started their life. After his presidency in 1977, this is where President Carter returned back to his roots, continuing to work with the community and teach classes at his local Baptist church.
This quick drive to the farmland of southern Georgia will take you back in time. The road trip itself is scenic, taking you through stretches of lush Georgia countryside. It’s easily accessible from major cities like Atlanta, about a two-hour drive south, making it perfect for a weekend getaway or a day trip.
Must-See Historical Attractions in Plains
The Jimmy Carter National Historic Site includes three distinct areas and preserves the significant locations of Carter’s life in Plains, including his childhood home, school, and campaign headquarters. Managed by the National Park Service, these sites allow visitors to learn about Carter’s humble beginnings and how they influenced his values and leadership style.
Plains High School Visitor Center
Now a museum and visitor center, the Plains High School Visitor Center is located in the historic Plains High School. This was Carter’s school from 1st through 11th grade where he attended classes with his future wife, Rosalyn. Inside, you’ll find exhibits detailing Carter’s life and legacy, including his time as a peanut farmer, his political rise, and his work for global peace.
Built in 1921, let the kids experience the school of their parents and grandparents in the preserved classroom, principal’s office, and auditorium. Also, you will journey through Carter’s presidency and legacy through several rooms of exhibits covering his presidency and humanitarian efforts. Allow about an hour for this small museum.
This is also a great place to have a picnic and allow the kids to run around on their Georgia road school adventure as there is a large green space and picnic tables in front of the building. There is plenty of parking, and if you’re up for a five minute walk, you can stay parked here to walk over to explore downtown Plains.
Jimmy Carter’s Campaign Headquarters at the Plains Depot
Park along mainstream in Plains and visit the Plains Depot. Allow time for a quick visit to the oldest building in Plains dating back to 1888. This small train depot, an iconic building used during his run for state senator, Georgia governor, and his 1976 presidential campaign. Wander this self-guided museum. Listen to campaign speeches and see the campaign materials as you learn about his rise from a small-town farmer to President. Imagine the streets around this humble train depot surrounded by thousands of Carter supporters cheering on each victory. Allow about fifteen minutes for this stop.
Jimmy Carter’s Boyhood Home
Only a quick drive from downtown Plains sections of this National Historic Site, the Carter Boyhood Home and Farm is the preserved childhood farmhouse where visitors can see how he grew up, see his simple childhood bedroom and home, and visit the general store next door where his father provided for the community. Take the time to explore the small farm, and learn about the Carter family’s rural lifestyle and values.
This farm is the portion of the trip that your kids will enjoy the most as they check out the well, say hi to the barnyard animals, and wander the crops in the field. Journey back in time as you examine the old products on the shelves of his father’s commissary that your kids have never seen before. There’s even the original clay tennis court and blacksmith shop.
This is a good place to end your journey through Jimmy Carter’s life as there is a restroom for one last stop before driving home.
How Much Time Do I Need to Explore Plains?
Visiting the Jimmy Carter sites in Plains, Georgia will take about half a day. Even if you want to some time shopping, there are only a few small stores on the tiny main street, so they won’t add much time.
- Shop the antique malls or stroll through the small garden across the street
- Explore the bins of old political memorabilia for sale at the Plains Trading Post (real treasures here!)
- Grab a bite to eat at the cafe or the famous peanut butter ice cream from Plains General Store
- Visit the Peanut of Peace – you’re in peanut country when a giant peanut has Jimmy Carter’s smile
Is Plains, Georgia Good for Kids?
If you are road tripping through Georgia, a stop in Plains is a great destination for a wiggle break with a side of learning. Learning about President Carter is a low-risk activity without talk of dangerous or upsetting subject matter. The museum has plenty of hands-on learning including walking through an older school; what a great opportunity for grandparents to share about their childhood. Additionally, the museum is a quick stop off and free to explore. This is great way to get smaller kids ready to tackle bigger museums.
Kids will enjoy the farmhouse the most (apart from the peanut butter ice cream!) especially if there are currently farm animals in the yard. They can run around outside and explore with little risk.
What is Near Plains, Georgia?
Although in the rural area of Georgia, a day trip to Plains can easily be connected to other fabulous nearby learning destinations to make a weekend of exploring southern Georgia.
Visit Andersonville National Historic Site
Only thirty minutes from Plains, this would be a great half-day adventure to add to half a day in Carter’s Plains. Although I haven’t been to the Andersonville prison yet, this important Civil War prison is on my list!
Visit Columbus, Georgia
Only an hour from Plains, head northwest back to experience a larger city with its fabulous museums and the river sports.
- National Infantry Museum – Located at Fort Moore, this FREE museum is a full-day experience. You will get tired of learning long before you run out of exhibits to see. This is a full history lesson for all ages through all the US wars.
- National Civil War Naval Museum – See the ironclad from the Civil War!
- Columbus Museum – This museum is perfect for a full afternoon exploring art and Georgia history; the history section is really fabulous and a full history curriculum in itself. There’s even a Chihuily glass exhibit.
- Coca-Cola Science Museum – We haven’t been, but it looks fun.
~~~> Make sure you check my Georgia road trip destination page for even more ideas! My state has lots of amazing and beautiful places that need to be on your list.
Where Should I Stay for a Weekend Trip?
If you want to take a weekend exploring the area of Plains and surrounding small towns, check out my friends at Wanee Lake RV Park and Golf Course. Bring the RV or stay in the cozy cabin to be surrounded by nature in a quiet, relaxing environment.
~~~> Check out all the details at my post “Wanee Lake: The Georgia Campground to Book Now”.
Make sure you add a day trip to Plains, Georgia for history lovers, road schoolers, and those looking to connect with Jimmy Carter’s legacy. Explore his roots and experience the charm of this small Southern town.
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Thanks for stopping by my little corner! Here’s to your next adventure.
I’m Bobbie. As transplants from Texas, my family of six is on a mission to discover all of Georgia’s amazing places, experience amazing road trips across the United States, and create a homeschool life along the way.
Want to adventure like me? Reach out! I’d love to chat. Stop by my Instagram or Pinterest page to discover more of our adventures.
Want to work with me? I’d love to work with your destination and tourism board to help other family travelers see all you have to offer.
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