The World’s Largest Peanut Makes for the Perfect Pit Stop in Georgia

We’ve told you about the world’s largest gator in Florida and the world’s smallest covered bridge in Ohio. I think it’s time for Georgia to enter this conversation with its own roadside oddity. While the tiny doors in Atlanta are the most whimsical attraction in the state, I’ve discovered another superlative worth seeing, too. Let me introduce you to the world’s largest peanut, a 40-foot monument located along Interstate 75 in Ashburn, GA. The structure is easily seen from the highway as you cruise through the quaint little town. And it’s one of those roadside attractions in Georgia that’s worth a detour. The best part? Folks with peanut allergies, you can leave your EpiPen behind.  

You can find the city of Ashburn in Turner County, just about two hours from Atlanta (depending on traffic, of course!). The tight-knit community of 4,200 residents is known for its southern hospitality and its rich agricultural heritage. Moreover, each spring, the city hosts the famous Fire Ant Festival, attracting thousands of visitors every year. But Ashburn has another claim to fame: it’s the Peanut Capital of the World. 

So, naturally, the rural community is home to the world’s largest peanut monument. It’s one of our favorite must-visit roadside attractions in Georgia and certainly worth a detour on your next trip through the state. When I stopped in to check out the giant goober, I was pleasantly surprised by its magnitude. Driving on I-75, you’ll glimpse it from the highway, but there is nothing like standing next to the large legume to experience how impressive it really is.   

Built in 1975, the big peanut monument is over 40 feet tall and weighs approximately 5,000 pounds. Originally made using fiberglass, the 10-foot-tall nut with its golden crown was perched on top of the brick base. After suffering damage from Hurricane Michael, the original peanut was replaced in 2023 with a larger, bullet-deflecting steel structure. Today, back to its original glory, the monument stands tall, towering over the highway, surrounded by some pretty little flowers.

Fun Fact: Peanuts are the official crop of Georgia, and Ashburn is home to one of the world’s largest peanut suppliers, meaning the giant legume is more than just a roadside stop; it’s a symbol of the state’s contribution to the industry.

As far as getting to the monument, it’s an easy five-minute drive once you exit the highway. The nut is located at the end of a short, paved pathway lined with palm trees and grassy lawns. I absolutely adore the charming sign with peanut facts for photo ops. And don’t worry, even if you have peanut allergies, you can go nuts here, too. 

Stopping here is worth the 20-minute detour, and the good news is, there are some more hidden gems in the area. You’ll also see an RV campsite and Carroll’s Sausage & Country Store to the right. If you love smoked sausages, Carroll’s has some of the best in the South. Plus, you can shop for other goodies and specialty items inside the beloved country store. And if you get hungry, grab a quick snack to enjoy on your road trip. 

In addition to the country store, there is an adorable boutique, Kimberly Su, selling trendy clothing and accessories down the street from the monument. The biggest surprise? The Streetcar Espresso, just across the road from the roadside stop. The charming drive-thru coffee shop is housed inside a vintage street trolley with picnic benches and plenty of room to hang out and get your coffee fix. 

Between the oversized goober, the country store, and the adorable coffee shop, this roadside destination is the perfect pit stop. So, the next time you find yourself driving along I-75 through Georgia, take some time to explore this quirky hidden gem.

Did you know the world’s largest peanut monument was in Georgia? Have you ever detoured to check it out? Tell us on our nomination page. And while you’re there, share your favorite roadside attraction in Georgia with us. We’d love to hear from you!