2024's 7 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Georgia
Known for its comfortable winters and tropical summers, Georgia has been a popular tourist destination for decades. However, it isn't just the music scene in Atlanta or the historical buildings of Savannah that draws folks to the Peach State. Many small towns offer dazzling lakes, stately mountains, and charming downtowns that travel connoisseurs find irresistible. The region's succulent cuisine, sparkling wine, friendly people, and varied activities mean that you'll have plenty to keep you busy, even in the lesser-known hamlets. Here are some of our favorites.
Dahlonega
Located around an hour and a half north of Atlanta, Dahlonega is snuggled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The site of the nation's first Gold Rush in 1829, the village carries on its heritage with the annual Gold Rush Days Festival and the Dahlonega Gold Museum, where you'll find interesting artifacts, films, and a gift shop. Outdoor adventurers will flip their backpacks for nature-friendly workout opportunities in the area. These include stopping by the Outback Guide Service for guidance on the area's trails, waterfalls, streams, and historical sites. And if you're bringing your kiddies along, don't forget to check out the Dahlonega Butterfly Farm or the Red Oak Lavender Farm.
Still, the beauty of Dahlonega doesn't end with its nature trails. The quaint, walkable downtown is home to outposts like The Spice & Tea Exchange of Dahlonega, with its exotic tea and seasonings, and the Dress up Boutique, with its comfy and flattering styles. If you're in town for a romantic weekend, check out the private cottages and jetted tubs at the Mountain Laurel Creek Inn & Spa. Or get close to the action with your friends at the Hall House Hotel. There's a reason why Hallmark's "Christmas in the Smokies" was filmed in Dahlonega and why events like the Dahlonega Literary & Science Festival take place there every year. Its unique combination of rustic grace and upscale charm makes it the perfect spot for a girlfriend's weekend, a couples' escape, or a family excursion.
Darien
With a population of fewer than 2,000 locals, Darien occupies a dreamy location on Georgia's Atlantic Coast, about an hour's drive from both Savannah, Georgia, and Jacksonville, Florida. Like many coastal towns, it's a fabulous spot for fishing, boating, kayaking, and canoeing. History buffs will want to visit Fort King George, the oldest English fort remaining on the Georgia Coast, initially built in 1721. Also popular is the Old Jail Art Center and Museum, one of the oldest public buildings in the area that has been converted into six working art galleries where classes are offered regularly.
Darien's waterfront location also makes it a fabulous destination for lovers of locally caught seafood. Try the Fried Georgia Shrimp at Skipper's Fish Camp or the Snow Crab Dinner at B & J's Steaks and Seafood. If you're staying overnight, check out the cozy accommodations at Oaks on the River Boutique Hotel or enjoy the views at the Darien Waterfront Inn. Plantations (like the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation,) barrier islands (like Sapelo Island,) and parks (like Waterfront Park) are all a quick trip from Darien, so you can easily turn your day trip into a fun-filled weeklong excursion.
Thomasville
Located close to the border, the hamlet of Thomasville is less than an hour's drive from Tallahassee, Florida. You will love the Victorian charm of spots like The Rose Garden and Cherokee Lake Park, where over 1,500 rose bushes bloom every summer. Pavillions and playgrounds make this the perfect location for the Annual Rose Show and Festival every April. Entertainment, a parade, an antique car show, and vendors have made this a popular event for over 100 years!
Foodies won't want to miss eateries like Chop House on the Bricks, where you'll find local delights like Gulf Shrimp, Pimento Oysters, and Filet Mignon. Or relax with a latte and fresh-baked muffin at the Grassroots Coffee Shop. Hobby enthusiasts will get tied up in knots for the yarn selection at Fuzzy Goat Yarns or the materials at Trolly's Designer Fabrics. If you don't know where to start, stop by Local Strolls Historic Tours for a knowledgeable guide to show you around.
Peachtree City
Less than forty minutes from Atlanta sits the picturesque hamlet of Peachtree City, where scenes from Sweet Home Alabama and Drop Dead Diva were filmed. No car? No problem! The pretty city is also home to over 100 miles of golf cart paths, and the vehicles are available for rent. You can drive past popular hotels, sparkling lakes, and charming shopping centers. As you might imagine, movie tours like The Southern Hollywood Film Tour, which shows you the locations where scenes from your favorite movies were filmed, are also a popular pastime for visitors.
If you're staying for the weekend, familiar names like the Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Peachtree City and the Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites will keep you comfortable. Those who love craft beers will enjoy a fine meal at Crosstown Grille and Alehouse that includes local lagers, IPAs, and ales. Foodies can sample hot, fresh seafood at the Georgia Shrimp Company or Due South Seafood Kitchen. Finally, shoppers will find no shortage of delights up and down the avenue hot spots like Darling Diva's Boutique and Lizard Thicket.
Madison
Madison, Georgia, is known for its storybook homes, colorful flowers, and adorable shopping. History buffs won't want to miss the Morgan County Historical Society and Heritage Hall, where you'll find period furnishings and architecture. You can also visit the Apalachee Schoolhouse, which was built in 1911 and still has most of its original materials. If you love to eat, check out Benny Paul's Soul Food, where you'll find the best baby back ribs, fried chicken, and cornbread in town. Or enjoy the sizzling steaks and atmosphere at the Madison Chophouse Grille.
Madison is only an hour's drive from both Atlanta and Augusta, so it's a great small-town stop if you're visiting the larger metropolitan areas in the state. Stay at the cozy Farmhouse Inn or the elegant James Madison Inn if you want to make it a weekend.
St. Mary's
St. Mary's is a beautiful coastal community and the gateway to Georgia's famed Cumberland Island, only an hour's drive north of Jacksonville, Florida. You can take the ferry to Cumberland Island, where you'll find plenty of fishing, hiking, and wildlife, or hang around the peaceful village. Visit the St. Mary's Submarine Museum, the only one of its kind in Southern Georgia, or the Plum Orchard Mansion, originally built by Lucy Carnegie for her son and his wife.
If you love the outdoors, you won't want to miss Crooked River State Park's hiking, camping, and nature center. Those wishing to stay somewhere more central can take in the front porch charm of the Spencer House Inn. If you're looking for delicious dining, enjoy Locals Dockside or the Southern Riverwalk. And, if you're looking for a unique tour, enjoy the St. Mary's Murder, Mayem, and Mimosas Walking Tour, complete with an assassination plot and cocktails at noon.
Greensboro
If lake living is your thing, don't miss out on a visit to Greensboro, where the glassy waters of Lake Oconee provide ample opportunities for tubing, paddleboarding, and swimming. Kiddos will love the waterfront playground, and parents won't want to miss dining at spots with picturesque views like Gaby's by the Lake.
The area is also home to the Ritz-Carlton Lake Oconee, where you'll find luxury rooms, outdoor fireplaces, and private cottages. Golf, a spa, and a fitness center will keep you busy on the resort's property, but you must also check out the neighborhood's downtown. The Oconee Brewing Company, for example, is the perfect spot for craft ales, live music, or brunch. And don't miss the shopping at Just Be or Pop Vintage.
If your idea of a great trip includes water views, delicious cuisine, and darling shopping, you've got to check out the small towns in Georgia. Most are a short drive from big cities and will provide you with all of the rest and inspiration you need to restart your work week. With accommodations that range from cozy B&Bs to elegant resorts to affordable hotels, you'll be sure to find the perfect spot to get away from it all and never want to go home.
