7 Little-Known Towns In Georgia
What if the most memorable places in Georgia are not the ones you will find on the usual tourist maps? While cities like Atlanta and Savannah have plenty to see, there are towns that fly under the radar, holding hidden gems of their own. From natural springs and towering lighthouses to scenic greenways and mouthwatering barbecue, these seven towns have attractions that you may have never expected. Ready to stray from the usual path? Lace-up your boots and discover what these lesser-known spots have in store.
Cave Spring
Cave Spring takes its name from a limestone cave featuring a rock pond fed by a mineral spring. It is a convenient escape for a weekend getaway, located just 20 minutes from Rome and an hour and a half from Atlanta. Tourists often fill jugs with the fresh, high-quality water or enjoy swimming in the spring-fed pool at Rolater Park during the warmer months.
The downtown district is filled with 19th-century homes to appreciate as well, including the Van Cherokee Cabin, constructed in 1810. For a unique Christmas gift, browse the antiques at Cave Spring General Store. The beloved A&B Creekside Restaurant is an excellent stop for dinner, with an outdoor patio stretching along the creek and fantastic southern-style dishes that will leave you reminiscing for days.
Cumming
Cumming, in northern Georgia near Lake Lanier, is a natural oasis, boasting mountains, greenways, creeks, and woods. Big Creek Greenway makes the perfect hiking destination, offering over 11 miles of trails winding through woods, streams, and open green spaces. Sawnee Mountain Preserve is also popular among hikers, covering 963 acres and featuring Indian Seat rock formations along its trails. Some paths even pass by abandoned gold mines, making for an interesting adventure.
Those wanting to unwind after a day of hiking can grab a bourbon or whiskey at Legends Distillery, a locally owned and award-winning distillery in the state. Combining history with dining, Tam’s Backstage is one of Cumming’s most unique restaurants, housed in an old school building from 1923 and serving signature martinis and a diverse array of food options.
Moultrie
Moultrie, with a population of roughly 15,000 residents, is known for its beautiful downtown district. In the heart of the town, Moultrie’s Colquitt County Courthouse, a striking white structure built in 1902, has been named Georgia’s most beautiful courthouse and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. A number of colorful murals brighten up the downtown area as well, such as the Covered Breezeway Murals, Je T’aime Event Center Mural, and Sportsman’s Breezeway Murals.
December is a great time to visit Moultrie, as the town lights up for the holidays. The Christmas in the Park event features the long-awaited lighting of the tree, while the Festival of Lights Christmas Parade is one of southern Georgia’s largest parades, this year the theme being, “A Vintage Christmas.”
Eatonton
The town of Eatonton is a compelling destination for history enthusiasts, having played a significant role in the American Civil War. Visitors can take in this history by visiting the Eatonton-Putnam County Historical Society which contains abundant local artifacts, or the Old School History Museum, housed in the 1916 Eatonton Schoolhouse with four rooms of historic exhibits.
Those wanting to fish, boat, or paddleboard can head out onto Lake Oconee, a 19,050-acre reservoir with calm waters and 374 miles of shoreline. For a historic stay, consider lodging in Dot 2 Dot Inn, a white-pillared mansion built in 1844 with two acres of gardens surrounding the house.
Perry
Situated in central Georgia, Perry is particularly famous for its rodeo and fairground scene. The Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter is one of the best agricenter complexes in the southern United States, hosting livestock and horse shows, barrel races, the Georgia National Fair, and, of course, the Georgia National Rodeo.
There is more to Perry than simply its rodeo scene, however. The downtown district is a favorite among shoppers, home to wineries, bookstores, clothing boutiques, and home furnishing stores. Clover Wine Merchant, Gottwals Books, and Ashley Marie's Boutique are just a few of our favorites. In the middle of town, travelers can also appreciate an afternoon at Rotary Centennial Park, a massive green area offering paved trails, art sculptures, and a boardwalk.
Tybee Island
Just half an hour from Savannah, Tybee Island is well-known to locals there but may fly under the radar for residents of other Georgia cities. The coastal town has a multitude of beaches to explore, including North Beach, South Beach, Back River Beach, and Little Tybee Island. Dolphin tours, fishing charters, and surf lessons are also popular outdoor activities among tourists.
For a birds-eye view of the island, consider a visit to the Tybee Island Lighthouse, the state’s oldest and tallest lighthouse. Craving some fresh oysters or crab? Make sure to stop by The Crab Shack, a highly-rated, casual seaside restaurant with an outdoor patio and good views.
Dublin
A central Georgian town with a population of roughly 16,000, Dublin is particularly known for its warm, southern hospitality. For a taste of delicious barbecue and a friendly atmosphere, stop by Holy Smokes BBQ, where award-winning pitmasters serve up mouthwatering smoked meats. Visitors can also take the Historic Bellevue Walking Tour, which stretches along the two-mile Bellevue Avenue and features 19th-century homes and mansions.
Looking for a cozy, rustic place to spend the night? Dublin Farm is a charming bed and breakfast set on a 30-acre farm, offering a full American or continental breakfast each morning on its sunny terrace. For more sunshine, head out to Southern Pines Regional Park, a well-maintained 120-acre park with walking trails, soccer and baseball fields, and a water park for the kids.
Final Thoughts
After exploring these seven towns, it is clear that some of the state’s best attractions require a trek out to its lesser-known corners. If you want to experience some of the state’s best hospitality, walk along historic 19th-century sites, or take part in one of the state’s largest Christmas parades, these towns will not disappoint. So dive into Georgia’s southern culture, nature, and food—and do not be afraid to wander off the road a bit!
