8 Oldest Founded Georgia Towns to Visit in Georgia in 2024
Georgia is one of the most touristy destinations in the US, thanks in part to the Atlantic Ocean on its southeast borders and other natural features like waterfalls, canyons, mountains, and dense forests further inland. However, this state is not just special because of nature’s endowments but also because of its rich history dating back hundreds of years. Like many other parts of the present-day US, Georgia was inhabited by Native Americans for thousands of years. Then came the Spanish in the 16th century, who soon left and gave way to the rapid settlements of the English after the state was founded as the last of the Thirteen Colonies. Today, many of the earliest settlements in the area have survived as towns and have preserved huge chunks of the country’s history. From Madison to Brunswick, here are the oldest-founded towns in the Peach State to visit for an immersion into the origins of the US.
Hartwell
Hartwell is a charming historic town in Hart County. It was founded in 1854 to serve as the seat of the county but was incorporated in 1856. The town was named after Revolutionary War Heroine Nancy Morgan Hart, although Nancyville was the initial choice. Unravel more history about this female war icon and the town today at the Hart County Historical Museum inside the 1881 Teasley-Holland house via artifacts and photography collections. Don’t forget to embark on a walking tour of the historic downtown to further immerse in the area’s history and see interesting structures. While in the area, be sure to enjoy sensational meals at Downtown Café. Proceed to Lake Hartwell, south of the town, to bask in its scenic views while strolling or indulge in boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and picnicking activities. Afterward, relish a memorable wildlife experience at the Lake Hartwell Wildlife Safari, driving and sighting animals such as bison, ostrich, zebra, tortoise, buffalo, and wildebeest. Meanwhile, the Hartwell Art Center beckons artsy visitors to come to explore its changing exhibits and fascinating artworks.
Watkinsville
Watkinsville, named after Colonel Robert Watkins, was first founded in 1791. However, this Oconee County town was incorporated in 1815, with the Methodist Church playing a central role in its history and growth. One of the town’s prominent attractions that symbolizes its rich history is the Eagle Tavern Museum, built around 1801. Today, the museum offers tours aimed at immersing guests into the life of travelers in the 1800s. Elder Mill Covered Bridge is another scenic and historic draw in town worth visiting, built in 1897 over Calls Creek, but now in Rose Creek, and is one of the thirteen functioning covered bridges in the state. Visitors in town are also welcome to shop for antiques at Attic Treasures Antiques and meddle in the creative arts world at the Oconee Cultural Arts Foundation for more immersion into the area’s history.
Madison
Madison, a beautiful historic town in Morgan County, was established in 1809 and rose as a stagecoach stop and residence for the family of planters. This pretty town has one of the largest historic districts in Georgia, featuring nearly 100 antebellum homes. Some of these include Bonar Hall (1839), Morgan County Courthouse (1904 - 1905), Heritage Hall (1811), and Carter-Newton House (1849). Still in the district, visitors can check out the Morgan County African American Museum to explore the history of African Americans and their cultures through artifacts, exhibits, and artistic displays. Experience African wildlife in the US at the Georgia Safari Conservation Park in town with a thrilling safari drive through the park’s 530-acre savanna to see rhinos, zebras, antelopes, and giraffes. Enjoy fine dining later at Town 220 Restaurant, and explore artworks at the Madison Arts Guild Gallery.
Milledgeville
Milledgeville is a historic town along the Oconee River, founded in 1803 by European Americans to serve as the capital of Georgia State. It was named after Georgia Governor John Milledge and was the capital from 1804 to 1868. Today, the Old Governor’s Mansion - home to state governors from 1839 to 1868, is a historic highlight in the Milledgeville Historic District. Find more Old World charms like Georgia’s Old Capitol Building (circa 1805), Atkinson Hall in Georgia College (1896), and St. Stephen's Episcopal Church (circa 1841) on a walking tour of the district. Hit the outdoors afterward to kayak, fish, and canoe on the Oconee River or Lake Sinclair. Wrap up with scintillating performances and shows at Birdhouse Theater and delicious pizza at The Brick.
Rome
Rome’s history dates to 1834, when it was founded after the US Congress signed the Indian Removal Act that removed native Cherokees from their territory. However, the Cherokees resisted their removal until they finally gave up in 1838. Soon, the settlement then rose on agricultural strides to become one of the state’s biggest and most historic towns. Today, visitors can glimpse at the town’s storied past in the Rome Area History Center, featuring exhibits and photography collections. Additionally, check out the Chieftains Museum, home to Major Ridge, who was assassinated after opposing his fellow Cherokee natives when they tried to resist their removal from the land. Don’t forget to see the 1871 Rome Clocktower on the summit of its namesake hill, serving as one of the town’s oldest landmarks. Afterward, walk or bike on the ECO Greenway for the gorgeous town’s riverfront scenery and enjoy a sumptuous lunch in the historic Harvest Moon Café before leaving.
Brunswick
The Province of Georgia first laid out the town of Brunswick in 1771, but most of the town’s citizens were lost during the Revolutionary War. The town recovered by reassigning new lots and officially became a port of entry in 1789 by a Congress Act. Most of its historic attractions are on the barrier islands off the coast, linked by causeways. Once here, visit St. Simons Island to see Fort Frederica National Monument, a fortress built in 1736 that prevented Spanish troops from taking over the island in the Battle of Bloody Marsh. Explore the 1811 St. Simons Light and Museum next to see lighthouse exhibits and ascend to the top for oceanic views. Don’t miss a visit to the World War II Home Front Museum, as it presents intriguing tales about the war. Also, visit Lover’s Oak, a 900-year-old historic oak tree where native Americans and their lovers met. Meanwhile, don’t miss the fun and entertainment at the historic Ritz Theater.
St. Mary’s
St. Mary’s is famous for being one of Georgia’s oldest towns, which was established in 1787. However, the town’s history dates back to earlier times, when it was once the site of a 16th-century Spanish mission. Today, visitors here can immerse themselves in the area’s iconic past, starting with St. Mary’s Submarine Museum. This waterfront museum uncovers the history of submarines in the US Navy and on St Mary’s waters as it hosts memorabilia, artifacts, and a film show. Next, visitors can head to Oak Grove Cemetery, the state’s oldest cemetery, established in 1788, to see tombs of soldiers who fought in the Revolutionary War. Proceed with a ferry to Cumberland Island and visit the National Seashore Museum to explore military exhibits and artifacts that mirror the life of pioneers. While on the island, roam around to soak in the natural scenery and explore ancient ruins, marshes, and wetlands. Return to the town and savor dinner at the Southern Riverwalk Restaurant.
Darien
Darien, Georgia’s second-oldest planned city, was founded in 1736 by Scottish Highlanders to serve as a fortress protecting Georgia from the Spaniards. After the conflicts, the area grew to become a bustling coastal town full of history and outdoor charms. Visitors can begin their tour of this town today at Fort King George Historic Site, built by the British in 1721 along the Altamaha River against Spanish and French invasions. Next, visit the Old Jail Art Center - one of the town’s oldest public buildings to explore local arts and learn more about the area’s history. Also, visit St. Cyprians - one of the few African-American Episcopal Churches in Georgia, built for former enslaved people in the area around 1875. Take a break from history and head to the Darien River Waterfront to walk on a boardwalk or boat and cruise on the river. Warp up with sensational seafood at the riverside Skipper’s Fish Camp.
Georgia remains an incredibly appealing destination in the US today because of its iconic natural endowments and especially its vast history. Visit some of the state’s oldest-founded towns today to immerse in the splendor of America’s bygone days. While visiting, stroll through their historic districts and explore museums and landmarks to better understand the expansive gap between the past and present. Don’t forget to sample local delicacies, engage in some outdoor adventures, and peruse art galleries for a well-rounded experience in these incredible towns in Georgia.
