7 Georgia Towns That Rival Europe's Best

Georgia is the youngest of the 13 original colonies that formed the United States of America. The state is bordered on the east by the Atlantic Ocean, while inland, visitors can find the Appalachian Mountains, as well as the Savannah and Chattahoochee Rivers. At first glance, it seems that this state would have little in common with Europe. Yet with a little investigation, you will find small towns throughout the region that rival some of Europe’s best. If you are in Georgia and want to visit places that evoke a European feel, consider any of these seven towns.

Dahlonega

There is no single reason why Dahlonega is known as a European-style city, but there are plenty of things to see that evoke that feeling. The most obvious destination evoking Europe is the nearby Montaluce Winery and Restaurant. This winery offers rustic Italian cuisine, Tuscan wines, and a vineyard that evokes the traditions of Italy. Inside town and around the Historic District, buildings may not be European in style, but they have a Victorian charm and are walkable. Shops and restaurants are all within a few steps of each other, and their vintage exteriors evoke the past in much the same way as some European towns. Visitors can expect to see artists on the street and musicians in the square. At the center of the public square, you can find the Dahlonega Gold Museum. The museum is a testament to the town’s long past and depicts the thousands of prospectors who flooded the region in search of gold.

Rome

Visitors to Rome are in for a treat of architecture that many would favorably compare to that of Europe. The Between the Rivers historic district is where guests will find unique restaurants and shops as they walk at the junctures of the Etowah, Coosa, and Oostanaula Rivers. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by homes and buildings that preserve the Victorian architecture that heavily influenced southern structures. Nearby, the Rome Clock Tower is the most prominent feature of the area and has dominated the cityscape since its completion in 1871. Today, all 107 steps can be climbed for an exquisite view of the town. Not far away, the Carnegie Building, which began life as a library in 1911, now serves as the home of the Historic Preservation Commission. This longstanding structure features ionic columns between red-bricked walls and a rising portico, creating a unique and impressive building in downtown.

Helen

If you are looking for the spirit of Europe in Georgia, few places capture that feeling better than Helen. The first place to look for is Downtown Helen and the Bavarian Village. The unique architecture here mirrors that of a Bavarian Alpine village and is popular for its many shops and dining destinations. Those staying in town who want to further the European vibe will enjoy staying at the Valhalla Resort Hotel. The hotel has a unique exterior reminiscent of Scottish castles. Visitors can look forward to luxurious suites and fantastic dining. The resort is also near some of the amazing outdoor spots around Helen. Nearby Unicoi Lake is a popular destination for those who want to walk the trails outdoors, cast a line into the water, or head out by paddleboat.

Darien

Darien evokes the old harbors of Europe, especially those in Scotland. First founded in 1736 by Scottish immigrants, Waterfront Park sits along the Darien River and offers picturesque views of the waters, nearby marshlands, and, of course, the lines of docks that evoke a European fishing port. Nearby Fort King George State Historic Site does not boast the stone walls of the European fortresses of legend. However, it remains the oldest English fort on Georgia’s coast. A wooden fort, constructed as the southernmost defense of the British Empire in North America, can be toured today. Its turdy outer walls, interior barracks, and fort canons all speak to the English history of the place. In town, the First Presbyterian Church of Darien carries the inheritance of the Scots who first arrived in the area. The church was first established in 1736 and has undergone numerous remodels and rebuilds over the years, evoking the spirit of how the church once dominated both European and American life.

Decatur

At first glance, Decatur may not seem to have much in common with Europe. However, Downtown Decatur is known for its walkability. This area boasts well-developed biking routes that mirror those of Europe, with the Decatur Path winding its way through downtown. Along this route, visitors will find a string of shops and dining options, making for a generally fantastic day out in downtown. For some afternoon cheer, the path puts bikers close to the Brick Store Pub, a popular destination for some fish and chips as well as time in the upstairs Belgian Bar. Just next door, the DeKalb History Center Museum reminds visitors of the extensive history of the area. Located in the DeKalb County Courthouse, its exhibits cover the history of the county, spanning from the Civil War era to the Civil Rights movement.

Lakemont

Parts of Europe are renowned for their numerous lakes, and Lakemont offers equally stunning views. Situated along Lake Rabun, the Lake Rabun Hotel and Restaurant is the equal of any Italian lakeside chalet. Visitors can spend the night, dine, or even rent the space for events while enjoying scenic views of the lake. Echoing this same charm is nearby Lakemont Gallery, where works by the artist Virginia McClure and several others are on display. These works include pottery, woodcraft, furniture, and other pieces that evoke a sense of old-world sensibilities. Of course, there is always Lake Rabun itself, known for waterskiing, fishing, and boating. Covering 835 acres, there is no shortage of spots to enjoy your day.

Thomasville

Visitors to Thomasville will immediately be taken by the storefronts that speak to the town’s rich history. The facades along Downtown Thomasville evoke a bygone era with their Victorian architecture and a walkability reminiscent of Europe. The district hosts over 100 merchants and retailers selling everything from cheese to candles and wine. The Thomasville Rose Garden is another destination that rivals many European gardens, with over 1,500 blooms showcased annually at the Rose Show and Festival. The history of this area can be seen at The Big Oak, which has stood since the 1600s. The Lapham-Patterson House further speaks to this history, having been built in the 1800s. Today, all three floors can be toured, and visitors can learn about the wealthy shoe merchants who first made this their winter home.

European Charm In Georgia’s Towns

At first glance, most people would not compare Georgia to Europe. The American South does not initially appear to have much in common with Old World Europe. Yet upon closer glance, you find historic downtowns, grand architecture, and walkable main streets that many would find evoke the European style. If you are in Georgia and want to enjoy time in a European-style setting, consider visiting any of these seven Georgia towns.