8 Prettiest Downtown Strips In Georgia
If you can imagine one location filled with historical significance, coastal towns, and a beautiful mountain range, then, in the words of a famous song, Georgia is on your mind. The landscape is dotted with quintessential towns that symbolize the region in which they are. For instance, Helen is an amazing Bavarian village in northern Georgia that transports visitors to a different place and time for an unforgettable visit.
Georgia is filled with classic American towns with old-timey downtown strips with modern conveniences that beg to be explored on foot. Many of these Main Street communities are warm and friendly, often hosting live events and festivals to honor their heritage. This is the best time to discover these gems. Here are eight of the prettiest downtown strips in Georgia.
Helen
The village of Helen is one of the most unique towns in the Peach State. It is a Bavarian village in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The German-inspired town has much to offer its guests, especially along the downtown strip. Helen Arts and Heritage Center should be your first stop in the city. It features local artwork in several media and includes photos and sales about the Alpine village.
No trip is complete without dining on authentic German cuisine at spots like Cafe International, Cristoff's at Seventy-Six, or Alpine Village Groceries. After fueling up, spend a day exploring the German architecture, towers, and shops. One of the best times to visit is during Oktoberfest, featuring parades, polka dancing, and live music. Lodging near the area includes the quirky Valhalla Resort Hotel and the Heidi Motel.
Covington
Covington stands out as the "Hollywood of the South" because notable films such as "The Vampire Diaries," "In the Heat of the Night," "Sweet Magnolias," and "The Dukes of Hazzard" were filmed in the area. The downtown is the epicenter of town and the location for many of these shows and films, particularly around the historic town square. Paver stone sidewalks wind around landmarks, such as the corner restaurant, Mystic Grill.
The restaurant's name derives from the fictional Mystic Falls, the town in "The Vampire Diaries." Mystic Falls Tours offers tours of these landmarks and locations, such as the Lockwood Mansion and the home used as the Gilbert house, from the comfort of a trolley—a great way to see the sights. To complete your stay, book a room at the historic Twelve Oaks Bed and Breakfast. The 1836 Antebellum mansion has also been featured in numerous Hollywood productions, allowing guests to immerse themselves in this rich cultural heritage.
Bainbridge
Bainbridge, the "Bass Capital of Georgia," is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse array of outdoor activities. However, it also has a quaint downtown with over 200 hotel rooms and 50 restaurants. It is also home to many annual festivals, including the July 4 Celebration and the Flint River Showdown Drag Boat Races, which are held each September, showcasing the best of the community.
The downtown district won the 2024 Georgia Downtown Association's Downtown of the Year for its shopping and dining options and walkable streets. Boutiques include Avie Lou and Brother, Firehouse Arts Center and Shop, and Karen's Korner. Dining options abound at The American, Bonnie Blue House, and Susie and Sam's Steakhouse. There is plenty to see and do here to fill your travel calendar, and it's one of the most charming towns in the state.
Blue Ridge
Downtown Blue Ridge, in the heart of the mountain range, is packed with unique finds, including the Blue Ridge Cotton Company and rooftop restaurants and bars. The Hook and Eye set at the top of the Hampton Inn features curated cocktails and offers elevated views of the charming downtown district. It is also renowned for its vibrant art scene and is considered one of the top 100 art towns in the United States.
The High Country Art Gallery features local paintings, jewelry, and pottery, while 4 Elements Art showcases natural art pieces and offers custom framing. There are several other galleries to explore, along with the Blue Ridge Community Theatre, which presents seven live productions each year. Another can't-miss opportunity is taking a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. It departs the historic 1906 depot downtown and allows passengers to experience one of the elements that made this town what it is today.
Dahlonega
Dahlonega is full of small-town charm and a warm community with a focus on its downtown district. Historic Downtown centers around Georgia's Gold Rush history, which is interpreted at the Dahlonega Gold Museum, housed in the former 1836 Lumpkin County courthouse. Also downtown is the 1884 Lumpkin County Jail and Museum, operated by the Historical Society, which provides another way to explore local history.
Grab a walking map and spend a day exploring the district's two-story buildings, many of which feature second-story porches, such as the Bourbon Street Grille's balcony dining. Notable venues include Bleu Gallery and Kaya Wine Tasting at Dahlonega Square Hotel. The 1880s hotel is situated in the heart of the district, offering 12 rooms and one suite, and features modern amenities within a historic setting.
Madison
Madison is considered one of the best towns in Georgia, and it is easy to see why with a short trip around the downtown district. It is part of the Main Street Initiative due to its charming venues and events, such as the Firefly Festival and Saturday Nights in the Park, which take place in September. The concert series is held in Town Park, a picturesque area featuring cobblestone paths, gazebos, and benches, making it an ideal setting for an evening concert.
Shopping is another reason to visit downtown Madison. In High Cotton, Madison Grace Home, and the Madison Artist's Guild are just a few hallmarks of this walkable district. Several sophisticated dining options are in their district, like Madison Chophouse, The Sinclair, and The Dining Room. Downtown Madison is the perfect place to experience a delightful blend of elegance and small-town charm.
Americus
Downtown Americus is stunning, with its walkable roads and Victorian brick structures. A prime architectural example is the landmark Windsor Hotel on Lamar Street. The 1892 five-story hotel with over 100 rooms includes balconies, towers, and a three-story atrium lobby. Just down the road is another landmark, the Rylander Theatre.
The theater was opened in 1921, shuttered 30 years later, and finally reopened in 1999, becoming a hallmark of the downtown district. Architect lovers and churchgoers will enjoy the Americus Presbyterian Church. The 1884 Victorian-Gothic structure is the oldest church in town. Another striking architectural design is the Thornton Wheatly Building on the corner of Forsyth and Jackson Streets. The 1892 Romanesque-style building is locally known as the Pythian Castle because the third floor was once home to the Knights of Pythias, a secret fraternity.
Roswell
Downtown Roswell is known for its charming streets, structures, and community, centering around the landmark Roswell Town Square. The Roswell Historic District was built in the mid-1800s and now includes manicured landscaping, gazebos, and park benches. Other notable sites include Roswell Mill, part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, and the Roswell Farmers and Artisans Market.
Canton Street is the main strip, offering numerous restaurants and shops with outside dining on brick sidewalks. You will also find three historic home museums that are worth exploring: Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall, and Smith Plantation. Another can't-miss stop is the Mimms Museum of Technology and Art. The museum showcases the past and future of computing, featuring a STEAM timeline of computer history that highlights technology milestones in transportation and pop culture.
Conclusion
Georgia is full of fun and unique towns with amazing downtown strips, the town's communal hub. From an Alpine village to the South's "Hollywood," these small hamlets feature the best downtown areas in the state. Whether you are looking for a mountain retreat or an epic shopping adventure, you can find it in these eight towns.
Covington is one of the most charming downtown strips, so much so that it has been featured on the silver screen many times. It's delightful for fans of the movies and shows to visit, as they can see the actual town where filming took place. Small-town vibes and friendly communities add to the natural beauty surrounding these districts, making them ideal for a relaxing visit.
