7 Georgia Cities with the Best Downtowns in 2024

Georgia is a state in the southern US that is packed with fun things to see and do in 2024. From pristine parks to historic downtowns and an array of tasty restaurants and eateries, you simply can’t go wrong when planning a trip here.

We’re focusing on some of the best small towns that make this state so iconic. Yes, larger cities like Atlanta and Augusta are great, but much of the Peach State’s southern charm can be found in its more rural areas. Join us as we discuss 7 of Georgia’s best, less-visited downtowns in 2024.

Dahlonega

The town of Dahlonega is a hub for North Georgia travelers seeking well-preserved 19th-century architecture, excellent dining options, and some of the state’s best wineries.

Central to Dahlonega is the Dahlonega Gold Museum, which chronicles the city’s gold rush beginning in 1828. Dahlonega restaurants cater to a variety of tastes, with options ranging from Southern fare to international cuisine. Spirits Tavern, for example, is a highly regarded and incredibly popular spot for American food and locally produced spirits.

Downtown Dahlonega is also a gateway to the nearby North Georgia Mountains, where outdoor activities abound. Hiking, boating on Lake Zwerner, and even vineyard tours (from Cavender Creek Vineyards and many others) are easily found on the outskirts of town.

Madison

Downtown Madison exemplifies Southern charm with its modern amenities and historic destinations. Key features include a variety of shops, local eateries, and antique stores housed in many of the antebellum buildings found here.

The town’s central square, dominated by the Morgan County Courthouse, provides a picturesque focal point for the area, while walking through the rest of downtown you can come across more preserved 19th century homes, many of which now serve as bed and breakfasts or small museums. The Brady Inn is one such inn, conveniently located a short walk from downtown.

Madison Town Park not only hosts regular live shows on its ornate stage, but is also a great place to take a morning or evening stroll during your stay here. For a wilder adventure in the city, visit the famous Georgia Safari Conservation Park.

Senoia

Senoia is a visually striking town just south of Atlanta, with a number of Victorian-style buildings. Many of these buildings now house local restaurants, shops, and other businesses.

Downtown Senoia is home to the Senoia Area Historical Society Museum, which provides context on the town’s past, including its role in the Civil War and early 20th-century developments. During your visit, be sure to stroll along Main Street, where you’ll get an up-close look at many of the historic buildings here, along with most of the town’s best restaurants and other amenities.

Riverwood Studios also calls Senoia home, and for that reason, many TV and film productions have been filmed here. Their credits include The Walking Dead, Driving Miss Daisy, Fried Green Tomatoes, and several other famous titles. You can even tour the filming location of The Walking Dead with Water Tower Tours: The Walking Dead Tours, their office is located right in the center of town, just off Main Street.

Thomasville

Located on the southernmost edge of Georgia, right on the Florida border, Thomasville is a city that is a prominent example of southern heritage with a modern twist. One of the main attractions is the Thomasville History Center, which offers in-depth information through various displays and exhibits on local history. Also found here is the striking Big Oak, a symbol of the city’s historic roots, which, as you may have guessed, is a huge oak tree. What’s even more amazing about this tree is that it is estimated that it began growing in the year 1680!

Annual events like the Thomasville Rose Show, which celebrates the city’s association with the fragrant plant, are popular in the area. There are also several cultural attractions, including The Ritz Amphitheater, which regularly hosts live shows for the public.

Fayetteville

You’ll find this pleasant little town on the edge of Atlanta’s bustling metro area. Fayetteville, like many southern cities like it, is centered around a historic courthouse, which anchors the main square and serves as a place where several local businesses call home.

This city also has an established historic district, with converted buildings that house unique shops and restaurants, like the Olde Courthouse Tavern, a great place to grab a bite to eat and a cold drink on a hot summer day. Notable historic sites include the Fayetteville Train Depot, now a museum dedicated to the area’s railroad heritage, and the Old Fayette County Jail, which offers historical tours. This fun mix of historic sites with a modern twist makes downtown Fayetteville a distinctive and engaging area to explore both the past and the present.

Woodstock

Located on the north side of Atlanta, downtown Woodstock is known for its revitalized historic district and the many activities available nearby.

Key places to visit include the historic Olde Rope Mill Park, which offers great walking and cycling and stunning views of the Little River.

If you’d rather stay within the confines of downtown, be sure to take a stroll down Main Street, where places like the Salt Factory Pub are sure to provide a tasty meal and drink to wash it all down. Catch a show at the Elm Street Cultural Arts Village, which hosts theater productions and art exhibits. Visit The Park at the City Center for some urban green space, accented by a beautiful fountain and gazebo.

Tocoa

Toccoa’s is a popular escape to the wilderness of northeast Georgia for residents of nearby Atlanta. Toccoa Falls is a pristine spot just north of the city, while Cool Springs Recreation Area is a bit more remote and secluded, but offers visitors a more secluded retreat. If you don’t feel like driving, Henderson Falls Park is conveniently located just a few minutes’ walk from Toccoa’s town center.

Historic sites in the city include the Stephens County Courthouse and the Currahee Military Museum, which features detailed exhibits on the city’s role in World War II, from veterans who came from the area to local production of equipment for the war effort. Downtown Toccoa is also home to the Toccoa Train Depot, a historic landmark that now serves as a museum and event space.

See Georgia’s Historic Downtowns in 2024

From the natural seclusion you can find in Toccoa to the abundance of preserved historical sites you can find in cities like Madison, it doesn’t have to be hard to find a stop on your next Georgia road trip. Whether you’re a local looking for an Atlanta escape or you’re visiting the Peach State and want to immerse yourself in some Southern culture, you can use this list as a starting point for your 2024 vacation!