Atlanta and Savannah are worth their hype, but don’t overlook the tiny towns of the Peach State. With mountain adventures, coastal views, vegetable-themed festivals, fall foliage, and even a little glimpse of Europe, there’s a lot to discover when you wander off the beaten path.
Here are the best small towns in Georgia, all with a population of under 12,000.
Darien
Millions have been captured by Savannah’s charms, but about an hour south, the quiet coastal town of Darien has an allure all of its own. Founded in 1736, it’s home to old live oaks, Gullah-Geechee culture, and picturesque views along the Altamaha River — not to mention great seafood, golfing, and pristine nature.
Senoia
Looking for something totally different from Georgia’s usual suspects? Head to Senoia, famous for being the filming location of the hit TV show The Walking Dead. Senoia went from ghost town to popular destination thanks to this recent claim to fame, and today, visitors can take a Walking Dead-themed tour or explore the thriving Main Street, which is dotted with shops and restaurants.
Dahlonega
If you love wineries, hunting for antique treasures, waterfalls, quaint downtowns, and mountain scenes, Dahlonega is the place for you. Visitors can also explore hundreds of years of history here — the town was the site of the first major gold rush in the U.S. in the 1820s. You can learn more at the Dahlonega Gold Museum or opt for an outdoor adventure in the Chattahoochee National Forest, which is great for hiking, trout fishing, mountain biking, and chasing waterfalls. If you’re more into liquid gold, check out the vineyards along the Dahlonega Wine Trail.
Leave a Reply