Georgia is a southern state that has a lot to offer in terms of history. It was the last of the British colonies to be founded in 1733. With their white-washed clapboard churches, houses, and plantations—almost all of which reflect riches from farming and mining—these towns are the epitome of the South.
Georgia can never grow boring since there is so much natural beauty to discover, from the peaks and foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the beaches and marshes of the Barrier Islands on the coast, and all the streams, gorges, and woods in between.
1. Helen
5 Most Charming Small Towns in Georgia |
When the timber business started to wane, Helen transformed itself into a Bavarian village. Success was achieved. Today, when you strolled by Helen's structures, you would have thought you were in a Bavarian mountain community. Even in September and November, in addition to October, there is an Oktoberfest!
Every single structure exhibits traditional South German architecture; even Wendy's has a genuine appearance. The Smithgall Woods State Park, located outside of town, has hundreds of acres of hiking trails and a river that's ideal for fishing. With vistas of the mountains and a waterfall to reward trekkers at the end, Dukes Creek also offers fantastic trekking.
2. Canton
5 Most Charming Small Towns in Georgia |
Canton is situated in what was formerly thought of as the center of Cherokee territory and is tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. All of this changed when European-American immigrants arrived in the region once the Georgia Gold Rush got underway.
The town is home to a few old structures, including the 1928 County Courthouse and the Main Street's 1911 Canton Theatre. However, this community is truly all about the outdoors. You may take a stroll along the Etowah River Park in the city or go kayaking on the lake.
3. Blairsville
5 Most Charming Small Towns in Georgia |
Although Dahlonega may have been the starting point of the Georgia Gold Rush, Blairsville, a nearby town, can boast that its gold was superior. Because it was allegedly "the yellowest gold," assayers in Washington, D.C., could identify gold came from the Blairsville region merely by looking at it.
The tranquil Lake Trahlyta and the adjoining Vogel State Park are wonderful places to go outside and take in the scenery. The tallest mountain in Georgia, Brasstown Bald, is also nearby. Just over 30 miles separate Blairsville, Georgia, from the Appalachian course's end, making it a convenient starting point for hikers looking for a less strenuous beginning than the entire course.
4. Dahlonega
5 Most Charming Small Towns in Georgia |
It is well known that the first important gold rush in American history took place in Dahlonega. That occurred in 1828, and as a result, this community developed into the main boomtown for what came to be known as the Georgia Gold Rush. To find out more about the town's past, head to the Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site or the former Consolidated Gold Mine.
It's interesting to note that the name "Dahlonega" is derived from the Cherokee word for gold or golden. Naturally, the focus has shifted away from mining in this area in recent years. Due to the several wineries and three vineyards in the vicinity, Dahlonega is now known as "the heart of the North Georgia Wine Country."
5. Darien
5 Most Charming Small Towns in Georgia |
Darien, Georgia's second-oldest planned community, was once known as New Inverness and was established in 1736 by Scottish Highlanders. Given its lengthy history, you can be certain that part of the architecture will reflect it and give you the impression that you are strolling into another era.
The rebuilding of Fort King George, which was first erected in 1731 on the same site and predates the town of Darien itself, is one of the most fascinating destinations to visit. You may visit the nearby Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation, which produced rice between 1800 and 1915, for its walking route and museum. A beautiful riverfront place to wander around is the Darien River Waterfront Park & Docks.