Encompassing some of the world’s most beautiful geological features, Georgia could be home to your next getaway. It’s where the peaks of the Blue Ridge, the rolling slopes of the Ridge-and-Valley, the rugged hills of the Appalachian Plateau, the hilly terrains of the Piedmont, and the beaches of the Lower Coastal Plain converge to invite adventurous souls to explore. Georgia cradles these small towns that could be the gateway to your next big escapade. Come and take a glance at your next home away from home in Georgia’s coziest towns.

Thomasville

Located almost to the border of Georgia going to Florida, Thomasville is a hidden gem of a town that is always worth your time. It is one of the most beautiful towns in the state and even nicknamed itself the City of Roses, after its famous, manicured rose garden, which sees over 1000 fully bloomed bushes throughout the year. It is also home to the annual Rose Festival that attracts tourists nationwide.

When you cannot get enough of nature, Cherokee Lake Park is adjacent to the garden. Folks looking to enjoy the surroundings can walk the path around the lake or snap photos from the picturesque bridges. Never miss the opportunity to see the legendary Big Oak Tree on Monroe Street either.

For a quick glimpse into the town’s past, visit the Lapham-Patterson House Historic Site. This National Historic Landmark is a revered Victorian structure and once home to Chicago businessman C.W. Lapham. Curious minds can also learn about African-American history at the Jack Hadley Black History Museum. The collection of artifacts, now over 4,500 pieces and counting, is a labor of love from historian James “Jack” Hadley.

Dahlonega

Cradled at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega has cemented its status as one of Georgia’s most picturesque towns. Blanketed by tree-lined brick sidewalks and charming shops in unique buildings, the historic public square should not be missed when going on a cozy walk. You can catch a show and a laugh at Holly Theatre and then pick up some knick-knacks from the Dahlonega General Store.

Are you interested in the state’s mining history? Dahlonega Gold Museum in the iconic Old Lumpkin County Courthouse is a must-add to your itinerary. The museum displays artifacts, such as coins and nuggets, from the Southern Gold Rush of 1836.

If you wish to spend some time in nature, Dahlonega is home to the peaceful Lake Zwerner Trail and Yahoola Creek Park.

Ball Ground

Looking to spend some time in Ball Ground on the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains? There might not be anything cozier than a quiet stroll in a world-class garden where you are surrounded by paradisiacal landscaping bursting with the most vibrant colors you can imagine, which is exactly what’s waiting for you at Gibbs Gardens. This attraction has 18 seasonal gardens and 6 main lawns waiting to be explored. There’s also the Ball Ground Botanical Garden closer to downtown if you prefer staying close to the action.

After a whimsical day spent amongst majestic flora, head down to Gilmer Ferry Road for some good food and finds. You can go for a mid-day pick-me-up at Barrel House Coffee Co. or the biggest custom burger at Ball Ground Burger Bus. You can sweeten up the day at Jill’s Cakes and Bakes, famous for delectable coconut cakes and cannolis.

Cave Spring

Located an hour and a half northwest of Atlanta, almost to the Alabama border, Cave Spring is a comfy home away from home for city folks looking for a quick escape. One of the best things to do in town is explore the iconic cave at Rolater Park, which stays at a cool, breezy 57-degree Fahrenheit temperature no matter the season. It’s a popular destination even for locals, especially in the summer. There’s also a spring in front of the cave, where you can bring out as many jugs as you want and collect fresh water.

For RV lifers or folks holidaying with their families, Cedar Creek Park is an ideal place to visit. The campground offers full hookups for campers and fun-filled activities for all ages to enjoy, including fishing and kayaking.

Cave Spring’s downtown area will enchant any traveler with its town square gazebo and central park surrounded by specialty stores like Martha Jane’s Fudge Shop and Linde Marie’s Steakhouse. You are in for a treat if you enjoy antiquing as the town center is filled with such shops, including Peddler and Antiques on the Square.

Blue Ridge

If you want to be somewhere cozy, where better to visit than a mountain town? Blue Ridge is one of the best getaways you’ll find in Georgia. Main Street is sprinkled with all things charming and wonderful. Start the day right with a hearty omelet in the al fresco setup at Serenity Garden Cafe, or a signature everything bagel and brewed coffee at Das Kaffee Haus.

A trip to this wondrous town will not be complete without riding the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway heritage train that can take you on a round trip or an occasional themed ride that lets you take in the dramatic beauty of the Appalachian highlands. More outdoor adventures await at Lake Blue Ridge, where tourists can paddle the day away, go camping, and even bring out their favorite picnic spread.

Helen

Helen is one of the country’s most distinctive towns imaginable. Not only is it a mountain town, it’s also widely renowned for its Bavarian architecture. That’s right, you can have a taste of Germany right in this humble community. The postcard-worthy downtown is lined with characterful shops and restaurants like Old Bavaria Inn, serving classics such as pretzels and wiener schnitzels, and Hofbrauhaus, famous for German beers.

Curious about how Helen transformed into a Bavarian paradise over the years? Make sure to add the Heritage Center to your itinerary. Through snapshots, narratives, and a movie, you’ll get to know the town’s unique history.

Tourists are welcome any time of the year, but Oktoberfest is when Helen comes alive at full speed. The townsfolk don their best traditional clothing, beer gardens are open left and right, and holidayers gather to dance polka to their heart’s content.

Georgia, We’re Coming For Ya

Rose-filled paradises and gold rush mementos—Georgia’s small towns have it all. The Peach State offers wonderful nature, a taste of the past, and classic Southern hospitality. You could be seeking a rejuvenating stroll through a manicured garden in Ball Ground or braving the Appalachian foothills in Blue Ridge; wherever you choose to be, these hidden gems speak to folks from all walks of life. Foodies can devour Bavarian-inspired cuisine in Helen, while history fiends can delve into museums and landmarks in Thomasville or Dahlonega. Gear up your car or book a flight, and discover the otherworldly magic that awaits in Georgia’s coziest corners!

STONE MOUNTAIN – A Massachusetts man wanted for murder was arrested in Georgia after a chase and an officer involved shooting.

Release:

The GBI is investigating an officer involved shooting that happened at the intersection of Rockbridge Rd. SW and South Indian Creek Drive, Stone Mountain in DeKalb County, Georgia. The Fulton County Sheriff’s Office asked the GBI to conduct an independent investigation on June 25, 2024. One man was shot and injured during the incident. No officers or deputies were injured in this incident.

The preliminary information indicates on June 25, 2024, at about 1:15 p.m., Task Force Officers assigned to the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force were searching for a fugitive wanted on outstanding warrants for murder and weapons charges in another state. Deputies found the suspect, identified as Kevin Barton, age 32, of Massachusetts, and attempted to arrest him.  Barton ran from deputies and while running away, Barton pulled a gun from his clothing and raised it towards a deputy. One deputy fired his gun, hitting Barton.  Barton was taken to a hospital for treatment and is in stable condition.  

The DeKalb County Police Department will take additional charges against Barton related to this incident

The GBI will conduct an independent investigation. Once complete, the case file will be given to the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office for review.

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