Georgia is well-known for its peaches, sweet tea, and historical sites, but don’t miss its real hidden gem: the charmingly strange, weirdly called villages that dot the state.
There are several reasons to visit the state, including the birthplace of Coca-Cola, the location of the 1996 Olympics, and the site of the Battle of Chickamauga during the Civil War.
But it also manages to name towns that make you laugh, smile, or just scratch your brain.
These tiny towns have a distinct personality, from the colorful past of locations like “Tifton,” which was previously the site of the Georgia State Farmers Market, to “Hogansville,” which was named for the guy who owned it.
Explore 5 of Georgia’s most endearingly named locations and embrace the strangeness.
Chickamauga
One of the bloodiest engagements of the Civil War, the Battle of Chickamauga, took place in this small Georgia town in 1863.
It is thought that the town’s name, which is derived from the phonetic spelling of the ancient Tsikamagi Cherokee tribe that called the area home, means “river of death” in Native American terms.
This is appropriate given the amount of bloodshed that took place here.
The historical charm of Chickamauga is strong despite its diminutive size. Along Chickamauga Creek, you may still see monuments like the Lee and Gordon’s Mills, which is one of the oldest in the state.
The creek and Krystal Lake are also excellent places to go fishing or to play around with the family during the summer months to avoid the Georgia heat.
Named for two Georgian servicemen who died in the Vietnam War, Holland-Watson Veterans’ Park is a terrific place to take the kids for some outdoor fun. It even has picnic spaces.
Screven
There is never a distance between the past and the present in Screven. The Revolutionary War hero General James Screven is credited with giving this gem of the Southeast its name.
Screven decided to memorialize a hero who battled for independence, even though many cities are named after their founders or geographical characteristics.
This is a tranquil village that is perfect for people who want to escape from everything. For fishing or simply to take in the serene waters, outdoor enthusiasts can explore Lake Lindsay Grace.
One thing you’ll notice right away is how safe Screven is—it’s frequently hailed as one of Georgia’s least criminalized neighborhoods.
The town does have a spooky feel, though, thanks to the well-known “Screven Spook Light,” which appears just over Milligan’s Crossing and seems to mimic the swing of a lantern light.
This gave rise to the local legend that a local flagman’s ghost haunts the area after he was struck and decapitated by a train.
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Unadilla
Charm and curiosity are important to Unadilla. Originating in Native American heritage, the town’s name is said to mean “place of meeting,” which is appropriate given that Unadilla is a gathering point for both locals and tourists.
Even though Unadilla has outstanding agricultural heritage, its name—which is frequently a conversation starter—may be its greatest claim to fame.
With its vintage stores and neighborhood restaurants offering delectable Southern fare, the town’s historic downtown district provides a window into a bygone era.
While Taqueria Los Girasoles is an alternative for those desiring heat and robust flavor, the 57 Diner is a local favorite and genuinely captures the small-town spirit that permeates Unadilla.
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Tifton
Greetings from Tifton, the town known for its endless smiles. “The Friendly City” is more than simply a memorable tagline; it captures Tifton’s enduring, charming character and the hospitable disposition of its citizens.
This town has a long history as a cotton and peanut powerhouse, and it is well-known for its agricultural accomplishments.
With its name derived from the Henry Harding Tift family, whose work in the late 19th century helped to build the town, Tifton has virtually always been a farming powerhouse.
Today’s Tifton is more than just a farming community; it is a proud member of the “Georgia Grown” initiative, which promotes regional goods.
Furthermore, it has made a name for itself as the “Reading Capital of the World” throughout the last ten years.
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Conyers
The unwavering town spirit of the residents of Conyers is the only thing more resilient than the granite.
This town, which is east of Atlanta, is well-known for being “The City of Granite” because to its vast granite reserves, which have been mined since the 1800s.
The town’s economy still heavily depends on this natural resource. Olde Town Conyers and the Monastic Heritage Center offer a thorough dive into the town’s history for those who are passionate about American and state history.
Another feature is the yearly Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring, which attracts tourists from all around to celebrate music, culture, and handcrafted products. The Georgia International Horse Park has a lot to offer thrill-seekers all year long.
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