Welcome to Griffin, Georgia – a charming city with a rich history and plenty of exciting things to do. Nestled south of Atlanta, this independent city boasts its own unique charm that will captivate visitors of all ages. From historic landmarks to outdoor adventures, Griffin has something for everyone. Let’s explore the 15 best things to do in and around Griffin, Georgia.
1. Griffin Commercial Historical District
- Location: Central Alley, Sixth, Taylor, and Eighth Streets
- Highlights:
- Historic Griffin City Hall
- U-shaped Griffin Hotel
- Opera House
The Griffin Commercial Historical District is a treasure trove of history and culture. With around 100 buildings listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places, this downtown district offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Explore the red brick structures, including the iconic Griffin City Hall and the grand U-shaped Griffin Hotel. Don’t miss the historic Odd Fellows Hall, also known as the Opera House, dating back to 1892.
2. Griffin Regional Welcome Center
- Location: Downtown Griffin
- Features:
- History of Griffin Museum
- Griffin Art Gallery
Step into the Griffin Regional Welcome Center for more than just tourist information. Housed in a historic building dating back to 1899, this center boasts the History of Griffin Museum and the Griffin Art Gallery. Discover artifacts showcasing Griffin’s history and local artwork that highlights the region’s talent.
3. Bailey-Tebault House
- Architecture: Greek Revival style
- Unique Features:
- Front portico with Greek columns
- Plaster cast mouldings
- Fine furniture
The Bailey-Tebault House is a gem of Greek Revival architecture, reminiscent of the White House in Washington DC. Explore the intricate details of this historic house, including its beautiful plaster cast mouldings and fine furniture. A true testament to Griffin’s rich history, the Bailey-Tebault House offers a glimpse into the past.
4. UGA Research and Education Garden
- Size: 26 hectares
- Attractions:
- Shady arboretum
- Picnic area and shelter
- Events and classes
Experience nature at its finest in the UGA Research and Education Garden. This botanic garden offers a peaceful retreat for visitors to explore native plants of the southern United States. Wander along brick and gravel paths, relax in the shady arboretum, and attend events and classes held within the garden. Don’t miss the star-gazing sessions and art exhibitions for a truly enriching experience.
5. Walker Hill Museum
- Family Collection:
- Eclectic range of items
- Rare objects dating back two centuries
Step into the Walker Hill Museum for a glimpse into southern lifestyles of the past. Explore a collection curated by the Walker family, featuring rare objects including full-sized carousels and early record players. Take a tour of the historic homestead, dairy barn, and outhouse for a truly immersive experience.
6. Heads Creek Reservoir
- Location: 12 km west of Griffin
- Highlights:
- Tranquil waterways
- Abundant wildlife
- Calm waters for canoeing and kayaking
Escape to the Heads Creek Reservoir for a peaceful retreat in nature. This serene reservoir offers a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Explore the calm waters, home to beavers, turtles, and various bird species. Whether you prefer shoreline walks or canoeing around the reservoir, Heads Creek Reservoir promises a scenic escape.
7. Film Tours
- Experience: Southern Hollywood Film Tour
- Highlights:
- Locations from The Walking Dead
- Marvel movie scenes
Embark on a cinematic journey with a film tour of Griffin’s famous filming locations. Discover the backdrops of popular films and television series, including The Walking Dead and Marvel movies. Join the Southern Hollywood Film Tours for an immersive experience that brings the silver screen to life.
8. Hill-Kurtz House
- Architecture: Exotic Revival style
- Historic: National Register of Historic Places
- Surroundings: Historic private homes
Discover the Hill-Kurtz House, a historic gem listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Marvel at the Exotic Revival architecture and explore the suburban streets lined with historic private homes. Keep an eye out for other architectural treasures, such as Hunt House, on your journey through Griffin’s historic district.
9. Stonewall Cemetery
- Significance: American Civil War
- Memorials:
- Confederate troops’ graves
- Union soldier’s resting place
- Attractions:
- Cannonball plot
- Memorial park with eternal flame
Pay homage to history at Stonewall Cemetery, a resting place for soldiers from the American Civil War. Explore the graves of Confederate troops and a lone Union soldier, each commemorating the sacrifices made during the war. Visit the memorials and statues, and don’t miss the eternal flame at the nearby memorial park.
10. Museum of Aviation
- Location: Warner Robins (100 km southeast of Griffin)
- Exhibits:
- 85 aircraft
- U-2 spy plane and Blackbird
- B-52 bomber
Embark on a journey through aviation history at the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins. Discover a vast collection of aircraft, including iconic planes from various eras. Get up close to a U-2 spy plane, a Blackbird, and a B-52 bomber for an unforgettable experience.
11. Candler Field Museum
- Location: Peach State Airport (15 minutes from Griffin)
- Features:
- Civilian aircraft collection
- Vintage photographs and artifacts
- Working Ford Model A and Model T cars
Step back in time at the Candler Field Museum, a tribute to Atlanta’s aviation history. Explore a collection of civilian aircraft, vintage photographs, and aviation artifacts. Marvel at working Ford Model A and Model T cars as you immerse yourself in the early days of powered flight.
12. Griffin Golf Course
- Facilities: 18-hole course, driving range, practice green
- Experience:
- Secluded setting with rolling fairways
- Wildlife encounters
Tee off at the Griffin Golf Course for a challenging round of golf surrounded by nature. Practice your swing at the driving range and enjoy the scenic views of rolling fairways. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including deer, as you navigate this classic 72-par course.
13. Griffin Area Concert Association
- Events: Diverse lineup of performances
- Acts:
- Country, symphony orchestra, rock
- Local and international talent
Experience the vibrant music scene at the Griffin Area Concert Association. Attend concerts featuring a diverse lineup of acts, from country music to symphony orchestras. Discover talented local artists and renowned performers from around the world for an unforgettable evening of music and entertainment.
14. Atlanta
- Distance: 50 minutes north of Griffin
- Attractions:
- Grant Park’s Zoo Atlanta
- Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Park
- Krog Street Tunnel street art
- Gone with the Wind museum
Venture to Atlanta, Georgia’s bustling capital city, for a day of exploration and discovery. Visit Grant Park’s Zoo Atlanta, a conservation hub for wildlife enthusiasts. Explore the historic sites of the Martin Luther King Jr National Historic Park and admire the vibrant street art of the Krog Street Tunnel. Dive into the world of Gone with the Wind with a visit to the museum dedicated to this cinematic classic.
15. Cherokee Rose Sporting Clays
- Location: Georgia
- Activities:
- Clay shooting courses
- Five stand and Helice ring
- Scenic outdoor setting
Experience the thrill of clay shooting at Cherokee Rose Sporting Clays. Test your marksmanship skills on two challenging courses, including a five stand and Helice ring. Set against a backdrop of picturesque landscapes, this facility offers a safe and enjoyable environment for shooters of all levels.
From historic landmarks to outdoor adventures, Griffin, Georgia, offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors to explore. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or music lover, there’s something for everyone in this charming city. Plan your visit today and uncover the hidden gems of Griffin, Georgia.
Embark on a journey through Griffin’s rich history and vibrant culture with these 15 must-see attractions. Explore historic landmarks, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences that will make your visit to Griffin unforgettable.