6 Best Things to Do in Griffin, Georgia

By VacationIdea Staff on June 22, 2022 - Updated

Galloway & Lyndall, LLP

The area of Griffin in Georgia has transformed since its founding back in 1840 from a “railroad boomtown” into a destination full of small town charm, offering a great escape from the bustling city of Atlanta. The town offers historical sites, gardens, shopping, interesting architecture, eclectic eateries, and more to entertain both locals and visitors alike. Griffin, Georgia also hosts several different and unique events throughout the year, such as the Doc Holliday Festival. The historic downtown area provides plenty of opportunities to shop and dine at local cafes, or travel a bit further out for Griffith's Drive-In.

We recommend that you call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.

1.Doc Holliday's Grave in Griffin

According to a general historical consensus, the dentist-turned-gunslinger outlaw known as John Henry “Doc” Holliday was buried in the town of Glenwood Springs, Colorado. According to some other people, including his descendants, Doc Holliday may be buried in his hometown of Griffin, Georgia in an unmarked grave alongside his father in the Oak Hill Cemetery. While he certainly died in Glenwood Springs and at least was lowered into a grave there, the theory is that his family made quiet arrangements for Doc Holliday’s body to be brought back to Griffin. There’s now a historical marker above the two unmarked graves.

797 Memorial Drr, Griffin, GA 30224

2.UGA Research and Education Garden, Griffin, GA

The UGA Research and Education Garden on the campus of University of Georgia Griffin is a 65-acre research facility focused on the evaluation and development of science-based practices for southern landscapes. The Garden offers a unique combination of education and mission-oriented research, as well as a place for the general public to explore and learn. Events include the April Plant Sale and holiday events.

129 W Ellis Rd, Griffin, GA 30223

3.Griffin Spalding Historical Society, Griffin, Georgia

Established in 1969, the Griffin Spalding Historical Society presents the stories of Griffin's past and present, as well as its future, through an array of interesting and engaging ways, such as exhibits, collections, programs, and research. The home of the Griffin Spalding Historical Society is the historic Bailey-Tebault House, a Greek Revival style house built between the years of 1859 and 1862. The home was also previously used as a hospital during the Civil War and is often used today as a venue for special events like receptions and weddings. Visitors can call the society to schedule a guided tour.

633 Meriwether St, Griffin, GA 30224, Phone: 770-229-2432

4.St. George's Episcopal Church, Griffin, Georgia

St. George's Episcopal Church in the town of Griffin, Georgia is a historic church on North Tenth Street that was added in April of 1994 to the National Register of Historic Places. While the parish was organized in 1859, the church’s construction was delayed during the Civil War, as well as delayed by the American Reconstruction period. In 1868, a lot was bought for St. George's Episcopal Church on the corner of Broad and Tenth Street, with the cornerstone of the church placed in November of 1869. Services were first held at church in April of 1871.

132 N 10th St, Griffin, GA 30223, 770-227-4453

5.The Original Courthouse, Griffin, Georgia

Located on East Broad Street in Griffin, the Original Courthouse of Spalding County was built back in 1859 by David Demarest and designed by Columbus Hughes. Today, the building stands as one of fifteen remaining antebellum Georgia courthouses and is a somewhat rare example of the Italianate architectural style. In 1914, the courthouse was converted into a jail after its clock tower and steeple were removed in 1910. The Original Spalding Courthouse was added to the National Register of Historic Places in November of 2000 and now houses the 4H Offices and the Spalding County Extension Service.

232 E Broad St, Griffin, GA 30223

6.Griffith's Drive-In, Griffin, Georgia

Griffith's Drive-In is a family owned and operated drive-in eatery that has been a part of the local community of Griffin for more than forty years. The food cooked here is made with care to order using fresh ingredients. The local dining establishment has plenty of charm and Southern hospitality, serving some of the best freshly made slaw and chili around, which is why the chili burger at Griffith’s Drive-In is such a popular dish. In addition to the chili burgers, other popular options on the menu include the Willieburger, fried chicken, the scrambled dog, and the onion rings.

1015 Memorial Dr, Griffin, GA 30223, Phone: 770-227-1111