Need a charming Southern escape with history, gardens, and small-town elegance? Head to Thomasville! Nestled in southwest Georgia near the Florida border, Thomasville is known for its antebellum architecture, oak-lined streets, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re strolling through rose gardens, exploring historic homes, or enjoying local farm-to-table dining, this "City of Roses" offers a peaceful and refined getaway with true Southern charm.

Thomasville, GA Highlights:

  • For History Buffs: Tour the Lapham-Patterson House – An eccentric 1885 Victorian mansion filled with unique architecture and fascinating stories.
  • For Garden Lovers: Stroll through the Thomasville Rose Garden – Over 1,500 blooms make this fragrant, colorful park a must-see in spring.
  • For Shoppers: Browse Downtown Thomasville – Discover antique shops, chic boutiques, and locally owned cafés in a walkable historic district.
  • For Couples: Dine and wine at Sweet Grass Dairy Cheese Shop – Sample handcrafted cheeses, local wines, and artisanal fare in a cozy, romantic setting.
  • For Families: Visit the Jack Hadley Black History Museum – Learn about the African American experience in Georgia through rich exhibits and inspiring figures.

Best Time to Visit Thomasville, GA

The best time to visit Thomasville is in spring (March–May) or fall (September–November) for comfortable temperatures and vibrant festivals. Spring is especially popular during the annual Rose Show & Festival, while autumn offers colorful foliage and harvest-themed events. Summers are hot and humid, and winters are mild with light crowds.

How to Get to Thomasville, GA

  • If you are traveling by car: Thomasville is located along US-19, about 45 minutes from Tallahassee, FL, and 3 hours from Atlanta or Jacksonville.
  • By Air: The nearest airport is Tallahassee International Airport (TLH), about 40 minutes away by car. Rental cars are recommended.
  • By Bus: Regional bus lines offer limited service; most travelers drive or fly and rent a car.

Where to Stay in Thomasville, GA

  • Recommended for Families: Best Western Plus Rose City Conference Center Inn – Comfortable and convenient with a pool and complimentary breakfast.
  • For Couples: The Paxton – A luxurious historic inn with elegant rooms, gardens, and Southern hospitality near downtown.
  • For a Boutique Stay: Courtyard by Marriott Thomasville Downtown – A newer option with modern style and walkable access to shops and dining.

Best Things to Do in Thomasville, GA

Pebble Hill Plantation


Tour historic grounds and admire romantic Southern charm on a peaceful visit.

Pebble Hill Plantation

© Pebble Hill Plantation

  • What is the Pebble Hill Plantation?
    • Pebble Hill Plantation welcomes visitors to explore the expansive grounds and "remember Southern hospitality" on a very grand scale.
  • What can visitors tour at Pebble Hill Plantation?
    • Guests can tour the neoclassical style 1936 mansion, which features a world-class sporting art collection, antique furniture, and an elegant interior.
  • What is unique about the grounds?
    • The gorgeous grounds include several early twentieth-century gardens and Southern landscaping.
  • When was Pebble Hill Plantation established?
    • The plantation itself dates back to the year 1826 when it was a working farm.
  • Who purchased the plantation and what was it used for?
    • In 1896, the 3,000-acre estate became a shooting plantation after being bought by Howard Melville Hanna, a Cleveland industrialist.
  • Is Pebble Hill Plantation a good destination for visitors?
    • Yes, today the plantation is a popular excursion for both adults and families looking for fun and history.
  • Where is Pebble Hill Plantation located?
    • 1251 US-319 S, Thomasville, GA 31792, Phone: 229-226-2344

The Big Oak Tree of Thomasville


Snap photos and admire this exciting natural landmark on a quick stop.

The Big Oak Tree of Thomasville

© Andriy Blokhin/stock.adobe.com

  • What is The Big Oak Tree of Thomasville?
  • Which U.S. President visited The Big Oak?
    • The historic landmark was once visited by President Eisenhower, who was impressed by the massive oak and photographed the tree himself.
  • How big is The Big Oak?
    • The “Big Oak” is one of the largest Southern Live Oaks in existence on the east side of the Mississippi River, stretching 68 feet high with a circumference of over 26 feet and a limb span of more than 165 feet.
  • Where is The Big Oak located?
  • Where can visitors find The Big Oak?
    • 124 E Monroe St, Thomasville, GA 31792, Phone: 229-236-0053

Lapham-Patterson House


Explore quirky architecture and discover unusual design on an educational tour.

Lapham-Patterson House

© Visit Thomasville, GA

  • What is the Lapham-Patterson House?
    • Built back in 1884, the Lapham-Patterson House in Thomasville, Georgia serves as a monument to the craftsmanship, creative engineering, and imagination of the Victorian Era.
  • What architectural features make the Lapham-Patterson House unique?
    • The historic home showcases excellent examples of Victorian-era skill and quality, including:
      • A cantilevered balcony
      • A walk-through stairway
      • A double-flue chimney
      • Long-leaf pine floors
      • Oriental-style porch decorations
      • Fishscale shingles
  • Why was the Lapham-Patterson House designated a National Historic Landmark?
    • In 1975, the house was designated as a National Historic Landmark because of its impressive architectural significance.
  • Where is the Lapham-Patterson House located?
    • 626 N Dawson St, Thomasville, GA 31792, Phone: 229-226-7664

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

Thomasville History Center


Learn local stories and enjoy affordable exhibits in a cozy historic setting.

Thomasville History Center

© Thomasville History Center

  • What is the Thomasville History Center?
    • Established in 1952, the Thomasville History Center was created to share the history of the local area with both residents and tourists.
  • When was the museum at the Thomasville History Center opened?
    • The museum opened in 1972 inside the historic Flowers-Roberts House.
  • How large is the Thomasville History Center's collection?
    • The collections housed at the History Center have grown over the years to include over five hundred thousand archival materials and artifacts, as well as eight historic buildings.
  • What can visitors do at the Thomasville History Center?
    • Visitors are welcome to:
      • Explore the museum grounds
      • Watch a short film
      • Take a self-guided tour of the many exhibits
      • Join a guided tour
  • Where is the Thomasville History Center located?
    • 725 N Dawson St, Thomasville, GA 31792, Phone: 229-226-7664

Jack Hadley Black History Museum


See powerful displays and explore meaningful sights on a cultural trip.

Jack Hadley Black History Museum

© Jack Hadley Black History Museum

  • What is the Jack Hadley Black History Museum?
    • The Jack Hadley Black History Museum in Thomasville, Georgia was established to educate people about the culture and history of African Americans on both a local and national level.
  • Who is the museum named after?
    • The museum is named for James “Jack” Hadley, an African American historian.
  • What does the museum showcase?
    • The museum preserves more than 4,600 African American artifacts with a focus on the First Black Achievers of Thomasville, as well as national and state achievers, commemorating their accomplishments and lives.
  • Where is the Jack Hadley Black History Museum located?
    • 214 Alexander St, Thomasville, GA 31792, Phone: 229-226-5029

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

Birdsong Nature Center


Walk wooded trails and spot wildlife on a quiet spring afternoon.

Birdsong Nature Center

© Mikhail Vedernikov/stock.adobe.com

  • What is the Birdsong Nature Center?
    • The Birdsong Nature Center encompasses more than 560 acres of swampland, ponds, hardwood and pine forest, old field, and wildflower meadow, as well as a sanctuary for an array of birds and other kinds of wildlife.
  • What is featured at the Birdsong Nature Center?
    • Birdsong includes a Butterfly Garden full of colorful butterflies from April to November.
    • The screened Listening Place pavilion overlooks the Big Bay Swamp.
    • Visitors can explore a dozen miles of nature trails for exploration and casual hiking.
    • The Bird Window offers an intimate and extraordinary bird viewing experience looking out over the surrounding pool and gardens that attract more than 100 species.
  • Where is the Birdsong Nature Center located?
    • 2106 N Meridian Rd, Thomasville, GA 31792, Phone: 229-377-4408

The Ritz Amphitheater


Catch live music and enjoy a fun family-friendly event downtown.

The Ritz Amphitheater

© yurolaitsalbert/stock.adobe.com

  • What is The Ritz Amphitheater and Park?
    • The Ritz Amphitheater and Park is tucked away within the heart of Thomasville’s historic district known as “The Bottom.”
  • How large is The Ritz Amphitheater and Park?
    • The park features a 44,600-acre green space with a state-of-the-art stage, surrounded by several eateries and unique retail shops.
  • What amenities are available at The Ritz Amphitheater?
    • The grounds feature:
      • Benches
      • Picnic tables
      • Drinking fountains
      • A “bike fix-it” station
      • Restrooms
  • Are dogs allowed at The Ritz Amphitheater?
    • Yes, dogs are allowed on the property, and there are even dog bag stations available.
  • What events are hosted at The Ritz Amphitheater?
    • The Ritz Amphitheater hosts a variety of small festivals, concerts, and special events put on by the city throughout the year, including the First Friday Sip & Stroll event series.
  • Where is The Ritz Amphitheater located?
    • 131 S Stevens St, Thomasville, GA 31792, Phone: 229-227-7020

Where to Eat:

Grassroots Coffee


Sip locally roasted brews and relax on a casual weekend morning.

Grassroots Coffee

© Grassroots Coffee

  • What is Grassroots Coffee Company?
    • Grassroots Coffee Company in Thomasville, Georgia is passionate about all things coffee and committed to providing customers with the very best coffee they’ve ever had.
  • How is Grassroots Coffee roasted?
    • Grassroots Coffee is roasted in-house only in small batches to ensure optimal flavor and freshness.
  • What food options are available at Grassroots Coffee?
    • In addition to its variety of delicious coffee brews, the coffee shop offers a good assortment of items for both breakfast and lunch.
    • The menu includes made-from-scratch salads, savory soups, and weekly specials.
  • What is the atmosphere like at Grassroots Coffee?
    • The space was designed to provide an escape from busy daily life and a place for people to relax and visit with others.
  • Where is Grassroots Coffee located?
    • 118 S Broad St, Thomasville, GA 31792, Phone: 229-226-3388

Chop House on the Bricks


Savor upscale Southern dishes and enjoy a romantic dinner in town.

Chop House on the Bricks

© Chop House on the Bricks

  • What is Chop House on the Bricks?
    • Chop House on the Bricks is a family-owned and operated restaurant situated in the middle of Thomasville’s historic downtown district.
  • Who is the owner and chef of Chop House on the Bricks?
    • The restaurant is led by owner and Chef Matt Hagel.
  • What type of cuisine does Chop House on the Bricks offer?
    • The menu combines “New South culinary flair” with steakhouse tradition, featuring farm-to-table locally sourced ingredients, freshly caught Gulf seafood, and dry-aged steaks.
  • What beverages are available?
    • Food options are paired with a carefully curated wine list, a variety of craft cocktails, and a selection of craft beer.
  • Where is Chop House on the Bricks located?
    • 123 N Broad St, Thomasville, GA 31792, Phone: 229-236-2467

Fallin's Real Pit Bar-B-Q


Taste smoky meats and enjoy an affordable, down-home meal with the family.

Fallin's Real Pit Bar-B-Q

© Fallin's Real Pit Bar-B-Q

  • What is Fallin's Real Pit Bar-B-Q?
  • What type of food does Fallin's Real Pit Bar-B-Q specialize in?
    • The restaurant specializes in home-style fare and takes great pride in serving barbecue made completely from scratch, with nothing served “from a can.”
  • What are some signature menu items?
    • The eatery is well known for its made-from-scratch Brunswick stew and its famous Porkita sandwich, made with freshly baked garlic bread.
  • Where is Fallin's Real Pit Bar-B-Q located?
    • 2614 E Pinetree Blvd, Thomasville, GA 31792, Phone: 229-236-4000

If you are interested in local events:

  • For Flower Fans: Thomasville Rose Show & Festival (April) – Parades, flower shows, and street entertainment during this signature spring event.
  • For Foodies: Due South Festival (May) – Live music, food trucks, craft beer, and Southern cooking under the stars.
  • For Holiday Cheer: Victorian Christmas (December) – Step back in time with costumed carolers, horse-drawn carriages, and twinkling lights downtown.

Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–90 Minutes of Thomasville, GA:

  • For City Life: Tallahassee, FL (45 min) – Explore Florida’s capital with museums, gardens, and the lively college-town vibe of FSU.
  • For Nature: Okefenokee Swamp (90 min) – Paddle through mysterious blackwater channels and spot alligators and unique wildlife.
  • For Wine Lovers: Farmer’s Daughter Vineyards (15–20 min) – Sip local wines and picnic among the vines at this charming South Georgia winery.
  • For Small-Town Charm: Cairo, GA (30 min) – Stroll quiet streets, shop antiques, and grab homemade ice cream in this quaint neighbor town.
  • For Outdoor Fun: Reed Bingham State Park (1 hr) – Hike lakeside trails, fish, or camp under the stars in peaceful nature settings.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Why is Thomasville, Georgia called "Rose City"?
    • The city of Thomasville, Georgia is often referred to as the state’s "Rose City," making it a destination in itself.
  • What can visitors do in downtown Thomasville?
    • Visitors can take a walk along the city’s historic brick streets and explore downtown Thomasville, once known as “the Winter Resort of the South."
  • What historical attractions can be found in Thomasville?
    • History can be found around nearly every corner, from the centuries-old Big Oak to the Lapham-Patterson House and the sprawling Pebble Hill Plantation, along with multiple history museums.
  • What dining and shopping options are available in Thomasville?
    • The historic downtown district is home to over 100 independent restaurants and shops.

Map:


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