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
1. Pebble Hill Plantation
Rating: ★★★★★
Location: Thomasville, GA
Recommended For: History lovers, garden enthusiasts, art aficionados, Southern culture explorers, and families.
What I Love: ♥ “Pebble Hill Plantation pairs elegance with history, where neoclassical charm meets Southern hospitality across 3,000 picturesque acres.”
- Tour the stunning 1936 neoclassical mansion filled with sporting art, antique furnishings, and timeless elegance.
- Stroll through the early 20th-century gardens and admire lush Southern landscaping in full bloom.
- Learn about the estate’s transformation from an 1826 working farm to a private hunting retreat under Howard Melville Hanna in 1896.
- Bring the whole family for an educational, visually rich experience steeped in Southern heritage.
Cost: Moderate (guided mansion tours and general admission available)
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for ideal garden blooms and cooler touring weather.
Local tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes for the grounds and don’t miss the art collection—one of the South’s finest!
Distance: Approximately 35 minutes from Tallahassee, FL and 3.5 hours from Atlanta, GA.
How to Get to Pebble Hill Plantation: Located just south of downtown Thomasville on US-319, with free onsite parking. Easily accessible by car.
Address: 1251 US-319 S, Thomasville, GA 31792
Phone: 229-226-2344
2. The Big Oak Tree of Thomasville
Location: Thomasville, GA
Recommended For: Nature lovers, photographers, families, history enthusiasts, and fans of giant trees.
What I Love: ♥ “A living monument of Southern majesty, The Big Oak amazes with its size, age, and Presidential connection.”
- Marvel at one of the largest Southern Live Oaks east of the Mississippi, towering 68 feet high with 165-foot limb span.
- Stand where President Dwight D. Eisenhower once stood and personally photographed this botanical wonder.
- Visit the peaceful Elizabeth Ireland Poe Park to relax under the shade of a centuries-old tree and enjoy scenic surroundings.
- Capture unforgettable photos of a tree with a 26-foot circumference, recognized as a local treasure and national marvel.
Cost: Free
Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon for best lighting and cooler temperatures.
Local tips: Use the “Big Oak Cam” feature on-site to capture a photo from a distance with your phone. Great for solo or group photos!
Distance: Walking distance from downtown Thomasville; about 40 minutes from Tallahassee, FL.
How to Get to The Big Oak: Located in Elizabeth Ireland Poe Park, accessible by foot or car with nearby public parking.
Address: 124 E Monroe St, Thomasville, GA 31792
Phone: 229-236-0053
3. Lapham-Patterson House
Location: Thomasville, GA
Recommended For: Architecture enthusiasts, history lovers, photographers, and admirers of Victorian design.
What I Love: ♥ “A whimsical, one-of-a-kind Victorian home with clever engineering, quirky elegance, and a timeless story.”
- Tour the beautifully preserved 1884 Victorian home built as a winter retreat for wealthy businessman C.W. Lapham.
- Admire rare features like a cantilevered balcony, walk-through stairway, and double-flue chimney.
- Explore the fishscale shingles, Oriental-style porch details, and long-leaf pine floors that highlight Victorian craftsmanship.
- Learn about its designation as a National Historic Landmark in 1975 for architectural innovation and preservation.
Cost: Guided tour fees vary; check the official site for pricing and hours.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for pleasant weather and optimal lighting for photography.
Local tips: Bring a camera—sunlight plays beautifully through the home's intricate woodwork and windows. Ask guides about Lapham’s eccentric design choices.
Distance: Less than a mile from downtown Thomasville and The Big Oak Tree.
How to Get to the Lapham-Patterson House: Located at the northern edge of historic downtown Thomasville. Easily walkable or a quick drive from other major sites.
Address: 626 N Dawson St, Thomasville, GA 31792
Phone: 229-226-7664
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
4. Thomasville History Center
Location: Thomasville, GA
Recommended For: History buffs, families, educators, and cultural travelers.
What I Love: ♥ “An immersive journey through Thomasville’s past, from antebellum homes to personal artifacts and pioneer stories.”
- Tour the Flowers-Roberts House museum and explore the rich heritage of Thomasville dating back centuries.
- Discover over 500,000 artifacts and archival items housed across eight historic buildings.
- Enjoy a short film introduction before taking a self-guided or docent-led tour through indoor and outdoor exhibits.
- Wander through preserved buildings including a log house, blacksmith shop, and early 20th-century schoolhouse.
Cost: Affordable general admission; discounts available for students, seniors, and children.
Best time to visit: Fall and spring for mild weather and seasonal programs or events.
Local tips: Allow at least an hour and a half to explore the full grounds. Check the calendar for special living history days.
Distance: Adjacent to the Lapham-Patterson House—perfect for a dual visit.
How to Get to the Thomasville History Center: Located on North Dawson Street, just a short walk from downtown Thomasville attractions and The Big Oak.
Address: 725 N Dawson St, Thomasville, GA 31792
Phone: 229-226-7664
5. Jack Hadley Black History Museum
Location: Thomasville, GA
Recommended For: History enthusiasts, educators, families, and cultural travelers seeking deeper insight into African American heritage.
What I Love: ♥ “A moving tribute to Black excellence—both local and national—through thousands of powerful artifacts and stories.”
- Explore more than 4,600 historical artifacts that honor African American achievements and contributions.
- Learn about the First Black Achievers of Thomasville and their legacies in education, business, military, and civil rights.
- Reflect on national and state-level figures and historical events through a rich and personal lens.
- Connect with the story of James “Jack” Hadley, a passionate historian and founder who preserved his community’s legacy.
Cost: Modest general admission; group tours and student rates available.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but Black History Month (February) features special programs and events.
Local tips: Call ahead to arrange guided tours and to inquire about traveling exhibits or educational group sessions.
Distance: Less than a 5-minute drive from downtown Thomasville and The Big Oak.
How to Get to the Jack Hadley Black History Museum: Located off West Jackson Street on Alexander Street, with parking available onsite.
Address: 214 Alexander St, Thomasville, GA 31792
Phone: 229-226-5029
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
6. Birdsong Nature Center
Location: Thomasville, GA
Recommended For: Nature lovers, birdwatchers, photographers, families, and anyone seeking peaceful outdoor exploration.
What I Love: ♥ “A sanctuary of serenity and song, where trails wind through wildflowers, forests, and wetlands brimming with birdlife.”
- Wander along 12 miles of trails through pine forest, meadow, swamp, and hardwoods teeming with life.
- Relax at the tranquil Butterfly Garden, blooming with colorful activity from April to November.
- Watch over 100 bird species from the famous Bird Window, overlooking a wildlife-rich pool and garden habitat.
- Listen to nature’s symphony at the Listening Place pavilion, which offers elevated views of Big Bay Swamp.
Cost: Modest admission; memberships available to support conservation and receive entry benefits.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall for birdwatching and butterflies; trails are accessible year-round.
Local tips: Bring binoculars and a field guide for the best birding experience. The center also hosts occasional workshops and family events.
Distance: Roughly 15 minutes north of downtown Thomasville on N Meridian Rd.
How to Get to Birdsong Nature Center: Located just off U.S. Highway 319, follow signs on N Meridian Road to the entrance. Parking is available onsite.
Address: 2106 N Meridian Rd, Thomasville, GA 31792
Phone: 229-377-4408
7. The Ritz Amphitheater
Location: Thomasville, GA
Recommended For: Music lovers, families, festival-goers, pet owners, and downtown explorers.
What I Love: ♥ “An open-air stage of community spirit where music, green space, and Southern charm meet.”
- Relax in the 44,600-acre green space surrounded by downtown’s historic district and local shops.
- Enjoy free concerts, festivals, and city events on the state-of-the-art amphitheater stage.
- Bring your dog along—pet-friendly with waste bag stations and plenty of space to roam.
- Unwind at picnic tables or grab a bench between browsing “The Bottom’s” eateries and boutiques.
Cost: Free public access; events may vary by ticket or registration.
Best time to visit: Evenings and weekends when events like First Friday Sip & Stroll take place.
Local tips: Bring a blanket or folding chairs for concert nights. Visit nearby local businesses before or after the show.
Distance: Centrally located in downtown Thomasville—walkable from most shops and restaurants.
How to Get to The Ritz Amphitheater and Park: Follow signs for historic downtown and park near S Stevens Street. The amphitheater is in the heart of “The Bottom” district.
Address: 131 S Stevens St, Thomasville, GA 31792
Phone: 229-227-7020
Where to Eat:
8. Grassroots Coffee
Location: Thomasville, GA
Recommended For: Coffee lovers, casual brunch-goers, remote workers, and anyone seeking a cozy downtown vibe.
What I Love: ♥ “Fresh-roasted coffee, local flavor, and a laid-back spot to sip and stay awhile.”
- Savor small-batch, in-house roasted coffee made for ultimate freshness and flavor.
- Indulge in breakfast and lunch specials including scratch-made salads, soups, and baked goods.
- Relax in a warm, welcoming atmosphere designed to offer a break from your day.
- Connect with friends or unwind solo at a popular downtown hangout with an inviting vibe.
Cost: Coffee and menu items moderately priced; suitable for casual everyday visits.
Best time to visit: Morning or midday for coffee and lunch specials; weekends for a more social scene.
Local tips: Try the featured roast of the week and ask about rotating seasonal drinks. Free Wi-Fi makes it a great remote work spot.
Distance: Located in downtown Thomasville, within walking distance of shops and other attractions.
How to Get to Grassroots Coffee Company: Park on Broad Street and head to the heart of downtown Thomasville. Look for the welcoming storefront at the corner of Broad and West Jackson.
Address: 118 S Broad St, Thomasville, GA 31792
Phone: 229-226-3388
9. Chop House on the Bricks
Location: Thomasville, GA
Recommended For: Foodies, steak lovers, couples on a date night, and fans of upscale Southern cuisine.
What I Love: ♥ “A bold blend of dry-aged steaks, Gulf seafood, and Southern innovation in the heart of downtown.”
- Dine on dry-aged steaks, fresh Gulf seafood, and farm-to-table ingredients with a New South twist.
- Unwind with signature craft cocktails, curated wines, and small-batch beer selections.
- Experience Chef Matt Hagel’s culinary creativity in a stylish, historic downtown setting.
- Celebrate special occasions or enjoy a refined meal in a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.
Cost: Moderate to upscale; ideal for a fine dining experience or evening out.
Best time to visit: Dinner service Tuesday–Saturday; reservations recommended for weekend evenings.
Local tips: Ask your server for the chef’s specials and perfect wine pairings. Great spot for anniversaries or business dinners.
Distance: Located right on Broad Street in downtown Thomasville, walkable from many other local attractions.
How to Get to Chop House on the Bricks: Head to the north end of Broad Street in downtown Thomasville. Street parking is available nearby.
Address: 123 N Broad St, Thomasville, GA 31792
Phone: 229-236-2467
10. Fallin's Real Pit Bar-B-Q
Location: Thomasville, GA
Recommended For: Barbecue lovers, casual diners, families, and travelers craving authentic Southern comfort food.
What I Love: ♥ “Scratch-made barbecue with hometown heart—nothing from a can, everything from the soul.”
- Taste smoked-to-perfection meats and home-style Southern sides made fresh daily.
- Try local favorites like the Porkita sandwich served on warm garlic bread and their legendary Brunswick stew.
- Relax in a cozy, down-to-earth atmosphere perfect for family meals or a quick Southern lunch stop.
- Support a family-run business that puts pride into every plate, using recipes passed down through generations.
Cost: Affordable; great value for generous portions and homestyle quality.
Best time to visit: Lunchtime or early dinner—especially if you want to beat the rush and ensure your favorite item isn’t sold out!
Local tips: Order the Porkita with extra garlic bread and don’t skip the housemade sweet tea.
Distance: Located a short drive from downtown Thomasville on East Pinetree Blvd.
How to Get to Fallin's Real Pit Bar-B-Q: Head east on Pinetree Blvd from downtown Thomasville—look for the smoky scent and a friendly red sign.
Address: 2614 E Pinetree Blvd, Thomasville, GA 31792
Phone: 229-236-4000
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