Looking for a charming Southern getaway filled with history, arts, and small-town hospitality? Head to Newnan! Known as the "City of Homes," Newnan features beautiful historic districts, vibrant local shops, and easy access to nature. Whether you're into historic tours, outdoor adventures, or great dining, Newnan offers a welcoming and picturesque escape in Georgia’s heartland.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Newnan is during spring and fall (March–May and September–November). Mild temperatures and colorful landscapes make it perfect for exploring historic streets, outdoor events, and parks.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Newnan is located along Interstate 85, about 40 minutes southwest of downtown Atlanta.
- By Plane: Fly into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), then drive about 30–40 minutes to Newnan.
- By Bus: Regional bus service connects Atlanta with areas near Newnan, but a car is the best way to explore the town and surroundings.
Where to Stay
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Newnan – Modern hotel with suites, complimentary breakfast, and a great location near shopping and dining.
- Hampton Inn Newnan – Comfortable hotel offering free breakfast and easy access to downtown and Interstate 85.
- Local Bed and Breakfasts – Stay in charming historic homes and B&Bs near downtown for a more personalized, authentic experience.
Best Things to Do
1. Catch a Show or Exhibit at The Nixon Centre for Performing and Visual Arts
The Nixon Centre for the Performing and Visual Arts is located in an impressive building which is home to a large 2-level state-of-the-art performance theatre which can seat 1000 guests. In addition, there is an elegant and welcoming lobby area, an art gallery, several lecture halls and dressing rooms for the cast. Visitors are invited to come and support up-and-coming young local performers by attending one of the centre’s regular performances. Shows offer something for audiences of all ages and past performances have included a live dog variety show (aimed at younger audiences) and serious dramas like The Diaries of Ann Frank, as well as musicals, comedies and much more. Check their website for details of upcoming shows.
The Nixon Centre for Performing and Visual Arts, 1523 Lower Fayetteville Rd, Newnan, GA 30265, Phone: 770-254-2787
2. Wander Through Natural Beauty at Dunaway Gardens
Dunaway Gardens were established by famous golden-years actress Hetty Jane Dunaway. Originally, the gardens were used as a training facility for performers, producers and directors and were frequented by the likes of Walt Disney and Minnie Pearl. In those days the gardens contained an amphitheatre which could seat 1000 people and a quaint barn theatre. Sadly, the gardens fell into disrepair and were totally neglected and forgotten for decades until restoration work commenced in 2000. Today visitors can admire one of the largest floral and rock gardens in the south, complete with spring-fed pools, paths, walls, plantings and waterfalls, covering 25 beautiful acres.
Dunaway Gardens, 3218 Roscoe Rd, Highway 70, Newnan, GA 30263, Phone: 678-423-4050
3. Step Into Local History at The Male Academy Museum
Located in the Old Male Academy, which was a private boy’s school in the 1880’s, the Male Academy Museum is the brainchild of Mrs. Georgia Shapiro of the Newnan Historical Society. The neglected building was carefully restored and has proved to be an ideal home for a collection of interesting artifacts which showcase life in the hospital town of Newnan, both during and after the American Civil War. Highlights of the collection include an authentic restored Civil War flag and an extensive costume and textile collection. There are also several pieces of period furniture and many articles of a medical nature which were used during the Civil War.
The Male Academy Museum, 30 Temple Avenue, Newnan, GA 30263, Phone: 770-251-0207
Where to Eat:
4. If You’re Craving a Slice, Dine at Partners II Pizza
In 1977 the original Partners II Pizza restaurant opened in Peachtree City. Such was the success of that first pizza restaurant that eager customers can enjoy a Partners II pizza at 6 different locations including Summer Grove/Newnan. Some fans will tell you that the secret crust recipe, (developed by the founder of the company Jim Royal) is responsible for the success of the restaurant. Each pizza is hand tossed and topped with your choice of delicious fresh ingredients. Besides a long list of pizzas, the menu also offers a selection of tasty appetizers, several choices of salads, sandwiches and pasta dishes. Gluten free options are also available and carb-careful diners can choose a cauliflower pizza crust.
Partners II Pizza, Summer Grove Market Square, 48 Market Street, Newnan, GA 30265, Phone: 770-253-9221
5. Savor Southern Flavors at Golden’s On the Square
Located in a quaint old building which was built in 1900, Golden’s on the Square has been serving up award-winning southern home cooking since 1972. Golden’s aim to offer each and every customer a delicious home-style meal and everything on the menu is freshly cooked from scratch each day. The food is served buffet-style and the choices changes daily – you may need to visit a few times to find all your favorites on the buffet. Guests can expect authentic southern comfort foods like fried green tomatoes, fried catfish, fried chicken, mac & cheese and broiled fish on the menu. If you would like to order a takeaway meal you can phone in to see what the daily specialties are.
Golden’s on the Square, 9 East Court Square, Newnan, GA 30263, Phone: 770-251-4300
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Stroll through Downtown Newnan – Explore boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants housed in beautifully preserved historic buildings.
- Visit the McRitchie-Hollis Museum – Step into 1930s Newnan and learn about the town’s textile history and mid-century life.
- Walk the Oak Hill Cemetery – Visit the historic cemetery where Civil War soldiers and notable Georgians are buried.
- Explore Carl Miller Park – Spend time outdoors with playgrounds, walking trails, and shady picnic areas perfect for families.
- Tour historic homes – Drive or walk through the beautiful Antebellum and Victorian neighborhoods showcasing Newnan’s nickname, the "City of Homes."
Where to Eat
- The Redneck Gourmet – Popular downtown diner serving Southern comfort food favorites in a relaxed, friendly setting.
- Meat N Greet – Casual spot known for creative burgers, sandwiches, and craft beers with a trendy vibe.
- Golden’s on the Square – Cozy café serving hearty homemade breakfasts, lunches, and daily specials.
If you are interested in local events:
- Spring Art Walk (March) – Stroll downtown and view works by local artists in shops, restaurants, and galleries during this festive evening event.
- Summer Wined-Up (June) – Enjoy an evening of wine tastings, shopping, and live entertainment throughout historic downtown Newnan.
- Christmas in Downtown Newnan (December) – Celebrate the holidays with carriage rides, festive lights, and charming seasonal events around the square.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Newnan, Georgia:
- Chattahoochee Bend State Park (25–30 min) – Hike, kayak, or picnic at one of Georgia’s largest state parks along the river.
- Senoia, GA (20–25 min) – Explore a charming town famous for its film sets, including “The Walking Dead,” and shop cute boutiques.
- Serenbe Community (30 min) – Visit this eco-friendly village offering farm-to-table dining, arts events, hiking, and beautiful nature trails.
- Line Creek Nature Area (20–25 min) – Hike easy wooded trails along a scenic creek in nearby Peachtree City.
- Historic Banning Mills (30 min) – Try zip lining, hiking, and eco-tour adventures at this beautiful historic site with the world's longest zip line course.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Where is Newnan located and what makes it a great weekend destination?
- Newnan is located 40 miles west of Atlanta and serves as the county seat of Coweta County. It's a great place to spend a weekend, particularly for those interested in history and architecture.
- What historical attractions can visitors explore in Newnan?
- The town boasts 6 historic districts with some of the finest historic homes in Georgia. The Male Academy Museum, housed in one of these buildings, contains many exhibits dating back to the Civil War era when Newnan was a hospital town.
- What outdoor activities are available in Newnan?
- Nature lovers can explore the beautiful Dunaway Gardens, covering over 25 acres, or go hiking in Chattahoochee Bend State Park.
- What can visitors do after a day of exploring Newnan?
- Round off the day with a delicious meal at one of the town’s many restaurants.
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