Once a railroad boomtown, Georgia’s Griffin-Spalding is now a quirky, small-town gem just off Interstate 75
GRIFFIN, GEORGIA—MAY 2022—Located just 40 miles south of Atlanta is Griffin-Spalding, a destination rich in history and steeped in small town charm. This once railroad boomtown is now a quirky, small town gem just off Interstate 75 offering a unique destination experience for all who visit. From rich history and a diverse community full of locally owned businesses to stunning architecture and outdoor recreation, Griffin-Spalding has just the right amount of quirkiness to pique the interest of visitors and locals alike. And to top it all off, visitors to the area are greeted with a big dose of Southern hospitality that leaves them wanting more. There’s so much to discover around every corner in Griffin-Spalding! Here are a few things that make the area extra special.
Homegrown business owners
Griffin has a captivating lure that many must experience to truly understand. As a matter of fact, the city has seen a surge in the return of natives over the last few years, some of which return to start businesses. A win-win for Griffin! Grab a cup of award-winning coffee at Safehouse Coffee Roasters, a premier specialty coffeehouse established by Griffin native, Hunt Slade. The coffee at Safehouse is truly a work of art, brewed fresh in state-of-the-art brewing machines and outstanding to the very last drop. Listed as one of “24 Coffee Shops to Visit Before You Die” by Buzzfeed and named “Top 58 Coffee Shops in the Nation” by New York Magazine’s Grub Street, you don’t want to miss this renowned local favorite. Safehouse Coffee Roasters, 109 South Hill Street, Griffin, Georgia, 30223; 678-603-1462
Kizzy’s Kakes, is another locally owned favorite. This sweet spot is named after owner and Griffin native, Kizzy Mathis Watts, and is the go-to bakery for special celebrations or simple indulgences. Established in early 2020, Kizzy Kakes’s following continues to grow among locals and visitors. Known for their “kustom, made-to-order ‘Klassic Kakes,’” featuring flavors such as banana pudding, carrot and cookies and cream, Kizzy’s Kakes also offers “kakes” by the slice and “kupkakes.” Kizzy’s Kakes, 215 South 6th Street Griffin, Georgia, 30224; 470-204-8480
Dining, nightlife and fun
When the sun goes down, it’s time to hit the town! Set your taste buds for a plethora of culinary delights in downtown Griffin. From classic Southern cuisine to fresh sushi, authentic pizza and more, there’s something to quench just about any craving.
After dinner, kick up your heels and break out the line dances at The Tipsy Daisy. Dubbed as “the cutest little bar you ever did see,” patrons enjoy this spot for the delicious tapas, craft beer and cocktails and, of course, live music. The Tipsy Daisy, 132 South Hill Street, Griffin, Georgia 30223; 770-450-0856
Grab some friends and try your hand at axe throwing with Georgia Axe Company. See this old sport become new again as a fun group activity. Georgia Axe Company accommodates birthday parties, bachelor and bachelorette parties as well as corporate events. Go ahead and aim for the bullseye—you may just surprise yourself! Georgia Axe Company, 133 South Hill Street, Griffin, Georgia 30223; 678-371-0996
Grab your beach chair and get ready to hit the sand at the 2022 June Jam happening Saturday, June 11, in historic downtown Griffin. This one day, free event brings the beach to Griffin, including the sand—60 plus tons of sand, that is. Event goers will enjoy live music, food trucks, volleyball and more on Solomon Street in front of Imperial Theatre Park. See you at the beach.
Thriving Performing Arts Scene
What started as a dream of artistic director, Norma Richardson, is now a star of the Griffin + Spalding performing arts scene. Richardson returned to her hometown of Griffin to realize her dream of expanding artistic opportunities within her community. And she did just that with the creation of Main Street Players. Main Street Players offers several performances throughout the year including musical theater and plays. Main Street Players is located right in the heart of historic downtown Griffin. Main Street Players, 115 Hill Street, Griffin, Georgia 30223; 770-229-9916
The beautifully restored Griffin Opera House shines bright with its interior décor and live performances. Originally built in the 1800s, this well-appointed opera house has been revived in the very best way, decorated to reflect its original décor. From stand-up comedy to dinner theater, live music and more, this performance venue offers a unique experience to all who visit. Don’t miss the opportunity to take in all this historic opera house has to offer. Griffin Opera House, 102 North Hill Street, #200, Griffin, Georgia 30223; 770-688-7188
A one-of-a-kind event
Don’t miss the Doc Holliday Festival. Griffin-Spalding is home to the Western figure John Henry “Doc” Holliday, the area’s native son. The infamous gunslinger grew up in Griffin and later returned after dental school to open his small dental practice. However, his return did not last long as he soon headed west. But Griffin is a place that likes to celebrate their own and, with that in mind, each year folks come to the area from near and far to attend this great event. The annual event is complete with reenactments, a Barbecue Champion Contest, local vendors, family entertainment and more. Mark your calendar for September 10, 2022, the weekend after Labor Day. When planning this year’s visit, take a look at last year’s fun.
Outdoor recreation
The newly opened Quarry’s Edge Park, located in the heart of Griffin, is comprised of 130 acres of wooded land featuring four miles of mountain bike trails, hiking trails, a bike washing station, a bike repair station and a Nerf-soft dart play zone. This “fun for the whole family park” is perfect for those wanting to get out and enjoy the outdoors while remaining close to everything. Quarry’s Edge Park, 951 West Quilly Street, Griffin, Georgia 30223
Step outside your comfort zone and take a shot at Cherokee Rose. Established in 1981, this premiere sporting clays club offers a top notch clay shooting experience among its beautiful terrain and scenic beauty. Complete with professional instruction, state of the art equipment, genuine hospitality, picturesque rolling hills and peaceful lakes, it’s the perfect spot to hone your skill while taking in the natural beauty of the area. Conveniently located just minutes from I-75, Cherokee Rose is also available for special events. Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, and Tuesday by appointment. Cherokee Rose, 895 Baptist Camp Road, Griffin, Georgia 30223; 770-227-6569
Where to stay
Griffin + Spalding has a wide variety of lodging options available throughout the region. From charming historic bed and breakfasts to chain hotel brands, there are plenty of options to fit your travel needs. The area also features many VRBO and Air B&B options including some private estates with properties for rent. Whether it’s a historic loft, a bed and breakfast or a traditional hotel experience, there are plenty of lodging options to make your trip memorable.