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.
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.
Doc Holliday's Grave , 797 Memorial Drr, Griffin, GA 30224
UGA Research and Education Garden
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
Griffin Spalding Historical Society
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
St. George's Episcopal Church
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
The Original Courthouse
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
Griffith's Drive-In
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
The Winery at Moonlight Manor
Holding the distinction of being the first ever winery in Georgia to be owned and operated by a woman of color, The Winery at Moonlight Manor is somewhat unique. It was established in 2020 and endeavors to produce the finest, all-natural wines in the state. Absolutely no additives, animal products or chemicals are used and their Wikked Eden range of wines is vegan friendly too. Currently, wine tastings are by reservation only and you are invited to book your tasting online. In addition to intriguing wines and potions, the winery also produces a range of preserves to tempt your taste buds.
The Winery at Moonlight Manor, 373 Cook Rd, Griffin, GA 30224, 770 766 3939
Walker Hill
Walker Hill is a unique private museum which definitely deserves a place on your Griffin itinerary. The museum is located in an historic building which dates back to 1867, and has been used as a family home, a dairy and, more recently, an event venue and museum. Over many decades, the Walker family collected a treasure-trove of unusual and interesting objects and antiques which provide visitors with a very special glimpse into the everyday lives of Griffin residents during the 1900’s. The museum is open to the public by reservation only and your visit will include a personal tour of the property and its treasures.
Walker Hill, 708 S. Hill Street, Griffin, VA 30224, 678 643 1796
Griffin Ballet Theatre
Dedicated to enriching the cultural lives of the Griffin community by introducing them to ballet and other dance forms, the Griffin Ballet Theatre produces a series of wonderful productions every year. The theatre is a non-profit organization and provides an outreach program to enable everyone to learn about the joys of ballet, regardless of their economic background. Many of the performances are family-friendly and everyone is invited to come and enjoy a wonderful introduction to the world of ballet. The theatre is located in the heart of downtown Griffin and you can find out what is on by visiting their website.
Griffin Ballet Theatre, 111 N Hill St, Griffin, GA 30223, 770 228 1306
Camelot Theatre
For more than 25 years the Camelot Theatre has been bringing the joy of live performance theatre to Griffin. The Camelot theatre group works tirelessly to ensure that they continue to entertain locals and visitors with an annual selection of theatrical performances, with an emphasis on musicals and youth productions. Younger performers are encouraged to audition. To ensure that their performances are second to none, the group pays great attention to costumes, lighting, stage sets and other props to enhance the experience for the audience. Just a few of the performances on offer in 2024 include the musical Little House on the Prairie, Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Trap!
Camelot Theatre, 205 Spalding Drive, Griffin, GA 30223, 678 469 2913
