Yahoo Lifestyle Why I’m Planning My Next Girls’ Trip to Madison, Georgia
As a longtime travel editor and Country Living’s resident small town enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for charming destinations to drag my girlfriends to. That said, a spot worthy of a girls’ weekend can be somewhat of a tall order. There are, in my humble opinion, three crucial components: 1) leisurely activities that leave ample room for reminiscing; 2) great meals to linger around; and—let’s be honest here—3) a pretty backdrop or two for that crucial group photo.
That’s precisley why I was delighted to take note of a new-to-me destination that that will be perfect for my gang’s next getaway: Madison, Georgia, a picturesque town of just 5,136 in the rural reaches of the Peach State’s Piedmont region. Madison’s distinctly Southern charm lies in its collective affinity for antiques, old homes, and farm-fresh flavors. You and your crew can browse vintage finds at all price levels, commune with cute animals at a horse ranch or the local farmhouse inn, see some seriously stunning old homes, and savor truly great meals at a crop of new eateries that have recently spruced up the town square. (Those embracing 2025’s “set-jetting” travel trend should also know that Stranger Things was recently spotted filming in town!)
In short, all the essentials of a restorative long weekend with old friends can be found within town, but it certainly doesn’t hurt that The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds at Lake Oconee, a luxe waterside retreat beloved by well-heeled Southerners for fishing, boating, golf, and, yes, a great massage, sits just 40 minutes east.
Ready to start planning your retreat? Read on for all the reasons Madison, Georgia is a top girls’ trip destination for 2025, including the best restaurant, shops, and activities to do while you’re there.
And if you're looking for more great small towns to visit with friends, here are a few of our favorites:
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Perch on the Patio
Housed in an old gas station situated just off a main street, The Sinclair serves as something of a gathering spot for Madison’s early risers. You can also pick up fresh-baked croissants from nearby Patisserie on Main.
Set Out for a Stroll
Madison’s Historic District is the second largest in the state, and the 1.5-mile self-guided walking tour takes old home enthusiasts past pristinely preserved Victorians, Greek Revivals, and more.
RELATED: Everything to Know About Victorian-Style Homes
Explore the Arts
Co-founded by Madison Mayor Fred Perriman (pictured), the Morgan County African-American Museum showcases the works of Black folk artists such as Clementine Hunter and Eugene Swain. The Madison-Morgan Cultural Center hosts drawing classes, concerts, and local history exhibits.
Break for Antiques
Vintage surprises spanning the decades fill every corner of J&K Fleas An’Tiques and and The Madison Flea Market, while the 75 high-end dealers at Madison Markets keep their offerings tightly curated.
RELATED: 100+ Best Places to Shop for Antiques and Vintage Online
Fill Up on Comfort Food
Named (and decorated!) for owner Preston Snyder’s late mother, Betty Gene’s pays homage to small town Southern diners with patty melts and milkshakes, while those more in the mood for collard greens and cornbread can head to Benny Paul’s Soul Food, Martha’s Favorite, or R+B Cafe. The Madison Produce Co. serves up deli sandwiches and nostalgic sweets such as Stuckey’s pecan candy.
RELATED: 30 of The Best Diners Across America
Step Back in Time
First built in 1809, the Rogers House museum provides a look at middle-class life in the late 1800s. On the lot next door, Rose Cottage was built in 1891 for Adeline Rose, a previously enslaved woman who financed her way to home ownership by taking in washing and ironing for boarding house residents.
Seek Greener Pastures
At Rock House Farm & Creamery, visitors can say hello to dairy cows then sample the cheeses made on property from their milk.
RELATED: This Dairy Farm Bachelorette is the Most Whole-some Thing You'll See All Day
Stock Your Scullery
At Community Roots Market, Cindi Fetch (pictured) fills her shelves and cooling cases with local meats and produce, Georgia-made dry goods, and a thoughtful selection of cookbooks, wine, and foodie finds.
Feather Your Nest
From patterned tablecloths to wicker picnic baskets, the home goods at Archambault Interiors are perfectly fitting for a casual country gathering. Nearby, Madison Grace stocks farmhouse finds in polished neutrals, and Zeb Grant Design specializes in Southern stylings.
RELATED: So What Is Modern Farmhouse Style, Exactly?
Settle in for Supper
Fête a special occasion with the multi-course French-American menu at The Dining Room, or opt for elevated pub fare and bourbon cocktails in front of the fireplace at Hart & Crown Tavern.
Rest and Reset
Guests of The Farmhouse Inn share the grounds with furry and feathered friends of all sorts, while horse lovers can pass ample portions of their stay at Southern Cross Guest Ranch out riding. At New South Motor Inn, the delightfully retro interiors include a wallpaper-wrapped owner’s suite complete with an eat-in kitchen.
RELATED: 7 Retro Motels I Can’t Wait to Visit on a Road Trip
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