Known for its rich history and close-knit community, Villa Rica is a city that stays true to its roots while continuing to grow. From its charming downtown area to a plethora of recreational opportunities, there is always something new to discover in Villa Rica.
Take a Step Back in Time
The Pine Mountain Gold Museum is a Villa Rica staple, serving as an interactive exhibition of the city's gold mining history. Explore the museum and outdoor exhibits to learn more about one of the longest running mining operations in the state of Georgia or stop by the indoor panning shed to try gemstone panning yourself! Visitors can take advantage of more than 3 miles of scenic walking trails that wind through the property and offer a glimpse of its mining ruins and an 1858 gold stamp mill.
Stop by Wicks Tavern, the oldest commercial building in Caroll County. Now serving as a living history museum, the space was once a gathering place for gold miners that worked in the area. Built in 1830, it showcases a classic example of the Dutch-style timber framing method. The museum is open by appointment. Call 770-243-8144 to schedule a tour.
Outdoor Adventures
Spend a quiet afternoon at Lamar Moody Recreation Center and enjoy boating and fishing on the stocked 8-acre lake or small pond. The park also includes a picnic area. Clinton Nature Preserve is another option for active enthusiasts with nature trails, an ADA-accessible playground and a 1-mile hike to the Carnes Cabin, a pre-Civil War residence.
There is no shortage of events and gatherings at The MILL Amphitheater, such as concerts, festivals and classic car shows including the upcoming Art & Soul Festival, annual Gold Rush Festival and the summer concert series. A list of upcoming events at this venue can be found here.
Villa Rica's parks and recreation department features multiple destinations for residents of all ages to enjoy. The largest, Gold Dust Park, offers an abundance of recreational sports, athletic facilities, classes and more, as well as places to picnic, a splash pad, walking trails and more.
Shop & Dine
During warm weather months, make plans to visit Little Vine Vineyards and Winery and indulge in a mix of white, red and rose wines, as well as fruit wines and ports. Little Vine Vineyard invites visitors to attend its wine tastings, including single samples, full menu tastings and various wine flights.
Located in a restored, historical building, Chat & Choo serves up American classics for breakfast and lunch. The restaurant is known for its mouth-watering sandwiches, salads, soups and signature red velvet brownies.
Craving a casual meal in a cozy setting? Check out Gabe's Downtown for Cajun dishes, refreshing cocktails and live music on the weekends. Similarly, The Olive Tree Restaurant presents diners with a laid-back environment and quality service. From lasagna to gyros, this restaurant features a blend of Greek and Italian dishes with vegan options available as well. Grab fresh seafood favorites at Gulf Seafood Market, or indulge in upscale barbecue with a twist at Evans Barbecue Company. No matter what your palette desires, Villa Rica offers something sure to satisfy your craving.
For at-home cooking enthusiasts, the weekly Community Market of Villa Rica is a must-do event. Held every Monday from April through August at The MILL Amphitheater, the event features local vendors offering organic goods, fruit, vegetables, meat, honey and more.
Located on Main Street, Another's Treasure Antiques is full of unique pieces you won't find anywhere else! Inventory updates weekly, so check back often for new items. E.T. Doyal & Sons, your destination for farming and gardening essentials, features everything you need to flex your "green" thumb. In addition to its agricultural selections, the store also carries groceries and other items.
Practice Your Swing at Local Golf Courses
Did you know that Villa Rica has three golf courses in town? The Frog Golf Club at The Georgian was designed by legendary architect Tom Fazio and showcases manicured greens, serene landscapes and strategic bunkers. The course is also an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, meaning that it maintains natural resources while enhancing its environmental quality.
Nearby, Mirror Lake Golf Club ensures fun for players of all skill levels, utilizing rolling fairways and challenging water hazards. Multiple tee levels are also available to accommodate seasoned and beginner players.
Looking for a more natural landscape? Fairfield Plantation is known for its wooded course, complete with tight fairways that demand accuracy from players.
Heritage Pointe at The Georgian
Calling all active adults; Heritage Pointe is a resort-style, 55+ community in Villa Rica. Since comfort and accessibility are top priorities for residents, many homes can be found right on The Frog golf course or easily accessed via golf cart-friendly streets throughout the community. You will find amenities just beyond your doorstep, while Villa Rica shopping, dining and recreation are only minutes away. Settle into a quieter lifestyle at Heritage Pointe with recreational essentials at your fingertips.
Learn more about our new active adult homes at Heritage Pointe at The Georgian: discoverartisan.com/heritage-pointe.
