Griffin, GA Road Trips

Griffin is steeped in tradition and history. Many of the locals are keen to retain as much of this as possible while moving forward to greater commercialization. There is also a strong sense of regional pride here with a deep foundation in religion. Most of the residents are strict conservatives and fervently fight about their beliefs and views. It would be considered very rude to challenge these ideals. At the same time the people are generally welcoming and will do their best to make sure you feel at home, usually by offering a glass of "sweet tea".

Downtown has changed little since the 1920s, and many new shops and restaurants are moving in to take advantage of renewed interest in the historical area. This is also where you will find the historical society and local museum. The museum complex contains the Doc Holiday museum to commemorate the western celebrity that was born in town. Many of the houses in the area hold historical significance dating back to the antebellum era (when most of the residents were born). You can find a map showing their locations and significance by contacting the historical society.

Atlanta Motor Speedway, which is located about 15 miles north, offers tours when arranged in advance. There is also the Griffin Ballet which frequently presents shows in the auditorium. High school football is a large event in town. Griffin has 10 county parks that offer everything from golf to little league sports. Many are shaded by large oaks and offer a nice chance to escape from the heat and relax on the grass.

American Pie Pizzeria, 1537 N Express Way (U.S. 19, Walmart Shopping Center), ☏ +1 770 227-1733. El Charro, 1501 N Express Way (U.S. 19, Walmart Shopping Center), ☏ +1 770 412-8089. Truett's Grill, 1455 N Express Way (U.S. 19, Walmart Shopping Center), ☏ +1 770 233-1712. Aside from the typical fare there are many privately owned restaurants that offer a cheap meal. Nice authentic meals can be had at any of the numerous bbq joints usually for less than $10. The best meals found in town are usually at church functions where the deep fried southern food is top notch. Most dishes are from recipes passed down from generations and prepared with traditional methods. Griffin is also home to one of the few Chick-fil-A "Dwarfhouses"; this specialized Chick-fil-A combines a typical fast-food setting on one side with a full service restaurant on the other. It's one of the few places on earth where you can get a Chick-fil-A steak or burger.

There is a growing selection of bars and nightclubs that are packed on Friday and Saturday nights. However you can expect to pay $4-5 for the usual domestic beer in plastic cups. While the acceptance of the party scene is getting better it may not be easy to find a bar or pub. A few local establishments to try are: Buffalo's Southwest Grill, one of the town's first bars. J-Henry's, while mainly a restaurant, the bar packs out early in the evening The Moose Lodge.

A large array of commercial as well as independent hotels can be found on the north side of town on 19/14. Due to Atlanta Motor Speedway, these places easily fill up during March and November but otherwise will have plenty of rooms for a very reasonable price. Baymont by Wyndham Griffin, 2007 N Expy, ☏ +1 770 504-6121. Complimentary breakfast and outdoor pool.

Griffin is easily accessed by Interstate I-75 as well as State Route 19/41 which runs directly through town before splitting into separate highways. There are several small local airports as well as a municipal airport. However, none is serviced by any major carriers at this time.

Griffin is lacking in any public transportation and taxis are not common and usually must be phoned for service. Walking is also not advisable as most major commercial and historical areas are miles apart. Renting a car would most certainly be the easiest and cheapest form of transport.