One-tank trip: Thomasville

By Towles Kintz

For the AJC

In the late Victorian era, Thomasville was known as one of the nation’s most fashionable respites. Northern socialites arrived by rail and built “grand winter cottages,” 50 of which are still standing and give the town its signature charm. Although the days of “wintering” in Thomasville have passed, it remains a travel destination well worth the short drive from Atlanta.

Enlarge photo

Pebble Hill Plantation A timeless showplace of the historic South, the Pebble Hill Plantation is set on 3,000 acres in Thomasville. The Main House is open for tours.

Enlarge photo

Pebble Hill Plantation The family room of the Pebble Hill Plantation's Main House showcases period furnishings and a wildlife mural by J. Clinton Shepherd that spans the room's walls.

More travel stories

• Austin’s music, food usually take center stage
• Benefit from hat trick of airfare bargains
• Port city to spout festivals
• Chicago under $60 each way
• Hartsfield-Jackson reports record 2011
• Travel guide
• Travel deals
• Still Traveling blog
• Atlanta Airport
• Beaches
• Southeastern travel
• U.S. and International travel

Thomasville capitalizes on charming, beautifully restored Victorian architecture, lush rose gardens, a vibrant downtown filled with locally owned shops and restaurants and a number of tour-worthy attractions.

Don’t miss

Pebble Hill Plantation: A timeless showplace of Southern architecture, fine art and antiques, 3,000 bucolic acres. 1251 U.S. 319 South. 229-226-2344; www.pebblehill.com. Visiting hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. The last Main House Tour begins at 3:45 p.m.

Sweet Grass Dairy: Take a tour of this family-owned and operated dairy, where Georgia’s best cheeses are made on site, or visit its retail marketplace, where cheeses are cut to order and cured meats are sliced by hand. Schedule ahead of time as tours are limited and require at least 15 people. 19635 U.S. 19 North. 229-227-0752; www.sweetgrassdairy .com. Tours are given Friday only at 8:30 a.m.; marketplace hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday .

Power of the Past Aviation Museum: Kids and airplane enthusiasts alike will enjoy Thomasville’s antique aviation collection. Thomasville Municipal Airport, 882 Airport Road. 229-226-3010; www.powerofthepast.org. Visiting hours are Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday 2 to 6 p.m., and during the week by appointment.

Potter’s Hand Pastries: This downtown shop hosts high tea in Southern style, complete with homemade confections and clotted cream. Note that 24-hour notice is required for all high tea reservations. 123 North Broad St. 229-225-2150; www.pottershandpastries.com.

Thomasville Farmers Market: Locally grown produce on display at Thomasville’s year-round market that features growers from South Georgia and northern Florida. 502 Smith Ave. 229-225-4072.

If you go

Getting there: Thomasville is 230 miles from Atlanta and should take about four hours to reach by car. Take I-75 South 
(bypass Macon by taking 
 I-475). Take Exit 99 to get onto Ga. 300 toward Albany. Merge onto U.S. 19; take a slight right onto U.S. 319 and then turn left onto Parnell Street, in the heart of Thomasville.

Where to stay

Coalson Plantation & Inn: For the best of Thomasville’s Southern hospitality, book one of Coalson Plantation’s 33 beautifully appointed rooms. The 40-acre resort is a true respite and a step out of time. Rates: $125 to $600. 301 Showboat Lane. 229-226-2290; www.coalsonplantation.
 com/accommodations.

Paxton House Inn B&B: In true Victorian style, this quaint Thomasville B&B exudes timeless charm while providing guests with modern amenities. Rates: $145 to $275. 445 Remington Ave.. 229-226-5197. www.1884paxtonhouseinn.com.

Where to eat

Liam’s: A fusion of flavors: from lobster mac and cheese to pork tenderloin and local veggies — is complemented by an open kitchen and energetic downtown ambiance to make dining at Liam’s an unforgettable experience. 113 E. Jackson St. 229-226-9944; www.liamsofthomasville.
com.

Jonah’s Fish & Grits: Munch on fried seafood, fresh catch cooked to order or — what else? — delicious shrimp and grits in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Price range: $12.50 to $18.50; 109 E. Jackson St. 229-226-0508. www.jonahsfish.com.

Information: Thomasville Visitor’s Center, Thomasville Municipal Building & Auditorium, 144 E. Jackson St. 866- 577-3600. www.thomasvillega.com.