Visiting the City of Forsyth Georgia

I first discovered the city of Forsyth, Georgia, when I was looking for a rest stop on our way from Savannah to Atlanta. I wanted to discover a little more of small town Georgia, and Forsyth fit the bill. The city’s proximity to Juliette (the filming location of the movie Fried Green Tomatoes) was also a big draw to the area. Visiting the city of Forsyth Georgia turned out to be a wonderful and memorable stop on our southern bbq road trip.

Disclaimer: We were guests of Forsyth CVB for part of our visit; however, as always, all opinions are my own.

Where to stay in Forsyth

Forsyth sits in between Macon and Atlanta, near Interstate highway 75, so has all the major amenities that this kind of location elicits. We stayed at the Red Roof Inn* – this brand of classic roadside motels are no frills, yet clean and spacious. We appreciated the large cool room and easy access to the highway.

Some of the best rated options in Forsyth are La Quinta by Wyndham, and the Hampton Inn. A full list of hotels, including the KOA campground, is available on the Forsyth CVB site.

* Our stay at Red Roof Inn was NOT hosted.

Things to do in Forsyth

Forsyth is a little city with big heart. Their street signs proclaim their pride. The locals we spoke to were passionate about their community and history, as well as the future of the town. Their well-kept centre square and active regeneration of commerce was great to see.

Forsyth Foxhunt

Don’t worry, this is a treasure hunt – to find the small fox statues hidden around Forsyth! Along the way you will discover more about the history of the city, the architecture, and the major events and people that have shaped the area. Learn about Tift College (an all female liberal arts college) and other notable places in Forsyth via this fun scavenger hunt. I won’t spoil the reason why foxes have such significance here. You can learn more via the Forsyth Foxhunt clues page.

Monroe County Courthouse + Main Square

During our many road trips around the USA, we have seen many towns with a central town square. Many have civic buildings in the centre, or as a masthead nearby. Typical of the European style that was popular during the time of white settlement expansion in the US; these main squares lend themselves to a community focal point.

The historical society plaques around the square guide you through the history of the county, the town, and of the square and courthouse itself. The war memorial is a poignant reminder of how impacted these small towns and cities are when their young soldiers are lost.

Monroe County Museum + Forsyth Railroad Depots

Railway towns always have an interesting history. Often the lifeblood of a town, these rail connections and depots act as the hub of activity and progress. The Forsyth depots are on the National Historic Register. Partly as fine examples of certain eras in railway history; and also as a reminder of the harrowing history of racial segregation in the US. Now, more than ever before, we need these reminders of a past that we want to move away from, rather than towards.

The Monroe County Museum is a great resource for genealogy in the area also.

Don’t miss a visit to Juliette, Georgia, to eat fried green tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe. And to see the remains of the set from the movie of the same name!

Where to eat in Forsyth Georgia

Grits Cafe

Looking for an upscale dining experience while in Forsyth? Then Grits Cafe is the place for you. You’ll find elevated southern classics on the menu, and a great cocktail menu. Grits is located next to the Rose Theatre on the main square. Why not combine a meal out at Grits with a night out at the Rose, watching the Backlot Players do a performance!

Picked Okra

This casual restaurant and bar serves comfort food at breakfast, lunch and dinner. A great stop for brunch!

Georgia Bob’s BBQ

Georgia Bob’s is a bbq franchise, and there is one in Forsyth. While there are lots of fast food options on offer in Forsyth, I would recommend Georgia Bob’s, for a delicious quick food option. I had the ribs and sweet potato tots (tots + sweet potato = win!), and would also recommend the banana pudding!

Visiting the City of Forsyth Georgia

I find the complicated history of the southern states of America fascinating. There are remnants of a tumultuous history, but in the same breath you find incredible communities and future thinkers. Forsyth seems to sit in an the intersection of paradigms; aware of its past, but embracing of progress. I must thank Gilda from the Forsyth CVB, for showing us around, and for sharing her passion for the city and all its initiatives.

If you’re looking for a stop along the i75, and want to experience the welcoming embrace of a cute southern town, give Forsyth Georgia a chance!

We also enjoyed the community spirit of Holly Springs, and Clarksdale Mississippi.

Contact me for more road trip planning tips!

All photos & content © Hannah Henderson and may not be used without permission (sharing this blog post is fine, though!). Images shot with a Canon DSLR T3i Rebel + Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM; and an iPhone.