City of Americus, Georiga

Have you ever visited the city of Americus? I hadn’t—until recently. As I’ve stepped into this middle stage of life, my travel priorities have shifted. These days, I’m all about slowing down, soaking up the atmosphere, and truly savoring the places I visit.

Gone are the days of racing through crowded attractions or checking off lists. Now, I crave destinations where I can take my time and let the stories unfold naturally. That’s exactly what led me to the city of Americus, Georgia—a small town with a big personality and a history that immediately grabbed my attention.

A Hidden Gem in Southwestern Georgia

Nestled in southwestern Georgia, the city of Americus might not be the first place to catch your eye on a map. But trust me, this town is a treasure for travelers who appreciate charm, character, and authenticity. It’s a place where time slows down, history whispers through the streets, and every corner holds a delightful surprise.

The Windsor Hotel: A Victorian Fairy Tale

Let’s start with the stunning Windsor Hotel, located right in the heart of downtown. This Queen Anne-style masterpiece, built in 1892, boasts a three-story atrium, wraparound balconies, and a turret that seems like it came straight out of a Victorian fairytale.

What I didn’t know when I checked in was that the Windsor is supposedly haunted. Oops! Luckily, “I ain’t afraid of no ghost!” and after hearing the stories, I was even more fascinated by the hotel’s past.

Exploring Americus: Architecture, Culture, and Culinary Delights

Historic Architecture

My first full day in Americus started with an architecture tour that left me in awe. From grand churches to stately homes and historic buildings, every structure seemed to tell a story. Walking the streets of Americus felt like stepping back in time, and I loved learning about the people and events that shaped this vibrant town.

A Taste of Southern Soul

By lunchtime, I was ready for comfort food, and Gladys’ Kitchen delivered in every way. This family-run gem has been serving up fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread, and sweet tea for over 30 years. Every bite was infused with love and tradition, leaving me with a full belly and a happy heart.

Sweet Treats and Latin Fusion

Later in the day, I treated myself at Scoops, an ice cream parlor with homemade flavors that were so good, I wanted to go back for seconds (don’t judge!).

Dinner that evening was a vibrant affair at The Spot, a Latin fusion restaurant where every bite—from empanadas to flavorful entrees—was a culinary adventure. Meeting the owners and executive chef made the experience even more memorable.

The Rylander Theatre: A Cultural Gem

No visit to the city of Americus would be complete without catching a show at the historic Rylander Theatre. With over a century of history, this beautifully restored venue brought the town’s cultural spirit to life with a lively performance.

A Side Trip to Plains, Georgia

Americus isn’t the only destination in the area worth exploring. Just a short drive away lies Plains, Georgia, the hometown of President Jimmy Carter. This charming town is brimming with pride for its most famous resident.

I toured Carter’s boyhood home, now a National Historic Site, and visited The Depot, his campaign headquarters during the 1976 election. The museum at Plains High School added even more depth to the story of how a small-town boy became a global leader.

Discovering Even More in Americus

There was plenty to do and see throughout my 4-day trip to Americus. Need ideas for planning your trip to Americus? Here are some ideas:

Start Your Day with Rosemary & Thyme

If you stay at the Windsor, you can began your day with a delicious breakfast at Rosemary & Thyme. It’s conveniently located inside the Windsor Hotel. Their Southern-inspired dishes are not just meals but experiences, perfectly setting the tone for your days of exploration.

Pro tip: Get the pancakes!

Getting Oriented at the Visitors Center

Stop at the Americus Visitors Center to pick up maps, coupons and insider tips to make the most of your visit. The friendly staff can help you plan an itinerary that balances history, culture, and relaxation.

Sipping and Tasting Downtown

Downtown Americus is a delight for foodies and drink enthusiasts. I visited the Wolf Creek Plantation Winery Downtown Tasting Room, where I sampled some of Georgia’s finest wines, and the Thirteenth Colony Distillery, where their handcrafted spirits provided a unique and flavorful experience.

Lunch with a Side of History in Plains

A short drive took me to Buffalo Café in Plains for a hearty lunch filled with local flavor. While there, I delved deeper into the history of Plains, including its ties to President Jimmy Carter.

Memorable Dinners in Americus

Americus’ dining scene did not disappoint. At The Station, the cozy atmosphere and flavorful dishes created a memorable evening. Another night, I dined at Floyd’s Pub, enjoying creative pub fare in a relaxed setting that perfectly captured the town’s charm.

Creativity and Holiday Cheer

At Art Hive Studio, I joined a workshop to craft my own Christmas ornaments—a festive and creative experience I’ll never forget.

The Americus Christmas Open House brought the downtown area to life with lights, music, and holiday spirit, making my visit even more magical.

History and Reflection

Americus is steeped in history, and my tours were both enlightening and moving. At Koinonia Farm, I learned about its pivotal role in social justice and as the birthplace of Habitat for Humanity.

I also visited the site of the future Americus Civil Rights & Cultural Center, which will soon honor the town’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. Exploring Oak Grove and Eastview Cemeteries offered a look at the lives and legacies of the people who shaped the region.

Relaxing at Café Campesino

Between adventures, I stopped by Café Campesino for a rich, fair-trade coffee. The café’s cozy vibe and focus on sustainability made it a standout spot to relax, recharge and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and a pastry.

Why Americus Should Be on Your List

For me, the city of Americus and nearby Plains were more than just charming destinations. They were reminders of the beauty and depth that can be found in the most unexpected places.

Americus doesn’t try to be flashy—it doesn’t have to. Instead, it embraces its history, heart, and charm, sharing them generously with anyone willing to slow down and truly experience it.

So, if you’re looking for a destination where the pace is slower, the history is rich, and every moment feels authentic, consider visiting the city of Americus. You just might find yourself as hooked as I was.