Christine Tucker, Athens Area Realtor
 

Oglethorpe County Guide

Located just a short drive east of Athens and Oconee, this beautiful county is home to rolling hills, pasture land and welcoming close-knit communities. Oglethorpe County has a rich agricultural heritage that continues to this day. Small farms, granite quarries and timberland contribute responsibly to the County’s economic growth. Sprinkled across the county are wonderful outdoor opportunities to enjoy the stunning landscape such as the Firefly Trail, a state park, and many historic farms.

If you have school aged children, you could consider buying a home in the city of Maxeys which has a college scholarship program for eligible children of Maxey’s residents*. Furthermore, the county has a great Recreation Department offering a variety of sports such as: youth basketball, wrestling, Little League, football, co-ed soccer, volleyball, cheerleading and tennis.

Oglethorpe County offers truly unique opportunities for both prospective and current residents. Real estate in this county is more affordable - the average sales price of a home is more than $100,00 less than in both Athens and Madison County and almost $400K less than Oconee county homes. Thinking of opening a business or restaurant? There are many storefronts in historic downtown Lexington that are available for purchase and downtown Crawford encourages the repurposing of older spaces. With a mix of new construction and historic homes, many with acreage, this is a great place to consider making your home.

*see their website for more information and eligibility

 
 
 

What to Do

 
 

Watson Mill bridge state park

Watson Mill Bridge State Park boasts Georgia’s longest covered bridge still in use. This absolutely gorgeous park offers biking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, paddling, picnicking and more. A wonderful park for fun and for rest & relaxation (bring a book and have seat next to the water). $5 parking pass for entry.

 

Firefly Trail

Ride the firefly trail! The trail is open and still in development. Ultimately it will be a 39-mile rail-trail from Athens to Union Point. This community oriented trail is a wonderful way to have fun with a friend and see some lovely historic towns in Georgia. There are scenic stops along the way providing water stations to refill your water bottles, picnic tables for a lunch stop, and air pumps in case your tire pressure is low. 

 

Shaking Rock Park

Located near Downtown Lexington, this small and quiet park features huge, egg-shaped granite boulders, some stacked on top of each other. Follow a short trail through the boulders and enjoy the scenery. It’s perfect for a short afternoon visit or a quiet place to read.

 

A and B emporium

This eclectic shop in downtown Crawford is owned and operated by first responders and veterans, Alice & Bret. A & B emporium has a variety of used, new and vintage items. Since 2012 A & B has been actively involved in the community and regularly give back by allowing folks who have had house fires to take what they need from the store. 

 

Community cigar

Your local tobacconist in downtown Lexington. With an emphasis on building community, this niche shop is a cozy place to stop in for a smoke, a cup of coffee and some conversation. They sell a variety of boutique premium cigars, bundles, flavored cigars, pipes, pipe tobacco, accessories, and humidification products.

 

Zombie farms

Zombie Farms in Winterville has helped the Athens-area celebrate Halloween since 2012. This much anticipated annual event is a haunted walking trail through the woods with many sets and scenes to enjoy.  It is a unique and scary alternative to the usual predictable halloween fare. The trail is different every year, so no matter how many times you have visited before, you will enjoy all new scares and scenes!

 

the Gillen house Bed & Breakfast

Enjoy a night away at this quaint Bed & Breakfast on 2 beautiful acres in Maxeys. The house is charming with beautiful woodwork, great decor, large rooms and everything is clean and comfortable. Choose from many areas on the grounds to relax including the extensive flower gardens, a pecan orchard, vegetable & herb garden, turtle pond, bocce ball court, and a golf putting and chipping green.  A gourmet breakfast is included and evening dining may be arranged by request when making your reservation.

 

Crossroads odds & ends

“The shop that has a little of this and a little of that.” It’s a great and friendly place in Arnoldville to shop for antiques, collectables, and vintage items. They also sell reasonably priced furniture and household items. Stop by and have fun browsing.

 

The meadow cabin

This peaceful, private, tiny cabin in Stephens is perfect for a one or two person quiet getaway. You'll only hear the birds chirping and wind blowing through the meadow as you retreat to this completely off-grid tiny house. You won't miss all the luxuries of home though - there's a small fridge, two burner stove, running water, hot shower, lights, indoor toilet, and the comfiest queen bed.

 

cloverleaf farm

This majestic Southern farmhouse in Arnoldsville was built in 1859 and is over 7,000 square feet. It sits amidst expansive pastures, a pecan grove, tree-lined lanes, vineyard, perennial flower beds, and a formal, brick-enclosed courtyard. This picture-perfect wedding venue includes a wrap-around porch and barn space for entertaining which offers endless options for your special event. Last but not least, it’s the Venue of choice for the annual Wildwood Revival Music Festival.

 

the sandbar

Located just east of Oglethorpe County in Bowman, Georgia there is so much to do at The Sandbar. Kayak down the Broad River, take a zipline canopy tour, and/or enjoy camping in one of their riverside cabins. Kayaking is seasonal (typically April - September) so check their website. It’s a fun time for everyone. Be sure to check the water levels on their website before you go.

 

Where to eat

 

CArrie’s Corner

This wonderful little store/restaurant in Stephens is open from 7am-7pm daily except for Sundays. Serving everything from biscuits, meatloaf and southern vegetables to pizza. Stop in for some wonderful homestyle cooking served with a smile.

 

Crawford pizza

Located in the heart of downtown Crawford, this locally owned pizza parlor serves made to order delicious and fresh pizzas, sandwiches, breadsticks and salads. Lots to love about this restaurant with its incredibly friendly staff, pleasant atmosophere, indoor/outdoor seating and plenty of parking.

 

G Brand BBQ

G Brand BBQ in downtown Crawford is open Thurs. - Saturday from 10am - 9pm. Serving ribs, bbq chicken, brisket, hash and more with 5 different sauce choices and delicious sides.  They have Bluegrass music on Thursday nights along with plenty of seating and parking.

 

La Cabana De Don Juan

This delicious Mexican restaurant in Lexington serves flavorful food at great prices. Their portions are generous and their services is fast and friendly. Their flan is known to be the best in the area.

 

Golden Panda

Wonderful little Chinese restaurant in Lexington. A big menu to choose from and the staff is very nice and helpful. Dine-in/take-out, plenty of parking - located in Oak Tree Plaza.

 

Blazers

Enjoy made to order wings with a selection of homemade sauces, hamburgers, sandwiches, fries and more. Located in Lexington, they have limited dine-in hours so check in advance; otherwise carry-out.