Good People Visit Here
You’ll feel like you’ve found a home away from home in hospitable Dublin
Words by Laura Drummond
Photos by Ari Skin
Dublin is quickly becoming the place to be in Georgia. With a fresh rebrand and exciting plans in the works, there’s no better time to make the Emerald City your next destination.
What makes Dublin special is the way the past, present, and future connect and intertwine all in one place. There are the restaurants that have been around for generations and the eateries that are new on the scene and already winning awards for their cuisine. There are historic sites that provide peeks into the past and lessons for the future. Then there are up-and-coming spots that offer family fun and entertainment—and opportunities to make memories that will last a lifetime.
“Being known outside of the community for our St. Patrick’s Festival, our goal was to capture our reputation yet show the visions of our future,” said Renia Cook, Marketing and Communications Specialist for the City of Dublin. “Respecting our history and working hard today so that tomorrow will always be remembered is the ultimate goal.”
Dublin has the best of small-town charm, and now its branding reflects that. Located in Central Georgia midway between Savannah and Atlanta, Dublin is perfectly situated for a quick jaunt or weekend retreat. It doesn’t matter what pastimes you pursue on your travels, there’s sure to be something that fits your fancy—there’s fun, history, and culture around every corner. Here are some of our favorite things to see and do in Dublin.
When deciding the right time to visit, first check the city’s events calendar to schedule a trip during one of its many festivals happening throughout the year. Dublin knows how to throw a party—it’s famous for the St. Patrick’s Festival, hosting celebrations throughout the month of March.
There are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had no matter the season. The city is currently working on an initiative expanding its parks system. Take advantage of the Emerald City’s green spaces by bringing a picnic and visiting Stubbs Park and Jackson Plaza and strolling along Fairview Park Walking Trail. For hunting and fishing, hiking and kayaking, try the wildlife areas, such as River Bend Wildlife Management Area and Beaverdam Wildlife Management Area, and the Oconee River.
If indoor activities are more your speed, there are a ton of unique, locally owned shops to visit in downtown Dublin. Must-visit stops include local landmarks Smith’s Exclusive Jewelers and Strickland’s Boots and newer novelties The Exchange and Hello Sunshine Co. For antiquing, take your pick—there are treasures to uncover at Miss Judy’s, Bootleggers Antiques, and Dublin International Market.
Lace up your comfy walking shoes to see the sights of Dublin—choose the Historic Downtown Dublin Walking Tour to learn the history of Dublin’s people and the Historic Bellevue Avenue Walking Tour to see the city’s historic places. Be sure to visit the First African Baptist Church, where Martin Luther King, Jr. gave his first public speech at the age of 15. Across the street, visit Martin Luther King, Jr. Monument Park, which explores King’s legacy through visual art and recorded storytelling.
After all that exploring, you surely will have worked up an appetite. You’ve come to the right place, as dining options abound in Dublin. For a romantic evening, book a reservation at Ristorante da Maria. Located at picturesque Dublin Farm, you’ll enjoy an intimate atmosphere and authentic Italian cuisine. If you’re looking for an elevated experience, try contemporary Company Supply, serving Cajun- and Creole-inspired selections.
If a casual atmosphere is more your style, try Saltwater Fishery, which partners with local suppliers to bring you the freshest fare—you can also embrace Dublin’s nightlife with live music at its rooftop bar. Then there are the local institutions that have been operating for decades. Don’t miss out on the tried-and-true dishes at Miller’s Soul Food, Minute Grill, and Lou Ann’s Biscuits. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you can find it in Dublin—served with a helping of hospitality.