Discover Covington GA: 15+ Unforgettable Things To Do In Georgia's Charming Hollywood

Looking for a hidden gem where small-town charm meets big-screen magic? Wondering what are the best things to do in Covington GA? You’ve stumbled upon a destination that effortlessly blends antebellum history, a thriving film industry, and genuine Southern hospitality. Often called "The Hollywood of the South," this picturesque city in Newton County offers far more than just a pretty postcard. From walking in the footsteps of movie stars to exploring serene nature trails, Covington provides a rich tapestry of experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you're a film buff, a history enthusiast, an outdoor adventurer, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, this guide will unlock the very best of what this captivating Georgia town has to offer. Prepare to discover a side of the South that’s both timeless and refreshingly dynamic.

Step Back in Time on the Historic Square

The heart of Covington beats on its National Register-listed Historic Square, a beautifully preserved antebellum district that feels like stepping onto a movie set—because, in many cases, you have. Lined with majestic oaks draped in Spanish moss, the square is anchored by the stunning Newton County Courthouse, a Romanesque Revival masterpiece built in 1902. This isn't just a pretty park; it's the vibrant, living town center where community life unfolds.

Antique Shopping and Local Boutiques
Circling the square, you’ll find an array of quaint shops and antique stores that beckon you to explore. Hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures at places like The Covington Gift Shop or Sanders & Sons Antiques. From vintage clothing and rare books to handcrafted Southern décor, these boutiques offer souvenirs with real stories. Many stores are housed in historic buildings themselves, adding layers to your shopping experience. Be sure to check the Covington-Newton County Chamber of Commerce website for seasonal extended hours and special "First Friday" shopping events that bring the square to life with live music and food trucks.

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Architectural Walking Tour
For a deeper dive, pick up a self-guided architectural walking tour brochure from the Chamber office. You’ll learn to identify Greek Revival, Victorian, and Queen Anne styles while hearing tales of the city’s founding in 1821. Key stops include the Covington Grammar School (c. 1910) and the Baldwin House, a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture. These tours, often free and available year-round, transform a simple stroll into an engaging journey through 200 years of Southern history.

Walk in the Footsteps of Stars: The Covington Film Tour

With over 300 productions filmed in the area, Covington’s claim as the "Hollywood of the South" is no joke. The city’s preserved streets and welcoming community have made it a perennial favorite for filmmakers. This is arguably the most popular thing to do in Covington GA, and for good reason.

The Official Covington Movie Tour
Join the Covington Movie Tour, a 90-minute guided experience that’s both fun and fascinating. Knowledgeable local guides don’t just point out locations; they spin behind-the-scenes stories about stars like Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Sandra Bullock, and Ryan Reynolds. You’ll see iconic spots such as:

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• The Square: Featured in The Vampire Diaries (as Mystic Falls) and My Cousin Vinny.
• The Old Newton County Jail: Transformed into a police station in In the Heat of the Night.
• The Historic Oxford Murals: Backdrops for The Walking Dead.
• The Brown House: A key location in The Originals.

Tours run weekly and are a hit with families and film buffs alike. Booking in advance online is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or around major conventions like Dragon Con.

Film Location Scavenger Hunt
For the independent explorer, create your own film location scavenger hunt. Download a map of key sites and see how many you can recognize from shows like The Originals, Legacies, Stranger Things (season 4), and movies like My Cousin Vinny. It’s a thrilling way to see the city with new eyes. Don’t forget your camera—you might just capture the perfect "I was there" shot.

Saddle Up at the Georgia International Horse Park

Just a short drive from downtown, the Georgia International Horse Park (GIHP) is a 1,400-acre recreational wonderland born from the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. This facility hosts world-class equestrian events, but its appeal extends far beyond horse lovers.

Equestrian Events and Public Riding
If you time your visit right, you can catch major events like the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event qualifiers or the Georgia National Fair’s horse shows. For a hands-on experience, book a trail ride through the park’s scenic woods and fields. Stables like Hickory Ridge Horse Farm offer guided rides for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced riders. It’s a unique way to immerse yourself in the region’s deep equestrian culture.

Mountain Biking, Running, and Family Fun
GIHP is a multi-sport paradise. It boasts over 25 miles of challenging mountain bike trails maintained by the SORBA (Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association) chapter. Trailheads are easily accessible, with maps available online. The park also features a 5K cross-country course, fishing ponds, picnic shelters, and playgrounds. Rent a bike from a local shop like Bike Emory (seasonal) and spend a day exploring. The park’s vastness means you can easily find a quiet spot for a family picnic while watching horses train in the distance.

Embrace the Great Outdoors: Parks and Trails

Covington and Newton County are a nature lover’s haven, with over 2,000 acres of parks and green space. The area’s gentle rolling hills and hardwood forests provide a beautiful backdrop for outdoor recreation year-round.

Champion Brewing Company Trail & Turner Lake
Start at Champion Brewing Company, a local craft brewery with a fantastic patio. From there, connect to the Champion Trail, a paved, multi-use path perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. The trail meanders alongside Turner Lake, a serene 80-acre reservoir. Bring a picnic and enjoy the views, or rent a kayak or paddleboard from a local outfitter (seasonal) to glide on the water. Birdwatchers will delight in the frequent sightings of herons, egrets, and osprey.

Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center
A must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts, the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center is located in neighboring Mansfield, about a 20-minute drive. This 6,400-acre haven includes Marben Public Fishing Area, the Wildlife Discovery Center (with live animal exhibits), and over 14 miles of hiking trails. It’s an ideal spot for a full-day excursion, offering fishing, hunting (in season), and educational programs. The center’s focus on conservation makes it both a recreational and enlightening visit.

Savor Southern Flavors: Covington’s Culinary Scene

Forget what you think you know about small-town dining. Covington’s food scene is a delightful mix of classic Southern comfort food, innovative farm-to-table cuisine, and trendy craft breweries. It’s a destination in itself.

Iconic Southern Eateries
No visit is complete without a meal at Maddox & Company, a local institution serving up legendary burgers, shrimp and grits, and decadent pies in a cozy, rustic setting. For a true taste of the South, The Social Club offers elevated Southern dishes in a chic, repurposed historic building. Expect finds like fried chicken livers with collard greens and pimento cheese fritters. For a casual, quick bite, The Covington Diner is the spot for massive, fluffy pancakes and hearty meatloaf plates.

Craft Beer and Local Libations
Covington’s craft beverage scene is booming. Champion Brewing Company, mentioned earlier, is the pioneer, known for its Hefe Weizen and Milk Stout. For something different, The Red Seat Brewing Company offers a rotating selection of creative beers in a lively taproom with food trucks often on-site. If distilled spirits are your preference, Southbound Spirits in nearby Loganville produces small-batch gin, vodka, and bourbon using local ingredients. Their tasting room is worth the short drive.

Celebrate Year-Round: Festivals and Community Events

Covingington’s calendar is packed with family-friendly festivals and community gatherings that showcase its tight-knit spirit and Southern charm. Planning your trip around one of these events adds an unforgettable layer to your visit.

• March:Covington Spring Fling – A vibrant celebration on the square with live music, local artisans, and kids' activities.
• May:Georgia Renaissance Festival (nearby) – While not in Covington proper, this massive, 16-weekend event is a huge regional draw, featuring jousting, feasts, and period entertainment.
• June-July:Friday Night Live – Every Friday evening during summer, the square transforms with free concerts, movies under the stars, and food vendors.
• October:Covington Fall Festival – A beloved community tradition with a parade, craft fair, and pumpkin patch.
• December:Covington Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting – Kick off the holidays with festive floats, hot chocolate, and the lighting of the courthouse square tree.

These events are perfect for experiencing local culture and meeting residents. Check the city’s event calendar for exact dates and any special programming.

Day Trips from Covington: Explore More of Georgia

Covington’s central location makes it an excellent base camp for exploring wider Georgia. Here are top day-trip destinations all within a 45-60 minute drive.

Athens, GA (45 minutes): Home to the University of Georgia, Athens is a vibrant college town known for its legendary music scene (R.E.M., B-52s), quirky shops in the Five Points district, and excellent restaurants. Visit the Georgia Museum of Art or catch a show at the 40 Watt Club.

Stone Mountain Park (50 minutes): A massive state park featuring the iconic Confederate Memorial carving, a historic train ride, and the Summit Skyride for breathtaking views. In summer, the Laser Show Spectacular is a must-see. It’s a fantastic outing for families.

Monroe, GA (20 minutes): The charming neighboring city of Monroe offers its own historic square, the beautiful Monroe Country Club golf course, and Uncle Remus Golf Course. It’s a quieter alternative for a stroll or a meal at a local gem like The Hawthorn House.

Practical Tips for Your Covington Getaway

To make your trip seamless, here are essential logistics and insider advice.

Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March-May): Ideal weather, blooming flowers, and festival season. Crowds are moderate.
• Fall (September-November): Perfect temperatures, beautiful foliage, and harvest festivals. The most popular season.
• Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, but packed with Friday Night Live events. Pack sunscreen and hydration.
• Winter (December-February): Quietest season, mild winters (rarely below freezing), and cozy holiday events. Great for a peaceful escape.

Getting Around
A car is essential for exploring beyond the walkable Historic Square. Most attractions, including GIHP and trailheads, are a short drive away. Downtown parking is free and plentiful on streets and in public lots.

Where to Stay

• Historic B&Bs: For full immersion, stay at a bed-and-breakfast on or near the square, like The Georgian Inn or The Oxford House B&B.
• Chain Hotels: For consistency and amenities, options like Holiday Inn Express and Hampton Inn are conveniently located.
• Vacation Rentals: Check Airbnb or Vrbo for charming historic homes or cottages, perfect for families or longer stays.

Budgeting
Covington offers great value. You can enjoy a full day with a mix of free activities (square strolls, park visits), affordable tours ($25-$30 for the movie tour), and moderate dining ($15-$30 per entree). A mid-range daily budget for a couple (excluding accommodation) is typically $100-$150.

Answering Your Top Questions

Is Covington GA family-friendly?
Absolutely. The combination of the Historic Square’s open space, GIHP’s playgrounds and trails, Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center, and frequent community festivals makes it a top choice for families. The movie tour is engaging for kids familiar with the shows.

How many days should I spend in Covington?
A weekend (2 days) covers the essentials: Historic Square, a film tour, a meal at a top restaurant, and one outdoor activity. To thoroughly explore the parks, take a day trip to Athens or Stone Mountain, and catch a festival, plan for 3-4 days.

Are the film tours worth it?
Yes, especially for fans. The guides provide context and anecdotes you’d miss on a self-guided tour. It efficiently packs multiple locations into a short time and is genuinely entertaining, even for casual viewers.

What’s the weather like?
Covington has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are long, hot, and humid (80s-90s°F). Winters are short and mild (40s-60s°F). Spring and fall are pleasantly warm. Always have a light jacket for cooler evenings, especially in spring/fall.

Conclusion: Your Covington Adventure Awaits

Covington, GA, is a masterclass in Southern allure, where every brick on the Historic Square whispers stories of the past, and every street corner might just host a film crew. The best things to do in Covington GA reveal a destination that respects its history while energetically embracing the present. It’s a place where you can start your day with a hearty Southern breakfast, spend the afternoon hiking forest trails or learning about movie magic, and end it with a craft beer on a porch draped in Spanish moss.

This isn’t a place to rush through. It’s a town to be savored—slowly walking its shaded streets, chatting with friendly shop owners, and letting its relaxed rhythm reset your own. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of The Vampire Diaries, the promise of a perfect fried chicken sandwich, or the simple desire to escape into a storybook setting, Covington delivers an experience that lingers long after you’ve returned home. So, pack your curiosity and your walking shoes. Your unforgettable journey to Georgia’s charming Hollywood starts now.