9 Things To Do In Thomson, Georgia
Thomson is a quintessential southern town minutes away from Augusta and a little over an hour drive from Atlanta and Athens, Georgia. Although Thomson is most known for its fantastic outdoor opportunities, this McDuffie County town has even more to do. Enjoy Thomson's unique history, one-of-a-kind shops, and community events. Here are 9 things to do in Thomson, Georgia.
Photo: Thomson, Georgia
1. Visit Clarks Hill Lake
Clarks Hill Lake is Thomson's most popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The 12,700-acre property offers hunting, boating, archery, fishing, kayaking, biking, camping, and bird watching opportunities.
Photo: Clarks Hill Lake
2. Shop At Aunt Tique and Uncle Junk's
Aunt Tique and Uncle Junk's is full of unusual antiques, stained glass, iron fencing, folk art, and more. You will have a blast foraging for treasures at this local store. New items arrive daily!
Photo: Aunt Tiques and Uncle Junk
3. Explore White Hills Farm
This organic lavender, herb, and flower production farm is open for tours, shopping, demonstrations, and special events, like cooking classes, yoga retreats, and more. Check the website for the complete schedule.
As per the owners Amy and Patrick Sutter, "We'd love for you to come out and enjoy a cup of tea as you get a farm tour from Amy, attend a workshop, shop in the Gift Shoppe for local products, or relax and enjoy the view."
Photo: White Hills Farm
4. Take A Self-Guided History Tour
Take a self-guided tour of McDuffie County's historical sites. From Quakers to senators, Thomson's history encompasses several different groups of people. You will visit Hickory Hill, the McDuffie Museum, Rock House, Thomson Memorial Cemetery, and Wrightsboro Historic District on your tour.
Home to the Georgia Populist Party co-founder and US Senator Thomas E. Watson, Hickory Hill is a National Historic Landmark. Find out more about Thomas E. Watson and the beautiful Hickory Hill here before your visit.
While at the McDuffie Museum, learn about the area's natural resources, first inhabitants, how Thomson got its name, and the lost colony of Wrightsboro. For more information about the museum, click here .
The Rock House is the oldest stone residence in Georgia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Part of the 19th century Rural Cemetery Movement, the Thomson Memorial Cemetery has a park-like setting. Use this map to guide yourself through the cemetery.
The Wrightsboro Historic District was originally the site of the Wrightsboro Quaker Meeting House. This marked the southernmost point of Quaker migration in North America. After burning down in 1799, the church was rebuilt as a multi-denominational church as opposed to a traditional Quaker Meeting House.
5. Attend The Saturday Market
Shoppers will love The Saturday Market in Thomson. Though the name suggests otherwise, The Saturday Market is open Tuesday through Saturday. You can find a little bit of everything at this local hotspot.
Photo: The Saturday Market
6. See McTell's 12 String Strut
Painted Stella guitar replicas designed by local artists are scattered throughout Thomson. They make for great Instagram pictures! Start with the guitar at the Thomson Depot and pick up a map listing the remaining guitar locations.
This project honors the legacy of Blind Willie McTell, an influential musician who lived in McDuffie County.
Photos: Visit Thomson, GA
7. Go To The Sunset Auction Company
This is perhaps the most unique of our 9 things to do in Thomson, Georgia. The Sunset Auction Company is not just an auction house, but a bar, too. "It's the place to be every weekend whether you're here for an auction, dancing, or just a few cold drinks."
View The Sunset Auction Company's upcoming events here.
Photo: Sunset Auction Company
8. Visit The McDuffie Public Fishing Area
Outdoor lovers will want to visit the McDuffie Public Fishing Area. In addition to several lakes, there are seven ponds to fish from, three trails, two archery ranges, and a 12-acre dove field.
Make a night of it and camp at the McDuffie Fishing Area while you're there, too.
Photo: Visit Thomson, GA
9. Stop In MAC On Main Art Gallery & Studio
Shop for paintings, pottery, woodwork, and jewelry at MAC On Main. This Cooperative Art Gallery is managed and operated by members of the McDuffie Arts Council. MAC On Main also teaches a variety of classes in the back room studio.
Photo: McDuffie Arts Council
Plan Your Visit To Thomson, Georgia
Thomson would make a perfect weekend getaway for the whole family or you and a group of friends. Whether you want to spend time outdoors, learn about the area's history, or shop with girlfriends, there are plenty of things to do in Thomson, Georgia.
Need more help planning your Thomson vacation? Stop by Thomson-McDuffie County Convention & Visitors Bureau in the heart of downtown Thomson (149 Main Street).
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Taylor Pittman Hardy of Wherever I May Roam Blog wrote this article.