Guide to Conyers

Just 25 miles east of Atlanta on I-20, Conyers has a charming small-town atmosphere with plenty of big-city experiences. Its history as a railroad town is evident in the Olde Depot, home to the Conyers Welcome Center, as well as the “Dinky,” a 1905 Rogers steam locomotive parked on the rails next door. 

Film fans will recognize locations in historic Olde Town that were featured in shows like “The Vampire Diaries,” “The Originals,” and “Stranger Things.” Those seeking a serene retreat will find it at The Monastery of the Holy Spirit, and horse and nature lovers won’t want to miss the Georgia International Horse Park. 

Visit Conyers to explore its many restaurants, local shops, and special events throughout the year.

Things to Do in Conyers

1. Olde Town Conyers Entertainment District

Take an unhurried stroll down the streets in Olde Town Conyers, where you can enjoy unique eateries and lively bars, and browse stores with your adult beverage specialty cup provided by the bar servers. Enjoy live music on evenings and weekends, and a live theatre production at Center Street Arts. Stop into The Sketching Pad for painting parties, clay dates (pottery), classes, and more. And don’t miss Corks & Cuvee, a full-service wine shop offering retail wine by the bottle, a walk-up tasting station, and charcuterie boards. 

2. Georgia International Horse Park

The 1,400-acre Georgia International Horse Park is home to many equestrian and sporting events, fairs, festivals, car shows, concerts, and more. During the 1996 Atlanta Centennial Olympic Games, the facility hosted all equestrian events, plus the first-ever mountain bike competition and the final two events of the modern pentathlon. It also hosted the first para-equestrian dressage competition at the 10th Paralympic Games in August 1996. Visit year-round to explore the 5 miles of trails at Big Haynes Creek Nature Center and to play the Arnold Palmer-designed, 18-hole golf course at Cherokee Run Golf Club.

3. Monastery of the Holy Spirit

Visit the peace and serenity of the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, home to Cistercian monks for more than 80 years. The Monastic Heritage Center features a Visitors Center, the Abbey Store and Cafe, and a Prayer Walk that leads to the stately and timeless Abbey Church. Learn about the monastery and the history of monastic life. The Heritage Center prepares visitors to experience the monastery church and the gifts of stillness and reflection offered there.

4. Filmed in the South

Take a movie tour with Filmed in the South, and experience actual film scenes from productions ranging from “The Originals,” “The Vampire Diaries,” “Legacies,” “The Walking Dead,” “Sweet Magnolias,” “Stranger Things,” “Ozark,” and “Doom Patrol.” Tour stops include The Boo-Tique (a.k.a. Jardin Gris Voodoo Shop in “The Originals”), a metaphysical boutique specializing in spiritual healing and energy cleansing, and can include dine-in reservations at Celtic Tavern (a.k.a. Gillespie’s Pub in “The Originals”). 

5. Haunted Olde Town Conyers Ghost Tours

Take a 1.5-hour, lantern-led walking tour of Olde Town Conyers and hear tales of what paranormal investigators have found in the historic city. Find out where General Sherman sat for lunch, where trap doors are, and where there are other hidden treasures.

Places to Eat in Conyers

1. The Book Cellar

The Book Cellar is a charming, Black and woman-owned independent bookstore and cafe in the heart of Olde Town Conyers. Rekindle your love for reading and connect with others in the warm and inviting atmosphere. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, desserts, coffee, and smoothies.

2. Sweet Treat Depot

Try the made-from-scratch sweets and treats, such as pralines, fudge, candy and caramel apples, chocolate-dipped pretzels, chips, marshmallows, taffy, and more. Watch how they make candy in the open kitchen, and choose from a wide variety of vintage candy and bulk novelty candy, souvenirs, merchandise, and gift baskets.

3. Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar

Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar is a love letter to the Gullah Geechee culture, serving up deliciously authentic dishes and signature cocktails. Taste the flavors of Gullah Geechee soul food like she-crab soup, fish and grits, smothered pork chops, red rice, and Gullah hash. Be sure to save room for desserts like the Chucktown Chewie Sundae and banana pudding cheesecake.

4. The Sandwich Factory

This nostalgic deli in the heart of Olde Town Conyers historic district will look familiar to fans of “The Originals,” as it was Rousseau’s Kitchen & Bar in the show. Stop in to enjoy a sandwich amid the retro decor.

5. Celtic Tavern

The Celtic Tavern was featured in “The Originals” as Gillespie’s Pub. Enjoy a meal in the lively atmosphere with the pub’s signature drinks, craft beer, and wines. Relax on the picturesque patio overlooking the Conyers Botanical Gardens and Pavilion, or book “The Originals” dining experience before or after your Filmed in the South tour, and sit at a table featured in the show.

6. Thai Palace & Sushi Bar

Experience Thai food and sushi in this beautifully restored Victorian building in the heart of the Olde Town Conyers Historic District. Enjoy a variety of authentic dishes, from green curry to pad thai, in a cozy indoor setting or on the relaxing porch.

7. Las Flores Olde Town Mex

Las Flores Olde Town Mex Grill offers a vibrant culinary experience with its warm ambiance and authentic flavors. From sizzling fajitas to zesty tacos, each dish is a culinary journey.

8. Iron Skillet Southern Kitchen

Iron Skillet, located in historic Olde Town Conyers, is the place to go for meat-and-three, home-style cooking. Fuel up with daily specials like beef pot roast, country fried steak, and fried catfish, and sides of fresh vegetables and satisfying favorites like macaroni & cheese, broccoli & cheese casserole, and fried okra. Don’t skip dessert! With options like Southern banana pudding, Georgia peach cobbler and Georgia pecan pie, you are sure to leave happy.

9. Two Eggs! Breakfast & Lunch

Feel at home, relaxed, and welcome as you enjoy breakfast or lunch in this family-friendly eatery. Start your day with an espresso and specialties like the sweet & salty beignets, salmon & grits, Dutch baby pancake, or daybreak tacos. And for lunch, dig into The B.E.C. (bacon egg cheeseburger), a quinoa bowl, or a classic club sandwich. The kids' menu has all of your little ones’ favorites.

Places to Stay in Conyers

1. Four Oaks Farm

Book a getaway on this small suburban farm and enjoy the parterre flower garden, fountains, greenhouse, and acres of woods. Relax in the renovated carriage apartment with two bedrooms, kitchen, dining area, and bathrooms. Explore the pastures, and visit the horses, goats, and chickens. Fans of “The Originals” might recognize the property from the last season, when Klaus goes to see Hope while she’s painting in the backyard.

2. The Villa of South Conyers

Nestled on 28 acres of field and forest, this recently restored luxury home offers overnight accommodations for up to 15 people. Amenities include an indoor sauna, a 15-foot swim spa, and a spacious game room. With five bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and a full kitchen, you’ll have everything you need to feel at home.

3. Hampton Inn

Located off I-20, this hotel offers easy access to the diverse activities and sites near Conyers as well as Atlanta attractions. Amenities include complimentary breakfast, free wireless high-speed Internet, microwave and refrigerator in all rooms, fitness room, and pool.

4. LaQuinta Inn & Suites

Located off I-20, this hotel is just minutes from Olde Town Conyers' shopping, dining, and entertainment. Enjoy amenities like the fitness center, outdoor pool, and free breakfast.

5. Courtyard by Marriott

This well-appointed hotel located off I-20 features an on-site restaurant, indoor pool, fitness center, flexible meeting space, and free WiFi.

6. SpringHill Suites by Marriott

This newly renovated all-suite hotel is located near area attractions like Olde Town Conyers, the Georgia International Horse Park and the Monastery of the Holy Spirit. Enjoy amenities like free breakfast, free WiFi, heated indoor pool, whirlpool, and 24-hour fitness center.

Events in Conyers

1. Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival

The Conyers Cherry Blossom Festival originated as a way to encourage cultural understanding and friendship through international music, dance, games, food, and crafts. Shop among unique art and craft exhibitors, eat your way through multiple food courts, enjoy cultural performances, listen to live music, and watch your kids play in the children's area at this beloved spring festival.

2. Taste of Spring & Car Show

Browse and shop among juried arts and crafts vendors, and enjoy live entertainment and food vendors at the Taste of Spring. In addition, check out the Conyers Car Show with judges and trophies for the best car. Be sure to stop by the Children's Business Fair, featuring local young entrepreneurs and their products.

3. Fourth of July Red, White & Boom

Celebrate Independence Day at Red, White, and Boom! in historic Olde Town Conyers. Enjoy food trucks, kids activities, live music, a beer station, and fireworks.

4. Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo

Featuring Black cowboys and cowgirls from across the country, the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo has been entertaining families for 40 years. Watch contestants compete in rodeo events like bull riding, calf roping, and barrel racing at the Georgia International Horse Park.

5. Olde Town Fall Festival

Experience a day full of arts and crafts vendors, festival food, entertainment, kids and pet costume contests, and so much more at this fall tradition that has been entertaining families for more than 40 years. Enjoy two stages of entertainment, great shopping, and snacking around the Conyers Depot/Welcome Center and the Olde Town Pavilion.

6. Spring Concert Series

Sing and dance under the stars at this free concert series held once a month April through June in Olde Town Conyers. Bring chairs and blankets, and enjoy live music and food trucks in the historic downtown Entertainment District.

7. Olde Town on Ice

The longest-running outdoor ice rink in Georgia is open in the Olde Town Conyers Pavilion from November through February. Enjoy covered and uncovered skating on real ice, a snack bar with hot chocolate. and more.