Traditions Highway 15: Washington County

Welcome to beautiful Washington County! Also known as the “Kaolin Capital of the World,” the cities within this community all embody the Georgia traditions that make our great state unique. There are things to do for the adventurer, sites to see for the historian, restaurants for the foodie, and even murals for the avid Georgia Bulldogs fan. Come along as we show you why you should make a point to visit this Traditions Highway community!

Start your journey with a photo op at the famous UGA Football Barn Sign, located between Wrightsville and Tennille. Artist Ross Smith frequently updates this old barn's side with phrases that get Dawg Nation excited for the next game. Pull up on a college football game day and you’ll find Georgia fans pouring into the small parking lot to snap a quick selfie!

Continue driving into Tennille, a town known for its railroad history and charming homes. Recently revitalized, downtown Tennille offers great shopping at local businesses like The Market on Central. Here you’ll find an eclectic mix of decorative, vintage, whimsical, and trendy items. If you're in the mood for pizza and pub fare, Trackside Pub and Deli is the perfect lunch or dinner option. Enjoy live music or trivia nights on select days while admiring the nearby train depot. Sit on the patio to watch trains and Georgia cyclers pass by, as Tennille is on the Athens-to-Savannah bike route.

Now, explore Sandersville, full of history with must-see spots like the Old City Cemetery, the Old Jail Museum & Genealogy Research Center, and the Brown House. The Old City Cemetery on Haynes Street is home to a Georgia governor and over 100 Civil War soldiers. Visit the circa 1891 Victorian-era Old Jail Museum on Jones Street to explore its cells and see prisoner graffiti. The genealogy center downstairs lets you delve into Washington County's roots. The Brown House Museum on North Harris Street, an 1850 home restored with period furniture and Civil War artifacts, was where General Sherman stayed during his March to the Sea. All these interesting Washington County stops are free to visit.

Hungry for a nostalgic snack? Stop by Dairy Lane, an iconic Washington County eatery known for ice cream, juicy burgers, and comfort food. Try the peach milkshake when in season! With its original 1950s ambiance, Dairy Lane is a must-visit on your itinerary.

Explore charming Downtown Sandersville by strolling through its many shops and small-town businesses. Shop for gifts and souvenirs at Geo’s Quarters or treat yourself to a day of luxury at Arabella’s Salon & Spa. If visiting between the second weekend in May and Thanksgiving, stop by the Farmers Market. Downtown Sandersville features canopies, rest areas, pocket parks, and water features, making it simply beautiful when in bloom.

On Highway 15’s outskirts, westward, don’t miss Georgia’s oldest jail in Warthen. This tiny, one-room building made from local timber in the 1700s is famous for hosting Aaron Burr, the third vice president of the U.S., overnight during his trial for treason. Since the musical Hamilton's explosion in popularity, tourism to Georgia’s oldest jail has increased, making it another reason to visit Washington County!

Just north of Warthen, take a detour to Hamburg State Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful day of fishing, boating, and exploring the park’s historic gristmill. The park’s serene surroundings make it a perfect spot for a nature-filled break on your journey.

Washington County is a one-of-a-kind community on Traditions Highway. Plan your visit during the second weekend of October to experience the annual Kaolin Festival, featuring a parade, arts and crafts vendors, great food, kaolin mine tours, a children’s carnival, live entertainment, and more. Whether you visit for a day or several, you’ll feel right at home, embraced by Southern charm and history. "It all happens here" in Washington County.