Visiting Banks County: History, Outdoors & Things to Do

Located in northeast Georgia about 1.5 hours from Atlanta, Banks County blends outdoor beauty, history, and good local food into one family-friendly destination. Home to exciting attractions, unique places to shop, and overnight accommodations ranging from convenient hotels to quiet cabins, Banks County has everything you need for North Georgia getaway.

Outdoor Adventure & Scenic Drives

Surrounded by countryside, Banks County offers scenic drives through rolling hills and rural landscapes. From the road, you can see toward the hazy foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and beyond.

For time outside, Maysville Park features a walking trail, a playground, a pond, and plenty of open space for a picnic. Windmill Park in Homer is built for recreation, with a playground, a disc golf course, baseball fields, a batting cage, and walkways. For hiking and mountain biking, the multipurpose Fox Trails and Marlow Lake area covers 4.7 miles of paths through the woods.

Leisure time is best spent on the course at Homer’s Chimney Oaks Golf Club. Pick up a bite at the deli and snack bar before teeing off on the renovated 18-hole course. 

In Homer, Wilson Shoals Wildlife Management Area offers a public shooting range as well as wildlife watching, camping, and geocaching. The area also allows small- and big-game hunting, including turkey and deer, during designated seasons.

Family Activities

Expect plenty of excited chatter from your little ones after a visit to Funopolis Family Fun Center in Commerce. The lively spot packs in whirring go-karts, splashing bumper boats, classic arcade games, and action-packed laser tag, all in one place. 

Families can find an easy change of pace at Grove River Ranch in Gillsville, surrounded by wide-open land and quiet scenery. The equestrian center and retreat includes horseback riding and lessons, hiking and horse trails, fishing, and space to spread out for a picnic.

Shopping & Entertainment

Every trip leaves a little time for browsing, and The Shoppes at Banks Crossing offer a mix of options. Pick out a new bracelet at a jewelry store, stock up on beauty essentials, browse antique finds, shop for clothes, or stop by a local bookshop. Just a short drive away, Tanger Outlet Center in Commerce brings big-name brands together in one place, with shops like Gap Factory, Coach, H&M, and Ulta offering great deals on the latest styles.

For local finds, Purple Door Boutique in Commerce is known for fun patterns and bright prints, with loungewear sets, soft sweaters, midi skirts, and more. In Maysville, Aimee’s Closet carries candles, sneakers, unique tote bags, earrings, and clothing. Nearby the boutique, H&H Homestead hosts seasonal markets featuring antique and vintage pieces, along with handmade goods, during select dates throughout the year.

Where to Find Local Food

Locals say dining at Commerce Country Cafe feels a bit like eating at grandma’s table. The American-style spot serves familiar home-cooked dishes such as steak and gravy, sweet potatoes, and grilled cheese, with breakfast drawing the biggest crowds. For savory meals, Mickey Pigg’s BBQ in Alto serves generous portions of hickory-smoked pulled pork, sausage links, and caramelized brisket — the focus stays on hearty barbecue and big flavors.

Planning a picnic during your stay? Stop in Homer, where David & Katie’s Amish Store stocks fresh cheeses and meats, gourmet lollipops, chips, and locally baked goods. For farm-fresh options, Jaemor Farm Market in Alto sells homegrown produce and baked goods, along with honey, jams, and other seasonal favorites.

Banks County’s Local History & Heritage

At Fort Hollingsworth-White House in Alto, one of Georgia’s best-preserved frontier sites, you can step into an open-air museum rooted in early state history. Built in 1793 to protect settlers in the area, the fort stands as a reminder of life at the time it was created. 

The town of Homer offers several significant landmarks. Visit the Old Banks County Historic Courthouse and Museum, built in the 1860s and restored to display artifacts from the county’s past. Another notable site is the Old Banks County Jail, built in 1880 and now preserved, with guided tours during special events.

Where to Stay

Near I-85 at Banks Crossing, find convenient lodging options like Hampton Inn Commerce and Best Western Commerce Inn. Both offer continental breakfast, a pool, and a fitness center on-site. Each sits a short drive from retail spots like The Shoppes at Banks Crossing and Tanger Outlet Center, as well as entertainment options such as Funopolis Family Fun Center.

For a more tucked-away stay, River Cabin at Grove River Ranch leans into cozy cabin charm with riverfront views and a setting surrounded by trees near Gainesville. Spend evenings on the deck or around the firepit, with time for hot tub soaks and s’mores under the trees. 

County Festivals & Community Events

Seasonal events in Banks County range from winter traditions like Homer’s community tree lighting and Christmas parades to fall favorites such as the Historic Gillsville Fall Pottery Show, which highlights local artists. In the summer, Homer, Maysville, and communities throughout the county celebrate patriotic pride with grand Fourth of July fireworks displays. 

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