Traditions Highway 15: Toombs County

Welcome to Vidalia, the "Sweet Onion City," renowned for its famous Vidalia® onions. This charming town offers a delightful mix of attractions, dining, and history, making it an essential stop on your Traditions Highway journey.

Start your day with breakfast at the Kountry Kafe in downtown Vidalia. This Western-themed café offers hearty options like eggs and bacon or strawberry French toast. After breakfast, take some time to explore downtown Vidalia. Visit local boutiques for the perfect souvenir and then take a break at the Onion Fountain behind the former Vidalia Municipal Building at 114 Jackson Street. This peaceful spot, designed by local artisans, offers great photo opportunities with its stainless-steel onion structure and soothing sounds of water and music.

Next, head to the Ladson Genealogical Library, a hidden gem for history enthusiasts. Visitors from all over the world come here to research family histories from Georgia and the original thirteen colonies. Explore the Rare Book Room, featuring books up to 400 years old, and let the knowledgeable staff assist with your genealogical quests. The Ladson is in the Dr. Mark & Tonya Spivey Public Library on S. Jackson Street.

A visit to Vidalia isn't complete without seeing a movie and exploring the The Pal Theatre. This historic venue has been transformed into a modern movie theater, performing arts center, and event space. Check their website, thepaltheatre.com, to see what's playing during your visit.

Don't forget to snap a selfie at the "Be Sweet" wall mural before heading to the Vidalia® Onion Museum. This interactive experience delves into the history and impact of the famous vegetable. While at the museum, pick up a list of local restaurants to find your favorite for lunch and dinner. The Tree House Grill is a favorite place to satisfy your hunger for dinner! Nestled among the trees, this hidden gem offers indoor and outdoor seating. Start with Vidalia® Onion Petals when in season and enjoy American-style entrees in a casual setting. The Tree House Burger is a popular choice!

For a true taste of Vidalia, visit the last weekend in April during the Vidalia® Onion Festival, a four-day event celebrated nationwide and featured on Food Network and MSNBC.

When planning your visit to Vidalia, don’t forget to travel the short distance off Highway 15 to the small community of Lyons! Home of the Real Squeal BBQ & Music Festival and the Southeast Georgia Soap Box Derby, Lyons is a small community with lots of heart & soul! One of the main attractions over in Lyons is Partin Park. Home to many local sports, festivals & soap box derby events, this is the perfect outdoor adventure. This is a great place to picnic with the family, exercise, or just take a stroll along the walking trail. With plenty of shade and trees, it’s a great spot to cool off while still enjoying the outdoors.

Don't forget to check out the special 9/11 memorial located in Partin Park as well which includes a piece of rubble and steel from the World Trade Center. Fun fact: Partin Park in Lyons is a popular location for filming past and current movies! Who knows? Maybe while you’re exploring the park on your Traditions Highway road trip, you’ll spot a celebrity!

On your way out of Vidalia and on to your next Traditions Highway community, make a special visit to Pittman’s Country Market, where you’ll find seasonal produce, home décor, florals, fine dining ware, gifts, soaps, artisan oils, and all sorts of unique Georgia Grown items. Pittman’s Country Market does have seasonal hours so make sure to check those before making your way to this one-stop shop!