Covington, GA
Travel Guide
📍 Location: Covington, GA
📝Description&Context
If you are a fan of TVD or Sweet Magnolias you will definitely enjoy your visit.
Good Part: You get to see the courthouse as soon as you get to the downtown of Historic Covington and of course the Mystic Grill. Right under the mystic grill you will find The Ally Gift Shop, you can get some TVD merch and look at some of the clothes the cast of TVD wore for different episodes. They also have Sweet Magnolias merch as well. There’s a lot of beautiful murals all around that are great for photos. You could also see the houses that were used to film TVD, the Spa from Sweet Magnolias and the house from Goosebumps. There’s a park called The Film Garden and you can see all the series and movies filmed in Covington, GA. I loved the YouPie pizza in Covington too.
Need To Note:
The houses are private property so please be considerate with the owners. There’s also tours available through the Vampire Stalkers Tours, they have amazing merch as well from TVD, Freddie Kruger, Sweet Magnolias and others. Around the square there’s a lot of cute stores make sure to check them out. They have events you can check at the City website.
Beyond the well-known filming locations, Covington, Georgia, truly lives up to its nickname, 'Little Hollywood,' offering a charming blend of cinematic history and Southern hospitality. My recent 'Weekend Trip' there was an absolute delight, and I discovered so much more than I expected. Of course, the draw for many is the chance to step into the worlds of The Vampire Diaries and *Sweet Magnolias*. While the main article touched on the houses, delving deeper into the experience reveals how meticulously the town has preserved its role in these beloved shows. Visiting The Film Garden, for instance, isn't just about reading a list; it's a walk through a vibrant outdoor museum where you can see signs and references to productions like *The Dukes of Hazzard*, *Goosebumps*, and countless others that have graced Covington's streets. It truly highlights why the 'Welcome to Covington' mural proudly proclaims its cinematic heritage. The historic Newton County Courthouse, with its majestic clock tower, forms the heart of the town square. It’s an architectural marvel that anchors the entire area, and even if you're not a TVD fan, its beauty is undeniable. I loved spending time just soaking in the atmosphere around the square. Beyond the filming connections, the square itself is a hub of activity. There are so many cute, independent stores to browse, offering everything from local crafts to unique fashion finds. Grabbing a coffee and people-watching from one of the benches felt like a quintessential small-town experience, a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Keep an eye on the city's website; they often host events and festivals right in the square, adding another layer of charm to your visit. And let's talk about The Mystic Grill! Stepping inside felt like a pilgrimage. Not only can you enjoy delicious food (the YouPie pizza in Covington is a must-try, by the way!), but being surrounded by the ambiance from the show is truly special. Directly beneath, The Alley Gift Shop is a treasure trove. It's not just generic merchandise; they have authentic props and clothing worn by the cast, making it a unique souvenir hunting experience. Finding a 'Welcome to Mystic Falls, Virginia' sign nearby just completed the immersion. For those looking to explore even more, consider joining one of the Vampire Stalkers Tours. They offer a fantastic way to get insider stories and see lesser-known spots, often including exclusive access or fun facts about the productions. They also have an incredible selection of unique merchandise, not just for TVD but for other famous horror franchises too. Remember, while it's tempting to get close, respecting private properties like the character houses is crucial. Covington offers a full 'things to do' itinerary for a memorable 'Weekend Trip.' From the stunning murals perfect for photo ops to the serene park embodying the spirit of 'Serenity' from *Sweet Magnolias*, every corner holds a discovery. It’s a place where pop culture history meets genuine Southern charm, making it a truly unique destination for any traveler.
