Once known as “Skint Chestnut”, Douglasville was founded in 1874 and named after the former Illinois senator Stephen A. Douglas. It forms part of Atlanta’s urban sprawl and is home to a fascinating local history museum while it’s also on the doorstep of one of Georgia’s favourite theme parks.
Things to do in Douglasville
Learn about the people, events and industries that have shaped the region at the Douglas County Museum of History and Art, which occupies the city’s old courthouse. Across its 12 exhibition rooms, you’ll find Coca Cola memorabilia, vintage lunchboxes and phonographs, as well as artefacts detailing the history of the local mills and the establishment of Douglasville’s first African-American school.
Douglasville is an ideal base for exploring Sweetwater Creek State Park, a scenic tract of wilderness that encompasses the George Sparks Reservoir. Cast a fishing line to see what’s biting, enjoy a picnic on its shores or rent a kayak to explore at your leisure. A wooded hiking trail follows the Sweetwater Creek to the remains of a textile mill before climbing atop a rocky bluff that overlooks the rapids below.
Travelling with kids? Don’t miss a visit to Six Flags over Georgia, a sprawling theme park home to thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly rides and water attractions. Brave the loops of the Blue Hawk and the Georgia Scorcher, ride the rapids of Thunder River or step inside the Monster Mansion. Wild West-themed shows and Looney Tune character meet-and-greets take place throughout the day.
Getting around Douglasville
Douglasville is around 25 minutes’ drive from the centre of Atlanta and 30 minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which has flights to destinations across North America, Europe and the Middle East. Buses connect to Douglasville while renting a car gives you greater freedom to explore the city.