Pine Mountain Gold Museum and Scenic Railroad

The lure of gold attracted prospectors to Villa Rica in 1826 in the first gold strike in Georgia. In its heyday, 19 commercial gold mines operated in and around Villa Rica. Most of the miners moved on to California in 1849, and only the Pine Mountain Gold Mine was commercially mined seriously after 1900.

The Pine Mountain Gold Museum, on the National Register of Historic Places, is Georgia’s only gold museum on an actual gold mine with gold and gem panning on-site, all within Villa Rica’s Stockmar Park. Walk the trails where miners walked, and enjoy the museum and documentary film.

Secure your tickets for a ride on the Pine Mountain Scenic Railroad. The train circles the base of Pine Mountain and gives excellent views of the ruins of the mining station.

1881 Stockmar Rd.
Villa Rica, GA 30180

Wicks Tavern

Built around 1830, Wicks Tavern is the oldest commercial structure in Carroll County and was a local gathering place for gold miners working area mines in the early 19th century. The building is a classic example of the Dutch-style timber framing method. It now serves as a living history museum managed by the West Georgia Area Historical Society.

212 W. Wilson St.
Villa Rica, GA 30180
770-243-8144; 770-940-9055

Birthplace of Thomas A. Dorsey, the father of gospel music. Dorsey became a famous blues musician known as Georgia Tom. After the death of his first wife and son, he returned to religious music, but the influence of the blues resulted in a new style of music eventually referred to as gospel. He wrote “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” and “Peace in the Valley” among many other gospel songs. Marker on U.S. Hwy. 78

The Grove, the ancestral home of the Tyson family. Having moved to Villa Rica in 1853, the Tysons are among the oldest families in the area. Marker just north of Tyson Rd., due south of downtown Villa Rica

The Villa Rica Explosion. The 1957 explosion was caused by a gas leak in Berry’s Pharmacy which completely destroyed that building and three neighboring buildings. Twelve people died and 20 others were injured. The explosion remains the most catastrophic event in Carroll County history and highlighted the need for both an organized local emergency response unit and the use of odor in the natural gas supply. Marker in front of Berry’s Pharmacy, U.S. 78, downtown Villa Rica

For a small city, Villa Rica is big on outdoor recreation. From walking trails to fishing lakes to pickleball courts and more, Villa Rica has you covered.

Parks & Recreation
770-459-7011

Gold Dust Park - 646 Industrial Blvd.

• 31 acres
• Playground
• Picnic pavilion
• Walking trails
• Splash pad
• Basketball/tennis/racquetball courts
• Baseball fields
• Indoor pickleball
• Gym
• Senior center

Powell Park - 524 Leslie Dr.

• 7 acres
• Tennis courts
• Baseball/softball fields
• Facility Rentals for special events

Stockmar Park - 1881 Stockmar Rd.

• Pine Mountain Gold Museum
• Train tour
• 3 miles of walking trails
• Picnic tables

Villa Rica Civic Center and Sports Complex -
Known as The V-Plex - 1605 Hwy. 61

• Playground
• 9 lighted baseball/softball diamonds
• Football field for league play
• Facility rentals for special events

Golf

Golf enthusiasts will find Villa Rica to be a haven of lush fairways and well-maintained courses that cater to players of all skill levels.

Mirror Lake Golf Club, 770-459-5599

Mirror Lake Golf Club features 36 holes spread across two distinct courses: the Lake Course and the Mountain Course. Both courses provide unparalleled golfing experiences with their own set of challenges, scenic beauty, and immaculate conditions. Golfers can enjoy a day on the links followed by a relaxing visit to the clubhouse, which offers dining and pro shop facilities.

1000 Canongate Pkwy.
Villa Rica, GA 30180

The Frog Golf Club, 770-459-4400

The Frog Golf Club, an award-winning, Tom Fazio-designed course offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience set against the backdrop of rolling hills and serene landscapes. The Frog is known for its meticulously maintained greens, strategic bunkers, and picturesque views, making it a favorite among locals and visitors. The Frog has also attained status as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.

2699 Georgian Pkwy.
Villa Rica, GA 30180

Fairfield Plantation Golf and Club, 770-832-2360

Amidst Fairfield Plantation Resort is a Willard Byrd-designed golf course that has the perfect layout to test all types of golfers. The course is in excellent condition with Bentgrass greens and Bermuda fairways. Non-members can book a tee time up to 7 days in advance.

265 Fairfield Rd.
Villa Rica, GA 30180

Visiting downtown Villa Rica is like stepping into a charming slice of history blended with modern Southern hospitality. The historic district, rich in character and charm, features beautifully preserved buildings that tell the story of the city's past while housing an array of contemporary shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Stroll down the picturesque streets and explore local boutiques offering everything from handcrafted goods to trendy fashion. Food lovers will delight in the variety of dining options available, ranging from cozy cafés serving up

freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries to elegant restaurants offering delicious Southern cuisine.

The downtown area is also a hub for local events and festivals, where you can experience the vibrant community spirit of Villa Rica. Check out the events calendar. From farmers markets to live music performances, there's always something happening in Villa Rica. You’ll be amazed!