Georgia's 'First Mountain City' Is A Blue Ridge Beauty With A Walkable Downtown And Nearby Wineries

The Peach State has historically taken advantage of its ample natural gifts, from its gorgeous coastline and barrier islands with beaches that rival Australia's to getaways in the Blue Ridge foothills with antique shops and farm-fresh fare. Jasper, Georgia's "First Mountain City," shares that same knack for utilizing nature's bounty. The city, founded in 1857, sits at an elevation of 1,463 feet above sea level. The 3.3-square-mile area has grown slowly over time, with a present-day population of approximately 4,000 residents. The Blue Ridge beauty's walkable downtown and nearby wineries make it an ideal weekend getaway.

The eye-catching Tate House, about 10 minutes outside Jasper, showcases the area's trademark pink marble and is one of the most-photographed homes in all of Georgia. It sits right atop a vein that's part of the largest pink marble deposit in the world, where digging continues to this day. Those distinctive stones line many buildings in downtown Jasper, giving the area a sense of space and visual identity. The city has such a deep connection to its marble tradition that the historical society puts together a Marble Festival every year, complete with live entertainment and a parade.

Jasper's small-town atmosphere comes with a charming, well-stocked downtown. Visitors will find several reasonable ways to spend some money without needing a car. The Wilson Company Store, right on Main Street, offers a well-curated collection of snazzy threads at reasonable prices. A two-minute stroll leads to Jasper Ga Antiques and Things, housing 10,000 square feet of treasures and knick-knacks galore. Jasper's downtown offers plenty of shopping options, with more shops and locally-owned boutiques lining a three-block stretch, all within walking distance. When you work up an appetite, pop into The Lunch Box, just off Main Street, which has a sandwich menu as no-frills as its name, yet packs plenty of flavor. Or have a glass of wine first.

Jasper has a robust viniculture scene. Reviews of the local wineries and vineyards suggest you can't go wrong with whatever you choose. Stop by Fainting Goat Vineyards and Winery, which mixes its wines with outstanding views of the surrounding area and tongue-in-cheek fun. The Cairn View Winery offers a personalized tasting experience for those who fancy themselves connoisseurs. Be careful about overdoing the wine, though. Jasper has quite a slammer.

The Old Pickens County Jail cuts an imposing figure on the city's Main Street. Fortunately, the facility is now a relic on the National Register of Historic Places, its ominous gallows installed but never used. The jagged marble facade and turret-like columns cast a stern gaze towards onlookers. It looks exactly like someplace you'd end up in after a police officer puts handcuffs on you. Or something built in Minecraft. The grey-white building served initially as a detention facility and quarters for the sheriff, but now, it's known for its museum and its spooky past, which draws lovers of the supernatural.

While Jasper does offer a walkable downtown, you'll need a car — either your own or a ride — if you plan on hitting the vineyards. Those coming in from further afield should fly to the nearest major transit hub, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which is about an hour's drive away. Grab a rental car. Along the way, stop by Woodstock, a chic Atlanta suburb with a trendsetting downtown scene.

Finding a place to rest won't be too hard. Jasper has a mix of inns, ranches, and boutique accommodations that cover a broad range of options. A solid rest can be had for less than $100 per night, with more luxurious private rentals available for $450. Visitors hoping to explore the city on foot should book a stay at the Woodbridge Inn and Tavern, located just off Main Street.

For a rugged experience just outside Jasper, rent a cabin in the Blue Ridge Mountains for an idyllic retreat into nature. The rustic yet comfy digs can be had for as little as $120 per night. There is no bad time to visit Jasper, though summers can get a bit muggy. If you want to take part in the town's marble festivities, book your visit for the first week of October.