Exploring Newnan’s Historic Courthouse Square: A Small-Town Gem Near Atlanta

If you live in Atlanta or you’re visiting the metro area and want a classic small-town Southern square with real history, Newnan’s Historic Courthouse Square is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips you can take.

Located in downtown Newnan, Georgia, about 40–45 minutes southwest of Atlanta, the square centers around the Coweta County Historic Courthouse and is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and restored historic buildings. It’s walkable, photogenic, and relaxed—very different from the pace of Midtown or Buckhead.

Where It Is and How to Get There from Atlanta

Location:
Coweta County Historic Courthouse
72 Greenville Street S
Newnan, GA 30263

Newnan is directly off I‑85, making it straightforward to reach from most parts of Atlanta.

Driving from Atlanta

From Downtown, Midtown, or Buckhead:

1. Take I‑85 South toward Montgomery.
2. Exit at Exit 47 – Newnan.
3. Follow signs toward Downtown Newnan (usually via Bullsboro Drive, then Greenville Street or Jefferson Street).
4. The Historic Courthouse Square will appear as you reach the center of downtown.

Approximate drive times (without heavy traffic):

• Downtown Atlanta → Newnan Square: 40–45 minutes
• Hartsfield-Jackson Airport → Newnan Square: 30–35 minutes
• Peachtree City → Newnan Square: 25–30 minutes

Public transit from Atlanta is limited; most people drive or use a rideshare. For a day trip, driving is typically the most practical option.

What Makes Newnan’s Historic Courthouse Square Special

At the heart of the square is the Coweta County Historic Courthouse, a red-brick landmark that anchors Newnan’s identity as the “City of Homes.” Around it, you’ll find a compact, lively district that feels like a movie set—but it’s very much a working downtown.

Highlights of the Square

• Historic Architecture:
  Late 19th- and early 20th-century buildings, many restored, line the streets around the courthouse. The facades, iron details, and brickwork make the square especially appealing for photography and casual strolls.

• Walkable Downtown:
  Multiple blocks of sidewalks, crosswalks, and storefronts create an easy loop around the courthouse. You can park once and explore on foot.

• Locally Owned Businesses:
  The square is known for its independent shops, boutiques, and eateries, giving it a distinct character compared with larger chain-heavy areas closer to Atlanta.

• Events and Community Feel:
  The courthouse lawn and surrounding streets are often used for festivals, markets, parades, and concerts, especially during spring, summer, and the holiday season.

Top Things to Do Around the Courthouse Square

1. Tour or Visit the Historic Courthouse

The Coweta County Historic Courthouse dates back to the late 1800s and has been carefully restored. For many Atlanta-area visitors, the architecture alone makes it worth seeing.

While hours can vary, the building is typically open weekdays for county-related functions or visitor access. Inside, you may find:

• Courtroom-style interiors and original architectural details
• Historical exhibits or displays tied to Coweta County’s past
• Public spaces that sometimes host ceremonies, meetings, or local events

✅ Tip: If you’re driving from Atlanta specifically to visit the interior, it’s smart to call Coweta County offices in advance to confirm visitor hours and any special restrictions.

2. Walk the Square and Explore Local Shops

One of the best ways to experience the square is simply to park and wander.

You’ll typically find:

• Boutiques and clothing stores
• Home décor and antique shops
• Gift shops and specialty retailers
• Occasional art galleries or local creators’ studios

These businesses tend to reflect the tastes of both Newnan locals and Atlanta-area day-trippers, with a mix of classic Southern style and modern touches.

Dining and Coffee Near the Square

If you’re used to Atlanta’s restaurant scene, Newnan’s Historic Courthouse Square offers a slower, more relaxed version with a local twist.

You’ll commonly find:

• Sit-down restaurants serving Southern dishes, American classics, and occasionally more contemporary menus
• Casual lunch spots that are convenient for a mid-day stop on a drive down I‑85
• Coffee shops and bakeries ideal for grabbing a latte and pastry before you walk the square
• Ice cream or dessert options that are popular with families and visitors after dinner

Because individual restaurant lineups may change over time, it’s wise to:

• Check hours ahead of time, especially on Sundays or holidays
• Consider making a reservation if visiting on a weekend evening or during a major event downtown

Events, Festivals, and Seasonal Activities

Atlanta residents often head to Newnan’s square for small-town festivals that offer a different feel from big-city events.

Depending on the time of year, you may encounter:

• Art walks or gallery nights around the square
• Holiday parades and Christmas-themed activities with the courthouse as a backdrop
• Outdoor concerts or music events on or near the courthouse lawn
• Markets or vendor events that close parts of the square to traffic and fill the streets with tents and booths

To see what’s happening when you plan to visit from Atlanta, check:

• City of Newnan event listings
• Coweta County or downtown business association calendars

These sources usually list recurring seasonal activities and special one-day events that center on the Historic Courthouse Square.

Practical Details: Parking, Restrooms, and Accessibility

Parking Near the Square

For most Atlanta visitors, parking is straightforward compared with busier in-town neighborhoods.

Common options include:

• On-street parking around the square (time-limited in some spots)
• Public parking lots just off the main streets of downtown
• Additional parking a short walk away on side streets

Parking rules and enforcement can vary by block, so pay attention to:

• Time limits (often posted on signs)
• Any event-related closures when streets are blocked for festivals or parades

Accessibility

The area around the courthouse has:

• Sidewalks with curb cuts in most locations
• A relatively level walking area, though some blocks have slight inclines
• Multiple crosswalks to get around the central traffic circle

The historic nature of some buildings can mean older entryways or narrower doors. If accessibility is a priority, you may want to:

• Call specific shops or restaurants in advance
• Check whether they provide ramp access or alternative entrances

When to Visit from Atlanta

You can visit the Newnan Historic Courthouse Square year-round, but the experience can vary by season and time of day.

Best Times of Day

• Late morning to mid-afternoon
  Most shops and cafes are open, and foot traffic is active but manageable. Great for a relaxed day trip from Atlanta.

• Evenings (especially weekends)
  You’ll find a livelier scene at restaurants and during events, but individual shops may close earlier than what you’re used to in Intown Atlanta.

Seasonal Considerations

• Spring and Fall:
  Typically the most comfortable weather for walking the square. These seasons often bring outdoor events and festivals.

• Summer:
  It can be hot and humid, similar to Atlanta. Plan for midday heat, seek shade on the courthouse lawn, and use local cafes for breaks.

• Winter and Holidays:
  The square may feature decorations and special holiday events, and the courthouse area often becomes a focal point for seasonal activities.

Newnan’s Square vs. Atlanta Neighborhoods

If you spend a lot of time in Atlanta neighborhoods like Inman Park, Decatur, or Virginia-Highland, you might wonder how Newnan’s Historic Courthouse Square compares.

Here’s a quick overview:

For many Atlanta residents, Newnan’s square is a way to step away from city intensity without driving hours to the mountains or coast.

Ideas for Pairing Newnan with Other Nearby Stops

If you’re making the trip from Atlanta, you can easily build a full day around the Newnan Historic Courthouse Square.

Common pairings include:

• Morning in Newnan, afternoon nearby:

  • Breakfast or coffee on the square
  • Shopping and a walk around the courthouse
  • Then a drive to Chattahoochee Bend State Park (northwest of Newnan) for light hiking or river views

• Lunch stop off I‑85:

  • If you’re already heading south from Atlanta (toward LaGrange, Columbus, or Montgomery), detour 10–15 minutes off the interstate to have lunch on the square and stretch your legs.

Helpful Contacts and Resources

While specific hours and event details can change, these local entities are good starting points if you’re planning a visit from Atlanta:

• Coweta County Historic Courthouse
  72 Greenville Street S
  Newnan, GA 30263
  Main county information line is typically available through Coweta County Government offices; staff can often direct you to courthouse hours or offices housed there.

• City of Newnan Government Offices
  25 LaGrange Street
  Newnan, GA 30263
  Phone numbers and office contacts can be found through the city’s main information channels if you need details on downtown events, parking, or public facilities.

• Local Visitor or Tourism Information
  Newnan and Coweta County often share visitor information through centralized tourism efforts. If you call a Newnan or Coweta visitor services line, ask specifically about:

  • Downtown Newnan / Courthouse Square events
  • Current shop and restaurant districts
  • Any guided tours or walking maps of the historic area

Is the Newnan Historic Courthouse Square Worth the Trip from Atlanta?

For most people in the Atlanta area, the answer is yes—especially if you:

• Enjoy historic architecture and small-town downtowns
• Want a low-stress outing that doesn’t involve big crowds or complicated parking
• Like supporting local businesses and discovering new shops and eateries
• Are looking for a family-friendly, half-day trip within an easy drive of the city

If you’re planning your time in Atlanta and want at least one day that feels quieter, more historic, and distinctly Southern, Newnan’s Historic Courthouse Square is one of the most accessible options just down I‑85.