Darker Side of Mayberry
1 / 19

Historic Square and Farmyard

4.6
·313 reviews·Stone Mountain, United States

Step back into the 1800s at this meticulously restored historic village, featuring authentic homes and a working farmyard.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Darker Side of Mayberry

Historic Square and Farmyard

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back into the 1800s at this meticulously restored historic village, featuring authentic homes and a working farmyard.

4.6
(313 reviews)

"These old 1800's moved and restored houses are exactly stepping back in time to the 1800's. The whole village square is just exceptional."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Operating Hours

Verify hours before your visit, as they can vary. Some buildings may be closed for events . :clock1:

Explore Every Room

Many buildings are accessible; take your time to see the detailed interiors and artifacts. :housewithgarden:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Restored 19th-Century Homes

Restored 19th-Century Homes

Historic Square

Step back in time with meticulously restored homes featuring authentic period furnishings and decor.

Authentic Farmyard

Authentic Farmyard

Farmyard area

Experience a slice of rural life with period-appropriate farm buildings and exhibits.

Period Furnishings

Period Furnishings

Inside historic buildings

Marvel at the detailed interiors, showcasing furniture and artifacts from the 1800s.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Historic Square and Farmyard can feel overlooked compared to the main park attractions. To truly appreciate the restored 18th and 19th-century buildings and their period furnishings, plan to visit during its operating hours. Check the schedule in advance, as some areas or buildings might have limited access or be closed for events or maintenance.Reddit

Beyond the Buildings

While the historic homes are the main draw, don't miss the farmyard area. It offers a glimpse into rural life of the period. Some visitors note that the gardens could use more attention, so explore them with an eye for their historical significance and potential.Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique historical programming
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Authentic videos when I arrived to work and the first officer on the scene #prayers #family #accident #stonemountain #gwinnettcounty
@bumpredd21
442.9K likes • 5.7M views

Check Operating Hours

Verify hours before your visit, as they can vary. Some buildings may be closed for events.Reddit :clock1:

Explore Every Room

Many buildings are accessible; take your time to see the detailed interiors and artifacts. :housewithgarden:

AJC op Ed Feb 2 Stone Mountain, the world’s largest confederate monument with all the grandeur of Mount Rushmore but all the hate of Jim Crow, is located in a majority Black city and a majority Black County. Confederate monuments are protected by the Georgia State Constitution. Altering, or relocating them is illegal under GA Code § 50-3-1. However, local governments don’t want these monuments, ...
@parker_short
138K likes • 788.6K views
Parisian flea market dreams are made of this: An historic square with stalls around a magnificent fountain, the church from the Da Vinci code film in the background and of course some absolutely fabulous Antiques. This is one of the most expensive areas of Paris and that was reflected in the quality of the items for sale. It is no ordinary vide grenier when the Parisians of the sixth clear out th...
quintessentiallyfrench
921 likes • 28.1K views

Don't Skip the Farmyard

Discover the rural side of history in the farmyard area. :tractor:

Gardens Need Love

The gardens are historically significant but may need attention. Appreciate their potential. :seedling:

Craygorgeous. Greek Revival perfection on Washington Square since 1833. Literally, a Henry James novel come to life. “The most important and imposing block front of early Nineteenth Century town houses in the City.” as per the Greenwich Village Historic District Designation Report.
gothamfairytales
10K likes • 272.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Operating Hours

Verify hours before your visit, as they can vary. Some buildings may be closed for events.Reddit :clock1:

Explore Every Room

Many buildings are accessible; take your time to see the detailed interiors and artifacts. :housewithgarden:

Don't Skip the Farmyard

Discover the rural side of history in the farmyard area. :tractor:

Gardens Need Love

The gardens are historically significant but may need attention. Appreciate their potential. :seedling:

Combo Pass Caution

If buying a combo pass, be aware that other attractions might be closed due to weather. :warning:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(313 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Historic Square and Farmyard for its exceptional restoration and authentic period furnishings, offering a true step back in time. While some note that certain areas like the gardens could use more attention, and express disappointment over potential closures or lack of access to specific buildings, the overall experience is highly recommended for its historical value and immersive atmosphere.

"The historic Square was excellent!!! These old old 1800's moved and restored houses are exactly stepping back in time to the 1800's. The exteriors and all the furniture and contents inside each and every room are 1800's!!! This whole village square is just exceptional. It's the same feel as going to The Hermitage in Nashvllle, or any other old old (upper class) plantation, old barn buildings, carriage house, kitchen, gardens, etc. This area is amazing. I hope it is not overlooked by the Park and visitors. The interior furnishings are the same as all old old 1800's houses -- the same as huge plantations all over the United States. The Park needs to give new attention to the huge garden area outside of the kitchen building. These gardens were so important to that time period. These gardens still exist at all of the old old 1800's museum homes and estates. The gardens in this village need many people's help and attention to restore them to what is fitting and appropriate for the old old 1800's houses and buildings in this wonderful, absolutely astonishing, completely restored historical village. Perhaps Master Gardener Clubs from surrounding towns and cities could be approached to make a long-term commitment to take on and upkeep the gardens? Perhaps Master Gardeners could work with middle schools and high schools in the surrounding counties to teach them gardening skills and a love for gardening -- historic gardening? If there are Master Gardeners already in the Park -- it is beautiful and maintained in the other areas of the Park -- Perhaps the Master Gardeners could be allowed and assigned to work in the historical village area? The gardens desperately need help. All of the houses and buildings are just so exceptional!!! All of our vacations are to historical places. I'm advocating on behalf of the historical village gardens that you please don't overlook them. They were and are too vital to the 1800's story to be told. I love your historical village!!! Thank you for bringing it there. Everyone should visit and see it. It is excellent!!!!!"

Debra Morton

"This is a must stop if you are visiting Stone Mountain.
I bought the combo pass. The museum and the sky ride. But when I went over to the sky ride it was closed due to weather. So if I had to do it over again I would not have bought the bundle.
But this is something really cool to see.
I put the videos up on my tiktok. @chris.tina.lyn.n"

Christina Clark

"Buyer beware! What a disappoint. Historical buildings they say.....
First off the Davis Home which WAS one of if not THE main draw on the property burnt down November 2023 but they don't tell you. Just a dirt lot now. It's says "historical buildings with historical furniture". Yet the buildings were locked so you can't see inside. One building was built with salvaged wood from an Inn at that time but is now a kitchen. Farm area was closed. Looks like it's going to just close down. The place has great potential but seems to be ignored at present. It requires an entry fee and that's after paying $20 to get into park.
Wife purchased a yearly pass to it and Stone Mountain but I feel it was money wasted.
The huge Inn next door is completely shuttered and has a sign saying "guest have been reassigned" to a different property."

Graco Rob

What People Like

Authentic period furnishings
Meticulously restored buildings
Immersive historical experience

What People Dislike

Gardens need attention
Limited building access
Potential closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Historic Square and Farmyard is located within Stone Mountain Park. Access typically requires entry into the park itself, which has a fee. Once inside the park, follow signs for the Historic Square. Parking is usually available nearby.TikTok

Yes, there is typically parking available near the Historic Square. It's recommended to arrive early, especially on busy days, to secure a convenient spot.

Depending on your starting point within Stone Mountain Park, walking to the Historic Square might be feasible. However, the park is quite large, so consider the distance and your time.

Public transportation options to Stone Mountain Park can be limited. It's often best to drive or use ride-sharing services. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Upon entering Stone Mountain Park, look for directional signage to the Historic Square. Maps are usually available at the park entrance or visitor center to help you navigate.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the Historic Square and Farmyard typically requires admission to Stone Mountain Park. Sometimes, combo passes are available that include access to the Historic Square and other park attractions like the Skyride.Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally and are subject to change. It's crucial to check the official Stone Mountain Park website or call ahead for the most current hours of operation.Reddit

Generally, once you have paid for park admission, you can enter most of the buildings within the Historic Square. However, it's always good to confirm on-site, as some areas might have specific access rules.

Yes, purchasing Stone Mountain Park admission tickets online in advance is often recommended to save time and potentially money. Check the park's official website for online ticketing options.

If an attraction included in a combo pass is closed (e.g., due to weather), you may not get a refund for that portion. It's advisable to check the status of all attractions you wish to visit before purchasing bundled tickets.Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can explore meticulously restored 18th and 19th-century buildings with authentic period furnishings, step into the farmyard to see historical agricultural practices, and appreciate the historical architecture.Reddit

Yes, the historic buildings are furnished with period-appropriate furniture and decor, offering a realistic glimpse into life during the 1800s.Reddit

The farmyard area is generally accessible, providing insights into historical farming methods and animal husbandry. Check on-site for any specific accessibility notes.

Information on guided tours can vary. It's best to inquire at the visitor center or check the park's schedule upon arrival for any available guided experiences.

The Historic Square preserves and showcases architecture and lifestyles from the 18th and 19th centuries, offering a tangible connection to Georgia's past.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exteriors of the restored buildings, the central fountain, and the farmyard structures offer excellent photographic opportunities. Capture the details of the period architecture and furnishings inside.Reddit

Photography is generally allowed inside the historic buildings, but it's always a good idea to check for any posted restrictions. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography if it's prohibited.

A smartphone with good low-light capabilities or a DSLR camera will work well. The natural light inside the buildings can be beautiful, and the exteriors are picturesque in daylight.TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted within national and state parks for safety and privacy reasons. Check Stone Mountain Park's specific regulations regarding drone operation.

Morning light can be soft and ideal for exterior shots, while late afternoon can offer warm, golden hour lighting. Midday can be harsh, but interiors are often well-lit enough for photos.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Historic Square and Farmyard offers a unique educational outing for families. Children can explore the old houses and imagine life without modern technology, which can be a fun contrast to their own experiences. The farmyard area is often a hit, providing a glimpse into how animals were kept and crops were grown historically.Reddit

Tip: Encourage kids to look for specific items in the houses, like old cooking tools or furniture, to make the exploration more interactive. While the gardens might need some work, they can still be a place for kids to run around briefly. Be sure to check the operating hours to maximize your visit, as limited time can be frustrating with children.Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those passionate about history, the Historic Square and Farmyard is a treasure trove. The meticulously restored buildings and authentic period furnishings offer a deep dive into 18th and 19th-century life in Georgia. You can spend hours examining the architectural details, the craftsmanship of the furniture, and the artifacts that tell stories of the past.Reddit

Recommendation: Take your time to read the informational plaques in each building. If possible, try to find out if any special historical talks or demonstrations are scheduled during your visit. The gardens, though in need of restoration, are also historically significant and worth noting for their original purpose.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architecture and Restoration

The Historic Square and Farmyard is a remarkable collection of restored 18th and 19th-century buildings, many of which were relocated and meticulously reassembled on-site. These structures offer a tangible connection to Georgia's past, showcasing the architectural styles and building techniques of the era. Visitors can step inside these homes and experience what life was like for those who lived and worked in them centuries ago.Reddit

The interiors are furnished with period-accurate furniture and decor, providing an immersive experience. From the grand parlors to the functional kitchens and bedrooms, every detail has been considered to transport visitors back in time. The farmyard area complements the residential buildings by illustrating the agricultural backbone of the region during that period.

While the restoration is widely praised, some visitors have noted that certain areas, like the gardens, could benefit from further attention and upkeep to fully realize their historical potential.Reddit Nevertheless, the overall presentation of the Historic Square is considered exceptional by many, offering a unique educational and visual journey into the past.

A Glimpse into 19th-Century Life

Visiting the Historic Square and Farmyard is akin to stepping onto a living history set. The collection of buildings aims to depict various aspects of life in the 1800s, from the domestic sphere to agricultural practices. You can explore homes that showcase the living arrangements, social customs, and material culture of the time.Reddit

The farmyard is particularly insightful, featuring elements that would have been essential for self-sufficiency, such as barns, kitchens, and carriage houses. It provides context for the daily routines and labor involved in rural living during that period. The attention to detail in the furnishings, from the simple tools to the more elaborate pieces, helps to paint a vivid picture of the past.

Many visitors find the experience to be a fascinating educational opportunity, especially for families. It offers a hands-on way to learn about history, moving beyond textbooks to engage with physical remnants of bygone eras. The ability to enter and explore most buildings allows for a deeper appreciation of the historical context.Reddit

You may also like