An unusual name and history: Your city guide to Lilburn

Lilburn’s moniker is unusual because it derives from its namesake’s first name instead of the usual last name. It’s named after Lilburn Trigg Meyers, a railroad general superintendent who lived around the turn of the century and was known for the black top hat he wore. The town faced a slew of challenges to its existence including a fire that nearly destroyed the downtown, threats to its cotton crops in the form of the boll weevil and city government dissolution in the late 1930s. Reestablishment occurred in 1955. Today, Lilburn, located 27 miles from Atlanta, is a place where history, culture and modern advancement intersect. You’ll find laid-back, delicious dining alongside engrossing cultural and learning-based attractions. It’s a great place to spend the day with the family, so check out our top recommendations for enjoying this small town packed with opportunity.

What can I do for fun in Lilburn?

Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary: Originally known as the Yellow River Game Ranch, this sanctuary is an institution in Lilburn. It opened in 1962, changed hands several times, closed in 2018 and opened back up in 2020. Current visiting options allow you to view and learn about animals like black bears and otters individually or to tour the entire facility, which covers more than 20 acres, and see other residents like red ruffed lemurs, lynx, raccoons, porcupines and more.

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir: Inaugurated in 2007, this mandir, a Hindu place of worship, is open to those of all backgrounds and faiths. You’ll find beautiful carvings on the grounds of this Italian marble, Turkish limestone and Indian pink sandstone construction. Pick up an audio tour guide in the gift shop or participate in traditional rituals as you learn about Hinduism in this peaceful setting.

Olde Town Lilburn: Whether you’re looking to do a little antiquing, pick up some fresh flowers, or enjoy some time outside, this historic downtown is the place to be. Find Antiques in Old Town, housed in a charming historic building; peruse fresh flowers and gifts at Old Town Flowers; or get some fresh air with the kids at the pet-friendly, 10-acre Lilburn City Park.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Lilburn?

Always Fresh

This charming locally owned restaurant began as fruit stand on the corner of Rockbridge and Five Forks Trickum Roads. Today, guests can find satiation in down-home dishes like chicken salad or meat plates. Entrées like baked chicken, pork loin and beef tips and rice change daily. True to its roots, the establishment still sells locally produced bakery items and canned goods.

Location: Always Fresh; Hours: Monday-Friday - 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday - 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. ; Website: alwaysfreshrestaurant.com

1910 Public House

Looking for the perfect brunch spot? You’ve found it at the 1019 Public House with menu choices like smoked salmon Benedict and French toast with berry compote. Stop by for lunch and try the pressed Cuban panini or the fried catfish or enjoy dinner with fried calamari followed by pork tenderloin or lobster ravioli. And don’t forget the full beer menu! You’ll find all this in an inviting historic downtown setting.

Location: 1910 Public House; Hours: Sunday- 5-9 p.m.; Monday-Thursday - 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday and Saturday - 5-10 p.m., Sunday-Thursday - 5-9 p.m. ; Website: 1910publichouse.com

Somos Peru

Lilburn’s cultural bent is on full display at this local spot. Experience genuine Peruvian cuisine like jalea with deep fried fish, huachinango featuring red snapper, or various chicharron dishes with chicken, shrimp or fish. The laid-back atmosphere is a great place to experience something new or come back again and again for favorite dishes.

Location: Somos Peru; Hours: Monday-Wednesday - 11-12 a.m., Thursday-Saturday - 11-2:30 a.m., Sunday - 11-12 a.m.; Website: facebook.com

Three Blind Mice

This comfortable restaurant also houses a wine bar and a specialty market. You’ll be met with friendly, attentive service when you order brunch (think shrimp and grits and chicken and waffles), lunch (try the smoked turkey Rachel sandwich or a summer peach salad), dinner (start with the stuffed mushrooms and follow up with the pan-seared miso salmon). And a bar menu offers delights like a barrel-aged rye Manhattan or sparkling St. Germaine carafe.

Location: Three Blind Mice; Hours: Sunday - 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Tuesday-Friday - 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Saturday - 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Website: tbmrestaurant.com

Taqueria Los Hermanos

Ready to crunch into some chicken, beef or steak nachos or a fresh taco salad? Look no further than Taqueria Los Hermanos! Its Lilburn location is one of five around metro Atlanta. This family-owned restaurant, originally begun by three brothers, has delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere down pat. Swing in for lunch or dinner and find a menu replete with burritos, quesadillas and homestyle desserts.

Location: Taqueria Los Hermanos; Hours: Sunday - 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday-Thursday - 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday - 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Website: taquerialoshermanos.com