History, hiking and entertainment: Your city guide to Lithia Springs

Lithia Springs, located about a half hour west of Atlanta in Douglas County, was originally known as Salt Springs. The name change came after an 1890s discovery revealed its water was high in lithium, or lithia, a naturally occurring chemical element.

A significant piece of the area’s history revolves around the Piedmont Chautauqua, a large gathering place established in the tradition of the Chautauqua movement, which occurred across the United States after a Methodist minister founded the idea in 1874. They started as education events for Sunday school teachers and morphed into more involved events featuring speakers and entertainment. Atlanta Constitution editor Henry Grady dreamed up the idea of the Piedmont Chautauqua as a permanent installation with buildings in the Moorish style, complete with turrets. The first Chautauqua in Lithia Springs brought out a significant number of non-ticket holders who overwhelmed the grounds, but the gatherings continued on with great success.

Lithia Springs, with its proximity to Atlanta and its easy railroad access, became somewhat of a tourist destination. Around the time of the Chautauqua, the 300-room Sweetwater Hotel opened, offering those who visited a luxury experience.

Today, the area is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and the famous people it has produced, including Lil Nas X, Ruth Blair and Elana Meyers.

What can I do for fun in Lithia Springs?

Sweetwater Creek State Park: This beautiful state park is anchored by the distinctive ruins of the Civil War-era New Manchester Manufacturing Company, which can be viewed from the outside while hiking the area. The George Sparks Reservoir allows for fishing and feeding ducks, and campsites and yurts allow for overnight stays.

Douglas County Film Trail: Lots of movies have had portions filmed in Douglas County. You can see where Hunger Games characters appeared in places within Sweetwater Creek State Park and recall which scenes of Stranger Things took place at Tiffany’s Kitchen as you make your way through this nine-stop tour of the county.

Lithia Springs Park: Looking for a great place to spend the afternoon with kids? Lithia Springs Park has a state-of-the-art playground accessible to individuals with varied abilities. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sunshine and slides!

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Lithia Springs?

Tiffany’s Kitchen

A great Southern breakfast, lunch and dinner spot, this down-home establishment offers a plethora of omelets, biscuit-centric plates, waffles and pancakes for those who are big on breakfast. Ready for lunch or dinner? Try the grilled porkchop or butterfly shrimp. The grilled ham and cheese or Philly cheesesteak sandwich are also sure to hit the spot.

Location: Tiffany’s Kitchen; Hours: Tuesday-Sunday - 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: tiffanyskitchenga.com

Wallace BBQ Restaurant

Pit-cooked pork and beef, along with all the side fixings, make this a true barbecue destination. You’ll find a mouthwatering menu featuring sandwiches and plates with sides like baked beans, Brunswick stew and fries. The restaurant was established in 1966, and despite a change in location, it has been serving the community ever since.

Location: Wallace BBQ Restaurant; Hours: Wednesday-Saturday - 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: wallacebarbecue.com

The Olive Tree

Established in 1994, this restaurant has offered a Greek and Italian option to Lithia Springs for over three decades now. Start with spanakopita or calamari and follow up with a Greek dish like a build-your-own pizza or grilled scallops. Or go Italian with baked ziti or eggplant Parmesan.

Location: The Olive Tree; Hours: Monday-Friday - 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Saturday - 4-8:30 p.m.; Website: theolivetreerestaurantlsga.com

Sazon Latino Dominican Kitchen

Never experienced Dominican home-style food? This is the place to try it. With offerings like Chicharrón (crispy pork belly) and Empanadas Rellenas de Carne de Res (browned empanadas brimming with seasoned beef alongside a creamy dipping sauce), you may just find your new favorite lunch spot!

Location: Sazon Latino Dominican Kitchen; Hours: seven days - 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Website: sazonlatinodominicankitchen.com

Beaver Creek Biscuit Company

Better too much barbecue than not enough! You’ll get your fill in Lithia Springs, especially if you try the pork, beef or chicken at Beaver Creek. As the name suggests, you’ll also find ample breakfast sandwich offerings featuring chicken, sausage, steak and, of course, gravy. There’s even a drive-thru breakfast option for those who need to get to work in a hurry.

Location: Beaver Creek Biscuit Company; Hours: Monday-Friday - 5 a.m.-3 p.m.; Website: beavercreekbbq.net