Article originally appeared on Curbed Atlanta by Karon Warren. 

Although there’s a constant focus on the latest, greatest new homes and development in Atlanta, let’s not forget the city and its satellite towns are home to some truly landmark older homes as well. Some may be architectural beauties, others historical sites that allure.

From the homes of authors to philanthropists and former presidents, Georgia offers quite a collection of notable residences. And, lucky for architecture and history enthusiasts, these are open for tours. So go on, get an up-close-and-personal look inside.

1. Governor's Mansion

391 West Paces Ferry Rd NW
Atlanta, GA 30305

(404) 261-1776

Visit Website

Following the Greek Revival style, the Georgia Governor’s Mansion on West Paces Ferry Road features 30 rooms on three floors. Designed by Georgia architect A. Thomas Bradbury, the 1967 residence actually first opened on January 1, 1968, with Lester Maddox as the first governor to call it home. The 24,000-square-foot residence is open for free tours on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays between 10 and 11:30 a.m.

To prepare for Christmas tours, the home generally closes to the public in mid-November and reopens at the beginning of December. Check the website for a current tour schedule.

 

2. Old Governors Mansion

Old Governors Mansion
Milledgeville, GA 31061

Visit Website

Long before Atlanta was named the state capital for Georgia, Milledgeville held that honor. As such, an official governor’s residence was in order. Hence, Georgia’s Old Governor’s Mansion was completed in 1839. Designed by architect Charles Cluskey, the High Greek Revival home remained in service until 1868.

Tours are available Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sundays from 2 to 4 p.m. It does close for holidays, so check the schedule before going. Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for seniors age 60 and older, $2 for students, and free for children younger than 6.

The exterior of Old Governors Mansion in Atlanta. The facade is yellow with columns in front. There is a fence and a lawn with trees in front of the house.

...

8. Andalusia: The Home of Flannery O'Connor

2628 N Columbia St
Milledgeville, GA 31061

(478) 445-8722

Visit Website

From 1951 to 1964, celebrated author Flannery O’Connor would call Andalusia in Milledgeville home. But prior to her arrival here with her uncle, Dr. Bernard Cline, the home had begun as a cotton plantation and farm in 1814. The house and its grounds would served as inspiration for the setting in many of O’Connor’s literary works.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980, the property is open for tours Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Sundays from 2 to 4 p.m. It is closed on holidays, so consult the website for current hours at these times. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors age 60 and older, $2 for students, and free for children younger than 6.

...

Read the entire article HERE.