Recently, my friends and I visited the town of Madison, Georgia, which resides in Morgan County, only about thirty minutes away from Athens. It was an amazing town, and frankly, I think more people should know about it.
Before we got to downtown Madison, we stopped at Farmview Market, a local, smaller version of a Trader Joe’s or Harry’s. Their selection of different food items had a good variety—and I just had to buy some organic apple cider. Because it’s fall. And apples are my weakness. We also ate brunch there, and let me tell you… That place has amazing chicken biscuits. 10/10, would eat again. And again. After we were done, we headed to downtown Madison.
First of all, on the day that my friends and I went, there was a chili cook-off going on. RIGHT?! Anyway, it also happened to be the same day as a little fall festival they were holding, and the people that we talked to who had booths or were just milling around were so nice. They were eager to tell us about their soaps, art, or whatever they were selling, and we in turn were happy to listen.
Downtown Madison itself really reminds me of the Marietta Square in Cobb County, but it almost feels more homey. The shops are cute and have great items, and I definitely would have bought something to wear on a gameday if I didn’t keep spending my money on food. We stopped in a cute coffee shop named Perk Avenue (which is probably as close to Central Perk as I’ll ever get) in order to get out of the heat, and it seemed like a great spot to relax, even on the day of a festival.
Also, there’s a sweets shop named Antique Sweets—and I’m begging you guys, if you go, you have to get either some truffles or try Bulldog Bites. You will not regret it. You can tell everything there—from the fudge to the brittle—is made with care. The only thing stopping me from buying ten Bulldog Bites was my wallet. Next time… who knows what’ll happen. I might “accidentally” overbuy. *Wink wink*
I know my experience with Madison was limited, but I would gladly go to the downtown area or Farmview again. It seemed like a nice town, and definitely a great place to go for a slight change of pace from Athens. And for just a half-hour car ride, it’s awfully worth it. I’m looking forward to the next time I go!
Dear Antique Sweets: please prepare yourself. All of those Bulldog Bites you made will soon be mine.
