A Fall Weekend in Dublin, Georgia
A Fall Weekend in Dublin, Georgia
Small-town charm, Irish roots, and Southern hospitality — all just three hours from Auburn.
A Little History & Why You’ll Love It Here
Tucked in the heart of Georgia, Dublin is one of those small towns that instantly makes you feel at home. Officially incorporated in 1812, Dublin was named after Dublin, Ireland, by its founder as a tribute to his wife’s Irish heritage. That blend of Southern hospitality and Irish spirit still defines the town today — you can feel it in the smiles of locals, the pride in every storefront, and the rhythm of community that runs through it all.
Beyond its charm, Dublin carries a deep sense of history and progress. It’s home to Dublin’s First African Baptist Church, where a 15-year-old Martin Luther King Jr. gave his first public speech, now part of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park. Between that historical significance and a downtown filled with creative businesses, Dublin is a destination that blends meaning with warmth.
Where to Stay
We stayed at the Hilton Home2 Suites, and it couldn’t have been a better fit for our weekend. The suite-style layout gave us plenty of space to spread out, and the kitchenette made traveling with a toddler that much easier. The hotel offers complimentary breakfast each morning and coffee available all day, which we took full advantage of before heading downtown.
It’s just a quick drive to Dublin’s main attractions, and the staff couldn’t have been kinder — truly a comfortable home base for families or couples alike.
What to Do
Dublin has the kind of event calendar that keeps the town buzzing all year long. We happened to visit during the Monster Dash and Fall Festival & Chili Cook-Off, and it felt like the entire community was downtown celebrating. Kids in costumes darted between candy booths while live music filled the streets. Addy LOVED taking everything in (and the candy, of course).
We also visited the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Park and First African Baptist Church, a humbling and meaningful stop where Dr. King’s leadership journey first began.
Between events, we strolled through downtown shops, admired the fall decorations, and made sure to stop for a photo at the colorful “Welcome to Dublin” mural — a must for anyone documenting their visit.
If you’re visiting another time of year, keep an eye out for Market on Madison, downtown concerts, or Dublin’s famous St. Patrick’s Festival, which locals proudly describe as one of Georgia’s best.
Where to Eat
Dublin’s food scene is filled with locally owned gems, each offering a little taste of the town’s personality:
🍺 Crooked Finger Brewing – Craft beer, brisket nachos, and wings — the perfect first-night dinner spot. Plus, live music!
🍳 Lou Ann’s – A Dublin staple. Their cat-head biscuits are legendary — buttery, fluffy, and everything a Southern breakfast should be.
🥪 Mulberry Kitchen – Cozy, casual, and delicious. We loved the grilled cheese and pimento-chicken salad, and Addy couldn’t get enough of their kid-sized table setup.
🍦 Rosie’s Ice Cream – Handmade, creamy, and the sweetest way to end a downtown stroll.
🌮 Saltwater Fisheries – Fresh seafood, rooftop seating, and sunset views over downtown — a must for dinner and drinks. Definitely check out their rooftop for views and live music.
And while we didn’t make it this trip, everyone we met recommended Company Supply, a Cajun-Southern restaurant that’s on our list for next time (locals swear by the atmosphere and live music).
Where to Shop
Shopping small is easy — and fun — in Dublin. Each store we stopped in had its own charm and friendly faces who made conversation feel effortless.
The Mint – A women’s boutique full of classic styles and fun accessories. Addy and I had the best time trying on outfits together — a must-visit if you love fashion and friendly service.
Withstanding Pressure Candle Co. – A creative studio where you can pour your own candle and learn about scent-making.
The Jerk – A one-of-a-kind shop selling homemade jerky, tallow soaps, and other locally made goods.
Downtown also has a mix of antique shops, gift stores, and locally owned businesses that make shopping feel personal.
The Takeaway
Dublin, Georgia, is proof that small towns still have big stories to tell. From its Irish roots and civil rights history to its growing community of makers, chefs, and shop owners, Dublin is a town that celebrates both heritage and heart.
Whether you’re road-tripping from Auburn or planning a weekend escape through middle Georgia, Dublin offers everything you want in a getaway: good food, genuine people, and a slower pace that feels like a breath of fresh air.
