Spectacular Things To Do In Downtown Rome, Georgia

Downtown Rome, Georgia, is a fantastic place and one of the best parts of Rome. Downtown consists of Broad Street and the surrounding area, where visitors will find shopping, restaurants, museums, live entertainment, and special events held year-round. There is always something to do and see in the downtown area of Rome, Georgia.

Historical Homes

The “Between the Rivers” historic district is located all around the hill on which the Clock Tower sits. It is directly behind Broad Street. It gets its name because it is situated between the Etowah and Oostanaula Rivers: two of the three rivers that run through Rome. This area features some of the most stunning Victorian houses around. Due to their unique beauty and historical significance, many homes have been featured in movies, magazines, and news articles. You can take a self-guided tour by picking up a map at Georgia’s Rome Welcome Center behind the Rome Area History Museum or the Last Stop Gift Shop.

Shopping

Shopping at the best Boutiques and Antique Shops is located downtown. Broad Street has boutiques, antiques, gourmet kitchen accessories, bookshops, bicycles, outdoor supplies, etc. It is a shopper’s dream destination. It is also a great place to support small businesses. There is something for everyone on Broad Street.

History

While walking up and down Broad Street, you will see plaques on the sides of buildings. They tell the history of the buildings and what originally occupied the space. I enjoy walking up and down Broad Street, looking at the signs, and trying to picture what Broad Street may have looked like over a hundred years ago.

The Rome Area History Museum is on Broad Street and tells local history. Walking through the museum will take you on a journey of the area’s timeline. You will see historical displays from the time of the Native Americans through today’s modern Rome, Georgia.

Clock Tower

You can tour the Clock Tower on the first Saturday of each month from May through September. In the museum at the bottom of the Clock Tower, you will learn its history, and then you can walk up to the top for a breathtaking view of Rome.

Myrtle Hill Cemetary

Myrtle Hill Cemetary is one of the most visited spots in Rome. It is a fantastic place that radiates Rome’s rich history. Established in 1857, it is the second oldest cemetery in Rome. The cemetery sits at the end of Broad Street, overlooking the spot where the Etowah and Oostanala Rivers meet to form the Coosa River. It is one of the seven hills that make up the Rome area. From the top of Myrtle Hill, you can see the downtown area. I have seen some fantastic pictures taken from atop the hill. There is also a lot of history to be learned at Myrtle Hill. You can stop by the Rome-Floyd Visitor Center or the Downtown Welcome Center behind the Rome Area History Museum and pick up a map for a self-guided tour.

Dining

Another great thing about the downtown area is the variety of places to eat. There are so many options. There are sandwich shops, pizza, upscale dining, Mexican, Asian, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisine, and downtown is where you will find the best burgers! There is absolutely something for everyone and every taste. Local artists play live music at many restaurants on Friday and Saturday nights. Rome has a lot of talent, and you may hear the next big up-and-coming artist.

Another popular activity to do downtown is a bar tour. During a bar tour, you visit several bars and try a variety of craft beers. It is not a drinking game, and the goal is not to get drunk; it is more of a refined appreciation of craft-made beer. You can find Craft Beer at many locations in the downtown area.

Tour

If you ever get a chance to ride the downtown trolley, please do so. One evening, we hopped on the trolley and rode down Broad Street. It was so neat! The driver was friendly and talked to us about things going on that weekend. Now I know I live in Rome and travel up and down Broad Street almost daily, but this was a great experience and a completely different point of view.

Photo Worthy Spots

Opera Alley has become a trendy spot for people to take pictures. It provides a perfect backdrop for senior, prom, or casual photos. It is a very Instagramable spot.

Town Green Park and Splash Pad

There is a fountain in front of the Forum that kids (and adults) can play in during the warmer months. It is called the Town Green. It is designed to look like and represent the three rivers of Rome. There are tables and swings around the fountain area to sit. It has been a popular place during the summer for years.

One thing about Rome is that there is something for everyone, whether you are visiting or a resident here. The downtown area is constantly growing and changing. What is your favorite thing about Downtown Rome? We’d love to hear!