Visitor`s Guide - Valdosta Main Street

Valdosta
Historic Downtown
Visitor’s Guide
www.valdostamainstreet.com
Table of Contents
1. WELCOME TO DOWNTOWN VALDOSTA
2. OUR HISTORY
4. PARKS AND GREENSPACE
6. ANNUAL EVENTS & ENTERTAINMENT
9. BUSINESS LISTINGS
13. MAP OF DOWNTOWN
The Central Valdosta Development Authority and Valdosta Main Street offices are located in historic Downtown
Valdosta in the City Hall Annex building. The program provides support of the downtown area, promotes economic
development and helps market the area to the community. For self guided walking tour please see page 14 of our
visitor guide. The Valdosta Main Street program has made every attempt to provide an updated, accurate guide to
sites and businesses in Downtown Valdosta. We can not be held responsible for any last minute schedule changes
or changes in business listings.
PO Box 1125 ~ Valdosta, Georgia 31603
229-259-3577 ~ FAX 229-259-5416 ~ www.valdostamainstreet.com
The Downtown Visitor’s Guide is produced by the Valdosta Main Street Program.
Welcome
to Downtown Valdosta!
Come enjoy downtown Valdosta’s extensive dining
opportunities and amazing retail stores. The shops, restaurants, galleries, boutiques, services,
and entertainment in Downtown Valdosta provide something for everyone!
Within this 26-block stretch, you will experience Downtown’s combination of big-city amenities,
shopping for handmade jewelry at designer boutiques and admiring the restored brick
buildings.
You are invited to stroll through the historic buildings, streets, and alleys to enjoy the beauty of
our historic downtown. Experience the most fabulous, offbeat, intriguing artwork, as well as
extraordinary shopping and dining in Downtown Valdosta!
FOLLOW US FROM ANYWHERE!
You can keep up with what’s
going on in Downtown Valdosta anytime,
anywhere We are always in touch!
Central Valdosta
Development Authority/
Valdosta Main Street
Program
Check us out of Facebook at:
www.facebook.com/ValdostaMainStreetFans
www.valdostamainstreet.com
1
The City of Valdosta traces its beginnings
to the historic Downtown, the core
of Valdosta’s commerce and industry. Valdosta, the Lowndes County seat, was incorporated as a town in
1860 when efforts to bring a railroad to Troupville, the previous seat, failed. The name Valdosta was selected
to honor Governor Troup, who owned an estate called “Val d’ Aosta”.
The regional economy revolved around the
production and transportation of agricultural
products, principally short-staple cotton, and
later Sea Island cotton. Valdosta soon became
the largest inland Sea Island cotton exchange
in the world. By 1899, Valdosta was the
smallest city in America to install a public
transit system.
During the prosperous years at the turn of the
century, Valdosta saw the construction of
several notable landmarks, including the
Lowndes County Courthouse and the former
Post Office, which now houses Valdosta City
Hall.
Most of Valdosta’s commercial architecture
was constructed along the two main north/
south thoroughfares: Ashley and Patterson
Streets. Downtown Valdosta’s buildings exhibit
a wide array of locally adapted construction
techniques and styles that were nationally
prevalent at the turn of the century. Among
the architectural periods represented are the
Victorian Era, Eclectic Era, Modernistic, and
the Neo-Eclectic Era.
Through two world wars and The Great
Depression, Downtown Valdosta remained a
vibrant part of social, commercial, and political
activity that lasted well into the 1950s. The
1960s and 1970s brought hard times to
downtown, but the 1980s brought renewed
2
prosperity with Valdosta’s selection as a Main
Street City in 1984. Downtown began its
comeback of establishing itself as the center for
business, government and culture.
Since 1984, successes have been celebrated
reaping tremendous economic impact. The
greatest reward has been an obvious change in
attitude about downtown. It's the place to be,
open a business, purchase property, grab a quick
bite or enjoy an elaborate dining experience,
stroll tree-shaded sidewalks, window shop,
experience unique architecture and history, or
visit friends.
Downtown Valdosta is a lifestyle and it is where
people want to live, work, play, dine, and shop.
We have built partnerships, invested in the
future, created opportunity and improved the
quality of life for citizens and visitors. Not only is
Valdosta an Award Winning Georgia Main Street
City and National Certified Main Street City, it's
also a City of Excellence, City of Ethics, Tree
City, 8th Best Place to Locate a Restaurant in the
Nation, 3rd Best Metropolitan Area for Industrial
Recruitment/Expansion, 5th Best Location for
Logistics in the Nation, one of 11 Great Southern
Places to Retire, Georgia's Best Adventure Town,
and ESPN's TitleTown USA!
Visit Downtown Valdosta and experience it for
yourself!
F U N FAC T S
about Downtown Valdosta
The Bank
D O W N T O W N VA L D O S T A
I t ’s a L i f e s t y l e !
Downtown Valdosta is a
place to go to for fun!
of America building was the site of
the largest inland Sea Island cotton market in
the world in 1910. Because of the cotton
market, Valdosta was named the center of
cotton production in South Georgia and was
also rated the richest city per capita in the
United States.
The
‘Dosta Theatre, originally operated by
the Martin Theatre Company, opened in the
spring of 1941. It closed in 1967 and
became a facility for prize fighting until 1971.
James Lord Pierpont, the musician who wrote
Come
enjoy
Downtown
Valdosta’s
extensive dining opportunities and amazing
retail stores. From music events to casual
gallery walks,
Downtown Valdosta has a
little
something for everyone.
For
more
information
regarding
Downtown Valdosta or the Main Street
program please call (229) 259-3577, or visit
the Valdosta Main Street website at
www.valdostamainstreet.com
the song Jingle Bells, moved to Valdosta after
the Civil War and taught music in Valdosta.
His son Maynard was born here.
One
of Valdosta's most famous residents the gambler, gunfighter, and dentist John
Henry "Doc" Holliday spent part of his
childhood and youth in Valdosta during
1860s. His father was one of Valdosta’s first
mayors and Holliday’s relatives still live in
Valdosta.
The
first store in Valdosta was owned by
Thomas B. Griffin, located at Patterson and
Hill Avenue.
In
1864 refugees from Liberty County, hard
hit by Sherman's march to the sea,
organized what came to be the First
Presbyterian Church in Downtown Valdosta.
In
November 1902, the Harris Nickel-Plate
Circus' prize elephant, Gypsy, went on a
rampage through Downtown Valdosta.
The
world's second Coca-Cola bottling plant
was located in the old Southern Salvage
building in Downtown Valdosta.
3
Parks & Green Space
Whether you are in the mood for a picnic
or just an afternoon in the
sun, Downtown Valdosta offers parks and green space for you to enjoy nature,
culture and community. There are many spots to enjoy the beautiful South Georgia
weather.
In
May
Valdosta
of
2000
City
the
Council
agreed to name the area at
the end of Bennie’s Alley
adjacent to Mckey Street
Mack’s
Park
after
Mack
Freeman, a valued business
owner for more than two
decades
in
Downtown
Valdosta who unexpectedly
passed away in March of
2000.
The
park
incorporates
a
sculpture by Wilby Coleman
entitled
“Unarranged
Flowers:
Where is Mack
Now That We Need Him?”
4
The City of Valdosta’s newest park is located
at the intersection of Martin Luther King, Jr.
Drive and Ashley Street, and features a 41foot monument with excerpts from Dr. King’s
renowned “I Have a Dream” speech engraved
into the sides of the monument.
The park offers
visitors
an
education
on
Olympic Park was named in honor of the
Dr. King’s
life
1996 Summer Olympics being held in Atlanta
and
and was a site along the trail of the Olympic
engraved
Torch Relay.
12
legacy,
into
granite
tablets
spaced
The 2.5 acre park features a playground as
out throughout
well as a gazebo and shelter area for family
the
picnics or other gatherings. There is also an
attractive
open picnic area and plenty of greenspace.
l i g h t i n g ,
The shelter is available to rent for functions
walkways,
by calling the Parks and Recreation Authority
landscaping.
park
with
and
at 229-259-3507.
5
Annual Events
As the cultural center of our community, Downtown Valdosta takes pride
in promoting quality special events that fill the streets and stores with people,
excitement, and fun. Find yourself listening to talented local musicians at one of our
popular First Friday events or a concert on the Courthouse Square. Spend an evening
exploring our exciting dining and nightlife or delight in the magic of a holiday tradition
as you take in the sights, sounds and smells of the season at our annual Christmas
Open House and Parade. Downtown Valdosta celebrates culture and community with
hometown spirit.
YEAR ‘ROUND
APRIL
FIRST FRIDAYS
Held the first Friday of each month.
First Friday is an event where singles can get
together, business people can relax, and
couples can enjoy the charm of Downtown
Valdosta. Be sure to visit all Downtown
businesses, boutiques, galleries, & restaurants
for lively events and unique shopping!
ART AFTER DARK
Held the third Friday of each month.
Art After Dark is the perfect time to experience
art inside and out. You are invited to stroll
through downtown's historic buildings, streets,
and alleys to enjoy the beauty of Downtown
Valdosta and the art created by our neighbors.
Experience the most fabulous, offbeat,
intriguing artwork, as well as extraordinary
shopping and dining in Downtown Valdosta!
THEATRE GUILD VALDOSTA STAGE
PRODUCTIONS
Each year the Theatre Guild Valdosta presents
a season of with the possibility of romance,
mystery, and comedy, classic songs, timeless
suspense, and unforgettable laughter. Plan to
come and see one or all of these great shows
at the Historic ‘Dosta Playhouse at
122 N. Ashley St. For more information visit
theatreguildvaldosta.com
6
DOWNTOWN VALDOSTA FARM DAYS
First and third Saturdays of each month
May-October & every Saturday in June
Come downtown to find the delicious taste of
farm fresh food picked just for you, at
Downtown Valdosta Farm Days! The market
showcases locally sourced produce, food items,
and arts and crafts from surrounding areas.
Come for the freshness and stay for the fun at
Downtown Valdosta Farm Days!
GEORGIA CITIES WEEK
Valdosta celebrates with cities across the state
and
enjoys
the
opportunity
to
share
information with citizens about the valuable
services cities provide to residents. Events
include Customer Service Day, a blood drive,
job shadowing days, and more!
MAY
DECEMBER
BROWN BAG LUNCH CONCERT SERIES
DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
Downtown Valdosta fills with live music during
lunchtime in May for the week-long Brown Bag
Lunch Concert Series. The free concerts take
place from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on the
Lowndes County Courthouse Lawn with
lunches being sold by downtown restaurants.
Bring your friends and family to this free
community event and seeing what downtown
Valdosta has to offer.
Valdosta Main Street kicks off the holiday
season as it has for over twenty years. A
festive setting greets you as you stroll through
the unique shops and restaurants that
downtown has to offer. Hands-on activities for
the
kids
add
to
this
family
event.
AUGUST
100 BLACK MEN BBQ CONTEST
Downtown Valdosta has been the site of the
100 Black Men BBQ each August since 1995.
Attendees at the cook-off can expect a familyoriented atmosphere, full of food, fun and
laughter. Musical entertainment is also
provided.
GREATER VALDOSTA COMMUNITY
CHRISTMAS PARADE
Each year groups enter floats and follow the
unique theme to decorate and showcase their
creativity. The night should light up with
beautiful displays, along with holiday music,
characters, marching bands, and much, much
more. The parade route is along Patterson
Street from Woodrow Wilson to Downtown.
7
Mark your Calendar
for Great Fun in
Downtown Valdosta!
January
First Friday
Art After Dark
February
First Friday
Art After Dark
March
First Friday
Art After Dark
April
First Friday
Art After Dark
Georgia Cities Week
May
First Friday
Downtown Valdosta
Farm Days
Brown Bag Lunch
Concert Series
Art After Dark
June
First Friday
Downtown Valdosta
Farm Days
Art After Dark
8
July
First Friday
Downtown Valdosta
Farm Days
Art After Dark
August
100 Black Men BBQ
First Friday
Downtown Valdosta
Farm Days
Art After Dark
September
First Friday
Downtown Valdosta
Farm Days
Art After Dark
October
First Friday
Downtown Valdosta
Farm Days
Art After Dark
November
First Friday
Art After Dark
December
First Friday
Holiday Open House
Greater Valdosta
Community Christmas
Parade
Art After Dark
Business Listings
SHOPS
DINING
PATTERSON
STREET
Colyer’s Jewelers
114 N. Ashley St.
10,000 Picture
Frames
124 N. Patterson St.
Fashion King
117 N. Ashley St.
Elli’s Boutique
136 N. Patterson St.
Kaleidoscope Gallery
& Emporium
116 N. Patterson St.
Rudine’s Bridal
Boutique
111 N. Patterson St.
ASHLEY STREET
Artists on Ashley
203 N. Ashley St.
Flower Gallery
127 N. Ashley St.
GQ Fashions
107 N. Ashley St.
Looking Good
108 N. Ashley St.
The Urban Garden
102 N. Ashley St.
Vapeous
136 N. Ashley St.
CENTRAL AVENUE
Chez What
124 N. Ashley St.
109 Central
109 W. Central Ave.
Christian Wigs &
Things
135 N. Ashley St.
Art and Soul
115 W. Central Ave.
Laws Furniture
Central
129 W. Central Ave.
Mockingbird
117 W. Central Ave.
Valdosta Furniture &
Mattress
116 W. Central Ave.
Western Auto
204 E. Central Ave.
HILL AVENUE
306 North
306 N. Patterson St.
Covington’s Dining
& Catering
310 N. Patterson St.
Grassroots Coffee
101 E. Central Ave.
Jessie’s Eats & Treats
205 N. Ashley St.
King’s Grill
200 N. Patterson St.
Lee Office Equipment Steel Magnolias
132 N. Patterson St.
201 W. Hill Ave.
Miller Hardware
211 E. Hill Ave.
The Bistro
132 N. Ashley St.
LEE STREET
The Bleu Café
125 N. Patterson St.
Whitehead Hardware
Company
104 S. Lee St.
The Bleu Pub
116 W. Hill Ave.
9
SALONS, SPAS,
OTHER
& BARBER SHOPS
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Freeman’s Salon
and Barber Shop
418 S. Ashley St.
92.1 & The Firm
118 N Patterson St.
ASA Engineering
105 W. Central Ave.
H Two Marketing
109 E. Central Ave.
A Time to Dance
Studio
122 N. Patterson St.
Azalea Health
Innovations
105 W. Central Ave.
Lisa Hannan Fine Art
Photography
112 N. Patterson St.
Barnes Health
Care Services
200 S. Patterson St.
BFB Gladwin
Architects
106 W. Hill Ave.
Washington’s
Barber Shop
409 S. Ashley St.
Maggie’s
Beauty Salon
209 E. MLK Dr.
Salon 106
106 N. Patterson St.
Sublime Salon
112 N. Patterson St.
Glo Ultralounge
113 N. Patterson St.
Crews Engineering
101 B S. Patterson St.
ClientTell, Inc.
The ‘Dosta Playhouse 119 N. Patterson St.
122 N. Ashley St.
CJB Industries
101 N. Ashley St.
WCTV Valdosta
136 N Ashley St.
EVENT SPACES
Converse-DaltonBas Bleu
121 N. Patterson Street Ferrell House
305 N. Patterson St.
Cotton Corner
101 N. Ashley St.
10
Pro Service Staffing
108 A W. Hill Ave.
Valdosta Shared
Office Space
100 N. Patterson St.
Wes Sewell
Photography
303 N. Patterson St.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
LAWYERS
Closson, Bass &
Tomberlin
112 W. Central Ave.
Offices of
Converse Bright,
Byron Watson &
Elizabeth Danforth
101 E. Central Ave.
Offices of
Edwards & Edwards
108 E. Valley St.
Office of
Sherry Harrell
301 B N. Patterson St.
Office of
Jody Peterman
304 N. Ashley St.
Office of
James Tunison, Jr.
101 E. Central Ave.
OTHER
A+ Computer Repair
133 N. Ashley St.
Quality of Life
Association
400 S. Ashley St.
Edward Jones
Investments
119 N. Ashley St.
Biotest Plasma
Center
311 N. Patterson St.
Sentinel Offender
Services
215 N. Ashley St.
Elite Tax Service
101 E. Central Ave.
Big B Dry Cleaners
301 N. Patterson St.
Steven’s Funeral
Home
215 E. MLK Jr., Dr.
Computers Ltd.
123 W. Hill Ave.
Future Now
117 S. Patterson St.
Lynn's Shoe Shine
Shop
218 E. MLK Jr., Dr.
Move On Inc.
117 S. Patterson St.
Office of
Dr. LE Williams, DDS
415 S. Ashley St.
Valdosta Driver
Improvement
109 S. Patterson St.
Volunteers of
America Drug
Treatment
118 W. Hill Ave
FINANCIAL
Bank of the Ozarks
124 W. Hill Ave.
Bank of America
106 S. Patterson St.
Friendly Financial
Services
207 N. Ashley St.
Pioneer Credit
120 W. Hill Ave.
Service Loan
Company
104 N. Patterson St.
Security Exchange
201 E. Central Ave.
Sunbelt Credit
119 W. Central Ave.
The Tax Shop
201 N. Ashley St.
11
AUTO REPAIR & SALES
Bearings and Drives
206 S. Toombs St.
Daugherty Service
Center
200 W. Hill Ave.
G&W Auto Parts
408 S. Patterson St.
Child Support
Enforcement
111 B S. Patterson St.
South Ga. RDC
Computer Center
116 McKey St.
Department of Labor
221 S. Ashley St.
Valdosta City Hall
216 E. Central Ave.
Department of Human
Resources
107 S. Patterson St.
CHURCHES
Christ the King
Episcopal Church
101 E. Central Ave.
Langdale Super
Center
215 W. Magnolia St.
Department of Human
Resources Division of
Aging
105 S. Patterson St.
R & R Auto Repair
125 W. Hill Ave.
First Methodist Church
Lowndes County Health 220 N. Patterson St.
Dpt.
206 S. Patterson St.
First Presbyterian
Valdosta Alignment
302 E. Hill Ave.
Western Auto
204 E. Central Ave.
GOVERNMENT SERVICES
Ashley House
Apartments
109 E. Hill Ave.
12
Lowndes Government
Building
300 N. Patterson St.
State Court Office
327 N. Ashley St.
State Probation
211 N. Ashley St.
First Baptist Church
200 W. Central Ave.
Church
313 N. Patterson St.
Holiness House of
Praise
121 W. Central Ave.
St. Paul AME
419 S. Ashley St.
SHARED OFFICE SPACE
100 N. PATTERSON ST.
100% Real Estate
Colonial Life
Cornerstone Design and
Consulting
Divine Interventions &
Counseling Services
Dyna-Cube
Fortune Personnel
Consultants of Valdosta
Matrix Department
Private Investigative
Solutions
Smith Barnas &
Associates
Strive Medical
Total Merchant Services
Mission Point Baptist
Church
100 N. Ashley St.
Downtown Valdosta Map
13