The holiday season is swiftly approaching and it’s time to start finding the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. Georgia’s Lake Country is an ideal spot for holiday shopping. Boasting an array of unique boutiques, artisanal shops, and quaint stores, this region offers a diverse selection of gifts to suit every taste.

After a fulfilling day of exploring the local shops, you can unwind and refuel at the region’s cozy eateries. From quaint cafes to savory restaurants, there’s a culinary option to satisfy every palate.

Discover our four communities favorite ways to shop and eat in four days in Georgia’s Lake Country.

Eatonton

Where to Shop: At The Artisans Village Art Gallery you can shop for one-of-a-kind pieces from local artisans such as paintings, wood carvings, pottery, photography, watercolors, jewelry, fabrics, and baskets. Around the holidays, the Artisans Village offers the “Gifts from the HeART” exhibit. This exhibit focuses on locally made, fine artwork that can be gifted during the holiday season, making the gallery the perfect stop for holiday shopping!

Where to Eat: A taphouse and wine bar, Lake Oconee Bistro offers a laid-back dining experience. Located beside beautiful Lake Oconee, this unique restaurant offers comforting dishes and a raw bar. Enjoy favorites such as the Bistro Bang Shrimp, Tuna Nachos, or Cedar Plank Salmon or unwind after a long day of shopping with a specialty crafted cocktail from the full bar.

Madison

Where to Shop: A local favorite, The Madison Artists Guild (MAG) Holiday Market features one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts made by a collective of talented local artisans, including wreaths, ornaments, pottery, jewelry, glass art, and paintings. Running from October 18 – December 31, MAGallery is the perfect spot to find unique holiday treasures crafted just for this special season.

Where to Eat: Do you want a fine dining experience with chef-curated, farm-to-table meals and expertly paired wine? Experience The Dining Room where Executive Chef Russell Hays and Executive Pastry Chef Edouard Fenouil showcase their talents with a three or four-course prix fixe menu as well as a la carte options. The menu changes weekly and is based on the freshest local ingredients.  Open for dinner services Thursdays through Saturdays, reservations to The Dining Room are highly recommended.

Greensboro

Where to Shop: Knock a few items off your Holiday shopping list at Lake Oconee Village in Greensboro. With shops like Max & Molly Children’s Boutique, Empire South, Soiree at the Lake, Olive and Hive, and Madeline Page shoes, you’ll find gifts for everyone on your list.

Where to Eat: Table at the Lake is a charming restaurant located in Greensboro, Georgia. They are close to The Ritz-Carlton, Reynolds Lake Oconee, and most of the vacation rentals in the area. They focus on thoughtfully sourced ingredients and seasonal menus, paired with expertly made cocktails and a curated wine list. Some local favorites are the Spanish Octopus and stack of Buttermilk Pancakes with Black Pepper Syrup. Open for dinner or Sunday brunch. Please visit their website to make a reservation and view the current menu.

Milledgeville

Where to Shop: Shop vintage goods, crafts, antique furnishings, art, and so much more at Little River Antiques. This clean antique store features lively and updated booths that each showcase a variety of treasures. Whether you are into cowboy chic or coastal grand millennial style, and everything in between, there is a special something for everyone. Stop by on Saturdays for free freshly popped popcorn while looking through the shop. Little River Antiques is located at 3061 N Columbia St, Suite C Milledgeville, GA 31061, and is open Tuesday- Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

Where to Eat: Treat yourself to a multi-course meal at Kai Thai. Not only do they serve excellent Thai flavors, but they also serve a variety of specialty sushi rolls, ramen bowls, cultural desserts, and even flavorful mixed cocktails. They are open for lunch and dinner daily, can accommodate a small table or a large gathering, and even have a private party space for rent. They are located at 2470 N. Columbia St, Suite C35, Milledgeville, GA, 31061, and are open Monday- Friday for lunch from 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and dinner from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on Saturdays.