Discovering Fried Green Tomatoes’ Ghost Town is a captivating journey into the history and culture of a small town in Georgia that Hollywood revived. Located in the heart of Georgia, Juliette was once a thriving mill town, but after the mill closed, the town was left abandoned and forgotten until the early 1990s.
Juliette was given a new lease of life when it was chosen as the filming location for the movie Fried Green Tomatoes. Since then, it has become a mecca for tourists who come to experience the town’s charm and authenticity.
In this article, we will explore the history of Juliette, the movie that brought it to the world’s attention, and the many attractions that make it a must-visit destination. We will delve into the town’s past and present, highlighting its unique features and cultural significance.
From the Whistle Stop Cafe to the mill and the original Main Street buildings, we will take you on a journey through the town’s most notable landmarks and share insider tips for visiting.
Join us as we uncover the hidden gems of Juliette, Georgia, and discover why it’s a destination unlike any other.
Key Takeaways
- ‘Discovering Fried Green Tomatoes’ Ghost Town’ is a book that explores the history and culture of Juliette, Georgia, the filming location of the movie Fried Green Tomatoes.
- Juliette was once a thriving mill town that became abandoned after the mill closed in the 60s/70s, but the movie’s filming in the early 90s revived the town and turned it into a tourist attraction.
- The Whistle Stop Cafe, featured in the movie, is a popular attraction in Juliette, serving Southern comfort food, and the Jarrell House Plantation, originally a plantation, is now a bed and breakfast and offers guided tours and special events.
- Hollywood’s impact on Juliette brought in money and employment opportunities, and tourists from all over the world visit Juliette to see the locations where the movie was filmed and experience the town’s charm and authenticity.
History of Juliette
The history of Juliette reveals that the town’s economic decline began when its large mill, which was once the main-stay of the community, was shut down in the 60s/70s.
With the mill’s closure, the town became a ghost town, and its residents were forced to move to other places in search of work.
However, the arrival of Hollywood in the early 90s to film Fried Green Tomatoes breathed new life into the town and put it back on the map.
Hollywood’s impact on Juliette was significant, as it not only brought in a lot of money and employment opportunities, but also turned Juliette into a tourist attraction.
Tourists worldwide began flocking to the town to see the locations where the movie was filmed and to experience the Whistle Stop Cafe, which was made famous in the movie.
Today, the town continues to attract visitors, particularly on weekends, and is a testament to the power of movies in reviving small towns.
Attractions in the Town
One of the popular tourist attractions in Juliette is the Jarrell House Plantation, which was originally a plantation and now operates as a bed and breakfast. The plantation was built in the 1840s and was once a working farm with cotton, corn, and wheat fields.
The house has been restored to its original condition, complete with period furniture and decor, giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy plantation owners of the time. The Jarrell House also offers guided property tours, including the gardens and outbuildings, and hosts special events such as weddings and corporate retreats.
Another popular attraction in Juliette is the Whistle Stop Cafe, which gained fame as the restaurant in the movie Fried Green Tomatoes. The cafe is housed in the old Juliette depot, which has been restored to its original condition, complete with a train car on the tracks outside. The menu features Southern comfort food, including the famous fried green tomatoes, and the walls are adorned with memorabilia from the movie. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs and gifts from the gift shop.
The Whistle Stop Cafe is a must-visit destination for fans of the movie and those looking for a taste of Southern hospitality.
“What was once a bustling railroad community in the early 1900s, Juliette was the perfect location for the fictional town of Whistle Stop. Not much has changed, and today you can dig into a plate of fried green tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café right where Idgie sat.”
“After a delicious meal, stroll scenic McCracken Street to browse for unique treasures in the shops and purchase some locally sourced honey from The Honey Comb. Each boutique is located in colorful buildings with adorable dormers perfect for photos.”
https://www.exploregeorgia.org/city/juliette
Tips for Visiting
Visitors to Juliette can enhance their experience by checking out the town’s website, which provides updated information on events, dining options, and accommodation, as well as a virtual tour of the town, allowing them to immerse themselves in the historic atmosphere and picturesque scenery they will encounter in person.
The website is a useful tool to plan the trip, as it lists the operating hours and menus of the Whistle Stop Cafe, a popular tourist attraction. The cafe serves southern-style comfort food, including fried green tomatoes, a must-try dish in the town. Visitors can also find other dining options in nearby towns, such as Forsyth, which is about 10 miles away from Juliette.
For those who want to stay the night in Juliette, the website provides information on nearby accommodations, including the Jarrell House Plantation, a true plantation and now a bed and breakfast. The plantation offers a unique experience to visitors, as they can stay in one of the historic rooms and enjoy a southern-style breakfast in the morning. Other options include hotels and motels in nearby towns, such as Macon, about 20 miles away from Juliette.
Overall, the website is a valuable resource for visitors to plan their trip to Juliette, providing useful information on food options and nearby accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other movies or TV shows have been filmed in Juliette?
Juliette, Georgia has been the filming location for various movies and TV shows, including “The War,” “I’ll Fly Away,” and “The Walking Dead.” The success of “Fried Green Tomatoes” has significantly impacted local tourism and has led to a comparison with the book version.
Is the lake in Juliette open for swimming or water activities?
It is unclear if the lake in Juliette is open for swimming or water activities. However, boat rentals are available and there are fishing options. Visitors should inquire about water quality and take necessary safety precautions.
Are there any ghost stories or legends associated with the town?
Local folklore and supernatural sightings have been reported in Juliette, Georgia. Despite the town’s historical significance and cultural impact through the filming of Fried Green Tomatoes, no documented ghost stories or legends exist.
What is the population of Juliette and is it growing or declining?
The population of Juliette is not readily available, but the town experiences an influx of tourists on weekends, indicating a possible growth in economic opportunities. Population trends cannot be determined without further data.
Are there any other notable landmarks or historical sites in the surrounding area?
The surrounding area of Juliette, Georgia, offers the Jarrell House Plantation, a bed and breakfast, and the High Falls State Park with hiking trails and waterfalls. Upcoming events include the Forsythia Festival. Local cuisine includes Southern comfort food and BBQ.
