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A tight-knit community of local businesses makes Thomasville one of the most welcoming towns anywhere.
Wandering the streets paved with bricks laid by hand in 1907, I watch the town wake up.
Credit:Robbie Caponetto
The Shopping
Browse a Beloved Local Bookstore
This was my happy place.
Every single detail in The Bookshelf extends a warm welcome.
Its hard and worthwhile work to create a hospitable spirit both in person and online.
Take a visit to The Bookshelf, which owner Annie B. Jones stewards for devoted readers.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
When people walk into The Bookshelf, I want them to feel that they belong.
For families with small children, the two-storyImagination Emporiumtoy store is a must-stop.
The husband-and-wife team sells bikes up front and has a relaxed eatery in the back.
Browse the clothes and other goods at Kevin’s Fine Outdoor Gear & Apparel.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
Carson heads the kitchen, which is focused on whats fresh, flavorful, and good for you.
Were a mom-and-pop establishment, Randell says, explaining the inspiration behind the restaurant.
Every ingredient is chosen for a reason.
Enjoy a tree-shaded meal in the pocket park between Jonah’s Fish & Grits and Liam’s.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
We want to create delicious, healthy options for everyone.
The watchful water tower rises nearby.
The towns amphitheater, also close by, is where neighbors gather for outdoor concerts and shows.
No trip to Thomasville is complete without a meal at George & Louie’s.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
Its often less crowded on weekday afternoons but fills up on the weekends and during events.
The Community
Starting a New Chapter
Were breakfast people, explains John Gregory.
He and his wife, Anna Carroll, openedEmpire Bagel and Delicatessenon West Jackson Street in 2017.
Spend an afternoon sipping vintages at Farmer’s Daughter Vineyards.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
The couple met while they were working at P.J.
They began naming the dishes on the menu after places that are significant to them.
Their bagel offerings change regularly, and the restaurant also sources ingredients seasonally from area farmers.
Find a selection of bagels and pastries all day at Empire.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
The microgreens, for example, come from Edgar Roberts ofPasco Farms.
Once the Gregorys opened their doors, folks showed up in a big way.
When diners arrived, it felt like we were inviting them into our living room, Anna Carroll says.
To cap off a day of exploring, stroll through neighborhoods filled with historic homes near downtown.Credit:Robbie Caponetto
On the first day, there was a huge line.
Anna Carroll
When diners arrived, it felt like we were inviting them into our living room.
Over the past few years, the closeness of this community has been more important than ever.
There was a new awareness of how important it is to patronize local establishments.
Theres a palpable sense of camaraderie among entrepreneurs in the area.
This kind of hospitality is the bread and butter of a small town.
Whenever friends ask why they ended up in Thomasville, John answers, Because we chose it.
Anna Carroll adds with a smile, And thank goodness we did.
Cars and bicycles wheel past.
TheBig Oak, as its affectionately called, stretches its arms across the road, filtering the light.
