Gwinnett History
Duluth, GA - "Pride in the Old and New"
Historic Norcross
Historic Town Suwanee
Small Town Lawrenceville
City of Buford - Historic District
The city of Snellville
Auburn
Berkeley Lake
Braselton
Dacula
Grayson
Loganville
Rest Haven
Sugar Hill


Historic Norcross – rich in history and small town charm. The Richmond-Danville Railroad Line was the impetus for the development of many Atlanta towns, including Norcross. Norcross’ first mayor, John Thrasher (1870-78) envisioned a city with parks, homes and commerce. Today Thrasher Park is the heart of Norcross, lined with stately Victorian homes, restaurants and shops.

Known in its early days as “Atlanta’s favorite summer resort,” tourists and businessmen traveled to Norcross by train to stay in the new 29-room Brunswick Hotel. Beginning in 1878, the Airline Belle, a four-coach commuter train, began making two round trips from Norcross to Atlanta every day, and merchants would bring their wares to the resort hotel for tourists to peruse.

Many of Atlanta’s largest and most historic churches organized in Norcross, including Norcross Methodist Church (1820), Mt. Carmel Methodist Church (1828) and Hopewell Christian Church (1886).

The entire 112-acre downtown is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with many of the original historic homes and church buildings now restored private residences. The architecture reflects all styles, ranging from antebellum mansions to Victorian Homes.

The original train depot is now occupied by the Norcross Station Café, and after dining; visitors can enjoy meandering down the picturesque rows of restored brick buildings illuminated by old-fashioned street lamps and line with crepe myrtle and dogwoods. Downtown Norcross has a wonderful mix of eight restaurants, including Dominick’s Italian, Paizano's, Iron Horse Tavern, Mojitos and the Northern Star Coffeehouse.

Seasonally, the city hosts "First Thursdays", where the shops stay open late, plus there is live  music and great specials. Cool and unique shops include A Taste of Britain, where Anglophiles can find crumpets, custard creams or authentic British teas or the renowned Labaire Pottery. 

Visit www.norcrossga.net for a complete list of city events and festivals, including the popular Norcross Art Fest (first weekend of October).