5 Best Places to Shop in Central and North Georgia, Georgia

In an old gristmill with beautiful views of the Soque River, Mark of the Potter offers an outstanding selection of pottery from more than 30 artisans. The emphasis is on functional pieces, with a great variety of clay and firing techniques and glazes in every imaginable color. Items range from coffee scoops to lamps, mugs to elaborate vases and casserole dishes. The shop is legendary among Georgia-pottery lovers. Children and adults alike will enjoy sitting on the porch and feeding the huge pet trout. There is usually a potter working on the wheel at the shop on Saturday and Sunday.

This working pottery studio in a large 120-year-old roadside farmhouse is filled with lots more than "just" beautiful pottery. Vibrant stained glass, a variety of jewelry, and fiber art are featured, along with the vivid, decorative, and functional stoneware of shop owner Cody Trautner.

One of the state's best sources for folk art, Main Street Gallery carries works by more than 75 regional artists. The store also carries jewelry, pottery, paintings, and sculptures.

This unique shop has been operating continuously since 1872. The front part of the store operates more as a museum, with antique farming implements, old-timey tonics and soaps, and even caskets on display. The retail store, influenced by an earlier owner's Scandinavian heritage, continues to sell Swedish farmer's cheese and Norwegian flatbread. Shoppers can also pick up old-time candy and toys. You can even grab lunch at the Old Sautee Market behind the shop.

Located in an old hardware storefront in downtown Clayton, this fun and eclectic outdoor shop offers a little something for everyone—from hiking and camping gear, to books and gift items, to local food and beer. There’s even a kids play area, ice cream shop and axe-throwing venue on premises.