The town of Juliette, Georgia, is an unincorporated community that was originally known as Glover, named after Dr. Glover, who built a cotton mill along the river in what is now East Juliette. The town later took the name Juliette in 1882, in honor of Juliette McCracken, the daughter of the railroad engineer who helped bring the railway through the area. Today, the town’s main street still bears the family name—McCracken Street—a quiet tribute to its history.
Juliette thrived as a bustling railroad town in the early 1900s, with the train depot quickly following the arrival of the railway. For many years, the depot served as a vital hub for shipping goods, especially cotton from the local mill and nearby farms. The town’s first school was built near the church but was lost to a fire in 1907. It was rebuilt soon after and still stands as a reminder of Juliette’s past, though it closed its doors in 1943.
Industry in Juliette began to wane in the 1950s, and the once-thriving town slowly faded. One by one, shops closed their doors, and the streets grew quiet. Juliette might have been lost to time—until 1991, when Hollywood came calling. Producers of Fried Green Tomatoes stumbled upon the town and transformed its weathered buildings into the charming fictional community of Whistle Stop. Thanks to the film’s success, Juliette has experienced a gentle revival, with new life stirring in this once-forgotten Southern town.
Today, Juliette is a vibrant community where guests can step onto the movie set and have a plate of fried green tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café, right where Idgy sat (11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily). After enjoying a delicious meal, guests can stroll through the scenic community and browse for unique gifts, or collectibles in the shops along McCrackin Street.
As you stroll down the narrow street, the distant sound of a train whistle echoes through the air. Close your eyes, and it’s easy to picture Ruth Jamison (Mary-Louise Parker) and Idgie Threadgoode (Mary Stuart Masterson) tossing cans of food from the passing train to the hungry souls waiting below—a scene straight out of Fried Green Tomatoes, brought to life by the town around you.
Follow the tracks and you’ll come to the old mill and dam. Keep going a little farther and you’ll discover the river cabins—peaceful hideaways nestled right along the water’s edge. Rent one and stay awhile. With their rustic charm and tranquil views, they’re well worth the visit.
If you travel up the road about a mile you can visit Ruth and Buddy’s grave. Bring some honey for Ruth, as you’ll find jars that have already been left on her grave.
Juliette is great for a day trip, or a stay overnight. There isn’t very much to do in Whistle Stop, but there is plenty to do and see in the area.
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