Norcross, GA

Founded in 1866 by J. J. Thrasher as a resort for elite residents of Atlanta, Norcross is a small town in Georgia's Gwinnet County with a population of about 10,500. One of Money magazine's "Best Places to Live," Norcross itself encompasses a little more than four square miles, and it is on the historic register as the county's second-oldest town. Norcross works hard to preserve its small town look and feel as well as its commitment to creativity and the arts. Though many Norcross residents commute to Atlanta, the town bills itself as an antidote to the traditional Atlanta suburb.

NEIGHBORHOODS AND DISTRICTS

The Norcross Historic District is filled with charm and history, and visitors who stroll by the stately mansions appreciate the antebellum architecture and the canopy of ancient, majestic oaks. In spite of its small size, Norcross has devoted 112 acres to preserving and renovating its historic downtown area. Private homes are renowned for their archetypal Southern wrap-around porches, with crape myrtle to round out the picture. Old street lighting and tree-lined brick sidewalks characterize the area.

Norcross combines residential with business zoning, and it is not surprising to see storefronts nestled alongside multi-family dwellings or just down the way from single-family homes.

ECONOMY AND INDUSTRIES

The mixed-use zoning characteristic of Norcross has led to the virtually seamless incorporation of a number of businesses. Some prominent area employers are:

• Rock-Tenn
• Digitrax
• American Megatrends
• The Waffle House
• Objectware
• Northern Star Coffee House
• The Athlete's Foot

BEST BETS

• The Norcross Baseball Hall of Fame is located in the rotunda of City Hall. Norcross was once home to 16 baseball players who joined professional teams between 1910 and 1950.
• Malibu Grand Prix Norcross, a children's entertainment complex featuring attractions such as miniature golf and a go-kart track, is a popular destination for local families.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

• Lionheart Theatre Company is a community theater whose performances are held at the College Street Playhouse. Plays include shows geared for both children and adults.
• Thrasher Park hosts the Concert in the Park series, offering free concerts from Memorial Day through October. Visitors bring their own picnics and barbeque at this outdoor event.
• The Cultural Arts and Community Center offers theatrical entertainment, senior-citizen's programs, day summer camps, and various classes. Areas of the building are available for rent and host family reunions, youth groups, monthly meetings, corporate events and receptions, and weddings.

EVENTS

• The Norcross Is for Lovers event is held at the Arts and Community Center in February. Romantic carriage rides beckon lovebirds and there is live music and an opportunity for married couples to renew their vows on Valentine's Day.
• First Thursdays Street Festival, sponsored and hosted by the Historic Norcross Merchants Association, is a monthly event held downtown. It is an opportunity to bring locals and visitors into the shops, and also reinforce the community spirit with a well-planned and executed party atmosphere.
• The Annual Historic Norcross Classic Car Show brings in classic cars, historic motorcycles, and old trucks during May. The average count of participating vehicles is 350. Live entertainment and tasty treats, courtesy of local eateries, are also offered.
• Gwinnet Bike Fest occurs in July on Lawrenceville Street. This festivity usually sees an attendance of more than 500 cyclists from Norcross and surrounding areas.
• Historic Norcross Holiday Home Tour offers tours of historic homes decorated for the holidays.
• The annual Norcross Art Fest is an annual fall event that celebrates the arts and showcases the work of over 100 local artists with music, food, and other entertainment. The city donates the proceeds to charitable organizations and local community initiatives.