Lithonia, GA

In the early 1840s, the small community that eventually became Lithonia was called "Cross Roads." It was a quiet village of farmers until the railroad arrived around 1845 and granite quarries began to flourish with easy shipping via the railroad.

Because the city is surrounded by gneiss granite, a school teacher combined the Greek words for stone (lithos) and place (onia) to create the name Lithonia. The name was adopted and the city was established in 1856.

Catch a fascinating glimpse of the region's history at the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area. Because the area was sparsely populated well into the 20th century, unusual plant and animal species have thrived. Five of these are listed as endangered. With a history dating back 10,000 years, archeological digs take place frequently in different sections of the park, which includes Panola Mountain. After moving to your apartment in Lithonia, make sure you visit the park at least once in the winter -- the red diamorpha against the gray rock is an amazing sight.

While you may discover a nightclub or bar located along Main Street in Historic Downtown Lithonia, this sleepy little city isn’t famous for its nightlife. To enjoy dance clubs, theaters, and a hopping bar scene, take MARTA's Blue line at Indian Creek Station (taking the bus on Main Street) and head into Downtown Atlanta -- the ride will take about an hour.

Lithonia City Park and Amphitheater is also a terrific destination. This is the location of many festivals and events, such as the Collard Greens Cultural Festival, which includes a variety of food, arts and crafts, live music, and a children's play area. Nearby Stone Mountain Park is also a great destination, hosting yearly events, laser light shows, and a variety of festivals.

Situated just 18 miles from Atlanta, Lithonia enjoys the benefits of the city's mass transit system. Bus stops are located throughout the city and will take you to the nearby MARTA station for easy, car-free commuting. If you prefer to travel by car, Lithonia is just north of I-20. Other major roads include Covington Highway and Turner Hill Road.

Lithonia has retained its rural charm, complete with wide-open spaces; however, there are some sidewalks, especially along Main Street, for those who prefer to walk.

The Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area will become your favorite destination once you move to an apartment in Lithonia. The Arabia Mountain isn't a mountain in the traditional sense, but rather a monadnock -- a stone hill that rises up from otherwise flat terrain. Stone Mountain is a monadnock, and so is Panola Mountain. The heritage area also contains some impressive historic sites, such as the Johnson House, built in 1856. This house contains beautiful gardens, a fantastic wrap-around porch complete with wide columns, and a secret passageway. The Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve features miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging.

Nearby Stone Mountain Park covers 3,200 acres and offers a variety of attractions, such as the Geyser Towers spay park, the SkyHike adventure course (in the tree canopy), the JUMP (a free-fall onto airbags), a skyride to the top of the mountain, and a train that circles the park. Festivals held in the park include the Yellow Daisy Festival, Summer at the Rock, and Snow Mountain. Be sure to stay until dark to enjoy the largest laser light show in the world and a terrific fireworks display.

Expect to get more for your money in Lithonia, where renting an apartment averages about $690. Homes are also less expensive than the state average, at just $76,000 compared to $142,000. The unemployment rate is below the state average, with construction/extraction being the leading industries.

You'll discover some hidden treasures in Downtown Lithonia, where locally-owned boutiques and gift stores fill the historic buildings. Stonecrest Mall, located off Turner Hill Road in southwest Lithonia, provides a variety of stores in an indoor setting. This mall is anchored by Dillard's, Macy's, Kohl's, and Sears. Turner Hill Marketplace, located outside the mall, contains a Toys "R" Us, a Sam's Club, and a Wal-Mart.