Founder & storyteller
About the Author — Andrew Byrd
A Georgia-rooted traveler following the backroads, everyday stories, local flavors, and unexpected discoveries that make a journey matter.
“Exploring America one small town at a time.”
Georgia Roots
Andrew Byrd was born in Atlanta, Georgia, on May 16, 1970. His family lived in Sandy Springs before his father’s company transferred them to Oregon. They returned to Georgia in the early 1970s, and around 1982 the family moved to Jasper, where Andrew grew up. He now lives in Canton, and those Georgia roots give Small Town Routes its natural starting point.
A Life of Exploring
Andrew loves travel, beaches, hiking, camping, exploring, trying new cuisines, and trying new activities. His curiosity guides the stories here: places, food, scenery, history, and everyday experiences that make travel meaningful.
Life Changes Perspective
Andrew underwent triple bypass heart surgery on May 1, 2024. On May 31, after 23 years of marriage, his divorce was finalized. These major life events deepened his gratitude, resilience, and appreciation for time, faith, and meaningful experiences.
Faith and Values
Andrew is a Christian who believes God should lead his life and that Jesus should remain the focal point. He believes in continuous improvement, learning, and “making the best better.”
Why Small Town Routes
Small Town Routes began in September 2026, but its deeper story grew from Andrew’s life experiences, travels, setbacks, discoveries, and curiosity since childhood. “This site is dedicated to my life journeys and adventures.”
Follow along as Andrew explores small towns, backroads, destinations, food, history, and unexpected discoveries.
Stories by Andrew Byrd
Riding the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Into the Toccoa River Valley
A measured look at the route, the river towns, and what makes this North Georgia railway worth planning a day around.
Dahlonega Beyond the Square: Five Roads Worth Following
The courthouse square gets the attention, but the roads leaving town reveal the landscape and history that make Dahlonega memorable.
The Apple Road Through Ellijay
Orchards, farm stands, and mountain weather turn a short North Georgia drive into a route that changes with every season.