Georgia travel guide 2016

DRIVEN TO PERFECTION
The state's best scenic routes
OUTDOOR WONDERS
See them all!
Plus:
SIPS AROUND THE STATE
Nine favorite wineries
Chart-topping country singer Luke Bryan, a native of Leesburg, Georgia, performs at Philips Arena in Atlanta.

Travel Guide
georgia's own
plus 31 more homegrown musicians
THE YEAR OF GEORGIA
MUSIC

get inspired in suwanee
History meets art.
Suwanee SculpTour brings 20+ creative and captivating works to our walkable town center, including the moving World Trade Center exhibit Remembrance and a piece of the iconic Berlin Wall.
Experience the power of art as history.
330 Town Center Ave. 770-945-8996 suwanee.com Suwanee is 30 minutes northeast of Atlanta. Take Exit 111 off I-85 and you're here.

contents

6 A Note From the Governor | 50 Map of Georgia

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40 Features
14 Land of Luke Bryan 16 Georgia Rocks! 20 Georgia's Outdoor Wonders 26 Off the Radar, On the Mark 28 Brush with History 32 On the Road 34 Georgia's Architectural Gems 36 Shopper's Paradise 40 H20hhh! 44 Serious Sips 47 The Simple Life

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

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Georgia's Nine Regions: Attractions & Lodging
52 Atlanta Metro 76 Classic South 86 Coast 106 Historic Heartland 120 Historic High Country 136 Magnolia Midlands 146 Northeast Mountains 164 Plantation Trace 176 Presidential Pathways
ABOUT THE COVER Country star Luke Bryan, a native of Leesburg, Georgia, performs live at Philips Arena in Atlanta. Photograph by Rick Diamond.

LU K E B RYA N : JI M W RI GH T; G EO R GI A D N R ; GEO R GI A D N R ; GD E D

FROM THE SOULFUL SOUNDS OF RAY CHARLES AND JAZZY-ROCK TUNES OF PHILLIP PHILLIPS TO THE COUNTRY ROOTS OF MUSIC HEADLINERS FLOATING
DOWN THE FLINT RIVER OR THE POWER OF SONG THROUGHOUT HISTORY,
Southwest Georgia is where music comes naturally.
SOUTHWEST GEORGIA'S MUSICAL TALENTS
Freedom Singers at Albany Civil Rights Institute | Ray Charles Phillip Phillips | Luke Bryan | Cole Swindell | Dallas Davidson
Harry James | Eddie Middleton | Ray Stevens

---------- W HE RE ----------
history AND nature flow
------------------------------------

VISITALBANYGA.COM

A NOTE FROM THE GOVERNOR

Welcome to Georgia!

Here you will find unique

destinations, a thriving arts

and culture scene, year-round

events and activities, local fla-

vors, and much more.

The 2016 Georgia Travel

Guide celebrates the "Year

of Georgia Music" by shining

the spotlight on the state's rich

music heritage, world-class

venues and unique festivals.

Our annual state travel guide

First Lady Sandra Deal and Governor Nathan Deal

is an excellent resource that provides exciting ways to plan a Georgia vacation including

trip ideas, events calendars,

local resources, and maps. I encourage you to use this guide to

discover new adventures and experiences that will create lasting

memories and leave you eager to return for another visit.

Thank you for keeping Georgia on your mind.

Governor Nathan Deal

How to Use This Guide
To help you make the most of your trip to Georgia, the Georgia Department of Economic Development has compiled the 2016 Georgia Travel Guide. Within these pages, the state is divided into nine regional sections, each packed with useful information on a ractions, events, and lodging throughout the state.
Even though the information has been verified, we encourage you to call ahead when planning your trip to confirm the very latest hours of operation, fees, reservations, and other information.
MAPS In the guide, you'll notice both a state map (page 50) and individual region maps, including state parks and historic sites. For more information on state parks, call 800864-7275 or visit georgiastateparks.org.
VISITOR RESOURCES Each region features a Visitor Resources section where you will find information on the convention and visitors bureaus, chambers of commerce, state visitor information centers, and local welcome centers.

6

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

More Ways to Engage
The iPad edition of this guide is available as a free download in Apple's Newsstand. Simply search "2016 Georgia Travel Guide."
You can also access a free digital edition by visiting ExploreGeorgia.org and clicking on the cover image.
Information at Your Fingertips
Request information from any advertiser you see in the 2016 Georgia Travel Guide quickly and easily by visiting ExploreGeorgia. org/readerservice.

Travel Guide
Georgia Department of Economic Development
COMMISSIONER
Chris Carr
DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF TOURISM
Kevin Langston
DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF MAR K ETI N G & C O M M U N I CATI O N S
Greg Torre
PUBLISHED BY
PUBLISHER
Sean McGinnis
EDITOR
Allison Entrekin
DESIGN DIRECTOR
Cristina Villa Hazar
A S S O C IATE P U B LI S H E R
Jon Brasher
TRAVE L SALE S D I R E C TO R
Jill Teter
PRODUCTION DIRECTOR
Whitney Tomasino
ART DIRECTOR
Mark Ziemer
COPY EDITOR
Ellen Glass
CONTRIBUTING GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Lisa Sparer
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kate Abney, Karina Timmel Antenucci, Giannina Smith Bedford, Anna Bentley, Sam Boykin, Elizabeth Florio, Emily L. Foley,
Jennifer Bradley Franklin, Kate Parham Kordsmeier, Amy Meadows
INTERN
Becky Hardy
EDITOR EMERITUS
Kevin Benefield
Copyright 2016 Georgia Department of Economic Development, Tourism Division. All rights reserved. Printed in the
U.S.A. Published by Atlanta Magazine Custom Media, Sean McGinnis, publisher, 404-527-5501. For advertising sales
information, please contact Jon Brasher at 404-527-5517 or jbrasher@atlantamagazine.com or Jill Teter at 877-554-0780 or jill-teter@comcast.net. Disabled individuals requiring assistance with this information should contact ADA Coordinator, GDEcD,
P.O. Box 1776, Atlanta, GA 30301-1776, 404-962-4106, fax 404-962-4098, TTD# 800-255-0056.

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

7

GOLDEN ISLES OF GEORGIA

ISLANDS IN THE SUN
Georgia's Golden Isles, with its storied past, provides a magical retreat

St. Simons Lighthouse

A long the incredible 100 miles of Georgia's coastline lies the magical seaside retreat of the Golden Isles. Nestled along stretches of sand dunes and salt marshes, the mainland city of Brunswick and its four beloved barrier islands--St. Simons Island, Sea Island, Jekyll Island and Little St. Simons Island--offer breathtaking landscapes, a variety of recreational pursuits, and an inherent tranquility. Each area has its own distinguishing characteristics.
The largest of the isles, St. Simons Island (Voted both America's Most Romantic Town and Favorite Beach Town by Travel + Leisure), features moss-draped, oak-lined streets, sandy beaches, and hundreds of

quality dining and shopping options to please any taste. The pictureperfect barrier island is filled with exceptional historic sites, museums, plantation era ruins, and a National Historic Monument (Fort Frederica). Uncover an array of island activities, including kayaking, fishing, paddle boarding, biking, and golf, as well as accommodations that fit any budget.
A short drive away brings you to Sea Island, which houses two of the top ten resorts in the continental U.S. Sea Island, an internationally acclaimed Five Star resort, features The Cloister and The Lodge at Sea Island. The resort offers unmatched amenities, world class golf, and all of the activities under the sun, from a yacht club to a shooting school to

2015 Time Inc. Affluent Media. Used under license. Travel+Leisure and Time Inc. Affluent Media are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of Golden Isles.

GOLDEN ISLES OF GEORGIA

a Five Star 65,000-square-foot spa. For those seeking the most intimate and natural experience, Sea Island has it all.
Little St. Simons Island is only accessible by boat and is like having your own private island getaway. This island allows you to discover nature in its truest form. You will also experience sensational cuisine and a myriad of activities in the most memorable setting.
Venture into the city of Brunswick to discover history as rich as its seafood--city streets and squares still bearing their colonial names and uniquely Southern historic sites. The downtown district features a growing mix of antique shops, art galleries, theatres and restaurants.

Just to the south lies Jekyll Island, a unique state park prized for its history and open space. The island offers ten miles of beaches, bike paths, an amazing National Historic Landmark District, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodations.
Your visit to the Golden Isles is bound to be a slice of heaven, letting you experience so much within one destination.
GETTING THERE (Map to the right): The Golden Isles of Georgia is nearly equidistant from Savannah and Jacksonville. For more upcoming events, how to get around, and additional area information, please visit GoldenIsles.com.
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GoldenIsles.com

GOLDEN ISLES OF GEORGIA

G etting into and getting settled in the Golden Isles is a virtually effortless endeavor, with easy access to an exceptional airport and a wide range of accommodations. Brunswick, a scenic and historic mainland port city founded in 1771, serves as a major transportation center for those flying to and from the isles. Delta flights from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, BQK (flygcairports.com), to Atlanta connect with more than 300 of the airline's destinations worldwide. The airport terminal's design reflects the Spanish influence of the area's famed resorts and offers passengers a truly relaxed travel experience.

Brunswick Golden Isles
Airport

Village Inn & Pub

Ready for a nightcap? Sip the signature Wild Orchid Martini--a coconut rum and pineapple juice concoction--at Village Inn & Pub's (villageinnandpub.com) solid mahogany bar, which was brought over from England. Situated in the heart of the Village on St. Simons Island, the picturesque inn's twenty-eight guest rooms are set around a restored 1930s beach cottage (home to the pub and concierge desk) and giant live oaks.

Surround yourself with nature's tropical beauty and island charm at the oceanfront King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort (kingandprince.com) on St. Simons Island. Appreciated for a selection of richly decorated rooms, spacious villas, and resort residences, this historic resort pairs friendly Southern hospitality with modern amenities. Playtime at the

resort has just as much variety: take a dip in the five oceanfront pools, opt for a round at the scenic King and Prince Golf Course, or relax with a massage at the Royal Treatment Cottage. And feast on the finest coastal cuisine for breakfast, lunch, dinner, happy hour, and more at ECHO, the island's only oceanfront restaurant.

GoldenIsles.com

ADVERTISEMENT

King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort

P rized for its pristine natural beauty and gracious hospitality, Little St. Simons Island (LittleSSI.com) offers seven miles of private beaches and 10,000 acres of undeveloped wilderness. Privately owned since 1908 and accessible only by boat, Little St. Simons Island features well-appointed accommodations in six charming cottages for no more than thirty-two overnight guests, who can enjoy naturalist-led recreational experiences, including birding, fishing, kayaking, hiking, beachcombing, and more.

GOLDEN ISLES OF GEORGIA
Little St. Simons Island

On St. Simons Island, with access to many Sea Island amenities, on-site pool, wifi and laundry facilities.
SI_SGVG_2016Ad.indd 1

seaisland.com 855-993-3824
Gold1e1n/11Is/1l5es3:.1c6oPmM

GOLDEN ISLES OF GEORGIA

Jekyll Island Club Hotel

Driftwood Beach

R ecognized as a National Historic Landmark since 1978, the grand Jekyll Island Club Hotel (jekyllclub.com) sits within the historic village. The hotel is a short walk to the Jekyll Wharf, where folks arrived on their yachts to enjoy the Golden Isles as early as 1888. The hotel offers a vision of its past with classic American Queen Anne architecture,

distinguished by its famed turret, bay windows, and verandas, and period reproductions in its 157 rooms and suites. Today, guests can experience an outdoor pool open year round, private beach pavilion, and tournament-level croquet lawn. Guests can also enjoy fine dining at the Grand Dining Room and the Courtyard at Crane located in historic Crane Cottage.

Days Inn & Suites Jekyll Island

Family and budget friendly lodging options are plentiful on Jekyll Island. They blend seamlessly into the island's majestic landscape, which features such hallmarks as glistening sandy beaches, beguiling marshes, and picturesque maritime forests that offer nature-based adventures and discovery. Jekyll Island's Days Inn & Suites (daysinnjekyll.com) is an award winning, centrally located hotel with a great beach location! The property offers ocean and island view guest rooms, as well as oceanfront one-bedroom suites that feature a galley kitchen, a living room with a queen sofa sleeper, and either a private balcony or patio. Guests enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, two pools, bike and kayak rentals, and more.

It's all about relaxation at the Westin Jekyll Island (westinjekyllisland.com). Renew and Refresh with the Westin's signature amenities including the Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Bath (a rain shower with White Tea bath products--yes, please) in one of 187 guest rooms

and thirteen suites. Unwind at the seaside outdoor pool with direct beach access. Dining options include an indoor-outdoor oceanfront restaurant, a rooftop lounge, and poolside and lobby cafes that feature local ingredients and the latest mixology.

GoldenIsles.com

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Westin Jekyll Island

GOLDEN ISLES OF GEORGIA

I mmerse yourself in the culture of the Golden Isles as you celebrate the culinary traditions of its beautiful stretch of the Georgia coast. From the freshest seafood to highly acclaimed barbeque and Southern staples, there's something to satisfy every palate.
Catch a sunset bite at Latitude 31 (latitude31jekyllisland.com) on the Historic Jekyll Wharf in the Landmark District. Steaks and fresh seafood, including items from the adjacent Rah Bar--like wild Georgia shrimp, oysters, and Dungeness crab legs--are on the menu. Order up a Rah Margarita and enjoy live music on the weekends. And feel free to invite furry family members too, as dogs are welcome.

Latitude 31

Tortuga Jack's

Within walking distance of the Jekyll Island Convention Center, Tortuga Jack's (tortugajacks.com) is the newest entry in the island's culinary offerings. Tortuga Jack's is the only oceanfront restaurant on Jekyll Island with a view second to none. Adjacent to the Great Dunes Park, Tortuga Jack's boasts a 3,000-square-foot, pet-friendly deck overlooking the dunes and the Atlantic Ocean. While dining, patrons experience fresh Baja Mexican cuisine with the best margaritas around! The restaurant is open seven days a week with Happy Hour specials.

Holiday Inn Resort at Jekyll Island

For a kid-friendly stay, head to the Holiday Inn Resort at Jekyll Island (hijklresort.com), which boasts 157 new, contemporary rooms in an environmentally friendly oceanfront facility. The pool area includes an expansive outdoor deck with a poolside bar and grill, The Anchor. Beach House, another restaurant opening in summer 2016, focuses on fresh local seafood and craft beers on tap. And everyone will love the Kids Club with its on-site activities director. Enjoy all that the oceanfront property has to offer.

GoldenIsles.com

LAND OF

COUNTRY'S BIGGEST STAR TALKS GEORGIA GREAT MUSIC AND PUTTING A SMALL TOWN ON THE MAP
Interview by Elizabeth Florio

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Growing up in Leesburg, Georgia, what are some of the most memorable shows you saw? The Albany Civic Center was where I would see a lot of my shows growing up. Reba McEntire came through there a lot, and Travis Tritt, and Alabama. I saw New Kids on the Block there back in the seventh or eighth grade. It was pretty crazy.
You've played in Georgia longer than anywhere else. What are some of your favorite places to perform? The Georgia Theatre [in Athens] is definitely up there--kind of the crown jewel back when I was having early dreams of a music career. We've had so many amazing shows at [Aaron's Amphitheatre at] Lakewood. And doing the Georgia National Fair in Perry, playing the arena there--it was a place I saw a lot of shows. The American Legion in Valdosta was also a fun little place to play.
Were the outdoors a big part of your childhood? I'd say they were the biggest part of my childhood. It was certainly our way of life.
Does this mean that when you're home in Leesburg you like to be outside? Yes! Typically I'm trying to do a little deer hunting or quail hunting or fishing on the Flint River.
A lot of country musicians sing about farming and fishing and dirt roads. But it seems you come by it pre y authentically. I think when you're writing a song, when you pull from what you know best, it does become authentic. The fans can sense you know what you're talking about and it's a tangible, real-life thing rather than something you dreamt up or just pulled out of thin air.
So when you're singing about dirt roads, are there specific ones you're picturing? There's a million of 'em [in Leesburg]. Heck, there's Crotwell Road--though I don't think it's a dirt road anymore, I think they paved it. Batts Road, King Road. There's a bunch of 'em.
Any favorite haunts as a kid? There's a place in Smithville, Georgia, called Sonja's Kitchen. You walk up to

JIM WRIGHT

Escape to Athens

LIVE MUSIC CENTRAL

the window and order. They've got good milkshakes and cheeseburgers. I had a lot of lunches there in my day.
Any other favorite destinations in the state? Lake Burton is really beautiful. That's kind of a hidden little gem. I've spent a summer up there with some relatives. Certainly Statesboro has a special place in my heart, obviously going to college [Georgia Southern University] there, and it's where I met my wife. And Savannah. I spent a lot of days stumbling up and down the streets of Savannah.
Is your wife from Georgia? Yes, she's from Sandersville, and I've spent a lot of time in Sandersville, too. Her parents still live there.
Musician Phillip Phillips and professional baseball player Buster Posey are also from Leesburg. Is there something in the water there? You know, I think it's pretty amazing that three guys went out and hit the big time. It's just a testament to a great little community and a lot of special people, and the good Lord shined down on Leesburg when it came to us three guys going out and putting Leesburg on the map. So it's a fun little anomaly.

Plan your getaway at VisitAthensGA.com

Dining, shopping and lodging from the name brands you know and trust!
EWXPnLeORRoEns

Located 90 minutes south of Atlanta, 1-75 exits 146 and 144 warnerrobinsvisitorscenter.com 888-288-WRGA

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

15

RICK DIAMOND

FROM A COUNTRY CHART TOPPER TO A MEMBER OF BLUES ROYALTY TOP MUSICIANS
SING THE PRAISES OF THEIR HOME STATE
By Allison Entrekin Photo by Jason Thrasher

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ay Charles and Li le Richard. James Brown and Otis Redding. The Allman Brothers. R.E.M. Outkast. Georgia's musical heritage is as rich and diverse as the state itself. Country star Luke Bryan, who hails from the South Georgia town of Leesburg, knows this well. "In Georgia, there's shoreline, there's mountains, there's farmland, there's rural areas, there's metropolitan areas--and there's all the people that make up all that," says Bryan, Country
Music Association's reigning Entertainer of the Year. "It's inspiration."

Chat with Georgia musicians about the state's musical legacy, and the discussion typically starts with pioneers like Albany-born Ray Charles or Augusta's James Brown. But in addition to name-checking the legends, artists are quick to credit Georgia cities as musical inspiration. The creative environment of Athens birthed R.E.M., the B-52s, and Widespread Panic, while the melting pot of Atlanta has proved fertile launching ground for big names in music, including Ludacris, Lil Jon, Indigo Girls, Sugarland, Black Crowes, Third Day, and the Grammy-winning Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. The Augusta area gave rise to Lady Antebellum, while Zac Brown was influenced by his upbringing in Dahlonega. "Georgia has such a rich musical heritage covering all genres," says Otis Redding III, whose

own hometown, Macon, launched the careers of his father, the Allman Brothers Band, and Jason Aldean.
David Barbe, a musician and producer who directs the University of Georgia's music business program in Athens, agrees. "One of the cool things about music in the state of Georgia is that it's not defined by one kind of music," he says. "We have R&B, hip-hop, gospel, and an amazing symphony orchestra. Georgia has it all."
And live performances are in ample supply. A year-round slate of music festivals keeps toes tapping, and music venues across the state host live performances nightly (see sidebars). "On any given night, there are hundreds of venues and hundreds of bands playing," says Claire Campbell of the Athens band Hope For Agoldensummer. "It's great here!"

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PHOTO KEY CARLOS COELHO

WHO'S WHO?
Pages 16-17

1. Benjamin Cummings, Macon 2. Carletha Sullivan, Bolden
Community/Briar Patch 3. Robert Lee Coleman, Macon 4. Brenton Jordan, Bolden
Community/Briar Patch 5. Bennie Mobley, Barnesville 6. Carla Jordan, Bolden
Community/Briar Patch

7. Chris Mitchell, Statesboro 8. Bryan Howard, Athens 9. Don Chambers, Athens 10. Randall Bramble , Athens 11. Art Rosenbaum, Athens 12. Vanessa Briscoe Hay, Athens 13. Ma hew Kaminski, Atlanta 14. CaroMia, Dahlonega 15. Claire Campbell, Athens

16. Karen Gordon, Augusta 17. Jason Kenney, Dahlonega 18. Keith Jenkins, Augusta 19. Lloyd Buchanan, Columbus 20. Lloyd Harold, Savannah 21. Paris Luna, Carrollton 22. Eric "Ricky" McKinnie, Atlanta 23. Jason Fuller, Athens 24. Sienna Chandler, Athens

25. David Barbe, Athens 26. Gwen Hughes, Atlanta 27. Bo Henry, Albany 28. Otis Redding III, Macon 29. Jon Waits, Savannah 30. Adam Hayes, Rome 31. Neal Lucas, Buena Vista

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

CRIMSON MOON NORTHSIDE TAVERN STEPHEN TALKOVICH THE JINX GEOFF L JOHNSON PHOTOGRAPHY


WE ASKED SOME OF GEORGIA'S TOP MUSICAL ARTISTS WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC VENUE IN GEORGIA? HERE ARE THEIR PICKS

40 Wa , Athens, 40wa .com
Alley Cat, Carrollton, carrolltonmainstreet.com
Ashley Street Station, Valdosta, facebook.com/ashleystreetstation
Atlanta Symphony Hall, Atlanta, atlantasymphony.org
Brewhouse Music & Grill, Rome, romebrewhouse.com
Buckhead Theatre, Atlanta, thebuckheadtheatre.com
Caledonia, Athens, caledonialounge.com
Churchill Grounds, Atlanta, churchillgrounds.com
Cox Capitol Theatre, Macon, coxcapitoltheatre.com
Crimson Moon, Dahlonega, thecrimsonmoon.com
Douglass Theatre, Macon, douglasstheatre.org
The Earl, Atlanta, badearl.com
Eddie's A ic, Decatur, eddiesa ic.com
Emma Kelly Theater, Statesboro, averi centerforthearts.org
Fat Ma 's, Atlanta, fatma sribshack.com
The Foundry, Athens, thefoundryathens.com
Fox Theatre, Atlanta, foxtheatre.org
Georgia Theatre, Athens, georgiatheatre.com
Gnat's Landing, Statesboro, statesborocity.com/gnatslanding.html
Grant's Lounge, Macon, grantslounge. com
Harvest Moon, Albany, facebook.com/ harvestmoonpizza

Hendershot's Coffee, Athens, hendershotscoffee.com
Hummingbird Stage and Taproom, Macon, hummingbirdmacon.com
Jessye Norman Amphitheatre, Augusta, visitaugusta.com
The Jinx, Savannah, thejinx912.com
Live Wire, Athens, livewireathens.com
Lucas Theatre, Savannah, lucastheatre.com
Mill Town Music Hall, Bremen, milltownmusichall.com
Monkey's Uncle, Griffin, monkeysunclegrill.com
Morton Theatre, Athens, mortontheatre.com
Northside Tavern, Atlanta, northsidetavern.com
Pud's, Bainbridge, facebook.com/ pages/puds/116003081760615
Red Clay Music Foundry, Duluth, eddieowenpresents.com
Rylander Theatre, Americus, rylander. org
Sky City, Augusta, skycityaugusta.com
Soul Bar, Augusta, soulbar.com
Steve's Live Music, Sandy Springs, steveslivemusic.com
Symphony Hall, Atlanta, atlantasymphony.org
Tabernacle, Atlanta, tabernacleatl.com
Tybee Island Social Club, Tybee Island, tybeeislandsocialclub.com
Variety Playhouse, Atlanta, variety-playhouse.com
Velvet Note, Alphare a, thevelvetnote.com
Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, Alphare a, vzwamp.com

WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC FESTIVAL IN GEORGIA? WE ASKED TOP MUSICIANS FROM AROUND GEORGIA THIS QUESTION HERE'S HOW THEY ANSWERED
Athfest, Athens, athfest.com
Atlanta Jazz Festival, Atlanta, atlantafestivals.com
Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival, Thomson, blindwillie. com/the-festival
Bragg Jam, Macon, braggjam.org
Briar Patch Music Festival, Damascus, briarpatchpro.com
Decatur BBQ, Blues, and Bluegrass Festival, Decatur, decaturbbqfestival.com
Gram Parsons Guitar and Tribute Festival, Waycross, gpgpfest.com
Music Midtown, Atlanta, musicmidtown.com
National Black Arts Festival, Atlanta, nbaf.org
North Georgia Folk Festival, Athens, athensfolk.org/festival
ONE MusicFest, Atlanta, onemusicfest.com
Revival Fest, Savannah, revivalfest.org
Savannah Music Festival, Savannah, savannahmusicfestival.org
Savannah Stopover, Savannah, savannahstopover.com
Shaky Knees Festival, Atlanta, shakykneesfestival.com
Skydog Festival, Macon, skydogmacon.com
Slingshot, Athens, slingshotathens.com
Wire and Wood Songwriters Festival, Alphare a, wireandwoodalphare a.com

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

19

Georgia's Outdoor
WONDERS See one--or be er yet, see them all! By Karina Timmel Antenucci

From the "Li le Grand Canyon" to the tallest cascading waterfall in the
Southeast, experience Georgia's most stunning natural a ractions.

Blood Mountain
Even if hiking the Appalachian Trail isn't on your bucket list, you can always say you experienced a bite-sized portion of it. A two-and-a-half-mile hike on Blood Mountain Trail takes you from Neels Gap to the mountain's 4,458-foot summit, the highest point in Georgia on the Appalachian Trail. This is not for the faint of heart, as the climb is pre y steep (you'll gain about 1,350 feet most of it during the last mile) and requires navigating around rocks and boulders. The views of the surrounding mountains, though, make it worth the effort. Before or a er the trek, make sure to peruse the wares at Mountain Crossings, which is full of hiking treasures. georgia-atclub.org

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

GDED

1. Cloudland Canyon

One visit here and you'll understand why it's widely considered one of

the best places to camp in the state. Cloudland Canyon, positioned on

the western point of Lookout Mountain in Rising Fawn, has something for

everyone. Take your pick from seventy-two campsites, ten yurts (circular

tents), sixteen family-friendly co ages, and thirteen backcountry camp-

sites (for the real outdoorsy types). As for activities, there are thirty miles

1

of mountain-biking trails, several hiking loops of varying lengths and dif-

ficulties (be sure to explore the two-mile Waterfalls Trail), guided caving

excursions, and picnic shelters. Then there are the extraordinary views--

watching the sunset here is a must. gastateparks.org/cloudlandcanyon

2. Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area

Located just east of Atlanta, this National Natural Landmark took 400

million years to form. Hike its granite monadnocks, which are isolated

and exposed rock hills only found in a handful of places. There are also

more than thirty miles of paved multiuse trails open to cyclists and

pedestrians (the Arabia Mountain PATH) that take you past twenty-one

historic sites and vistas. Don't miss the Flat Rock Archives (open to

the public on Tuesdays), a museum dedicated to the slaves and their

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descendants who maintained this community for approximately 150 years. arabiaalliance.org, flatrockarchives.org

3. Dri wood Beach
This stunning beach on the north end of Jekyll Island looks like an artist set up wooden installations across its sandy shores. The only artist here, though, is Mother Nature. One of three main beaches on the island, Dri wood Beach gets its name from the large pieces of dri wood and tree skeletons sca ered across the sand due to erosion on the northern shoreline. It's peaceful here, not overrun by tourists, and perfect for kicking back with a book, horseback riding, or simply gazing across the St. Simons Sound. goldenisles.com/listing/dri wood-beach

GEORGIA DNR GDED GDED GDED MICHAEL LUSK/USFW

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4. Providence Canyon

Outdoor Recreation Area

Georgia's "Li le Grand Canyon" looks similar to its much larger Arizonian counterpart, with gorgeous red- and orange-hued cliffs--but it wasn't formed in the same natural way. Providence Canyon Outdoor Recreation Area in Lumpkin resulted from poor farming techniques used during the 1800s, which le furrows from plows in the so soil that turned into the deep 150-foot gullies of today. Still, it sure is a sight for your camera lenses. Hike along three miles of trails through the canyon; if you go in July or August, look out for the pre y plumleaf azalea in bloom--the flower is exclusive to this region. gastateparks.org/providencecanyon

5. Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge

4

Swamp tour time! The Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, spanning

628 square miles, offers entertainment and education for the whole

family. Ogle American alligators, migratory birds, and several species of

bats as you explore the Okefenokee Swamp by kayak, canoe, or swamp

boat. The roughly 8,000-year-old swamp is considered the headwaters

of the Suwanee and St. Marys Rivers and is world-renowned for its am-

phibian populations. The best times for alligator sightings are the spring

and summer, when you most likely will get an up-close-and-personal

look at the fourteen- to nineteen-foot creatures that can weigh as much

as 500 pounds. You'll also learn about the more than 600 plant species

that have been identified in the Okefenokee Swamp, designated by the

Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Importance. fws.gov/

refuge/okefenokee

Continued on page 24

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EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

21

Experience Georgia Adventure

If you think all state parks are the same, think again!
Take a walk on the wild side at the Adventure Lodges of Georgia. Nature and adrenaline collide as you test your skills and bravery
with Adventure Activities including archery, zip lining, rock wall climbing, kayaking, mountain biking and many more!
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22

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

VISIT TYBEE
20 minutes from Historic Savannah
VisitTybee.com

View our online state parks guide!
Explore the hidden gems at Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites!

Hidden Gem

Adventure Lodges Historic Sites Camping, Cottages and Yurts

Think you've seen all that Georgia State Parks have to offer? Do you have a knack for exploration and discovery? Introducing Georgia State Parks: Hidden Gems, your chance to see the undiscovered side of Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites. From the unique rock features at High Falls State Park, to a live re-enactment of the arrest of Alexander Hamilton Stephens, you don't want to miss these once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Visit GaStateParks.org/HiddenGems to sign up and plan your visit. Act quickly, because many of these events are limited. Book your stay today!
GaStateParks.org | 800-864-7275 reservations

6. Amicalola Falls

Georgia is home to the tallest cascading waterfall in the Southeast:

Amicalola Falls. It towers 729 feet above Amicalola Falls State Park in

Dawsonville and is accessible via easy walking paths or a more

challenging hiking trail with staircases. When you make it to the top,

enjoy a picnic while you take in the sounds and scene of rushing

water. If you're feeling adventurous post-waterfall, hike five miles to

6

spend the night at Len Foote Hike Inn, a backcountry lodge accessible

only by foot. gastateparks.org/amicalolafalls

7. Indian Springs
Right smack in the middle of Georgia (in Flovilla) sits the 528-acre Indian Springs State Park, one of the oldest state parks in the country. A main attraction here is the water--a great way to cool off during a hot Southern summer. Wade in Big Sandy Creek or swim in Chief McIntosh Lake (note: it may be dry through February 2016 due to draining), or rent a rowboat and enjoy a waterfront picnic. Creek Indians believed the spring water had healing qualities, and you can still sample its flow inside the stone Spring House. Done with the water? Hit up the bike paths, nature trails, or miniature golf, or pitch a tent in one of the sixty roomy campsites. gastateparks.org/indiansprings
7
8. Altamaha River
Pack your binoculars and long-lensed camera for the bird-viewing mecca that is the Altamaha River. Spanning more than 100 miles, the scenic river is formed by the merging of the Ocmulgee and Oconee Rivers and borders eleven different counties in southeast Georgia. Hop in on the action within any of these counties, and look out for bald eagles, great horned owls, ruby-throated hummingbirds, swallow-tailed kites, red-cockaded woodpeckers, and hundreds of other types of birds. See them as you hike the trails, or hire a local outfitter to guide you on a paddling trip or fishing tour of the area. altamahariver.org

9. Heggie's Rock

8

This 130-acre granite outcrop in Appling is like nothing you've seen

before. The rocky landscape, which looms seventy feet overhead,

showcases exposed granite, moss- and lichen-covered rocks, soil is-

lands, and dish gardens (shallow pools) that support rare and unusual

plants. Heggie's Rock was made a National Natural Landmark in 1980

and is now only open to visitors via a Nature Conservancyguided

tour, as they work to protect it from erosion and monitor its rare

plants. exploregeorgia.org

10. Radium Springs

Creek Indians are said to have fished in the clear, fresh waters of

Radium Springs in Albany. Later, it became one of Georgia's most

popular resort areas and gained its name when traces of naturally

9

occurring radium--extremely uncommon--were found in the water. You can no longer swim in the state's largest natural spring, but it's

now a historical site accompanied by a botanical garden. Experience

a day of strolling through its beautiful gardens, sitting in one of the

gazebos, and exploring the ruins of the former resort and 1920s

casino. visitalbanyga.com

GEORGIA DNR, GEORGIA DNR, STEADYFLY PRODuCTIONS, MARC DEL SANTRO, ALBANY CONvENTION AND vISITORS BuREAu

Natural resources abound in Georgia!
Georgia has 70,150 miles of streams and rivers, more than 425,000 acres of lakes, and more than 4,500,000 acres of freshwater wetlands. Sixty percent of the state is heavily forested with pine. And Georgia is widely heralded for its fine marble.

10

24

georgia on my mind

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OFF
the radar,
ON
the mark

Nine small Georgia museums worth a visit
By Karina Timmel Antenucci

26

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Sellars Gallery of Historic Hand Tools, Waleska
The Laurel and Hardy Museum, Harlem
Georgia has plenty of large, well-known museums, but it's also home to dozens of small ones worth a visit. From a gallery housing a jaw-dropping collection of historic hand tools, to a history museum with an exhibit honoring none other than Doc Holliday, these hidden gems are finds indeed.

DR JOSEPH KITCHENS GARY RUSSETH

Enter a time capsule when you visit the World War II Flight Training Museum in Douglas. One of the only civilian schools of its kind still in existence, the museum lets visitors see almost exactly what the approximately 5,000 to 10,000 cadets saw when they arrived here between 1941 and 1944, including barracks still furnished with bunks, desks, and chairs. "I believe visitors leave with a deep respect for the sacrifice these young cadets made when they signed up to become pilots and fly to defend the United States," says Kelly Hoomes, former staff docent and museum manager. "The museum gives you the opportunity to walk in their footsteps and to visualize--and maybe almost feel--the energy that buzzed around the base during wartime."
Step back even further in time at the Midway Museum in Midway, where settlers from the late 1700s, including Declaration of Independence signer Lyman Hall, took a stand for independence from the British. Georgia's only Colonial house museum, opened in 1959, is housed in a replica eighteenth-century coastal cottage. You'll find exhibits about the area's history and displays of heirloom furnishings, artwork, artifacts, and genealogical books from the Colonial period through 1865.
Transition from patriots to outlaws at

and international events." Ready for a chuckle? The Laurel and
Hardy Museum in Harlem features memorabilia from the slapstick comedy duo Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy (who was born in Harlem), popular in American cinema from the late 1920s to the mid 1940s. The museum includes a small theater where you can view any of the comedians' short films; while you're here, don't miss the figurines of Ethel, their beloved primate.
Another famous Georgian jokester never made it to film, but his antics were well known in the White House and documented by the media. Billy Carter, baby brother of President Jimmy Carter, capitalized upon his colorful, beer-drinking persona by endorsing Billy Beer. The Billy Carter Service Station Museum in Plains is the gas and service station Billy purchased in 1972, where you'll find rare cans of the beer alongside photos of the Carter family and articles from Billy's wardrobe.
A different kind of character--a fictional one, that is--takes center stage at the Uncle Remus Museum in Eatonton. Uncle Remus is the imagined narrator of a collection of African American folktales compiled by author Joel Chandler Harris, who was born in Eatonton. The museum's two

"I believe visitors leave with a deep respect for the sacrifice these young cadets made when they signed up to become pilots and fly to defend the United States." --Kelly Hoomes

Lowndes County Historical Museum in Valdosta's former Carnegie Library. Dentistturned-gunslinger Doc Holliday grew up in the area, and you can explore an exhibit that includes old photos of his family and childhood home. According to Museum Executive Director Donald O'Quinn Davis, the greatest takeaway from the 10,000-squarefoot exhibition space is understanding how the area's history has made a "surprising number of specific contributions to national

main cabins are filled with artifacts and memorabilia from Harris's life, including first and second editions of his books (some in different languages), twelve shadow boxes containing delicate woodcarvings of "de critters" (such as Br'er Rabbit), and a hand-painted mural depicting a Southern plantation. "To step inside the old cabins is to step back in time to relive a part of history in the 1800s in rural Georgia," says Lynda Walker, museum manager.

Lowndes County Historical Museum,
Valdosta
Even more history abounds at the Elberton Granite Museum and Exhibit in Elberton, the "Granite Capital of the World." Here you'll find granite monuments, granite working tools, and a history of granite in the area. Don't miss the room dedicated to "Dutchy," the first piece of granite not used as a stone for memorials. Instead, it was made into a statue that was unveiled on the Elberton Square in 1898 to honor Confederate veterans--but because of Dutchy's inaccurate uniform and unattractive form, he was torn down. "Someone said he looked like a cross between a Pennsylvania Dutchman and a hippopotamus--that's where the nickname came from," says Chris Kubas, executive vice president of the Elberton Granite Association. Dutchy lay buried eight feet under the square until 1982, when he was exhumed.
For some fun for the whole family, take a guided tour (by advance reservation only) of the Southeastern Railway Museum in Duluth, Georgia's official transportation history museum situated on a thirty-five-acre site. Enjoy a ride in a restored caboose powered by an antique diesel locomotive and view more than ninety pieces of retired railroad equipment, including the 1911 historic Pullman private car Superb and a Light Pacific steam locomotive.
After you've learned about trains, it's time to get an education in tools: Check out the fascinating Sellars Gallery of Historic Hand Tools, located at the Funk Heritage Center at Reinhardt College in Waleska. The gallery features a collection of tools from almost every trade gathered by hardwarebusiness owners Alan and Louise Sellars over a lifetime.

LOWNDES COUNT Y HISTORICAL MUSEUM, VALDOSTA , GA , D O U G L A S 6 3 R D P R E S E R VAT I O N S O C I E T Y, I N C .

// RESOURCES // World War II Flight Training Museum wwiiflighttraining.org, The Midway Museum themidwaymuseum.org, Lowndes County Historical Museum valdostamuseum.com, The Laurel and Hardy Museum 706.556.0401, Billy Carter Service Station Museum plainsgeorgia.com/billys_station.html, Uncle Remus Museum uncleremusmuseum.org, Elberton Granite Museum and Exhibit egaonline. com, Southeastern Railway Museum srmduluth.org, Sellars Gallery of Historic Hand Tools reinhardt.edu/funkheritage/highlights/tools.php

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

27

FDR "Unfinished Portrait," Warm Springs

Brush with
HISTORY New Echota, Calhoun
Georgia Historic Sites inform and inspire the whole family
By Beth Largasse
In a state that has seen the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, a gold rush, and the erection of a "Li le White House," there's no shortage of fascinating historic sites. The Department of Natural Resources and Georgia State Parks maintain eighteen such spots around Georgia (gastateparks.org/historic). Travel with your family to a few story-filled favorites before checking into a nearby state lodge (gastateparks.org/lodges).

Native ground
In 1838, 17,000 Cherokee Indians were forcibly relocated westward on the Trail of Tears, which began in Calhoun, Georgia. But before those dark days, their thriving capital was nearby New Echota, where visitors can still tour the courthouse, an 1805 store, and the print shop where a bilingual newspaper was produced. Near New Echota is the Chief Vann House, where Cherokee leader and wealthy businessman James Vann built a beautiful estate in 1804 that has been painstakingly preserved. As you tour the home, you might be startled to discover many Cherokee plantation owners had black and Indian slaves.
South of those sites stand the Etowah Indian Mounds. These six large domes resembling J.R.R. Tolkien's hilly Shire were home to several thousand Native Americans from 1000 to 1550 A.D.; view artifacts such as feathers, copper ear ornaments, shells, and paint.
After a day of touring this trio, check into the Lodge at Amicalola Falls, situated inside the nearby Chattahoochee National Forest. The property is steps from the 729-foot-tall waterfall from which it gets its name.
Gold standard
The Trail of Tears was actually sparked by fierce "gold fever"

28

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

GEORGIA DNR

Wormsloe Historic Site, Savannah

Etowah Indian Mounds, Cartersville

in North Georgia. The discovery of nuggets in Dahlonega took place twenty years before the 1849 frenzy in California, making it America's first gold rush.
Between 1838 and 1861, the U.S. Branch Mint in Dahlonega coined $6 million in gold. Today, the Dahlonega Gold Museum, located in the former Lumpkin County Courthouse, tells the story of those days. Numismatists can spy rare coins, while kids can ogle a nugget weighing more than five ounces. Naturally, gold panning establishments are available all around the area for those still looking to find fortune.
Northeast of Dahlonega, in the Chattahoochee National Forest, is Unicoi State Park & Lodge. This rustic respite has well-appointed guest rooms, lofts, and cottages with wood-burning fireplaces; some accommodations have views of the state park.
Amicalola Falls, Dawsonville
GO PARKING
Georgia State Parks dot the state, offering recreation and relaxation at every turn. Search for them by city in our A ractions and Lodgings sections.

War and peace
From the French and Indian War to the Civil War, the Peach State is no stranger to bloody battles. Journey to the southeast corner of Georgia to see coastal Colonial and Civil War forts where the military held off the British and those damn Yankees, respectively. A straight shot down I-95 takes you by Fort McAllister, the final stop on General William Sherman's March to the Sea. Under the shade of moss-covered live oaks, the earthwork fortification is perfectly preserved with cannons, barracks, and Civil War artifacts overlooking the Ogeechee River. A thirtymile drive south on I-95 brings you to Fort Morris on the Medway River in Sunbury, a structure once filled with 200 patriots who stood against the British. In 1779, it fell to the Redcoats, and locals still perform reenactments for onlookers. A bit farther down the coast, you'll come upon Fort King George in Darien. From 1721 until 1736, this was the southernmost outpost of the British Empire in North America.
Reachable by ferry, the Reynolds Mansion on nearby Sapelo Island is an exclusive, uncommon overnight excursion. Formerly the home of plantation owner and tobacco magnate R.J. Reynolds, it was built in 1912 and has thirteen bedrooms and eleven bathrooms for guests. It's surrounded by untouched dunes and unpopulated beaches for a visit that's nothing short of serene.
Amazing abodes
A smaller home worth seeing, with no less distinction, is President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's retreat in Warm Springs. Dubbed the Little White House, the 1932 home now has a museum that

Dahlonega Gold Museum, Dahlonega
houses dozens of his canes, his handoperated 1938 Ford convertible, and the famous "Unfinished Portrait" for which he was sitting when he suffered a fatal stroke.
Sixty years before FDR traveled to Georgia to soak in the warm waters he believed helped his polio affliction, General Sherman also traveled this way, but for a hostile reason. His infamous march left much of Georgia ablaze; only a few plantations and historically significant homes on his path still dot the state map. Head toward the Atlantic Ocean to tour two that remain: the Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation and Wormsloe Historic Site. The former is an antebellum rice plantation and museum; the latter includes ruins of Savannah's oldest Colonial estate. Move west to Thomasville to discover the Lapham-Patterson House, an 1884 Victorian home that featured gas lighting and indoor plumbing when both were novelties.
A short drive from Thomasville lie two exquisite southwest Georgia lodges run by the State Parks system. The first, George T. Bagby Lodge, resembles a ski lodge with sixty guest rooms, five cottages, and a pristine golf course. The other is Lake Blackshear Resort & Golf Club at Georgia Veterans State Park, an impressive resort on the water with an on-site museum featuring items that date back to the Revolutionary War.

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

29

GEORGIA DNR

GOLF IN GEORGIA EXPLORE SOME OF GEORGIA'S FINEST GOLF COURSES

ARROWHEAD POINTE BLOODY POINT GOLF CLUB & RESORT BRASSTOWN VALLEY RESORT & SPA
BRAZELL'S CREEK CALLAWAY GARDENS
CHATEAU ELAN CUSCOWILLA ON LAKE OCONEE HARBOR CLUB ON LAKE OCONEE
HIGHLAND WALK JEKYLL ISLAND GOLF CLUB
LAKE BLACKSHEAR LEGACY ON LANIER GOLF CLUB

LITTLE OCMULGEE MEADOW LINKS
REYNOLDS PLANTATION SAVANNAH QUARTERS COUNTRY CLUB
SEA ISLAND SEA PALMS RESORT STONE MOUNTAIN GOLF CLUB
THE CREEK THE LAKES THE CLUB AT SAVANNAH HARBOR THE KING AND PRINCE BEACH & GOLF RESORT

For custom golf packages: GeorgiaGolfandTravel.com | 770.266.0331

Photo courtesy of Sea Island - Seaside Course

ExploreGeorgia.org

Play the hidden GEMS of Georgia

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Tee up at GaStateParks.org/Golfing

WORLD-CLASS GOLF AND THE WONDERS OF NATURE
IN PINE MOUNTAIN

The Mountain View course is ranked among the nation's top courses and served as the PGA TOUR Buick Challenge site. Lake View, the original course, challenges every club in the bag with woodland borders and lakeside settings.
22-acre Twin Lakes Practice Facility includes nearly 2 acres of manicured tee space, multiple target and a large putting green.
From bag drop to final putt, golfing here stays true to founder Cason Callaway's vision that "playing golf should be a pleasant experience in beautiful surrounds."
For tee times and golf packages, call (855) 496-9724 or visit callawaygardens.com.
1-800-455-0619 www.GeorgiaGolfandTravel.com

ON THE ROAD
6 scenic Georgia drives
By Giannina Smith Bedford

Brasstown Bald

Sometimes the journey is just as much fun as the destination. Grab your keys, pack some snacks, and hit the road to experience some of the most picturesque drives in Georgia.

Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway
Traveling through White, Towns, and Union counties, this nearly forty-one-mile national byway looks onto gorgeous vistas surrounded by the Chattahoochee National Forest. Wind through the mountain gaps and valleys of the Southern Appalachians, stopping for Kodak moments along the way. One of the best is atop Brasstown Bald, the highest natural point in the state and an ideal spot to watch the leaves turn brilliant colors in the fall. Be sure to pack a lunch for this drive: There are numerous picnic spots at the scenic overlooks. If the weather is nice and you feel like some exercise, tackle the nearly two-mile round-trip hike to Dukes Creek Falls or a portion of the famed Appalachian Trail at the Hogpen Gap trailhead before hopping back in the car to continue your scenic drive.

Fun fact: On a clear day, you can see Atlanta from the peak of Brasstown Bald, even though it's more than 100 miles away.
Meriwether-Pike Scenic Byway
Named for the two counties it travels through, this drive highlights an area known as the Cove, once home to Native Americans, bootleggers, and even an American president. The fifty-five-mile route begins at Warm Springs, the location of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt's Little White House, and continues north through Gay, south to Molena and Manchester, and then back to Warm Springs. In Woodbury, pull off at the western end of the Big Red Oak Creek Covered Bridge, a 391-foot-long pass still used by light traffic today. Built in the 1840s, it's Georgia's oldest remaining covered bridge. In Gay, highlights worth parking for include Oakland Baptist Church and Jones Mill, where a large

gristmill and millpond are all that remain of a once-bustling farm community. Fun fact: The area traversed by the Meriwether-Pike Scenic Byway was carved out of the earth by a meteor impact billions of years ago. In the 1970s, it was home to an extraterrestrial research station.
Enduring Farmlands Scenic Byway
You'll feel as if you've traveled back in time when you drive by more than sixty rolling miles of pastoral farmland in Pulaski and Wilcox counties. You'll pass the historical towns of Hawkinsville, Pineview, Rochelle, and Abbeville, which produce timber, peanuts, watermelons, pecans, poultry, cotton, sorghum, and more. Stop in to a local farmers market or festival, visit a Civil War heritage site (such as the Confederate monument in Hawkinsville), or explore the Ocmulgee River in Hawkinsville or Abbeville. Interested in historical architecture? The Hawkinsville Opera House is a
Enduring Farmlands Scenic Byway

32

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

GD E D U GA A R C H WAY

Prater's Mill, Dalton

Big Red Oak Creek Covered Bridge, Woodbury

must-see. Built in 1907, it's on the National Register of Historic Places and underwent $1.7 million in renovations in 2000. While you're in Hawkinsville, stop by the Lawrence Bennett Harness Horse racetrack and watch the harness horsemen train trotters on the clay track.
Fun fact: Abbeville, a stop on the Enduring Farmlands Scenic Byway, is famous for its large population of wild hogs and is referred to as the "Wild Hog Capital of Georgia."
Woodpecker Trail-Highway 121
Founded almost a century ago, the Woodpecker Trail is among the oldest planned tourist routes in the United States. Traveling along Georgia State Route 121 and named for the abundant woodpeckers inhabiting the nearby pine forests, the Georgia portion of the drive is 204 miles, passing through such charming towns as Folkston, Metter, Waynesboro, and Augusta. Stop in Homeland or Folkston to visit the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge, a 396,000-acre home for endangered red-cockaded woodpeckers, cranes, robins, hawks, owls, and bald eagles. When you reach the Altamaha River in Reidsville, stretch your legs as you explore more than 125 species of rare and endangered flora and fauna. In Metter, check out Guido Gardens, which boasts three acres of footpaths, waterfalls, and a twenty-fourhour prayer chapel. The historic town is also home to a 1902 train depot and 1928 commissary.

Fun fact: In 1949, the Woodpecker Trail Association secured permission to use Walter Lantz's cartoon character Woody Woodpecker as the trail's mascot.
Coastal Highway U.S. 17
Leave the interstate traffic behind and hop onto a portion of the original "Dixie Highway." Used during the early twentieth century by Canadian and Midwestern vacationers seeking the sunny south, the coastal route follows U.S. Highway 17 through Richmond Hill south to Darien, past Butler Island and Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation to the port city of Brunswick. Detour here to St. Simons Island and Sea Island, or cross the Sydney Lanier Bridge to the causeway entrance for Jekyll Island. Meandering past old military forts, former rice plantations, rivers, and vast salt marshes, U.S. Highway 17 also serves as a scenic drive for the Colonial Coast Birding Trail. Stop by Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge or seventeen other viewing spots to observe more than 300 species during migration and nesting season.
Fun fact: In 1717, Sco ish nobleman Sir Robert Montgomery named a section of the Georgia coast the "Golden Islands." Others fancy the name originates from the changing hue of the marsh grass in autumn.
Cohu a-Cha ahoochee Scenic Byway
Spanning from Cohutta to Ellijay, this fiftysix-mile route travels through the Chattahoochee National Forest, plus a number

Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge
Guido Gardens,
Me er
of charming towns. At Prater's Mill in Dalton, observe a working nineteenth-century gristmill and cotton gin and pick up goodies at the general store. Don't miss the many Civil War sites in and around town. After leaving Dalton, drive east to Chatsworth, where you can break for lunch and explore the Chief Vann House Historic Site, a restored mansion built in 1804. This town is also home to Fort Mountain State Park, a great place to stretch your legs on a trail (there are more than 3,700 acres of them). Finish your road trip by picking apples in Ellijay, Georgia's Apple Capital, where you may also buy jams, jellies, and baked goods to take home. Fun fact: Ellijay grows 600,000 bushels of apples each year.

CHRISTY STEPHENS JOHN REED USFWS WOODPECKER TRAIL ASSOCIATION MICHAEL LUSK USFWS DARIEN MCINTOSH COUNTY CHAMBER AND VIC PRATER'S MILL

// RESOURCES // Cha ahoochee National Forest fs.usda.gov/conf, Brasstown Bald fs.usda.gov/conf, Dukes Creek Falls exploregeorgia.org, Appalachian Trail appalachiantrail.org, Li le White House gastateparks.org/ li lewhitehouse, Big Red Oak Creek Covered Bridge meriwethertourism.com/meriwether-pike-scenic-byway, Oakland Baptist Church meriwethertourism.com/meriwether-pike-scenic-byway, Jones Mill meriwethertourism.com/meriwether-pike-scenic-byway, Enduring Farmlands Scenic Byway exploregeorgia.org, Ocmulgee River ocmulgeepark.org/ocmulgee-river, Hawkinsville Opera House hawkinsvilleoperahouse.com, Lawrence Benne Harness Horse hawkinsvillega.net/harness-training-center.html, Woodpecker Trail-Highway 121 woodpeckertrail.com, Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge fws.gov/ okefenokee, Altamaha River altamahariver.org, Guido Gardens sowerministries.org, Me er 1902 Train Depot railga.com/depots/me er.html, Me er 1928 Commissary exploregeorgia.org, Richmond Hill visitrichmondhill.com, Darien visitdarien.com, Butler Island visitdarien.com, Hofwyl-Broadfield Plantation gastateparks.org/hofwylbroadfield, Brunswick goldenisles.com/historic-brunswick, St. Simons Island goldenisles.com/st-simons-island, Sea Island goldenisles.com/sea-island, Jekyll Island goldenisles.com/jekyll-island, Colonial Coast Birding Trail, georgiawildlife.com/colonialcoastbirdingtrail, Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge, fws.gov/harrisneck, Prater's Mill pratersmill.org, Chief Vann House Historic Site gastateparks.org/chiefvannhouse, Fort Mountain State Park gastateparks.org/fortmountain

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

33

St. Joseph Catholic Church, Macon
GEORGIA'S ARCHITECTURAL
GEMS
From cathedrals to colleges, prepare to be awed by Georgia's splendid public buildings
By Kate Abney
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Lilburn
Berry College, Rome

MARK ZBINDEN, RANDY CLEGG, BAPS, E. ALAN MCGEE, GEORGIA DNR

34

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Springer Opera House, Columbus

Watson Mill Bridge, Comer

espite the destruction of the Civil War, Georgia

sive proscenium arch. Eager to learn more? Visit the Springer

still contains scores of celebrated architectural

Mondays and Wednesdays for a personalized tour.

landmarks. Many are counted among National

Cuthbert's Randolph County Courthouse is just as fanciful as

Historic Sites and listed on the National

any Queen Anne Victorian, but it nods to sixteenth-century Dutch

Register of Historic Places--and most are

design, which gives it something extra. Thanks to architects

open for daily tours. Begin your explorations

Kimball, Wheeler & Parkins--and financing by a carpetbagger--the

in Savannah, the founding place of Britain's

1886 building delights with a curious clock tower, terra cotta

thirteenth American colony. Start with a visit to

carvings, and stepped gables.

the Greek Revivalstyle Massie Heritage Center, which houses a

Those seeking a more subdued take on Queen Anne stylings

model of the city, plus an interactive exhibit of the architecture that

should venture to Washington's Mary Willis Library, a red-brick

inspired some of its buildings (think the Parthenon and Notre Dame). Victorian completed in 1889 by Atlanta architect Edmund Lind that

When you stroll this city of squares, be

was the first free library in Georgia.

sure to see the Owens-Thomas House

Immaculate brickwork and stained-glass

(considered North America's preeminent example of English Regency architec-

GRAND TOUR

windows crafted by Tiffany Studios distract from later renovations and addi-

ture) and the breathtaking Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.
Drive up I-16 to find an equally impressive Gothic edifice: Macon's St. Joseph Catholic Church, with twin cross-topped spires. Completed in 1903 by Cornelius S.J. Otten, it boasts a domed

Martha Berry/Highway 27 offers one of the best ways to explore Georgia's most alluring municipal landmarks. Hwy27.com guides visitors through the twenty-one courthouses that dot this nearly 350-mile stretch of western Georgia. Some are delightful by design, like the Randolph County Courthouse, while a couple (particularly those in Polk and Heard counties) are more austere.

tions that provided space for rare books and archives of local and state history-- which you might thumb through before a stay at the nearby Fitzpatrick Hotel.
And since it wouldn't be the South without a little eccentricity, visit Fitzgerald for a turn-of-the-century

cupola; flying buttresses; Carrara marble sourced from the same quarries favored by Michelangelo; and a Bavarian stainedglass rose window crafted by Munich's Franz Mayer studio. Be sure to ask for Pauline O'Mahony, who was born into

Spanning styles from Greek Revival to twentieth century modern, the courthouses credit prominent architects like William J.J. Chase and J.W. Golucke for their creation. Debut dates range from 1854 to the 1970s, with the majority built during the decades bracketing the turn of the twentieth century. Several still house

trend toward granitoid: rock-faced concrete blocks produced locally by the Fitzgerald Granitoid Company. St. Matthew's Episcopal Church epitomizes the style that peppers this town and further beguiles with its ship-like interior

the church seventy-six years ago and

government activity and have been expanded,

and Virgin Mary statuary (a rarity for an

serves as its chief tour coordinator. Gothic enthusiasts will also
appreciate the excellent examples of this architectural style at Berry College's Ford Complex in Rome. Anchoring the 27,000-acre campus, the English-inspired complex of

annexed, and updated for contemporary times, while others have become museums or multipurpose complexes. One of the oldest among them, relocated to Westville in 1975, is an antebellum woodframe county courthouse built by an unknown carpenter. Perhaps the most intriguing? Lumpkin's Neoclassical Revival courthouse, whose lawn contains one of

Episcopal church), as noted by local editor and church member Sherri Butler.
For a more rustic afternoon, traverse Comer's Watson Mill Bridge, 229 feet of roofed heart pine construction, built in 1885 by Washington King, son of Horace King, a former slave who

buildings (most publicly accessible) was quietly financed by American

Georgia's most curious attractions: a 1908 marble statue of a Confederate soldier filling a pipe.

became a respected bridge builder in the nineteenth-century South. The

industrialist Henry Ford in the 1920s

"clackity-clack" of your passage is a relic

and '30s. Made of local stone, the

of the past available at only a handful

buildings amaze with pointed archways, Medievalesque carvings,

of bridges across the state--and arguably, none so impressive as this.

reflecting pools, fountains, even underground "catacombs."

Impassioned park ranger Jerry Cook can inform you of additional

Those who prefer the later architecture of the English empire

activities within the 1,118 picturesque surrounding acres.

will no doubt recognize Georgia's Victorian structures. In an era

Lastly, hidden in metro Atlanta is a destination that, while new,

before the silver screen, Columbus's Springer Opera House was carries undeniable ties to tradition. Lilburn's BAPS Shri Swami-

considered the finest opera house between New York and New

narayan Mandir was completed in 2006, thanks to more than

Orleans. The late-Victorian building debuted in 1871 with an

2 million man-hours and 12,300 tons of Italian marble, Turkish

Edwardian-style lobby, curved double balconies, and three tiers

limestone, and Indian pink sandstone carved by craftsmen in India.

of box seats that allowed spectators to catch glimpses of Oscar

It was assembled by the same volunteers who still give their time at

Wilde, Edwin Booth, and Franklin D. Roosevelt under the impres- this Hindu temple--officially the largest outside India.

// RESOURCES // Massie Heritage Center massieschool.com, Owens-Thomas House telfair.org/visit/owens-thomas-house, Cathedral of St. John the Baptist savannahcathedral.org, St. Joseph Catholic Church stjosephmacon.com, Berry College berry.edu, Springer Opera House springeroperahouse.org, Randolph County Courthouse georgiacourts.org, Mary Willis Library btrl.net, Fitzpatrick Hotel thefitzpatrickhotel.com, St. Matthew's Episcopal Church stmatthewsfitzgerald.georgiaepiscopal.org, Watson Mill Bridge gastateparks.org/watsonmillbridge, BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir baps.org

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

35

The Shops Buckhead Atlanta

Shopper'S paradiSe

If shopping is your sport of choice, Georgia is
your ideal playing field. With options that span from small artisans marts to luxury designer boutiques, the Peach State sure knows how to reward
retail rock stars.

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georgia on my mind

From name-brand outlets to antique markets, Georgia has shopping in the bag
By Emily L. Foley
Sprawling shopping hubs
Why hit one store when you can hit dozens at the same time? at augusta's Surrey Center, you'll find independent boutiques and select chains with an indie vibe, such as Fab'rik. antiques, gifts, and housewares are also well represented, and both a day spa and a blowdry bar offer pampering respites once your shopping is done.
at North Georgia Premium Outlets in dawsonville, folks from near and far enjoy the selection of 140 outlet shops in every category, with brands including armani, Brooks Brothers, Joe's Jeans, Under armour, nike, Hanna andersson, and restoration Hardware. other outlet centers around the state include the new Tanger Outlets near Savannah in Pooler (J. Crew, Vera Bradley, Brooks Brothers); Premium Outlets in Calhoun (Coach, old

Special from olivermcmillan

Community, Athens

North Georgia Premium Outlets, Dawsonville

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Navy, Polo Ralph Lauren); and the Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta in Woodstock (Saks Fifth Avenue Off 5th, Toys R Us, Crabtree & Evelyn).
In Macon, the Shoppes at River Crossing features just about every mall staple you can think of (Barnes & Noble, American Eagle, DSW, Pier One, Chico's). With Belk and Dillard's as anchor stores, this mall is worth a stop.
Atlanta's Buckhead neighborhood has reemerged as a shopping mecca, thanks to newly renovated Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza, plus The Shops Buckhead Atlanta development. All three of these malls (Buckhead Atlanta being of the open-air variety) are located within minutes of each other and offer a wide array of high-end boutiques such as Christian Louboutin, Dior, Versace, Tiffany & Co., Alice + Olivia, Burberry, Fendi, and Henri Bendel. At Lenox, you'll also find a few wallet-friendly options such as Gap, Steve Madden, and Express.
Just north in Alpharetta, newly opened Avalon features a live/work/play complex with beautiful architecture and shopping options including Kendra Scott, Lululemon Athletica, Vineyard Vines,

Calypso St. Barth, and the Paper Source.
Delightful downtowns
In many Georgia cities, the heart of shopping is the heart of town. Thomasville's downtown district offers a vibrant retail scene, complete with craft shops, bookstores, antique shops, more than twenty clothing boutiques, a florist, and a day spa. In downtown Greensboro, you'll find a true trove of antiques (don't miss Greensboro Antique Mall for 11,000 square feet of vintage wonders), art, estate pieces, and home decor. And in downtown Douglas, four blocks of shops include Eve (a ladies clothing boutique carrying trendy pieces from luxury labels) and Norris Shoe Store (a town mainstay for more than seventy years).
The funky town of Athens may pull most of its reputation from football, food, and music, but it's quite a shopper's haven, too. Check out the famed Heery's, which has been selling the latest fashion trends for more than fifty years and features brands such as Marc Jacobs, Milly, Tibi, Clover Canyon, and Mara Hoffman. Don't miss Community, a sustainable fashion shop selling redesigned vintage and locally

The Paris Market & Brocante, Savannah
designed clothing, and Avid, a stellar independent bookstore.
You'll find equally compelling shopping in downtown Roswell, where charming Canton Street is lined with art galleries, jewelry stores, gift shops, clothing boutiques, and specialty shops (check out Oli+Ve, which sells specialty olive oils). An hour or so north in downtown Clarkesville, crafters get their fill of supplies at A Bead Garden and Bumbleberry Yarn and Gifts; clotheshorses find fashions for women and children at Purple Door Boutique and Tiny Citizens Children's Boutique; home decorators browse for handmade and antique furnishings at Homestead House and Sheep Hollow; and animal lovers buy all things dog and cat at the Pet Shop.

A little farther south, the towns of Sandersville and Thomson both have downtowns with noteworthy shopping options. In the former, must-sees include Geo.'s Quarters, a gift shop located in a stunning historic building, and Warthen Lane Interiors, which offers antiques, home accessories, fabrics, wallpapers, and gourmet food products. In Thomson, boutiques such as Peacock Hill, Laura Lane's Home Decor & Gifts, and Anna Lou Designs boast an array of products made right in town. (These include Chinaberry Foods' famed cheese straws, cultured pearl jewelry from the Pearl Girls, and handmade goat's milk skincare products from Shakerock Farms.)
In Savannah, River and

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

37

38

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Art on Broad, Artists Row, Augusta

Broughton Streets are home to dozens of shopping delights (and oh, the dining options when you need to recharge your batteries!). Beautiful historic buildings house art galleries, antique shops, and gourmet food markets. Don't miss the Paris Market & Brocante on Broughton Street, and on River Street, stop at the Village Craftsmen, which sells handmade crafts from a wide variety of Low Country artisans.
Shops to make you drop
Some stores simply stand alone. In Georgia, one such example is Strickland's Boots in Dublin, a family-owned-and-operated

business carrying more than 6,000 pairs of designer cowboy and work boots. Don't worry about being overwhelmed by the sheer number of boots available--this place is known for its customer service. They measure every foot that comes through the door and keep detailed records of your likes, purchases, and even your holiday wish list.
Another noteworthy retailer is Alexander's Store in Blairsville. While it began as a general store in 1953, Alexander's now sells everything from clothing to furniture to appliances, earning the nickname `the Macy's of the Mountains.' Bonus: They offer free

ART ON BROAD

gift-wrapping--a tradition since the store opened nearly six decades ago.
In Bloomingdale, Randy Wood Guitars offers everything from new guitars to used fiddles within an old-timey building. Bluegrass veteran Randy Wood helms the operation, offering guidance and tales from his days making guitars for Elvis and Johnny Cash.
Artsy enclaves
Between its art galleries and antique stores, Georgia is filled with treasures just waiting to be found. In Augusta, Artists Row is an inspirational collective of more than ten galleries and shops with the works of both local artists and those with international renown. Browse the creations of sculptors, painters, glass workers, woodworkers, jewelry-makers, and more. The first Friday of each month, many of the artists are on hand to talk about their works and enjoy live music and refreshments with shoppers.
Antique lovers flock to the Jackson County Antique Trail, which stretches from Braselton to Commerce. Browse Two Ladies in the Attic for vintage Americana, and A Flea An'tique for collectibles ranging from coins to dolls to baseball cards. In Walton County, antiquing at its finest is available in the towns of Loganville and Monroe. Be sure to visit My Sister's Antiques in Loganville and Warehouse Antique Mall and the Cotton Depot in Monroe. And in Atlanta, internationally renowned Scott Antique Markets boasts the world's largest indoor antique show the second weekend of every month.
// RESOURCES // Surrey Center surreycentercom, North Georgia Premium Outlets premiumoutlets com, Tanger Outlets tangeroutlet com/savannah, Premium Outlets premiumoutlets com, The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta theoutletshoppeatlanta com, The Shoppes at River Crossing theshoppesatrivercrossing com, Lenox Square simon com/mall/lenox square, Phipps Plaza simon com/mall/phipps plaza, The Shops Buckhead Atlanta buckhead atl com, Avalon experienceavalon com, Thomasville thomasvillega com, Greensboro downtown greensboroga com, Douglas cityofdouglas com, Athens visitathensga com, Roswell visitroswellga com, Clarkesville clarkesvillega com, Sandersville sandersville net, Thomson exploremcduffiecounty com, Savannah visitsavannah com, Strickland's Boots 478 272 1203, Alexander's Store alexandersstore com, Randy Wood Guitars randywoodmusic com, Artists Row artistsrowaugusta com, Jackson County Antique Trail tourjacksoncounty com/antiques and art trail html, Walton County antiquescapitalofgeorgia com, Sco Antique Markets sco antiquemarket com

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EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

39

H2 Family fun abounds at Georgia's watery a ractions
By Giannina Smith Bedford

Ohhh!

With more than 425,000 acres of lakes
do ing Georgia's landscape and rivers
crisscrossing the state in all directions,
there's a body of water beckoning at every turn. So pull on your swimwear, grab a bo le of sunscreen,
and dive on in!

Go jump in a lake
Georgia's lakes are renowned for their pristine waters and wealth of sporting opportunities. At George L. Smith State Park near Twin City, hop in a kayak to explore Watson Mill Pond--a 412-acre, cypress-lined lake. Mill Pond Kayak gives paddlers of all ages equipment and basic instruction before taking them on a two-and-a-half-hour guided tour of this breathtaking wonder.
For a more social experience, head to popular Lake Lanier. Be sure to visit the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue on the north end it's where the sprint canoe/ kayak and rowing competitions were held during the 1996 Olympic Games. On the south end, take advantage of paddleboard-

ing, kayaking, and wakeboarding at familyfriendly Lanier Islands resort.
For an experience that mixes boating, kayaking, and water-skiing with golf, horseback riding, and shopping, steer yourself to Georgia's Lake Country and enjoy the many perks of time spent on Lake Oconee and Lake Sinclair. On Lake Oconee, Georgia's second-largest lake, enlist Lake Oconee Outfitters to take you on a pontoon-boat trip that includes a lesson on the history of the lake.
You'll find more lake clusters in Rabun County, home to five Georgia Power lakes--Tallulah Falls, Seed, Yonah, Burton, and Rabun. Each is an ideal destination for boating, fishing, and swimming, as

40

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

WhiteWater Express, Columbus

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Mill Pond Kayak

Lake Blue Ridge

Lake Oconee

well as picnics, camping, and hiking. Farther south at Georgia Veterans
State Park is 8,700-acre Lake Blackshear, which features a swimming beach, Lake Blackshear Resort and Golf Club, and a stop on the SAM Shortline Excursion Train route from Cordele to Archery. For avid fishermen, it also offers some of the best bass in the state.
If wakeboarding is more your style, head to the Valdosta Wake Compound, a cable wakeboard course where adrenaline junkies are pulled by a series of suspended cables. After a few rounds of practice, take your wakeboarding skills to one of the "ABC lakes" of northwest Georgia. From eleven-mile Lake Allatoona, to the aquamarine waters of Lake Blue Ridge, to the mountainous scenery of Carters Lake (the deepest reservoir in Georgia), these destinations are as easy to enjoy as A-B-C.
Take me to the river
Georgia's abundant rivers offer adventure, nature, and even a bit of history. Begin your river explorations at the Augusta Canal, a National Heritage Area built in 1845 that's the oldest continuously operating hydropower canal in the United States. Learn the history of the Industrial Revolution in the South at the Canal Discovery Center, or hop aboard a Petersburg Boat for a guided tour past nineteenth-century textile mills and two of Georgia's remaining eighteenthcentury houses.
If you're a beginning paddler, head to the Toccoa River Canoe Trail in Blue Ridge. The trail, which spans nearly fourteen miles, combines a few mild rapids with stunning scenery for a picture-perfect day on the water. Along the way, you might encounter float fisherman looking for cold-water trout.
If the whole family likes to paddle and

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

41

Tybee Island

DON'T FORGET THE BEACH!

If you want to add some sand and shells to your water adventures, point your sails toward the beach. Li le St. Simons Island, a 10,000acre barrier island resort accessible only by boat, is a great option for those who want the utmost in privacy. Se le into one of the six co ages at The Lodge on Li le St. Simons Island before enjoying guided nature walks, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, birding, or simply unwinding on the island's seven-mile, unspoiled beach.
Another secluded beach destination reachable only by ferry is Cumberland Island,

Georgia's largest and southernmost barrier island. Home to tabby ruins, maritime forests, and undeveloped beaches--as well as the famous Greyfield Inn--it carries a storied history filled with Spanish missionaries, enslaved African Americans, and Gilded Age industrialists.
For a more bustling beach vacation, soak up the sun on Savannah's Tybee Island. Awash with festivals, forts, museums, restaurants, and hotels, Tybee is the ideal spot for a family vacation.

fish, treat them to a trip down the Satilla River. Once used for transportation by the Creek Indian Nation, the Satilla is one of the most scenic blackwater rivers in South Georgia. White sandbars offer resting spots, and ancient oaks and cypress trees frame the water. Watch for abundant wildlife, both on the shores and in the skies.
When you're ready to pick up the pace, take a whitewater rafting trip down the Chattooga River with a local outfitter. Federally protected in 1974 by the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act, the river offers Class III and IV rapids and numerous swimming holes, ensuring everyone can participate in the fun. Another not-tomiss whitewater adventure can be had in the heart of

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Columbus's Uptown district. WhiteWater Express offers trips on a nearly three-mile stretch of the Chattahoochee River that rushes through this busy part of town. Named one of the top twelve man-made adventures in the world by USA Today, the experience ranges from mild Class I rapids and a "Lazy River" to wild Class V drops that occur when the dam-controlled water is released each day.
For another urban river adventure, spend a hot day on Atlanta's Chattahoochee River. Tube, kayak, canoe, paddleboard, or raft your way down the waterway with Shoot the Hooch, enjoying the city-meetsnature surroundings as you go. Trips range from nearly two-mile outings to longer

eight-mile ones, depending on where you put in.
A more laid-back water journey can be had on the Flint River in Albany, which recently added three new kayak and canoe launches, one located near the Georgia Power Dam and the other two near downtown at Riverfront Park. After a trip down the river, don't forget to stop into the Flint RiverQuarium to learn about southwest Georgia's underwater world.
For a workout, try the Georgia Coast

Cumberland Island
Saltwater Paddling Trail, with thirty-five access points along 100 miles of coastline. From St. Marys to the Golden Isles and up to Savannah, the trail weaves through salt marshes and barrier islands along parts of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway.

// RESOURCES // Lakes George L. Smith State Park gastateparks.org/georgelsmith, Mill Pond Kayak millpondkayak.com, Lake Lanier discoverlakelanier.com, Lake Lanier Olympic Venue lakelanierolympicvenue.org, Lanier Islands lanierislands.com, Georgia's Lake Country galakecountry.com, Lake Oconee visitlakeoconee.com, Lake Sinclair exploregeorgia.org, Lake Oconee Outfi ers lakeoconeeoutfi ers.com/laketours.htm, Tallulah Falls Lake Lake Seed Lake Yonah Lake Burton Lake Rabun georgiapowerlakes.com/northgeorgialakes, Georgia Veterans State Park gastateparks.org/georgiaveterans, Lake Blackshear Resort and Golf Club lakeblackshearresort.com, SAM Shortline Excursion Train samshortline.com, Valdosta Wake Compound valdostawakecompound.com, Lake Allatoona lake-allatoona.com, Lake Blue Ridge blueridgemountains.com/lake_blue_ridge.html, Carters Lake carterslake.com \\ Rivers Augusta Canal augustacanal.com, Toccoa River Canoe Trail blueridgemountains.com/toccoa_river_canoe_trail.html, Satilla River georgiawildlife.com/fishing/satilla, Cha ooga River exploregeorgia.org, WhiteWater Express whitewaterexpress.com, Cha ahoochee River exploregeorgia.org, Shoot the Hooch shoo hehooch.com, Flint River flint-river.org/flintriver-georgia.html, Flint RiverQuarium flintriverquarium.com, Georgia Coast Saltwater Paddling Trail secoastpaddlingtrail.com \\ Beaches Li le St. Simons Island goldenisles.com/li le-st-simons-island, The Lodge on Li le St. Simons Island li lestsimonsisland.com, Cumberland Island nps.gov/cuis, Greyfield Inn greyfieldinn.com, Tybee Island visi ybee.com

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43

SERIOUS SIPS
A Georgia wine expert spills on his favorite pours around the state
By Kate Parham Kordsmeier

Chteau lan Winery, Braselton

Oenophiles, take note: Georgia is home to more than forty wineries, many of which have won major wine competitions, beating out winemakers from California, Washington, and Oregon.

C H AT E AU E L A N W I N E RY F R O GTOW N C E L L A R S WOL F M OU N TA I N VI N EYA R DS & W I N E RY

Frogtown Cellars,
Dahlonega

Wolf Mountain Vineyards, Dahlonega

44

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

T hat's no surprise to Eric Crane, a certified wine educator from the Society of Wine Educators, advanced sommelier from the Court of Master Sommeliers, and director of training and business development for Empire Distributors. "Georgia is producing interesting European varietals in growing conditions that aren't much different from the world's best wine regions," he says.
This hasn't always been the case, Crane concedes, recounting his first experience with Georgia wine as "extra grapey." "There's a fruitiness that happens in young wine regions, but the wines coming out of Georgia today are made at a really high level," he says. "It used to be more of a novelty, but now there's some really serious people putting a lot of time, passion, and commitment into making wines people will love and enjoy."
So, which wineries are worth a visit? Start with a pioneer, Chteau lan Winery & Resort in Braselton. One of the first vineyards to open in Georgia since Prohibition, this resort helped champion the concept of Georgia-made wines in 1984. It's still going strong, producing noteworthy wines like Duncan Creek Red, a sweet muscadine varietal. "Chteau lan has gotten more serious about winemaking as time goes on and are doing some great wines," Crane says.
More taste-worthy wines abound in Dahlonega, which lays claim to five applauded wineries with great Mediterranean varietals and postcard-perfect views. From the Petit

Horse Creek Winery
Manseng at Cavender Creek Vineyards and Winery, to the Fat Boy Red at Three Sisters Vineyards, you'll find plenty to please your palate. "It's easy to navigate between most of the Dahlonega wineries, and there are beautiful tasting rooms, so you get the feel of being in a wine country," Crane says. "Lumpkin County isn't an American Viticultural Area yet, but it will probably be the next one. Just like Australia's Barossa Valley and California's Napa Valley, land that's rich in gold produces wines of great levels, and we have that in Dahlonega."
Crane likes all of Dahlonega's wineries, but he's especially partial to Wolf Mountain Vineyards. "I'll gladly share their incredible wines, which are a gem in the Georgia wine scene, with anyone," Crane says. "Wolf also has one of the most beautiful views in Georgia from their gorgeous tasting room."
Montaluce Winery is another lovely place in Dahlonega to taste wine. "When they built the property out, they preserved a lot of the land, and there's some really cool old Indian trails there you don't see

every day," Crane says. And he's a fan of Frogtown Cellars, which produces more than thirty wines from its Dahlonega headquarters. (It also has tasting rooms in Hahira and Helen.) "Their Chardonnay is fantastic," Crane says.
For a true Georgia treat, Crane likes sipping a glass of muscadine wine from South Georgia. "Muscadine doesn't have to be cloyingly sweet--in fact, these wines tend to be made in an off-dry style," he says. He likes the muscadine wine at Horse Creek Winery in Nashville, which has a new, state-of-the-art tasting room just twenty minutes off I-75. "The winery is right at the Georgia-Florida border, so it's as hot and humid as it gets anywhere in the state. It's also classically Southern with flat, hard earth, which is great for grapes that are native to these conditions, like muscadine."
You'll find more wineries serving quality muscadine wines and other native varietals between Macon and Savannah. At Meinhardt Vineyards & Winery in Statesboro, try Southern Eagle, an off-dry Southern red muscadine wine. "It goes great with spicier barbecue dishes and is great as an afternoon sipper," Crane says. Muscadine is also celebrated at Warm Springs Winery in Warm Springs. "They focus on making quenchy wines near the second home of Franklin Roosevelt," Crane says. After you've purchased a bottle of jalapeo-infused Hotlanta Red, enjoy it with a picnic lunch on the lovely grounds. Cheers!

Montaluce Winery, Dahlonega

Creature Comforts Brewing Co.,
Athens
SUDS AROUND THE STATE
As Georgia's wine industry grows, so too does its beer scene. You'll find more than two dozen breweries around the state, including Creature Comforts Brewing Co. (creaturecomfortsbeer.com), the newest suds purveyor to crop up in Athens. Their fruit-forward IPA, Tropicalia, has already garnered national a ention and rave reviews. Beverage expert Eric Crane highlights some of Georgia's other top breweries:
SweetWater Brewing Company "Atlanta's hero, SweetWater, has made quite an impact in the Southeast with their delicious beer and creative labels. Their tours are legendary, they're extremely active with local charities, and they host a music festival every April in Atlanta." sweetwaterbrew.com
Terrapin Beer Company "Terrapin has made award-winning beers from the start; it's one of the best breweries in Georgia. It's open for tours and located in Athens, which is a funloving college town. Be sure to try the Pale Ales." terrapinbeer.com
Jailhouse Brewery "Located in an old jailhouse in Hampton, Jailhouse Brewery is a rising star in Georgia's beer scene. One of their more popular recurring events is `Lockdown Thursdays,' when folks can arrive and ask any questions they have about brewing." jailhousebrewing.com
Cherry Street Brewing Co-op "This is a true cooperative located in Cumming that makes a wide range of experimental beers. You never know what might be available, so be prepared to taste adventurously when you're there." cherrystreetbrewing.com

HORSE CREEK WINERY MATT KORDSMEIER MONTALUCE WINERY & ESTATES

// RESOURCES // Chteau lan Winery & Resort chateauelan.com, Cavender Creek Vineyards and Winery cavendercreekvineyards.com, Three Sisters Vineyards threesistersvineyards.com, Wolf Mountain Vineyards wolfmountainvineyards.com, Montaluce Winery montaluce.com, Frogtown Cellars frogtown.us, Horse Creek Winery horsecreekwinery.com, Meinhardt Vineyards & Winery meinhardtvineyards.com, Warm Springs Winery 706-655-2233

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

45

Leave Ordinary
BEHIND

www.JohnsCreekCVB.com
BROOKHAVEN

EXPLORE
Historic Neighborhoods Oglethorpe University
Town Brookhaven International Corridor City Festivals & Events 14 Parks & Recreation Areas

46

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Your Gateway to Atlanta

Convention & Visitors Bureau
11 Hotels for Upscale Comfort & Convenience

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West Public Square, Washington

THE SIMPLE
LIFE
Experience Georgia's lovely small towns
By Amy Meadows

The Peach State is home to bustling cities, but it's also filled with some of the most charming and bucolic small towns in the country. These delightful destinations offer the best of two worlds, taking visitors back in time while featuring up-to-the-minute amenities.

Antebellum awe
With the largest number of antebellum homes in Georgia (more than 100), Washington is replete with Southern charm. Its 4,042 residents welcome visitors year-round to explore the historic residences and buildings that are synonymous with this east Georgia town. Miss Fanny's Tours takes participants on entertaining two-hour tours of more than fifty historic homes, while the Washington-Wilkes Tour of Homes, held twice annually, features select private homes from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Additional landmarks, such

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

47

MERCER HARRIS GEORGIA DNR

Fort King George, Darien

Rolater Lake, Cave Spring

as a restored 3,000-acre cotton plantation called Callaway Plantation, offer a glimpse into the area's rich agricultural past. The Robert Toombs House, once owned by the U.S. senator and legendary secessionist, reveals the city's significance during Civil War times. And twelve miles from downtown sits Kettle Creek Battlefield, the site of one of the Revolutionary War's most important battles. After a full day of exploring, treat yourself to an old-fashioned cherry Coke at Fievet Pharmacy's popular soda fountain in the historic downtown square.
Limestone landmark
Northwest Georgia's Cave Spring, a city of 1,161 residents, is best known for one thing: water. It's not just any water, though--folks say it's the purest, besttasting water around. Found in the 57-degree limestone Cave at Rolater Park, the water comes from a spring that produces two million gallons per day and overflows into a reflecting pond and shallow stream. And the water is not just for drinking; it also feeds into Rolater Lake, a community swimming pool shaped like the state of Georgia. Rolater Park is located just off the revitalized village square, known as Veterans Plaza, which is home to charming shops like the Peddler, which sells home decor such as oil paintings, lamps, and prints. Tourists may stay at the welcoming Tumlin House Bed & Breakfast and also enjoy access to the multi-use Georgia Pinhoti Trail System, which connects longdistance trails in Alabama to the Appalachian Trail.

Riverside respite
Once a great port, Darien is now a quiet fishing town of 1,880 people situated fifty miles south of Savannah. Oglethorpedesigned squares, framed by stately churches and historic homes, welcome visitors to the second-oldest planned city in Georgia. Explore Darien's significant history at Fort King George Historic Site, home to the oldest English fort remaining on Georgia's coast, and the Burning of Darien Museum, describing the epic events featured in the movie Glory. Stop by the Old Jail Art Center for more history and works by local artists, browse the specialty shops, or tour nearby Ashantilly to learn about cotton plantations and printmaking. At the end of the day, dine on local shrimp at Skippers' Fish Camp, relax on a wine cruise, or take a sunset stroll

Bryant State Park, with 502 acres of rolling hills and breathtaking scenery, including a winding stream, eight miles of hiking and biking trails, and two fishing ponds. Also nestled within the park is the challenging eighteen-hole Highland Walk Golf Course. Disc golfers can enjoy a nine-hole course at Royston Wellness and Community Park, a forty-three-acre development with walking trails and several fitness stations. Water lovers should head to Slow Water, a kayaking, canoeing, and tubing outfitter located on the peaceful Upper Broad River perfect for floaters of all skill levels. For visitors who love America's favorite outdoor pastime, the Ty Cobb Museum is a must-see, honoring the memory of the greatest baseball hitter of all time with photographs and artifacts from a legendary career.

along Darien Waterfront Park; all offer gorgeous views of the river. Those who visit in April can enjoy the popular Blessing of the Fleet Festival.

Hill country heaven
Located less than thirty-five miles southwest of Atlanta, Chattahoochee Hills is one of the metro area's newest cities, incor-

Natural splendor
Located in the foothills of the Northeast Georgia Mountains, Royston, population 2,574, is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. One of its key attractions is Victoria

porated in December 2007 and home to more than 2,200 residents. Chattahoochee Hills comprises 40,000 protected acres of rural land that are being developed slowly using environmentally sound practices. At
the heart of this development is

Serenbe Farms, Cha ahoochee Hills

Serenbe, a 1,000-acre community with four hamlets; each hamlet features EarthCraft and

LEED-certified homes, as well as

commercial centers offering shop-

ping and dining, cultural events,

and health and wellness activities.

It's also home to Serenbe Farms,

a source for local organic food

that offers educational farm tours.

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JA N E T COC HRA N S E R E N B E G EOR G I A D N R V I CTOR I A B RYA N T STAT E PA R K G D N R

Historic District, Madison
More agritourism tours can be found outside Serenbe at Many Fold Farm, which sells a variety of handcrafted farmstead cheeses made on-site from the milk of ewes that live on the property.
Carnegie and candy
Once a tiny stagecoach stop in southwest Georgia, Boston is the smallest town in the country with a Carnegie Library--the Boston Carnegie Library, built in 1913. Located on the town's recently revitalized Main Street, the library is just one of many attractions that make Boston's 1,315 residents proud. Antique stores abound, with fun shops such as the Mailman's Daughter, which sells furniture and hand-painted signs. Restaurants, including Boston Main Street Cafe, serve up delicious fare with a side of Southern hospitality. And for those with a sweet tooth, the renowned, family-owned Dillon Candy Company has offered a wide variety of gourmet brittles and specialty nut confections for ninety years.
Downright presidential
Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter is proud of his southwest Georgia hometown of Plains, and it's easy to understand why. The rural town, which is home to 755 residents, maintains the same charm it had when the thirty-ninth president was just a boy. Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter have been involved in the revitalization of downtown Plains, helping to develop the Plains

Historic Inn & Antiques located on Main Street. Offering seven suites--each themed after one of the decades between the 1920s and the 1980s--the Historic Inn serves as the heartbeat of the reinvigorated city, where visitors can grab a cone of peanut ice cream from Bobby Salter's Plain Peanuts on Main Street or pay a visit to the thirteenfoot-tall Jimmy Carter Peanut Statue--one of the best roadside attractions around. At the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site, you'll find three National Park areas: the Boyhood Farm in the nearby unincorporated community of Archery, which offers a look at Carter's childhood home; Plains High School, which serves as a visitor center and museum about Carter's life and accomplishments; and the Plains Depot, now a self-guided museum focusing on Carter's 1976 presidential campaign.
Spared from the fire
It's the town General Sherman considered too pretty to burn. Madison in east Georgia is home to beautiful historic residences, a picturesque downtown square, and nearly 4,000 residents. Madison's antebellum homes, which comprise one of the state's largest designated National Register of Historic Districts, draw visitors from around the world. Each year, the city hosts the Madison in May Tour of Homes and Gardens, which includes such historic residences as the Honeymoon 1851 Mansion and Serenata Farm. The annual Holiday
Victoria Bryant State Park, Royston

Dell-Goodall House, Sylvania
Home Tour is equally popular. Daily tours also are available at Heritage Hall, a Greek Revival home that was built in 1811, and the Rogers House & Rose Cottage, the latter of which was built by a former female slave in 1891. Additionally, exhibits referencing Madison's rich history and cultural arts can be found at the MadisonMorgan Cultural Center, which is housed in a restored 1895 Romanesque Revival building that once was the first graded public schoolhouse in the Southeast.
Off the beaten path
East central Georgia is home to Sylvania, a town of 2,500 residents that is nearly twenty miles off the highway between Augusta and Savannah. Surprises abound here, with attractions like Shannon Vineyards, a winery and restaurant situated in a rural farming area. Screven Motorsports Complex amps up the action with the Screven Motor Speedway and the Savannah River Dragway, among other tracks. History buffs should visit the Dell-Goodall House, the only structure left standing in Old Jacksonborough, a community that many believe ceased to exist because of a curse placed on it by an itinerant Methodist minister. Round out your Sylvania excursion with a visit to the revitalized downtown, where you can lodge at Kinchley Place (a restored Victorian bed-and-breakfast), shop for art at former 1940s teen hangout Soda Shop Gallery, and pick up some pecans at Wade Plantation.

CHRIS MATHAN SPORTING DOG & OUTDOOR IMAGES CHRIS USREY RALPH DANIEL SCREVEN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

// RESOURCES // Miss Fanny's Tours missfanny.com, Washington-Wilkes Tour of Homes wwtouro omes.com, Callaway Plantation historyofwilkes.org, Robert Toombs House Historical Site georgiastateparks.org/ rober oombshouse, Ke le Creek Ba lefield ke lecreekba lefield.org, Fievet Pharmacy fievetrx.com, Cave at Rolater Park cityofcavespring.com, Rolater Lake cityofcavespring.com, Veterans Plaza cityofcavespring.com, The Peddler thepeddlercavespring.com, Tumlin House Bed & Breakfast tumlinhouse.com, Georgia Pinhoti Trail System pinhoti.info, Fort King George Historic Site georgiastateparks.org/ fortkinggeorge, Burning of Darien Museum visitdarien.com, Old Jail Art Center cityofdarienga.com, Ashantilly ashantilly.org, Skippers' Fish Camp skippersfishcamp.com, Darien Waterfront Park visitdarien. com, Victoria Bryant State Park georgiastateparks.org/victoriabryant, Highland Walk Golf Course georgiastateparks.org/victoriabryant, Royston Wellness and Community Park cityofroyston.com, Slow Water kayakslowwater.com, Ty Cobb Museum tycobbmuseum.org, Serenbe serenbe.com, Serenbe Farms serenbefarms.com, Many Fold Farm manyfoldfarm.com, Boston Carnegie Library tcpls.org, Boston Main Street bostonga.com, The Mailman's Daughter facebook.com/themailmansdaughter, Boston Main Street Cafe facebook.com/bostonmainstreetcafe, Dillon Candy Company dilloncandy.com, Plains Historic Inn & Antiques plainsinn.net, Bobby Salter's Plain Peanuts plainpeanuts.com, Jimmy Carter Peanut Statue plainsgeorgia.com, Jimmy Carter National Historic Site nps.gov/jica, The Boyhood Farm nps.gov/jica, Plains High School nps.gov/jica, The Plains Depot nps.gov/jica, Madison in May Tour of Homes and Gardens madisonga.com, Honeymoon 1851 Mansion madisonga.com, Serenata Farm serenatafarm.com, Madison Holiday Home Tour madisonga.org, Heritage Hall friendso eritagehall.org, The Rogers House & Rose Co age 706-343-0190, Madison-Morgan Cultural Center mmcc-arts. org, Shannon Vineyards 912-857-3076, Screven Motorsports Complex screvenmotorsports.com, Dell-Goodall House sccnet.org/dell_goodall.htm, Kinchley Place facebook.com/kinchleyplace, Soda Shop Gallery facebook.com/sodashopgallery, Wade Plantation wadepecans.cop

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

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G E O R G I A STAT E M A P

[ LEGEND ]
Interstates
Highways
Georgia Visitor Information Centers

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

ABOVE ATLANTA
BEYOND THE EVERYDAY Dunwoody is a best-of-all-worlds destination. It's a friendly community with family-focused events and attractions, as well as premium shopping and a growing arts and culture scene. And it's a central location, perfect for visiting family or out-of-town friends to enjoy a convenient, restful stay just 10 miles from the major Atlanta attractions. Just above Atlanta, a visit to Dunwoody goes far beyond the everyday. www.CVBDunwoody.com
atlanta history center
TOUR HISTORIC HOUSES, 22 ACRES OF BEAUTIFUL GOIZUETTA GARDENS,
AWARD-WINNING EXHIBITIONS & MORE!
Discounts Available for groups of 10 or more. Call 404.814.4031 to book your experience today!

404.814.4031 AtlantaHistoryCenter.com

Cyclorama at the Atlanta History Center Opens Fall 2017

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

51

ATLANTA METRO
Both dynamic and down-home, Georgia's Atlanta Metro region epitomizes progressive Southern hospitality. Here you'll find an eclectic mix of world-class restaurants, museums, shopping districts, and professional sports teams, along with charming historic neighborhoods, scenic parks, and an abundance of leafy trees. It's a can't-miss destination for lovers of city life and simple living alike.
{ A B OV E : P I E D M O N T PA R K , AT LA N TA }

GDED EDDIE'S ATTIC AARON SCHORCH ELECTRIC GUITAR ISTOCK COM GLADYS KNIGHT HELGA ESTEB/SHUTTERSTOCK COM

Eddie's Attic What do Sugarland, John Mayer, and Shawn Mullins have in common? They all played--and developed their significant fan bases--at this intimate Decatur venue. This place is all about the music, complete with a stern admonition for cha y guests.

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

MUSICAL NOTES
Music Midtown In September, rub elbows with more than 40,000 music lovers at lush Piedmont Park during one of the largest and longest-running music festivals in the state. Eclectic events feature more than thirty musical artists who represent genres ranging from pop to rock to alternative.

Gladys Knight's Signature Chicken & Waffles Find the nearest "Midnight Train to Georgia" and chow down at one of legendary singer Gladys Knight's three Atlanta-area restaurant locations, famed for their fried chicken wings served over golden waffles.

ATLAN TA M ETR O

OAKLAND CEMETERY ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN CHRIS KOZARICH ZOO ATLANTA

Get Grounded
By Karina Timmel Antenucci

Oakland Cemetery, Atlanta

Atlanta Botanical Garden, Atlanta

At Atlanta Metro's lovely gardens, farms, and cemeteries, discover spots that are rooted in the earth and showcase local culture, both past and present.
Enjoy breathtaking flora and fauna in the heart of Midtown at Atlanta Botanical Garden, where stunning indoor and outdoor exhibits include one of the best collections of aquatic plants in the Southeast and a lush Orchid Display House with species from around the world. Another must-visit botanical garden, Smith-Gilbert Gardens in Kennesaw, spans sixteen acres with a rose garden and bonsai exhibit.
Explore a different side of nature at Southern Belle Farm, a historic 330acre farm in McDonough that's open for

various seasonal activities, such as berry picking in the summer and a corn maze in the fall, as well as visits with farm animals. For more farm fun, get a taste of the city at the Atlanta Farmers Market, a 26,000-square-foot exhibit hall filled with fresh Southeastern produce, from peanuts to peaches.
Two historic Atlanta cemeteries offer hidden sanctuaries worth a stroll.

Founded in 1850, Oakland Cemetery in Grant Park is a garden cemetery crisscrossed by winding paths and dotted with ancient oaks and magnolias. And Westview Cemetery, an 1884 cemetery that's the largest in the Southeast (spanning 600 acres), allows visitors to see the final resting place of many Atlanta pioneers, including Asa Candler, the founder of Coca-Cola.

WORD OF MOUTH

"Hidden gems, unmarked rails, and city escapes. #ArabiaMountain #ExploreGeorgia"
@RACHELLYNN (VIA INSTAGRAM)

GET THE SHOT
Don't miss out on these amazing local photo ops!

1.
Giant Pandas at Zoo Atlanta
Photograph critically endangered giant pandas playing, relaxing, and chewing bamboo when you visit the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Giant Panda Conservation Center in this historic zoo.

2.
Atlanta Streetcar
Take pictures of Atlanta's new rail system, which connects the city's railroad past with modern-day at-
tractions, including Centennial Olympic Park and Peachtree
Center.

3.
The Big Chicken
Cluck, cluck! Erected on top of a Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant in Marie a, this seven-story landmark features a steel-sided chicken with moving eyes
and beak.

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

53

ATLA N TA M ET R O

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

March 19, 2016
Sample more than 100 cra beers from breweries across the nation during the Suwanee American Cra Beer Fest, held in Suwanee Town Center Park. Groove to rock music on the lawn and cheer as hundreds compete for the title of "best brewer."

April 110, 2016
Now in its 40th year, the Academy Award qualifying Atlanta Film Festival showcases a range of independent films in venues around the city. Film buffs will also enjoy a series of panels and seminars on moviemaking.
April 1617, 2016
The Big Shanty Festival in Kennesaw combines artifacts from the Civil War with entertainment from the present day. Anchored by the Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, the festival also displays the works of more than 250 artists.
May 2829, 2016
During the Alphare a Arts Streetfest, woodworkers, painters, photographers, and more showcase their works in Alphare a's charming historic district. Visitors scope for top-notch art while they take in smooth jazz and acoustic music.




June 25, 2016
Eat, drink, and celebrate beneath the Atlanta city skyline at the Atlanta Food and Wine Festival. Weekend highlights include seminars with award-winning Southern chefs, more than 100 cooking and wine classes, and plenty of gastronomic delights.

Aug. 2728, 2016
While summer winds down, enjoy time with family in the heart of Atlanta at the Grant Park Summer Shade Festival. The historic neighborhood welcomes thousands to its annual 5K, followed by live music, art, and kids activities ranging from storytelling to cra s.

Sept. 25, 2016
Cheer as your favorite comic book and videogame characters parade through downtown Atlanta during Dragon Con. Weekend events include seminars on how to make the intricate costumes and Q&A sessions with filmmakers and celebrities.

Sept. 24, 2016
At the International Festival & Dragon Boat Races on Lake McIntosh in Peachtree City, amateurs and experts alike compete in this 2,000-yearold sport. Spectators along the water's edge enjoy Asian foods and an artists expo.

Oct. 89, 2016
The Atlanta Pride Festival and Parade brings acceptance and colorful marches to the city's urban landscape. Enjoy dances at Piedmont Park, a Family Zone, and live musical entertainment on two stages.
Nov. 21, 2016Jan. 3, 2017
During Six Flags Holiday in the Park, more than 1 million LED lights transform Six Flags Over Georgia in Austell into a festive wonderland.

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Treetop Quest, Buford and Dunwoody
Adventure Bound
By Karina Timmel Antenucci
Indulge your adventurous spirit with distinctive activities in Atlanta Metro's great outdoors. First, soar to new heights at Treetop Quest in Buford and Dunwoody, where ages four and older can discover self-guided treetop obstacle courses, canopy bridges, and zip lines of various levels. For more thrills, Six Flags Over Georgia takes you on rides such as Dare Devil Dive and Georgia Cyclone. It's also home to the newly revamped Hurricane Harbor water park--a cool respite in Georgia's warmer months--with water slides like the thrilling Bonzai Pipelines, which shoot you around 180- and 360-degree curves.
Another great way to chill out as temperatures climb is to float down the famed Chattahoochee River. Rent a raft, canoe, kayak, tube, or standup paddleboard from Shoot the Hooch in Roswell, and get ready to make a splash.
If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, Arabia Mountain in Lithonia provides an hour's hike within a 2,550acre nature preserve. The unique granite monadnock, or exposed rock hill, is one of only a few in Georgia.
On the other side of town in Peachtree City, you'll find the Peachtree City GeoTour, where you can explore the city's landmarks via golf cart and a geocaching tour--an outdoor treasure hunt of sorts that uses GPS to navigate you to the geocache (container) hidden at various locations. Game on!

FILM STRIP ISTOCK COM ALPHARETTA ARTS STREETFEST JEREMY MELENDEZ DRAGON CON JAMEY REEVES ATLANTA PRIDE FESTIVAL AND PARADE TREETOP QUEST

Move over, Hollywood: Atlanta is now one of the hottest filming locations in the country. See iconic spots from popular productions such as The Walking Dead and The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Parts 1 and 2 when you hop on a bus with Atlanta
Movie Tours (pictured). South of the city, the Southern Hollywood Film Tour focuses on films shot in Peachtree City, including Sweet Home Alabama. For a solo
adventure, opt for one of the many self-guided tours at tourgeorgiafilm.com.

ATLAN TA M ETR O

Sky Zone Trampoline Park, Roswell

Children's Museum
of Atlanta, Atlanta
Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta

KIDS CORNER
American Girl Boutique, Alphare a

SECRET LANDMARK
In the bucolic town of Rex, a large monument memorializes a Civil Warera slave named Melvinia Shields. Who is she? None other than the great-great-great grandmother of First Lady Michelle Obama.
Children's Museum of Atlanta Here's a museum kids can't wait to go to. Newly renovated, this downtown a raction lets children ages 8 and younger climb the two-story Gateway to the World, explore a 3,000-square-foot science mezzanine, pretend to be farmers, paint the walls, and so much more.
American Girl Boutique One of only twenty American Girl retail stores in the country, this boutique in Alphare a's North Point Mall lets children purchase the popular dolls, plus dozens of coordinating accessories. Enjoy a meal in the Bistro and treat your doll to a hair salon appointment.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park It's okay for youngsters to bounce off the walls at the world's first indoor trampoline park, located in Roswell. Jump into a pit filled with 10,000 foam cubes, play a game of ultimate dodgeball, and bounce from trampoline to trampoline. It's a pastime that blends fitness and fun.
Georgia Aquarium At this Atlanta aquarium--the largest in the Western hemisphere--see gentle beluga whales, giant whale sharks, and spunky bo lenose dolphins up close. At the new SunTrust Georgia Explorer Gallery, set to open this year, discover a new sea lion habitat that showcases the marine mammals in all their charismatic charm.

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

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ATLANTA MOVIE TOURS MELVINIA SHIELDS MEMORIAL CHILDREN'S MUSEUM JEFF ROFFMAN PHOTOGRAPHY AMERICAN GIRL BOUTIQUE SKY ZONE TRAMPOLINE PARK GEORGIA AQUARIUM

ATLA N TA M ET R O AT T R A CT I O N S

Acworth

Alpharetta Johns Buford 85

KPSeponwrnieMndsgeaasrrwieStmt7ay55r7n5SapSRraoiCnnshdgwaysemllbD4leu0e0nwDouoluNCdt2yroh3erecLkroLilabsswuSLrruneowngacanenevvieillllee

Mableton Austell

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78

20Atlanta

Douglasville

Brookhaven 78 Snellville Decatur Stone Mountain
285 Lithonia

ATLANTA East Point

20

METRO Hapeville

675

Union City College Park Ellenwood

Fairburn 85 Morrow

Stockbridge

Tyrone

Jonesboro

19

75 McDonough

Fayetteville 41

PeachtreHe ampton City

Locust Grove

AT T R A C T I O N S

Acworth
Acworth Beach At Cauble Park, the beach opens on Memorial Day weekend and closes Labor Day weekend. Boat ramp, playgrounds, and pavilions. 4425 Beach St., 770-917-1234, lakeallatoona.com/parks/ acworth-beach-at-caublepark
Alpharetta
Alphare a History Walk Step back in time and explore 19 historical markers located throughout downtown Alphare a. Park Plaza, 178 S. Main St., Ste. 200, 678-297-0102, 800-294-0923, awesomealphare a.com/ about-alphare a/alphare ahistory-walk/
Alphare a Walk of Memories by American Legion Post 201 A tribute to veterans, the brick walkway is inscribed with the names of all Georgians who served in the military and died. Veterans Memorial Park, 201 Wills Rd., 770-475-9023, alphare a.us/ alphare awalkofmemories. aspx
American Girl Boutique and Bistro Step into a girl's world at this unique store located inside North Point Mall. 1202 North Point Cir., North Point Mall, 877-247-5223, americangirl. com/retailstore/atlanta

Big Creek Greenway An 8.2-mile-long, 12-footwide paved path for biking, walking, roller blading, and in-line skating along a creek. 3655 Preston Ridge Rd., 678297-6100, alphare a.ga.us/ government/departments/ recreation-parks/facilities/ big-creek-greenway
Jekyll Brewing Tour the first brewery in Alphare a, making handcra ed beers from the finest ingredients. 2855 Marconi Dr., Ste. 350, 844-453-5955, jekyllbrewing.com
Atlanta
Agatha's A Taste of Mystery Presenting original murdermystery comedies; audience participation encouraged. A five-course meal is served. 161 Peachtree Center Ave. NE, 404-584-2211, agathas.com
APEX Museum The African American Panoramic Experience (APEX) showcases art, dance, and African history. 135 Auburn Ave. NE, 494-523-2739, apexmuseum.org
Atlanta Botanical Garden 30 acres of display gardens and shady woodlands featuring roses, herbs, conifers, carnivorous plants, and more. 1345 Piedmont Ave. NE, 404-876-5859, atlantabotanicalgarden.org
Atlanta Braves Check website or call for schedule and ticket prices for this MLB team. Turner Field, 755 Hank Aaron Dr. SE, 404-577-9100, 800-745-3000, atlantabraves.com

Atlanta Contemporary Art Center See cu ing-edge art and mingle with other art lovers at one of the nation's leading contemporary art centers. 535 Means St. NW, 404-6881970, thecontemporary.org Atlanta Dream Check website or call for schedule and ticket prices for this WNBA team. Philips Arena, 1 Philips Dr., 877-9777729, atlantadream.net Atlanta Falcons Check website for ticket pricing and schedule information for this NFL team. Georgia Dome, 1 Georgia Dome Dr., 404-223-8444, 855-222-3267, atlantafalcons.com
Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta

Atlanta Hawks Check website or call for schedule and ticket prices for this NBA team. Philips Arena, 1 Philips Dr., 404-8783000, hawks.com
Atlanta History Center The Southeast's premier history museum, with 22 acres of gardens, two historic homes, and six signature exhibits. 130 W. Paces Ferry Rd. NW, 404-814-4000, atlantahistorycenter.com
Atlanta Movie Tours Trace the footsteps of your favorite characters from movies and television. 327 Nelson St. SW, 855-255-3456, atlantamovietours.com
Atlanta Preservation Center Guided Walking Tours Spend an hour and a half touring sites such as the Fox Theatre, Inman Park, and historic Downtown. 327 St. Paul Ave. SE, 404-688-3353, preserveatlanta.com
ATL-Cruzers Electric Car and Segway Tours Tour Atlanta on one of our exciting five-passenger, open air "electric" cars and learn about the city's rich history. 160 Ted Turner Dr. NW, 404492-7009, 800-979-3370, atlcruzers.com
Bicycle Tours of Atlanta Take a leisurely roll through the historic neighborhoods, culture, and beauty of this great Southern city. Studioplex Lo s, 659 Auburn Ave., 404-273-2558, biketoursatl. com
Bill Lowe Gallery See exhibitions featuring internationally known as well as emerging artists at this contemporary art gallery. 764 Miami Cir., Ste. 120 & 210, 404-352-8114, lowegallery. com

Braves Museum & Hall of Fame/Turner Field Tours Open year-round, the museum features more than 600 Braves artifacts, and tours take guests to areas off-limits during games. 755 Hank Aaron Dr., 404-6142310, braves.com/tours
Buford Highway Farmers Market Shop a large selection of exotic and organic produce, fresh meat and seafood, authentic ingredients, and hard-to-find items. 5600 Buford Hwy. NE, 770-4550770, aofwc.com
Callanwolde Fine Arts Center Tour the Tudor Revival-style mansion, built in 1920 as the home of the eldest son of Coca-Cola founder Asa Candler. 980 Briarcliff Rd. NE, 404-872-5338, callanwolde.org
Centennial Olympic Park This 21-acre park features the Olympic Fountain of Rings, playgrounds, a visitors center, water gardens, and plazas. 265 Park Ave. W. NW, 404-223-4412, centennialpark.com
Center for Civil and Human Rights Experience exhibits that tell powerful and authentic stories of the American civil rights movement and global human rights. 100 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd., 678-999-8990, civilandhumanrights.org
Center for Puppetry Arts This unique cultural destination features performances for all ages and a museum displaying puppets from around the world. 1404 Spring St. NW at 18th, 404873-3391, puppet.org

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS SARAMIEL ALVAREZ

DISCOVER THE UNEXPECTED IN ATLANTA!
HIGHLY-ANTICIPATED OPENINGS, ANNIVERSARIES AND
TRADITIONS ALL TO BE EXPERIENCED THIS YEAR.

1

2

3

Photo credit: Addison Hill

4

5

Photo credit: Sara Hanna

6

7

8

Photo credit: C. McCullers
1 Visit Kermit and his friends at the Worlds of Puppetry Museum, Center for Puppetry Arts and the 2 newly renovated Children's Museum of Atlanta both now open! 3 New Suntrust Pier 225 Sea Lion Exhibit opens in March at the Georgia Aquarium. 4 April brings activities around the 100th Anniversary of the late Maestro Robert Shaw's birthday at the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (pictured); 80th Anniversary of the Atlanta Dogwood Festival; 40th Anniversary of the Atlanta Film Festival and new openings at the Atlanta History Center. 5 "Chihuly in the Garden" returns in May to the Atlanta Botanical Garden. 6 Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games in August. 7 October means Halloween (Historic Oakland Cemetery pictured). 8 Holidays in Atlanta will provide special memories (Atlanta Ballet's Nutcracker pictured).
BE
INSPIRED
Whether you're dining at Buckhead's famous restaurants, shopping at our legendary boutiques and stores, or simply relaxing at one of our world-class hotels, Buckhead's the place to be.
Atlanta.net/Buckhead

FROM SQUARES TO SWEET SPOTS
COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME FERNBANK MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

AT LA N TA M ETR O AT TRACTI O N S
College Football Hall of Fame, Atlanta

Atlanta's Sweet Spot. travelcobb.org 800.431.3480

It's Hip to be Square mariettasquare.com 800.835.0445

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The Children's Museum of Atlanta Children can explore and discover through hands-on learning and play. Field trips, parties, camp, and facility rentals. 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org
College Football Hall of Fame See college football artifacts and interactive multimedia exhibits celebrating the game's greatest players and coaches. 250 Marie a St. NW, 404-880-4800, chall.com
Fernbank Museum of Natural History Explore cultural treasures, ancient fossils, and science interactives, and experience a film in the IMAX Theatre. 767 Cli on Rd. NE, 404-929-6300, fernbankmuseum.org
Fernbank Science Center This learning center has a 500seat planetarium, an observatory, a NASA Aeronautics Education lab, and a 65-acre forest. 156 Heaton Park Dr., 678-874-7102, fernbank.edu
Fox Theatre Built in the 1920s as a Shriner Mosque, the theater is designed with domes, minarets, and an Arabian sky complete with stars. 660 Peachtree St. NE, 404-881-2100, 855-285-8499, foxtheatre.org
Georgia Aquarium Visit the world's largest aquarium, with more than 8 million gallons of water and 120,000 fish and other sea creatures. 225 Baker St. NW, 404-581-4000, georgiaaquarium.org

Guided Walking History Tour at Underground Atlanta On this 50-minute interactive walking tour, learn the history of Atlanta from its early development to modern day influence. ACVB Visitors Center at Underground Atlanta, 50 Upper Alabama St., 404-5232311, underground-atlanta.com/ history/tours
High Museum of Art European, American, African, decorative, folk, and 20th-century art. 1280 Peachtree St. NE, 404733-4444, high.org
Historic Oakland Cemetery Visit the graves of 6,900 Confederate soldiers, author Margaret Mitchell, golfer Bobby Jones, and thousands more at Oakland. 248 Oakland Ave. SE, 404-688-2107, oaklandcemetery.com

Inside CNN Studio Tour A 55-minute behind-the-scenes guided studio tour of the global headquarters of CNN, the world's news leader. 190 Marie a St. NW, 404-827-2300, cnn.com/tour
Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum Step into the Oval Office, experience a day in the life of the president, and see the Nobel Peace Prize. 441 Freedom Pkwy., 404-8657100, jimmycarterlibrary.gov
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta A world of color, creativity, and fun with 15 a ractions, two rides, a 4D cinema, and more designed for children aged 3-10. 3500 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-848-9252, legolanddiscoverycenter.com/ atlanta
Fernbank Museum of Natural History,
Atlanta

AT T R A CT I O N S
Margaret Mitchell House, Atlanta

Margaret Mitchell House Trace the footsteps of Margaret Mitchell and discover the birthplace of her Pulitzer Prizewinning novel, Gone with the Wind. 979 Crescent Ave. NE, Atlanta History Center's Midtown Campus, 404-249-7015, margaretmitchellhouse.com
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site Tour MLK Jr.'s birth home and the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he was baptized and served as a co-pastor. 450 Auburn Ave. NE, 404-331-5190, nps.gov/malu/index.htm
Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs Atlanta Public Art Tour Download the app for an interactive tour of public art through downtown Atlanta. Guided tours also available. 233 Peachtree St. NE, 404-546-6815, ocaatlanta.com
Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory University More than 9,000 years of art and art history, with collections from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. 571 S. Kilgo Cir., 404-727-4282, carlos.emory.edu
Millennium Gate Museum A triumphal arch and history museum that preserves and interprets Georgia history, art, culture, and philanthropic heritage. 395 17th St. NW, 404881-0900, thegateatlanta.com
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia Atlanta-based museum features the best of contemporary visual art by Georgia's emerging and established artists. 75 Benne St., 404-367-8700, mocaga.org
Museum of Design Atlanta The only museum in the Southeast devoted exclusively to the celebration of design and how it affects our daily lives. 1315 Peachtree St., 404-9796455, museumofdesign.org
Oglethorpe University Museum of Art See an impressive permanent collection of fine art, and three originally conceived and curated exhibitions each year. 4484 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404364-8555, museum.oglethorpe.edu
The Peachtree Trolley Starting near Centennial Olympic Park, get acquainted with the must-sees of Atlanta on a 90-minute narrated tour. Hilton Garden Inn, 275 Baker St. NW, 770-425-1006, thepeachtreetrolley.com
The William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum Through the lens of Jewish experience, the museum explores universal themes such as human dignity and respect for difference. 1440 Spring St. NW, 678-222-3700, thebreman.org

770-425-1006 toursaroundatlanta.com

#1 AQUARIUM IN THE U.S.
TROLLEY
SIGHTSEEING
TOURS

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

59

GDED

COME VISIT ATLANTA METRO ATTRACTIONS
PEACHTREE CITY

VISITOR RESOURCES

DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATIONS:
Call or email these professional resources when dreaming, planning, and booking your next Georgia vacation.
Acworth Tourism 770.917.1234, acworthtourism.org
Alphare a Convention and Visitors Bureau 678.297.2811, awesomealphare a.com
Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau 404.521.6600, atlanta.net
Brookhaven Office of Tourism 404.637.0516, brookhavenga.gov
Clayton County Convention and Visitors Bureau 678.610.4242, atlantastruesouth.com
Cobb Travel & Tourism 678.303.2622, travelcobb.org
*Henry County Convention and Visitors Bureau 1709 Highway 20 W, McDonough, GA 30753, 770.957.5786, visithenrycountygeorgia.com
*Marie a Visitors Bureau 4 Depot Street, Marie a, GA 30060, 770.429.1115, marie asquare.com
Meet College Park 404.334.7500, meetcpga.com
*Morrow Tourist Center 6475 Jonesboro Road, Morrow, GA 30260, 770.968.1623, cityofmorrow.com
Decatur Tourism Bureau 678.615.0915, visitdecaturgeorgia.com

DeKalb Convention and Visitors Bureau 770.492.5000, visitatlantasdekalbcounty.com
Douglasville Convention and Visitors Bureau 770.947.5920, visitdouglasville.com
Convention and Visitors Bureau of Dunwoody 800.630.2270, cvbdunwoody.com
Explore Gwinne 770.623.3600, exploregwinne .org
Johns Creek Convention and Visitors Bureau 800.590.4211, johnscreekcvb.com
Lawrenceville Convention and Visitors Bureau 678.226.2639, visitlawrenceville.com
McDonough Hospitality and Tourism 770.898.3196, visitmcdonoughga.com
Peachtree City Convention and Visitors Bureau 678.216.0282, visitpeachtreecity.com
Historic Roswell Convention and Visitors Bureau 770.640.3253, 800.776.7935, visitroswellga.com
*Sandy Springs Hospitality & Tourism Welcome Center 5920 Roswell Road, Ste. A/118, Sandy Springs, GA 30328, 770.206.1447, 866.511.7742, visitsandysprings.org
Snellville Tourism & Trade Association 770.310.0429, snellvilletourism.com
City of Union City 770.964.2288, unioncityga.org

GEORGIA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER:
Located in the baggage claim area of the world's busiest airport, stop here for Georgia travel information.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport 6000 N. Terminal Pkwy., Atlanta, GA 30320 (domestic arrivals/baggage claim area)
REGIONAL VISITOR INFORMATION CENTERS:
When you're here and need more information, these certified locations have staff trained to help. They can also make recommendations about walking tours, restaurants, and more.
Underground Atlanta Welcome Center 65 Upper Alabama Street, Atlanta, GA 30303, 404.577.2148
Clayton County Welcome Center 104 N. Main Street, Jonesboro, GA 30236, 770.478.4800
Douglasville Welcome Center 6694 E. Broad Street, Douglasville, GA 30134, 770.947.5920
*Also a Regional Visitor Information Center available for drop-by visits.

GDED

Reservations by phone 678.216.0282
Please visit us online visitpeachtreecity.com
The Visitors Center 201 McIntosh Trail Peachtree City, GA 30269

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

World of Coca-Cola Learn the history of Coca-Cola, walk through a bo ling line, enjoy a 4-D movie, and taste products from around the world. 121 Baker St. NW, 404-676-5151, 800-6762653, worldofcoca-cola.com
The Wren's Nest Tour the museum, once home to writer Joel Chandler Harris, recorder of the Br'er Rabbit stories. Storytelling Saturdays at 1. 1050 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd. SW, 404-753-7735, wrensnest.org
Zoo Atlanta Get to know one of the Southeast's top destinations for wildlife and family fun, featuring giant pandas and gorillas. 800 Cherokee Ave. SE, 404-624-9453, zooatlanta.org
Austell
Six Flags Over Georgia The largest regional theme park in the Southeast with 11 coasters, Hurricane Harbor water park, and thrills for the family. 275 Riverside Pkwy. SW, 770-739-3400, sixflags.com/overgeorgia

Buford
Tannery Row Artist Colony Buford sculptors, glass-blowers, photographers, and other artists open their studios so the public can view works in progress. 554 W. Main St., 470-326-6656, tanneryrowartistcolony.com/
World of Coca-Cola, Atlanta

Dacula
Fish Lanier Guide Service Fish for striper, crappie, and spo ed bass with a professional guide, who will clean your catch and provide fishing gear. 1602 Rustic Oak Ct., 770-945-0797, fishlanier.com

Meet me at Atlanta's happy place
2015 The Coca-Cola Company. "THE WORLD OF COCA-COLA" and the Contour Bottle Design are registered trademarks of The Coca-Cola Company.

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

61

AT LA N TA M ETR O AT TRACTI O N S

SuperShuttle is the top transportation provider for airport or point to point
transportation in Atlanta!
BUCKHEAD MIDTOWN DOWNTOWN AIRPORT
Contact us to book your transportation
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Atlanta Motor Speedway, Hampton

Decatur
Your DeKalb Farmers Market Shop this 140,000-square-foot international farmers market with exotic, ethnic, and organic produce, meat, bakery, and more. 3000 Ponce de Leon Ave., 404377-6400, dekalbfarmersmarket. com
Douglasville
Douglas County Museum of History & Art/Visitor Information Center Newly revamped museum which offers over 200 collections including a number of mid20th-century rotating exhibits. 6754 Broad St., 678-449-3939, visitdouglascountyga.com
Music Heritage Of The South Learn about the Southern cultural lifestyle, the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, and more on a 20-city tour of the South. 6267 Sherrian St., 770-5771434, musicheritageofthesouth. com
Duluth
Jacqueline Casey Hudgens Center for the Arts See rotating gallery exhibits, a sculpture garden, and gift shops. Also enjoy year-round art classes and a kids art zone. 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Bldg. 300, 770623-6002, thehudgens.org
Southeastern Railway Museum Georgia's official transportation museum with vintage railway equipment, President Harding's private car, and train rides. 3595 Buford Hwy., 770-476-2013, southeasternrailwaymuseum.org

Dunwoody
Dunwoody Nature Center Stroll wetland, woodland, and streamside trails; display gardens; and more at this natural classroom in Dunwoody Park. 5343 Roberts Dr., 770-394-3322, dunwoodynature.org
Forest Park
Atlanta State Farmers Market The 150-acre Atlanta State Farmers Market is considered one of the largest outdoor markets in the U.S. 16 Forest Pkwy., 404-675-1782, agr.georgia.gov/ atlanta-farmers-market.aspx
Hampton
Atlanta Motor Speedway Atlanta's venue for NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series, XFINITY Series, and Camping World Truck Series racing. 1500 Tara Pl., 770946-4211, atlantamotorspeedway. com
Nash Farm Battlefield & Museum The 204-acre public park was the scene of considerable military activity during the Civil War. Museum open Fri.-Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., 100 Babbs Mill Rd., 404-281-8651, henrycountybattlefield.com
Newman Wetlands Center Catch sight of more than 130 bird species and explore the tree-lined paths as you listen to the songs of nature. 2755 Freeman Rd., 770-603-5603, ccwa.us/ newman-wetlands-center

Johns Creek
Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center Forty-six acres of woodlands, trails, pavilions, historic buildings, animal exhibits, and replicas of Native American dwellings. 9770 Autrey Mill Rd., 678-3663511, autreymill.org
Johns Creek Veterans Memorial Walk In a wooded part of Newtown Park, this trail with granite memorials is dedicated to veterans, their families, and supporters. 3150 Old Alabama Rd., 678-5123200, johnscreekveteransmemorial.org
Jonesboro
Arts Clayton Gallery Monthly exhibitions feature Georgia artists as well as traveling exhibits and collections. Find a new artist to love. 136 S. Main St., 770-473-5457, artsclayton. org/gallery
Gone with the Wind Tour A nostalgic audio narrative with tales of Margaret Mitchell's Gone with the Wind and its unique ties to Jonesboro. 104 N. Main St., 770-478-4800, 800-662-7829, atlantastruesouth. com/gone-with-wind/historicbus-tours
Road to Tara Museum Relive Rhett and Scarlett's romance through original manuscripts, reproductions of Scarlett's dresses, and Civil War exhibit. 104 N. Main St., 770-4784800, atlantastruesouth.com/ gone-with-wind/road-to-taramuseum/

HOME & HOTEL AIRPORT RIDE

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

24 HR SERVICE 1-800-258-3826

AT L A NTA M OTO R S P E E DWAY

GEORGIA'S #1 ATTRACTION
Paul Dingman 2008
Play, stay and getaway at Stone Mountain Park, a 3,200 acre natural wonderland located just 15 minutes from downtown Atlanta. The world's largest piece of exposed granite is just the beginning of the unique attractions you'll find at Stone Mountain Park. Choose your adventure from family-friendly attractions and entertainment, year-round events and a selection of lodging right on property, including two Marriott hotels and a family campground.
stonemountainpark.com 800.317.2006
Visit Atlanta's DeKalb

Family

Attractions
Stone Mountain Park

Dining & Nightlife The Pinewood Photo by Justen Clay

Music & Festivals
Kristian Bush

1-866-633-5252 | AtlantasDeKalb.com

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

63

ATLAN TA M ETR O AT TRACTI O N S

Stately Oaks Plantation, Jonesboro

Southern Belles & Whistles Tour This tour highlights Jonesboro's history from a Creek Indian se lement to having 13 saloons on Main Street. 104 N. Main St., 770-478-4800, atlantastruesouth.com/gonewith-wind/historic-bus-tours
Stately Oaks Plantation Take a tour of an 1839 antebellum plantation complete with an original log kitchen, tenant home, and one-room schoolhouse. 100 Carriage Ln., 770-473-0197, historicaljonesboro.org
Kennesaw
Kennesaw Mountain National Ba lefield Park Self-guided tours of the Civil War ba lefield, 15 miles of historic earthworks, recreation and picnicking facilities. 900 Kennesaw Mountain Dr. NW, 770-427-4686, nps. gov/kemo
Smith-Gilbert Gardens Stroll 16 acres of serene gardens, including bonsai trees, camellias, roses, conifers, and sculptures united by woodland paths. 2382 Pine Mountain Rd., 770-919-0248, smithgilbertgardens.com

Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History Includes a Civil Warera locomotive, re-created early20th-century locomotive, and many Civil War relics. 2829 Cherokee St., 770-4272117, southernmuseum.org
Lawrenceville
Bill Vanderford's Fishing Guide Service Learn tricks and tips for catching trout, bass, and other panfish from renowned fisherman Bill Vanderford. P.O. Box 1222, 770-289-1543, georgiafishing.com
Gwinne Braves Check website for ticket pricing and schedule information for this AAA team owned and operated by the Atlanta Braves. 2500 Buford Dr. NE, 678-277-0340, gwinne braves.com
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament Feast on a bountiful fourcourse meal while cheering for brave knights on horseback competing in a jousting tournament. 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy., 888-935-6878, 888935-6878, medievaltimes.com/ atlanta.aspx

Yesterday you caught a Broadway show, today a fish.

GDED

2015 Sandy Springs Hospitality and Tourism. All Rights reserved.
When you stay in Sandy Springs, you are minutes away from Atlanta and next to more than 950 acres of natural areas. Enjoy hundreds of independent shops and restaurants. If you like sports, you're close to the Braves, Falcons, Hawks and lots and lots of fish. VisitSandySprings.org

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Sweetwater Creek State Park, Lithia Springs

AT TRACTI O N S ATLAN TA M ETR O

GEORGIA STATE PARKS SOUTHERN MUSEUM OF CIVIL WAR & LOCOMOTIVE HISTORY

Lilburn
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Take an audio tour that shares spellbinding facts about the mandir and insight on Hindu art, architecture, and philosophy. 460 Rockbridge Rd. NW, 678906-2277, atlanta.baps.org
Yellow River Game Ranch A 25-acre animal preserve offers a trail to see black bears, cougars, buffalo, and other animals indigenous to Georgia. 4525 U.S. Hwy. 78, 770-972-6643, yellowrivergameranch.com

Lithia Springs
Sweetwater Creek State Park Nine miles of trails lead to a textile mill burned during the Civil War and a reservoir popular for fishing and kayaking. 1750 Mt. Vernon Rd., 770-732-5871, 800864-7275, georgiastateparks.org/ sweetwatercreek
Lithonia
Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area Explore biking trails, historic sites, and a monastery. Brochures available at the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve. 3350 Klondike Rd., 404-998-8384, 404998-8384, arabiaalliance.org
Southern Museum of
Civil War & Locomotive
History, Kennesaw

Locust Grove
Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary Houses domestic and exotic animals such as bears, lions, tigers, and monkeys. Picnic on grounds and playgrounds. 712 LG Griffin Rd., 770-957-0888, noahs-ark.org
Marietta
Cha ahoochee River National Recreation Area, Johnson Ferry Unit, North Entrance Along the banks of the Cha ahoochee River, this park includes 2.5 miles of trails, a boat launch, and a covered pavilion. 301 Johnson Ferry Rd., 678-538-1200, nps.gov/chat
Historic Marie a Trolley Co. Take a ride through history aboard the Historic Marie a Trolley. 131 Church St., 770-4251006, marie atrolley.com
Historic Marie a WalkingDriving Tour A self-guided tour leading to more than 50 historic buildings and homes throughout Marie a's National Historic Districts. 4 Depot St., 770-429-1115, 800835-0445, marie asquare.com
Marie a Gone with the Wind Museum: Scarle on the Square Gone with the Wind memorabilia, including the original honeymoon gown worn by Vivien Leigh in her role as Scarle . 18 Whitlock Ave. NW, 770-794-5576, gwtwmarie a.com
Marie a Museum of History Discover the rich history of Marie a and Cobb through a tapestry of exhibits spanning the American Indians to the present. 1 Depot St., Ste. 200, 770-7945710, marie ahistory.org

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

65

ATLANTA METRO DOWNTOWN & ALL AROUND!
GONE
WITH THE
WIND
TRAIL
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Season supported in part by: Fulton County Board of Commissioners; the City of Atlanta Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs; and Georgia Council for
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ATLANTA METRO DOWNTOWN & ALL AROUND!
World's Largest Dinosaurs IMAX Theatre
Interactive Exhibitions Engaging Family Programs New! Outdoor Adventures*
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EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG/ATLANTAMETRO

AT TRACTI O N S
Marie a/Cobb Museum of Art, Marie a

OFFICIAL HOME OF
GONE WITH THE WIND
Clayton County, Georgia | AtlantasTrueSouth.com
Where Rhett and Scarlett Meet Again
104 NORTH MAIN STREET, JONESBORO, GA 30236 | 800.662.7829 | #ATLtruesouth

Marie a/Cobb Museum of Art This charming art museum dedicated to American art houses traveling exhibitions as well as a permanent exhibit. 30 Atlanta St., 770-528-1444, marie acobbartmuseum.org
Six Flags White Water Atlanta Open mid-May to early September. More than 50 a ractions, including slides, three kids areas, a wave pool and a lazy river. 250 Cobb Pkwy. N, #100, 770-948-9290, sixflags.com/whitewater
McDonough
Heritage Park Veterans Museum Browse an array of military uniforms, equipment, supplies, and more from WWI to present. 101 Lake Dow Rd., 404-831-9740, heritageparkveteransmuseum.com
Southern Belle Farm A 330-acre farm in McDonough with U-pick strawberries, blackberries, and pumpkins; a corn maze; and fall fun. 1658 Turner Church Rd., 770-288-2582, southernbellefarm.com
Morrow
Georgia Archives Georgia's most valuable historical documents are housed here. 5800 Jonesboro Rd., 678-364-3710, georgiaarchives.org
Reynolds Nature Preserve A 146-acre natural woodland habitat with Nature Center, bu erfly garden, wetlands, and three miles of hiking trails. 5665 Reynolds Rd., 770-603-4188, reynoldsnaturepreserve.org
Palmetto
Cochran Mill Nature Center Located just 20 minutes south of Atlanta in Palme o; hike and see wild animals, including reptiles and birds of prey. 6300 Cochran Mill Rd., 770-3060914, cochranmillnaturecenter.org
Peachtree City
Southern Hollywood Film Tour This tour gives a glimpse into famous TV and movie film sites, including some seen in Sweet Home Alabama. 201 McIntosh Trl., 678-216-0282, visitpeachtreecity.com/what-to-do/a ractions/all/ duplicate-of-venue

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GEORGIA ON MY MIND

HAROLD DANIELS/COBB CHAMBER

AT T R ACTI O N S ATLAN TA M ETR O

Roswell
Barrington Hall One of the best examples of Greek Revival Temple architecture in the United States. Occupied by Union troops in 1864. 535 Barrington Dr., 678-639-7500, southerntrilogy.com
Bulloch Hall Tour the 1839 childhood home of Mi ie Bulloch, mother of President Theodore Roosevelt, including a garden and nature trail. 180 Bulloch Ave., 770-9921731, 800-776-7935, bullochhall.org
Cha ahoochee Nature Center Enjoy freshwater ponds, wooded uplands, river marshes, and wildlife along the river. 9135 Willeo Rd., 770-992-2055, cha naturecenter.org
Roswell Fire Museum This small local museum focuses on the history and evolution of the Roswell Volunteer Fire Department. 1002 Alphare a St., 770-640-3253, roswellgov.com/ government/fire/roswell-firemuseum
Shoot the Hooch Ra , kayak, or canoe down the Cha ahoochee River in Sandy Springs. Groups welcome. 203 Azalea Dr., 770-650-1008, shootthehooch.com
Smith Plantation Original 1845 plantation home with original furnishings and outbuildings, including slave quarters, corncrib, and kitchen. 935 Alphare a St., 678-639-7500, archibaldsmithplantation.org

Anne Frank in the World This exhibit tells the story of young Anne Frank and explores lessons of the Holocaust and its relevance today. 5920 Roswell Rd., Ste. A-209, 770-206-1558, holocaust.georgia.gov
Sandy Springs
Atlanta Capitals Hockey Team Check website for ticket pricing and schedule information for this junior hockey team. 5750 Roswell Rd., 404-3649810, na3hlatlantacapitals. pointstreaksites.com/view/ na3hltopeka/the-official-homeof-atlanta-capitals-hockey
Cha ahoochee River National Recreation Area Enjoy recreational activities, natural habitats, and cultural sites all within a short drive of downtown Atlanta. 1978 Island Ford Pkwy., 678-538-1200, nps. gov/chat
Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) Cha ahoochee River National Recreation Area Take a trip down the Cha ahoochee River. Rentals for tubing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and ra ing are available. 5450 Interstate N. Pkwy., 770226-9519, noc.com/plan-your-trip/ cha ahoochee-river
Smyrna
Smyrna History Museum A large collection of photographs, memorabilia, publications, and historical and genealogical research materials. 2861 Atlanta Rd., 770-431-2858, smyrnahistory. org/_museum.htm

Stockbridge
Panola Mountain State Park This granite mountain offers rare plants, picnic areas, fishing, archery, an interpretive center, and ranger-led hikes. 2600 Hwy. 155 SW, 770-389-7801, 800-8647275, georgiastateparks.org/ panolamountain
The Pumpkin Patch at Yule Forest Hwy. 155 Experience the Pumpkin Patch and several haunted a ractions in October with a cut-your-own Christmas tree Nov.-Dec. 3565 N. Hwy. 155, 770-954-9356, aboutyule.com
Stone Mountain
ART Station Located in the Old Trolley Station in historic Stone Mountain Village. Offers theater, galleries, cra s, classes, and events. 5384 Manor Dr., 770-469-1105, artstation.org
Stone Mountain Park Features a ractions, historical and natural sites, two hotels, campground, golf courses, and woodland hiking trails. 1000 Robert E. Lee Dr., 770-498-5690, 800-401-2407, stonemountainpark.com
Suwanee
Suwanee SculpTour This self-guided outdoor art exhibit has 15 sculptures created from an array of materials. Sculptures change bi-annually. 330 Town Center Ave., 770-9458996, suwanee.com/whatsnew. sculptour.php

STONE MOUNTAIN PARK

Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

69

Come Home to

www.cometopowdersprings.org

70

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Powder Springs

WH E R E TO STAY
Hotels & Motels
ACWORTH
America's Best Inns - Acworth 5320 Cherokee St., 770-974-5400, americas-best-inn-acworth.magnusonhotels.com
Americas Best Value Inn - Acworth/Kennesaw 5245 Glade Rd., 770-966-1644, americasbestvalueinn.com
Best Western Acworth Inn 5155 Cowan Rd., 770-9740116, bestwestern.com
Days Inn Acworth 164 Northpoint Way, 770-9759000, daysinn.com
Econo Lodge - Acworth 4980 Cowan Rd., 770-9741922, 800-424-6423, econolodge.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Acworth - Kennesaw Northwest 200 North Point Way, 678-574-4222, 800439-4745, hiexpress.com
La Quinta Inn Acworth 184 North Point Way, 770975-9920, laquintaacworth.com
Super 8 - Acworth/Atlanta Area 4970 Cowan Rd., 770-966-9700, super8.com
A L P H A R E T TA
Atlanta Marrio Alphare a 5750 Windward Pkwy., 770-754-9600, alphare amarrio .com
Comfort Inn - Alphare a 5455 Windward Pkwy. W, 770-664-7997, comfortinn.com
Courtyard by Marrio - Atlanta Alphare a 12655 Deerfield Pkwy., 678-366-3360, marrio .com
DoubleTree by Hilton Atlanta - Alphare a 2925 Jordan Ct., 678-347-0022, doubletree3.hilton.com
Embassy Suites Atlanta - Alphare a 5955 North Point Pkwy., 678-566-8800, embassysuitesalphare a. com
Extended Stay America - Alphare a 1950 Rock Mill Rd., 770-475-2676, 800-398-7829, extendedstayamerica.com
Extended Stay America - Atlanta/Alphare a/North Point/West 3329 Old Milton Pkwy., 770-569-1730, 800-398-7829, extendedstayamerica.com
Extended Stay America - Atlanta/Alphare a/ Northpoint/East 3331 Old Milton Pkwy., 770-4757871, 800-646-2800, extendedstayamerica.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Alphare a 11385 Haynes Bridge Rd., 770-663-4000, 800-228-2800, marrio .com
Hampton Inn & Suites Alphare a 16785 Old Morris Rd., 678-393-0990, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hampton Inn Alphare a/Roswell 10740 Westside Way, 770-640-5511, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta North Point 10975 Georgia Lane, 678-566-3900, hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta North/Alphare a 4025 Windward Plaza, 770-360-7766, hiltongardeninn3. hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alphare a - Windward Parkway 12505 Innovation Way, 678-339-0505, ihg.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton Atlanta - Alphare a 10775 Davis Dr., 770-998-1622, homewoodsuites3. hilton.com
Hya Place Atlanta/Alphare a/North Point Mall 7500 North Point Pkwy., 770-594-8788, hya placeatlantanorthpointmall.com
Hya Place Atlanta/Alphare a/Windward Parkway 5595 Windward Pkwy., 770-343-9566, alphare awindwardparkway.place.hya .com
La Quinta Inn & Suites Atlanta Alphare a 1350 North Point Dr., 770-754-7800, laquintaatlantaalphare a.com
Ramada Limited Alphare a 3020 Mansell Rd., 678461-7300, ramada.com
Residence Inn Atlanta Alphare a/North Point Mall 1325 North Point Dr., 770-587-1151, marrio .com
Residence Inn Atlanta Alphare a/Windward 5465 Windward Pkwy. W, 770-664-0664, marrio .com

wh e r e to stay atlan ta m etr o

Staybridge Suites Alpharetta - North Point 3980 North Point Pkwy., 770-569-7200, staybridge.com
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Atlanta Alpharetta 7925 Westside Pkwy., 770-6641300, marriott.com
Wingate by Wyndham Alpharetta 1005 Kingswood Pl., 770-649-0955, wingatealpharetta.com
AtlAntA AirPort
Comfort Suites Atlanta Airport 5087 Clark Howell Hwy., 404-209-7299, choicehotels. com
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Atlanta Airport 3400 Norman Berry Dr., 404-763-1600, doubletree3.hilton.com
Embassy Suites Atlanta Airport 4700 Southport Rd., 404-767-1988, atlantaairport. embassysuites.com
Hilton Atlanta Airport 1031 Virginia Ave., 404-767-900 , hilton.com
Holiday Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport North 1380 Virginia Ave., 404-305-9990, 800-3152621, hiatlantaairport.com
Holiday Inn Express Atlanta Airport West - Camp Creek 3833 Princeton Lakes Ct. SW, 404-968-2300, 888-465-4329, ihg.com
Motel 6 Atlanta - Airport North 1200 Virginia Ave., 404-209-1800, 800-899-9841, motel6.com
Sheraton Atlanta Airport Hotel 1900 Sullivan Rd., 770-997-1100, 888-627-7046, sheratonatlantaairport.com
Super 8 Atlanta/Jonesboro Road 3701 Jonesboro Rd., 404-361-1111, super8.com
The Westin Atlanta Airport 4736 Best Rd., 404-762-7676, 888-627-7211, westinatlantaairport.com
AtlAntA: BuCkheAd
Atlanta Marriott Buckhead Hotel & Conference Center 3405 Lenox Rd., 404-2619250, marriottbuckhead.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Buckhead 3332 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-8690818, marriott.com
Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Atlanta - Buckhead 3342 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-2311234, doubletree3.hilton.com
Embassy Suites Atlanta Buckhead 3285 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-261-7733, embassysuites3.hilton.com
Extended Stay America - Atlanta - Buckhead 3967 Peachtree Rd., 404-237-9100, extendedstayamerica.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Buckhead 3092 Piedmont Rd. NE, 404-846-0900, fairfieldinn.com

Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead 3300 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-237-1234, 800-233-1234, grandatlanta.hyatt.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta-Buckhead 3398 Piedmont Rd. NE, 404-233-5656, hamptoninn3. hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta Buckhead 800 Sidney Marcus Blvd., 404-9494000, 888-465-4329, ihg.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton Atlanta - Buckhead 3566 Piedmont Rd., 404-365-0001, homewoodsuites3.hilton.com
InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta 3315 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-946-9000, 888-2330368, ihg.com
JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead 3300 Lenox Rd. NE, 404-262-3344, 800-613-2051, marriott.com
La Quinta Inn Atlanta Midtown/Buckhead 2535 Chantilly Dr. NE, 404-3210999, 800-753-3757, lq.com
Mandarin Oriental Atlanta 3376 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404995-7500, mandarinoriental. com/atlanta
Quality Suites Buckhead Village 505 Pharr Rd. NE, 404-262-7880, qualityinn.com
Residence Inn by Marriott - Atlanta Buckhead 2960 Piedmont Rd. NE, 404-2390677, marriott.com
Residence Inn by Marriott - Atlanta Buckhead/Lenox Park 2220 Lake Blvd. NE, 404-467-1660, 800-331-3131, marriott.com
The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead 3434 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-237-2700, 800-542-8680, ritzcarlton.com
SpringHill Suites Atlanta Buckhead 3459 Buckhead Loop NE, 404-844-4800, marriott.com
St. Regis Atlanta 88 W. Paces Ferry Rd., 404-563-7900, 888627-7231, stregisatlanta.com
Staybridge Suites Atlanta - Buckhead 540 Pharr Rd., 404-842-0800, 888-465-4329, ihg.com
W Atlanta - Buckhead 3377 Peachtree Rd. NE, 678-500-3100, 888-627-7063, watlantabuckhead.com
The Westin Buckhead Atlanta 3391 Peachtree Rd. N.E, 404-365-0065, 800-937-8461, westin.com
Wingate by Wyndham Atlanta/Buckhead 3600 Piedmont Rd. NE, 404-8691100, wingatehotels.com
AtlAntA: downtown
Atlanta Marriott Marquis 265 Peachtree Center Ave., 404521-0000, marriott.com
Best Western Plus Inn at the Peachtrees 330 W. Peachtree St. NW, 404-577-6970, 800-2424642, innatthepeachtrees.com

Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Atlanta Downtown South at Turner Field 759 Pollard Blvd. SW, 404-6581961, countryinns.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Downtown 133 Carnegie Way NW, 404-222-2416, marriott.com
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Atlanta Downtown 160 Spring St., NW, 404-688-8600, 866-316-5959, doubletree3. hilton.com
The Ellis Hotel 176 Peachtree St. NW, 404-523-5155, 877-2112545, ellishotel.com
Embassy Suites Atlanta - at Centennial Olympic Park 267 Marietta St., 404-223-2300, atlantacentennialpark.embassysuites.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Downtown Atlanta 54 Peachtree St. SW, 678-702-8600, atlantahoteldowntown.com
Grant Park Hotel 795 Pollard Blvd. SW, 404-658-1610, grantparkhotelatlanta.com
Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta-Downtown 161 Spring St. NW, 404-589-1111, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hampton Inn AtlantaGeorgia Tech-Downtown 244 North Ave. NW, 404-881-0881, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hilton Atlanta 255 Courtland St. NE, 404-659-2000, hilton. com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Downtown 275 Baker St. NW, 404-577-2001, hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn Atlanta Downtown - Centennial Park 101 Andrew Young International Blvd. NW, 404-524-5555, atlhidowntown.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta Downtown 111 Cone St. NW, 404-524-7000, centennialinnatlanta.com
Hyatt Place - Atlanta/Downtown 330 Peachtree St. NE, 404-577-1980, atlantadowntown.place.hyatt.com
Hyatt Regency Atlanta 265 Peachtree St. NE, 404-5771234, hyattregencyatlanta.com
Motel 6 Atlanta Downtown 311 Courtland St. NE, 404-6594545, 800-899-9841, www. motel6.com
Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center 100 CNN Center, 404-659-0000, 800-8436664, omnihotels.com
Quality Hotel Downtown - Atlanta 89 Luckie St., 404-524-7991, 800-228-5151, qualityinn.com
Residence Inn Atlanta Downtown 134 Peachtree St. NW, 404-522-0950, marriott.com
The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta 181 Peachtree St. N.E., 404-6590400, ritzcarlton.com

Savannah Suites - Atlanta 140 Pine St. NE, 404-591-2400, savannahsuites.com
Sheraton Atlanta Hotel 165 Courtland St. NE, 404659-6500, 888-627-7046, sheratonatlantahotel.com
W Atlanta - Downtown 45 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd., 404582-5800, 888-627-8187, watlantadowntown.com
The Westin Peachtree Plaza 210 Peachtree St. NW, 404659-1400, westin.com
AtlAntA: Midtown
Artmore Hotel 1302 W. Peachtree St. NW, 404876-6100, 800-548-5631, artmorehotel.com
Atlanta Marriott Suites Midtown 35 14th St., 404-8768888, marriotthotels.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Midtown/Georgia Tech 1132 Techwood Dr. NW, 404-607-1112, marriott.com
Crowne Plaza Atlanta Midtown 590 W. Peachtree St. NW, 404-877-9000, 877-2276963, cpatlantamidtown.com
The Georgian Terrace 659 Peachtree St. NE, 404-8971991, 866-845-7551, thegeorgianterrace.com
The Highland Inn 644 N. Highland Ave. NE, 404-8745756, thehighlandinn.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Midtown 97 10th St. NW, 404524-4006, hiltongardeninn3. hilton.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton Atlanta Midtown 97 10th St. NW, 404-524-4076, homewoodsuites3.hilton.com
Hotel Indigo Atlanta Midtown 683 Peachtree St. NE, 404-874-9200, 877-846-3446, ihg.com
Hyatt - Atlanta Midtown 125 10th Street NE, 404-443-1234, atlantamidtown.hyatt.com
Loews Atlanta Hotel 1065 Peachtree St. NE, 404745-5000, 888-563-9736, loewshotels.com
Regency Suites Hotel Midtown Atlanta 975 West Peachtree St., 404-876-5003, 800-642-3629, regencysuites. com
Twelve Hotel & Residences Atlantic Station 361 17th St., 404-961-1212, twelvehotels.com
W Atlanta Midtown 188 14th St., 404-892-6000, 888-6278545, watlantamidtown.com
AtlAntA: PeriMeter Center
Comfort Suites Perimeter Center 6110 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., 770-828-0330, 800-424-6423, comfortsuites. com
Hilton Atlanta Perimeter Suites 6120 Peachtree Dunwood Rd., 770-668-0808, hilton.com

Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Perimeter Center 1501 Lake Hearn Dr., 404-459-0500, hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn Atlanta Perimeter/Dunwoody 4386 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., 770-457-6363, hiperimeter. com
AtlAntA: PeriMeter ne
Atlanta Marriott Century Center/Emory Area 2000 Century Blvd. NE, 404-3250000, marriott.com
Clarion Hotel & Conference Center North Atlanta 2001 Clearview Ave., 770-455-3700, 888-816-0924, clarionhotel. com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta/Executive Park/ Emory 1236 Executive Park Dr., 404-728-0708, 800-3212211, marriott.com
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Atlanta - Northlake 4156 Lavista Rd., 770-938-1026, doubletree3.hilton.com
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Atlanta North Druid Hills - Emory Area 2061 N. Druid Hills Rd., 404-321-4174, doubletree3.hilton.com
Emory Conference Center Hotel 1615 Clifton Rd. NE, 404-712-6000, 800-933-6679, emoryconferencecenter.com
Extended Stay America - Atlanta/Clairmont 3115 Clairmont Rd., 404-679-4333, extendedstayamerica.com
Hampton Inn - Atlanta/North Druid Hills 1975 N. Druid Hills Rd. NE, 404-320-6600, 800-426-7866, hamptoninn3. hilton.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta/ Northlake 3400 Northlake Pkwy. NE, 770-493-1966, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn Atlanta Northlake 2158 Ranchwood Dr., 770-934-6000, holidayinn. com
Holiday Inn Express Atlanta NE - I-85 Clairmont 2920 Clairmont Rd. NE, 404-2481550, hiexpress.com
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Atlanta/Buckhead Area 1840 Corporate Blvd. NE, 404-325-4446, microtelinn.com
Motel 6 - Atlanta Chamblee Tucker 3585 Chamblee Tucker Rd., 678-808-8100, 800-899-9841, Motel6.com
Quality Inn Northeast Atlanta 2960 Northeast Expressway, 770-451-5231, 800-424-6423, qualityinn.com
Red Roof Plus+ Atlanta/ Buckhead 1960 N. Druid Hills Rd. NE, 404-321-1653, 800-7337663, redroof.com
Super 8 - Atlanta Northeast 2822 Chamblee Tucker Rd., 770-458-2671, super8.com

ExplorEgEorgia.org

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atla n ta m et r o w h e r e to stay

The University Inn at Emory 1767 N. Decatur Rd., 404-6347327, 800-654-8591, univinn. com
atlanta: Perimeter nW
Atlanta Marriott Northwest at Galleria 200 Interstate North Pkwy., 770-952-7900, atlantamarriottnw.com
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson - Atlanta/NW at Windy Hill 4500 Circle 75 Pkwy. SE, 770-956-9919, countryinns.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Cumberland Center 3000 Cumberland Blvd., 770-952-2555, 800-321-2211, marriott.com
Days Inn & Suites Atlanta Six Flags 3900 Fulton Industrial Blvd., 404-691-2444, daysinn. com
Days Inn Atlanta Marietta Galleria 4502 Circle 75 Pkwy., 770-541-9399, the.daysinn.com
DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Atlanta - Galleria 2780 Windy Ridge Pkwy., 770-980-1900, 800-222-8733, doubletree3.hilton.com
Embassy Suites Atlanta - Galleria 2815 Akers Mill Rd. SE, 770-984-9300, 800-362-2779, embassysuites3.hilton.com
Extended Stay America Atlanta/Marietta/ Interstate North Pkwy. 2225 Interstate North Pkwy. W, 770-226-0242, 800-398-7829, extendedstayamerica.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Vinings 2450 Paces Ferry Rd. SE, 770-435-4500, marriott.com
Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta - Galleria 2733 Circle 75 Pkwy., 770-955-1110, hamptoninngalleria.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta - Cumberland Mall/NW 2775 Cumberland Pkwy., 770-333-6006, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta NW/Wildwood 3045 Windy Hill Rd., 770-953-8850, hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton Atlanta - Galleria/Cumberland 3200 Cobb Parkway, 770-988-9449, homewoodsuites3.hilton.com
Hotel Indigo Atlanta-Vinings 2857 Paces Ferry Rd., 770432-5555, ihg.com
Hyatt house Atlanta Cobb/ Galleria 3595 Cumberland Blvd. SE, 770-541-2960, hyatthouseatlantacobbgalleria.com
Sheraton Suites Galleria Atlanta 2844 Cobb Pkwy. SE, 770-955-3900, 888-627-7047, sheratonsuitesgalleriaatlanta. com
Wingate by Wyndham Atlanta Galleria Center 2762 Cobb Pkwy. SE, 678-214-6000, wingatehotels.com

austell
Econo Lodge at Six Flags 200 Lee Industrial Blvd., 770941-2255, econolodge.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta NW - Powder Springs 3741 Tramore Pointe Pkwy. SW, 770-349-8000, 800-2304134, ihg.com
Knights Inn Atlanta West Near Six Flags 1595 N. Blairs Bridge Rd., 770-944-0824, knightsinn.com
Sleep Inn - Atlanta/Six Flags 125 S. Service Rd., 770-819-2805, 800-424-6423, choicehotels.com
Super 8 Austell/Six Flags 7377 Six Flags Dr., 770-9442110, super8.com
Wingate by Wyndham Atlanta/Six Flags Austell 65 S. Service Rd., 770-948-7877, wingateinnatl.com
BuforD
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Buford/Mall of Georgia 1395 Mall of Georgia Blvd. NE, 770-271-1441, countryinns.com
Hampton Inn - Atlanta - Mall of Georgia 3240 Buford Dr., 678-546-1200, hamptoninn3. hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Buford-Mall of Georgia 2499 Satellite Blvd., 678-318-1080, 800-465-4329, hiexpress.com
SpringHill Suites by Marriott - Buford/Mall of Georgia 3250 Buford Dr., 678-714-2150, springhillsuites.com
Wingate by Wyndham Atlanta/Buford 1355 Mall of Georgia Blvd., 678-714-0248, wingatehotels.com
ChamBlee
Motel 6 Atlanta 2820 Chamblee Tucker Rd., 770-4586626, motel6.com
Residence Inn - Atlanta Perimeter/Dunwoody 1901 Savoy Dr., 770-455-4446, marriott.com
Studio 6 Chamblee 5280 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., 678805-3400, staystudio6.com
Suburban Extended Stay Chamblee 2050 Peachtree Industrial Ct., 770-234-9005, 800-951-7829, choicehotels. com
Value Place Chamblee 2877 Dresden Dr., 770-674-8766, valueplace.com
College Park atlanta airPort
3 Palms Hotel Atlanta Airport North 1419 Virginia Ave., 404-768-7800, 3palmsatlantaairport.com
Atlanta Airport Marriott 4711 Best Rd., 404-766-7900, marriott.com
Atlanta Airport Marriott Gateway 2020 Convention Center Concourse, 404-7631544, marriott.com

Atlanta Gateway Hotel 5010 Old National Hwy., 404-7689199, magnusonhotels.com
Baymont Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport South 2450 Old National Pkwy., 404-684-9898, 800-337-0550, baymontinns. com
Best Western Plus Hotel & Suites Airport South 1556 Phoenix Blvd., 770-996-5800, bestwestern.com
Country Inn and Suites by Carlson, Atlanta Airport South 5100 West Fayetteville Rd., 770-991-1099, countryinns. com
Courtyard by Marriott - Atlanta Airport South/Sullivan Road 2050 Sullivan Rd., 770-997-2220, 800-922-3653, marriott.com
Days Inn & Suites/College Park/Atlanta/Airport West 2451 Old National Pkwy., 404761-8371, daysinn.com
Days Inn College Park/ Atlanta/Airport South 1540 Phoenix Blvd., 770-996-7300, the.daysinn.com
Days Inn College Park Airport Best Road 4505 Best Rd., 404767-1224, daysinn.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport South/Sullivan Road 2020 Sullivan Rd., 770-9943666, marriott.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta-Airport 1888 Sullivan Rd., 770-9962220, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Airport/Millenium Center 2301 Sullivan Rd., 404-7660303, hiltongardeninn3.hilton. com
Holiday Inn Atlanta Airport South 4669 Airport Blvd., 404-763-8800, 800-972-2404, ihg.com
Holiday Inn Express Atlanta Airport - College Park 4601 Best Rd., 404-761-6500, 800972-2404, hiexpress.com
Hotel Indigo Atlanta Airport - College Park 1776 Harvard Ave., 404-767-8881, ihg.com
Hyatt Place Atlanta Airport South 1899 Sullivan Rd., 770994-2997, atlantaairportsouth. place.hyatt.com
La Quinta Inn & Suites AtlantaAirport 4820 Massachusetts Blvd., 770-996-0000, laquintaatlantaairport.com
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Atlanta Airport 4839 Massachusetts Blvd., 770-9943003, microtelinn.com
Quality Hotel Conference Center - College Park 1551 Phoenix Blvd., 770-996-4321, qualityinn.com
Quality Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport South - College Park 2480 Old National Pkwy., 404766-0000, qualityinn.com
Sleep Inn - College Park/ Atlanta Airport 1911 Sullivan Rd., 770-996-6100, choicehotels.com

SpringHill Suites Atlanta Airport Gateway 2091 Convention Center Concourse, 770-907-8880, marriott.com
Super 8 College Park Atlanta Airport 2010 Sullivan Rd., 770-991-8985, atlantaairportsuper8.com
Super 8 College Park/Atlanta Airport West 4979 Old National Hwy., 404-669-8616, super8.com
Travelodge College Park 2471 Old National Pkwy., 404-4771050, travelodge.com
Conley
Econo Lodge - Conley 3140 Moreland Ave., 404-363-6960, econolodge.com
D e C at u r
A2B Budget Hotel 2942 Ember Dr., 404-241-8770, a2bbudgethotelga.com
America's Best Inn & Suites - Decatur 4095 Covington Hwy., 404-286-2500, americasbestinn.com
Americas Best Value Inn - Decatur/Atlanta 2574 Candler Rd., 404-243-4422, americasbestvalueinn.com
Country Hearth Inn - Decatur 2945 Gus Pl., 404-2128882, countryhearth.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Decatur Downtown/ Emory 130 Clairemont Ave., 404-371-0204, courtyarddecatur.com
Econo Lodge - Decatur 4600 Glenwood Rd., 404-289-4940, 800-424-6423, econolodge.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta - Emory University Area 2183 N. Decatur Rd., 404-320-0888, 800-972-2404, hiexpress.com
Metro Extended Stay Decatur 1638 Church St., 404-267-3701, 877-637-4683, metroextendedstay.com
Quality Inn & Suites Decatur - Atlanta East 5300 Snapfinger Park Dr., 678-418-0004, qualityinn.com
Quality Inn Northlake 2155 Ranchwood Dr. NE, 770-4917444, atlantaqi.com
Rite 4 Us Inn & Suites 4300 Snapfinger Woods Dr., 770981-5670, rite4usinnandsuites. wix.com
Super 8 Decatur/Lithonia/ Atlanta Area 5354 Snapfinger Park Dr., 770-987-5128, super8.com
Super 8 Motel Decatur/ Downtown/Atlanta Area 917 Church St., 404-378-3765, 888-950-5062, super8.com
TownePlace Suite by Marriott Atlanta Northlake 3300 Northlake Pkwy., 770-9380408, towneplace.com
D o r av i l l e
Lodge Atlanta 4422 Northeast Expressway, 770-4482535, lodgeatl.com

Douglasville
Americas Best Value Inn - Douglasville 5481 Westmoreland Plaza, 770-949-4926, americasbestvalueinn.com
Candlewood Suites Atlanta West I-20 913 Bob Arnold Blvd., 678-238-1980, ihg.com
Comfort Inn - Douglasville 5487 Westmoreland Plaza, 678-504-2000, 800-424-6423, choicehotels.com
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Atlanta Six Flags 960 West Pointe Ct., 678945-0945, 800-830-5222, countryinns.com
Days Inn Douglasville Atlanta - Fairburn Road 5489 Westmoreland Plaza, 770-9491499, the.daysinn.com
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Douglasville 8304 Cherokee Blvd., 770-489-4863, econolodgeatlwest.com
Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta - Six Flags 999 Bob Arnold Blvd., 770-745-9990, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta/Douglasville 6371 Douglas Blvd., 770-577-2110, hamptoninn3. hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express Atlanta W (I-20) Douglasville 7101 Concourse Pkwy., 770-9209228, holidayinnexpress.com
Holiday Inn Express Atlanta West - Theme Park Area 850 Crestmark Dr., 770-941-5384, ihg.com
InTown Suites - Atlanta West/Lithia Springs 637 W. Market Cir., 770-948-8331, intownsuites.com
InTown Suites Extended Stay Living Douglasville 5820 Plaza Pkwy., 770-920-5252, intownsuites.com
La Quinta Inn & Suites Atlanta Douglasville 1000 Linnenkohl Dr., 770-577-3838, 866-577-3838, lq.com
Motel 6 Atlanta - Lithia Springs 920 Bob Arnold Blvd., 770-941-6464, motel6.com
Quality Inn near Six Flags 5479 Westmoreland Plaza, 770-949-5730, qualityinn.com
Sleep Inn - Douglasville 7055 Concourse Pkwy., 770-9208887, 800-424-6423, sleepinn. com
Duluth
Candlewood Suites Atlanta 3665 Shackleford Rd., 678380-0414, 888-226-3539, candlewoodsuites.com
Comfort Suites Gwinnett Place 3700 Shackleford Rd., 770-931-9299, comfortsuites. com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Duluth/Gwinnett Place 3550 Venture Pkwy., 770-476-4666, marriott.com
Extended Stay America Duluth 3430 Venture Pkwy., 770-622-0270, extendedstayamerica.com

72

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wh e r e to stay atlan ta m etr o

Extended Stay Deluxe Atlanta - Gwinnett Place 3390 Venture Pkwy., 770-623-6800, 800-804-3724, extendedstayamerica.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Gwinnett Place 3570 Breckinridge Blvd., 678-924-1023, marriott.com
Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta/Duluth/Gwinnett County 1725 Pineland Rd., 770-931-9800, hamptoninn3. hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta NE/Gwinnett Sugarloaf 2040 Sugarloaf Cir., 770-495-7600, hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Duluth - Mall Area 3530 Breckinridge Blvd., 678-4052900, 888-465-4329, ihg.com
Holiday Inn Gwinnett Center 6310 Sugarloaf Pkwy., 770-4762022, 877-834-3613, ihg.com
Hyatt Place Atlanta/Duluth/ Gwinnett Mall 3530 Venture Pkwy., 770-623-9699, 800833-1516, duluthgwinnettmall. place.hyatt.com
InTown Suites Duluth 3750 Satellite Blvd., 770-622-9700, intownsuites.com
InTown Suites Gwinnett Place Mall Extended Stay Hotel 3720 Steve Reynolds Blvd., 770-931-3320, intownsuites.com
Jameson Inn Duluth 1920 Pleasant Hill Rd., 770-4768700, 800-526-3766, jamesoninns.com
La Quinta Inn Atlanta Duluth 2370 Stephens Center Dr., 678-957-0500, lq.com
Quality Inn, Duluth 3500 Venture Pkwy., 770-623-9300, 800-424-6423, qualityinnatatlanta.net
Residence Inn Atlanta Duluth/Gwinnett Place 1760 Pineland Rd., 770-921-2202, 800-331-3131, marriott.com
Sonesta Gwinnett Place Atlanta 1775 Pleasant Hill Road, 770-923-1775, sonesta.com
Studio 6 - Duluth 3525 Breckinridge Blvd., 770-931-3113, 888-897-0202, staystudio6. com
Suburban Extended Stay - Duluth 2350 Stephens Center Dr., 678-474-9700, 800-424-6423, suburbanhotels.com
Wingate by Wyndham Duluth/Atlanta 3450 Venture Pkwy., 770-622-7277, wingatehotels.com
Wyndham Garden Duluth 1948 Day Dr., 770-814-2800, wyndham.com
D u nwo o Dy
Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center 246 Perimeter Center Pkwy., 770-394-6500, atlantamarriottperimeter.com
Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., 770-395-7700, cpravinia.com

Embassy Suites Atlanta - Perimeter Center 1030 Crown Pointe Pkwy., 770-3945454, atlantaperimetercenter. embassysuites.com
Hyatt Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina 4000 Summit Blvd., 678-539-1234, atlantaperimetervillachristina.hyatt.com
Le Meridien Atlanta Perimeter 111 Perimeter Center West, 770-396-6800, lemeridienatlantaperimeter.com
Staybridge Suites Atlanta Perimeter Center 4601 Ridgeview Rd., 678-320-0111, ihg.com
East Point atlanta airPort
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Atlanta Airport North 1365 Hardin Ave., 404767-9787, countryinns.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Airport West 3400 Creek Pointe Dr., 404-3444414, marriott.com
Crowne Plaza Atlanta Airport 1325 Virginia Ave., 404-768-6660, cpatlantaairporthotel.com
Drury Inn & Suites Airport Atlanta 1270 Virginia Ave., 404761-4900, druryhotels.com
Econo Lodge - Atlanta/Airport North 1360 Virginia Ave., 404761-5201, choicehotels.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport North 1255 Walker Ave., 404-767-5374, marriott.com
Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport North I-85 3450 Bobby Brown Pkwy., 404-767-9300, hamptoninn3. hilton.com
Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport West/Camp Creek Pkwy 3450 Creek Pointe Dr., 404-344-4474, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Airport North 3437 Bobby Brown Pkwy., 404-477-6600, hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton Atlanta Airport North 3405 Bobby Brown Pkwy., 404554-9300, homewoodsuites3. hilton.com
Hyatt Place Atlanta Airport North 3415 Norman Berry Dr., 404-768-8484, atlantaairportnorth.place.hyatt.com
Wellesley Inn & Suites - East Point 1377 Virginia Ave., 404762-5111, wellesleyinnatlanta. com
Fa i r b u r n
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson - Fairburn 7815 Senoia Rd., 678-782-4900, countryinns.com
Hampton Inn AtlantaFairburn 7790 Ella Lane, 678-782-4600, hamptoninn3. hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta SouthwestFairburn 7905 Senoia Rd., 678-674-2200, 800-465-4329, hiexpress.com

Wingate by Wyndham Atlanta Airport Fairburn 7882 Senoia Rd., 770-892-3006, wingatehotels.com
Fay E t t Ev i l l E
Hampton Inn Atlanta/ Fayetteville 110 Meeting Place Dr., 770-460-6700, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express Fayetteville 140 E. Lanier Ave., 770-461-5600, ihg.com
ForEst Park
Econo Lodge Atlanta Airport East 5060 Frontage Rd., 404363-6429, econolodge.com
Ramada Limited Forest Park 357 Lee St., 404-768-7799, 800-854-8517, ramada.com
Super 8 - Forest Park 410 Old Dixie Way, 404-363-8811, super8.com
Travelodge Forest Park Atlanta South 6025 Old Dixie Rd., 404-361-3600, 800-5787878, travelodge.com
HamPton
Western Inn - Hampton 1078 Bear Creek Blvd., 770-7071477, westerninnhampton.com
HaPEvillE
Best Western Plus Atlanta Airport-East 301 N. Central Ave., 404-763-8777, 800-7330298, bestwestern.com/ atlantaairporteast
Courtyard Atlanta Airport North/Virginia Avenue 3399 International Blvd., 404-5591043, 800-922-3616, marriott. com
Residence Inn by Marriott - Atlanta Airport North/ Virginia Avenue 3401 International Blvd., 404-761-0511, marriott.com
Staybridge Suites Atlanta Airport 3420 Norman Berry Dr., 404-305-9930, 888-4654329, ihg.com
JoHns CrEEk
Hilton Garden Inn - Atlanta North/Johns Creek 11695 Medlock Bridge Rd., 770476-1966, hiltongardeninn3. hilton.com
Hyatt Place Atlanta/Duluth/ Johns Creek 11505 Medlock Bridge Rd., 770-622-5858, atlantaduluthjohnscreek. place.hyatt.com
JonEsboro
Econo Lodge - Jonesboro 340 Upper Riverdale Rd., 770-991-0069, 800-424-6423, choicehotels.com
Home 1 Extended Stay Suites Jonesboro 8240 Tara Blvd., 770-280-3400, home1extendedstayjonesboro.com
Intown Suites - Jonesboro Extended Stay Suites 7021 Tara Blvd., 770-472-5999, intownsuites.com
Motel 6 Jonesboro GA 628 Southside Commercial Pkwy., 678-674-1360, motel6.com

k E n n E s aw
Baymont Inn & Suites Kennesaw 3192 Barrett Lakes Blvd., 770-423-7105, baymontinns.com
Best Western Kennesaw Inn 3375 Busbee Dr. NW, 770-4247666, bestwestern.com
Comfort Inn - Kennesaw 2489 George Busbee Pkwy., 770-499-9200, 800-424-6423, comfortinn.com
Comfort Suites at Kennesaw State University 3366 Busbee Dr. NW, 678-275-2090, choicehotels.com
Days Inn Kennesaw/Atlanta 760 Cobb Place Blvd., 770419-1576, daysinn.com
Embassy Suites Atlanta - Kennesaw Town Center Hotel 620 Chastain Rd. NW, 770-420-2505, embassysuites3.hilton.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Kennesaw 3425 Busbee Dr., 770-427-9700, marriott.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta - Town Center/Kennesaw 871 Cobb Place Blvd., 770-426-0017, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta NW/Kennesaw Town Center 895 Cobb Place Blvd., 678322-1140, hiltongardeninn3. hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express AtlantaKennesaw 2485 George Busbee Pkwy., 770-427-5210, hiexpress.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton Atlanta NW/Kennesaw Town Center 905 Cobb Place Blvd., 678-354-2800, 800225-5466, homewoodsuites3. hilton.com
La Quinta Inn & Suites Kennesaw 2625 George Busbee Pkwy. NW, 770-426-0045, laquintakennesaw.com
Magnuson Hotel Kennesaw 1460 George Busbee Pkwy. NW, 770-590-0519, magnusonkennesaw.com
Quality Inn - Kennesaw 750 Cobb Place Blvd. NW, 770-419-1530, 800-424-6423, qualityinn.com
Residence Inn by Marriott - Atlanta Kennesaw/Town Center 3443 Busbee Dr., 770-218-1018, 800-331-3131, marriott.com
Sleep Inn & Suites at Kennesaw State University 1454 George Busbee Pkwy., 678223-7290, sleepinn.com
SpringHill Suites Atlanta Kennesaw 3399 Town Point Dr., 770-218-5550, marriott.com
Suburban Extended Stay Kennesaw 2900 George Busbee Pkwy., 678-581-1778, 800-424-6423, suburbanhotels.com
TownePlace Suites Atlanta Kennesaw 1074 Cobb Place Blvd. NW, 770-794-8282, marriott.com

Wingate by Wyndham Kennesaw 560 Greers Chapel Dr., 770-514-7344, 877-473-7815, wingatehotels.com
law r E n C Ev i l l E
Comfort Suites - Lawrenceville 2225 Riverside Pkwy., 678377-0003, choicehotels.com
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson Lawrenceville 989 Duluth Hwy., 770-339-1991, countryinns.com
Crossland Economy Studios - Atlanta/Lawrenceville 474 W. Pike St., 770-962-5660, crosslandstudios.com
Days Inn Lawrenceville 731 Duluth Hwy., 770-995-7782, 800-325-2525, daysinn.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta/Lawrenceville/Sugarloaf 6010 Sugarloaf Pkwy., 678-4070018, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hampton Inn Lawrenceville 1135 Lakes Pkwy., 770-3389600, 800-426-7866, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lawrenceville 520 John B. Wilson Ct., 770-277-8009, 800-972-2404, hiexpress.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton Atlanta/Lawrenceville/Duluth 1775 N. Brown Rd., 770277-1243, homewoodsuites3. hilton.com
Magnuson Hotel Lawrenceville 571 Buford Dr., 770-5130028, magnusonhotels.com
Metro Extended Stay Lawrenceville 652 Buford Dr., 770-682-2197, 877-637-4683, metroextendedstay.com
litHia sPrings
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta West/Lithia Springs 110 Interstate West Pkwy., 770994-8980, hiltongardeninn3. hilton.com
SpringHill Suites Atlanta Six Flags 960 Bob Arnold Blvd., 770-819-9906, marriott.com
litHonia
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta East/Lithonia 7850 Stonecrest Sq., 770-484-9993, marriott.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta East/Stonecrest 7890 Mall Ring Rd., 678-526-1000, hiltongardeninn.hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta East - Lithonia 7846 Stonecrest Sq., 678-325-4830, ihg.com
Hyatt Place Atlanta-East/ Lithonia 7900 Mall Ring Rd., 770-484-4384, atlantaeast. place.hyatt.com
Knights Inn Lithonia Atlanta East Area 2859 Panola Rd., 770-981-6411, knightsinn.com
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lithonia/Stone Mountain 2980 Evans Mill Rd., 678-287-4400, microtelinn.com

ExplorEgEorgia.org

73

atla n ta m et r o w h e r e to stay

Red Roof Inn - Lithonia 5400 Fairington Rd., 770-322-1400, redroof.com
lOcuSt GrOve
Comfort Suites - Locust Grove 4699 Bill Gardner Pkwy., 678-827-7700, comfortsuites.com
La Quinta Inn & Suites Locust Grove 4832 Bill Gardner Pkwy., 678-583-8088, 800-7533757, 6210.lq.com
Ramada Locust Grove 197 Stanley K. Tanger Blvd., 770898-1216, ramada.com
Red Roof Inn - Locust Grove 4840 Bill Gardner Pkwy., 678-583-0004, 800-733-7663, redroof.com
Super 8 Locust Grove 4605 Bill Gardner Pkwy., 770-957-2936, 800-800-8000, super8.com
MabletON
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites - Mableton/Atlanta 6089 Mableton Pkwy., 678-398-1845, 888-315-2378, americasbestvalueinn.com
M a r i e t ta
Americas Best Value Inn Marietta/Atlanta 1940 Leland Dr., 770-952-0052, americasbestvalueinn.com
Baymont Inn & Suites Marietta/Atlanta North 2170 Delk Rd. SE, 770-951-0026, baymontinns.com
Country Hearth Inn & Suites - Marietta 2767 Windy Hill Rd., 678-213-4700, countryhearthmarietta.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Marietta 2455 Delk Rd. SE, 770-956-1188, 800-321-2211, marriott.com
Days Inn Marietta-AtlantaDelk Road 2191 Northwest Pkwy., 770-952-9863, daysinn. com
Days Inn Marietta-Whitewater 753 N. Marietta Pkwy., 678-7970233, 800-329-7466, daysinn. com
DoubleTree by Hilton Atlanta - Marietta 2055 S. Park Pl., 770-272-9441, 800-222-8733, doubletree3.hilton.com
Drury Inn & Suites Northwest - Atlanta/Marietta 1170 Powers Ferry Pl., 770-612-0900, druryhotels.com
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Marietta 639 Franklin Rd. SE, 678-355-5050, econolodge.com
Extended Stay America - Atlanta/Marietta/Powers Ferry Road 2239 Powers Ferry Rd., 770-303-0043, 800-804-3724, extendedstayamerica.com
Extended Stay America - Atlanta/Vinings 2474 Cumberland Pkwy., 770-436-1511, extendedstayamerica.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta/ Marietta 455 Franklin Rd., 770-425-9977, hamptoninn3. hilton.com

Hilton Atlanta/Marietta Hotel & Conference Center 500 Powder Springs St., 770427-2500, hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express Marietta - Atlanta Northwest 1250 Franklin Rd., 770-989-0071, 888-465-4329, ihg.com
Howard Johnson - Marietta 2375 Delk Rd., 770-951-1144, hojo.com
Hyatt Regency Suites Atlanta Northwest 2999 Windy Hill Rd., 770-956-1234, atlantasuites.hyatt.com
Metro Extended Stay Hotel Marietta 184 Freys Gin Rd., 770-281-0100, 877-637-4683, metroextendedstay.com
Quality Inn Marietta 1255 Franklin Rd. SE, 770-9550004, 800-424-6423, mariettaqi.com
Radisson Hotel Atlanta Northwest 1775 Parkway Pl. SE, 770-420-3533, 800-3333333, radisson.com
Ramada Marietta/Atlanta North 1175 Powers Ferry Pl. SE, 770-952-9005, ramada.com
Studio 6 Atlanta - Marietta 2360 Delk Rd., 770-952-2395, staystudio6.com
Super 8 Marietta/West/ Atlanta Area 610 Franklin Rd., 770-919-2340, 800-230-4134, super8.com
McdONOuGh
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites - McDonough 610 Hwy. 155 S, 678-432-6363, americasbestvalueinn.com
Best Western McDonough Inn & Suites 805 Industrial Blvd., 770-898-1006, bestwestern.com
Comfort Suites - McDonough 64 Hwy. 81 W, 678-216-1900, comfortsuites.com
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, McDonough 115 E. Greenwood Rd., 770957-0082, 800-456-4000, countryinns.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta McDonough 115 Mill Rd., 678-902-9000, 888-236-2427, marriott.com
Days Inn McDonough 744 Hwy. 155 S, 770-957-5261, daysinn.com
Econo Lodge - McDonough 1279 Hwy. 20 W, 770-957-2651, econolodge.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta McDonough 30 Mill Rd., 770305-0180, marriott.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta McDonough 250 Avalon Ct., 770-957-5808, hamptoninn3. hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta South-McDonough 95 Hwy. 81 W, 678-827-7200, atlantasouthmcdonough.hgi.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites McDonough 1315 Hwy. 20 W, 678-782-1100, ihg.com

Howard Johnson McDonough 1171 Hwy. 20/81, 770-957-5821, hojo.com
Motel 6 - McDonough 80 Hwy. 81 W, 770-954-9110, motel6.com
Quality Inn & Suites Conference Center - McDonough 930 Hwy. 155 S, 770-957-5291, choicehotels.com
Rodeway Inn - McDonough 688 Hwy. 155 S, 770-957-5858, rodewayinn.com
Sleep Inn - McDonough 945 Hwy. 155 S, 770-898-0804, 800-424-6423, sleepinn.com
MOrrOw
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites - Morrow/Atlanta 2185 Mt. Zion Pkwy., 770-472-9800, 888-315-2378, americasbestvalueinn.com
Best Western Southlake Inn 6437 Jonesboro Rd., 770-961-6300, 888-277-5253, bestwestern.com
Comfort Suites Morrow 1444 Southlake Plaza Dr., 678-6741300, choicehotels.com
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Atlanta I-75 South 2192 Mt. Zion Pkwy., 770-6033232, countryinns.com
Days Inn Morrow Southlake 1599 Adamson Pkwy., 678-6741151, daysinn.com
Drury Inn & Suites South Atlanta - Morrow 6520 S. Lee St., 770-960-0500, 800-3787946, druryhotels.com
Hampton Inn AtlantaSouthlake 1533 Southlake Pkwy., 770-968-8990, atlantasouthlake.hamptoninn.com
Intown Suites Extended Stay Stockbrige 2235 Mt. Zion Pkwy., 770-603-9700, intownsuites.com
Quality Inn & Suites Southlake - Morrow 6597 Joneboro Rd., 770-960-1957, 800-228-5151, qualityinn.com
Red Roof Inn Atlanta South Morrow 1348 Southlake Plaza Dr., 770-968-1483, 800-7337663, redroof.com
NOrcrOSS
Brick Lodge Atlanta/Norcross 2050 Willow Trail Pkwy., 770564-0492, bricklodgeatl.com
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Norcross 5970 Jimmy Carter Blvd., 770-4495051, countryinns.com
Courtyard Atlanta Norcross/ Peachtree Corners 3209 Holcomb Bridge Rd., 770-4463777, marriott.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Norcross/I-85 6235 McDonough Dr., 770-242-7172, 800-321-2211, marriott.com
Crossland Economy Studios - Atlanta - Norcross 200 Lawrenceville St., 770-729-8100, crosslandstudios.com

Crossland Economy Studios Atlanta - Peachtree Corners 7049 Jimmy Carter Blvd., 770-449-9966, 800-804-3724, crosslandstudios.com
Days Inn & Suites Norcross Atlanta NE Peachtree Ind. Blvd. 5385 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., 770-416-9021, daysinnsuitesnorcrossatlanta.com
Extended Stay America Peachtree Corners 7065 Jimmy Carter Blvd., 770582-9984, 800-646-8000, extendedstayamerica.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta/ Peachtree Corners/Norcross 440 Technology Pkwy. NW, 770-729-0015, 800-426-7866, atlantanorcross.hamptoninn. com
Holiday Inn Express Peachtree Corners-Norcross 7035 Jimmy Carter Blvd., 770409-0004, hiexpress.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton Atlanta-Peachtree Corners/ Norcross 450 Technology Pkwy., 770-448-4663, 800225-5466, homewoodsuites3. hilton.com
Horizon Inn & Suites Norcross 6187 Dawson Blvd., 770-4488686, horizoninnga.com
Hyatt Place Atlanta/ Norcross/Peachtree 5600 Peachtree Pkwy., 770-416-7655, norcross.place.hyatt.com
InTown Suites - Atlanta NE Gwinnett Extended Stay 1950 Willow Trail Pkwy., 678-2211050, intownsuites.com
Knights Inn Norcross 5122 Brook Hollow Pkwy., 770-4465490, knightsinn.com
La Quinta Inn Norcross 5945 Oakbrook Pkwy., 770-3689400, 800-258-2466, laquintaatlantanorcross.com
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Norcross 2150 N. Norcross Tucker Rd., 678-2919888, microtelinn.com
Motel 6 - Norcross 5395 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. NW, 770-446-2882, motel6.com
Motel 6 Atlanta Northeast - Norcross 6015 Oakbrook Pkwy., 770-446-2311, motel6.com
Norcross Inn & Suites 6650 Bay Cir., 770-441-1999, norcrossinnga.com
Red Roof Inn Atlanta Norcross 5171 Brook Hollow Pkwy., 770-448-8944, redroof. com
Residence Inn by Marriott Atlanta Norcross/Peachtree Corners 5500 Triangle Dr., 770-447-1714, residenceinnpeachtree.com
Super 8 Norcross 5150 Willow Oak Tr., 770-931-5353, super8.com
TownePlace Suites Atlanta Norcross/Peachtree Corners 6640 Bay Cir., 770-447-8446, marriott.com

Wingate by Wyndham Atlanta Norcross 5800 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., 770-263-2020, 800-337-0077, the.wingateinns.com
Peachtree city
Dolce Atlanta-Peachtree Hotel and Resort 201 Aberdeen Pkwy., 770-487-2666, dolceatlantapeachtree.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta/ Peachtree City 300 Westpark Dr., 770-486-8800, atlantapeachtreecity.hamptoninn.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta/ Peachtree City 2010 N. Commerce Dr., 678-827-8400, atlantapeachtreecity.hgi.com
Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Peachtree City 203 Newgate Rd., 770-487-4646, holiday-inn. com
Sleep Inn - Peachtree City 109 City Cir., 770-486-0044, 800-424-6423, choicehotels. com
Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center - Peachtree City 2443 Hwy. 54 W, 770487-2000, wyndhampcc.com
Peachtree cOrNerS
Atlanta Marriott Peachtree Corners 475 Technology Pkwy., 770-263-8558, marriott. com
Comfort Inn & Suites Peachtree Corners 5200 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., 770-263-8883, 800-228-5150, comfortinn.com
Hilton Atlanta Northeast 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., 770-447-4747, 800-6784120, hilton.com
riverdale
Jameson Inn Riverdale 6286 GA Hwy. 85, 678-216-1300, jamesoninns.com
Regency Inn Riverdale 7618 Hwy. 85, 770-478-3600, hotelmotelriverdalega.com
rOSwell
Atlanta Hotel - Roswell 9995 Old Dogwood Rd., 770-6506444, atlanta-hotel.org
Baymont Inn & Suites Roswell Atlanta North 1500 Market Blvd., 770-992-7200, baymontinns.com
Comfort Suites at North Point Mall 3000 Mansell Rd., 770-645-6060, 800-424-6423, comfortsuites.com
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Atlanta - Roswell 1075 Holcomb Bridge Rd., 770-9929600, doubletree3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn Atlanta/Roswell 909 Holcomb Bridge Rd., 770-817-1414, 800-972-2404, ihg.com
Holiday Inn Express Alpharetta - Roswell 2950 Mansell Rd., 770-552-0006, ihg.com

74

georgia on my mind

wh e r e to stay atlan ta m etr o

InTown Suites - Roswell Extended Stay Apartments 1175 Hembree Rd., 770-410-9094, intownsuites.com
La Quinta Inn & Suites Atlanta Roswell 575 Old Holcomb Bridge Rd., 770-5520200, lq.com
Roswell Suites 907 Holcomb Bridge Rd., 770-552-5599, suitesatroswell.com
Studio 6 - Roswell 9955 Old Dogwood Rd., 770-992-9449, staystudio6.com
Sandy SpringS
Comfort Inn Buckhead North 5793 Roswell Rd. NE, 404-252-6400, 800-228-5150, comfortinn.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Perimeter Center 6250 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., 770-393-1000, marriott.com
Extended Stay America Atlanta/Perimeter/Crestline 905 Crestline Pkwy., 770-3965600, extendedstayamerica. com
Extended Stay America Atlanta/Perimeter/Hammond Drive 1050 Hammond Dr., 770-522-0025, extendedstayamerica.com
Extended Stay Deluxe Atlanta/Perimeter/Peachtree Dunwoody 6330 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., 770-379-0111, extendedstayamerica.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Atlanta Perimeter Center 1145 Hammond Dr. NE, 770-350-0000, marriott.com
Hampton Inn - Atlanta Perimeter 769 Hammond Dr., 404-303-0014, 800-426-7866, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Atlanta Perimeter Center 6096 Barfield Rd. NE, 404-8510161, hawthorn.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta N - Perimeter Mall Area 765 Hammond Dr., 404250-4450, perimeterhotel.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton Atlanta/Perimeter Center 915 Crestline Pkwy., 770-4153200, homewoodsuites3. hilton.com
Hyatt Place Atlanta/Perimeter Center 1005 Crestline Pkwy., 770-730-9300, atlantaperimetercenter.place. hyatt.com
Intown Suites - Sandy Springs Extended Stay Rooms 355 Hammond Dr. NE, 404-5310067, intownsuites.com
La Quinta Inn & Suites Atlanta Perimeter Medical 6260 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., 770-350-6177, lq.com
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Atlanta/Perimeter Center 6280 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., 678-781-4000, microtelinn.com
Sheraton - Atlanta/Sandy Springs Perimeter North 800 Hammond Dr., 404-5643000, sheraton.com

Sonesta ES Suites 760 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, 404-2500110, sonesta.com
The Westin Atlanta Perimeter North 7 Concourse Pkwy. NE, 770-395-3900, starwoodhotels.com
Wyndham Atlanta Galleria 6345 Powers Ferry Rd. NW, 770-955-1700, wyndhamatlantahotel.com
Smyrna
Baymont Inn & Suites Smyrna 5130 S. Cobb Dr., 404-794-1600, 800-434-5800, baymontinns.com
Comfort Inn & Suites Smyrna 2221 Corporate Plaza Pkwy. S, 770-541-1499, choicehotels.com
Comfort Inn & Suites Galleria 2800 Highlands Pkwy. SE, 678309-1200, comfortinn.com
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Smyrna 2175 Church Rd. SE, 404-564-1105, 800830-5222, countryinns.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Marietta/Windy Hill 2045 S. Park Pl., 770-955-3838, 800321-2211, marriott.com
Days Inn & Suites Smyrna 1200 Winchester Pkwy., 770333-9910, daysinn.com
Holiday Inn Express Atlanta NW - Galleria 2855 Springhill Pkwy., 770-435-4990, ihg.com
Hyatt Place Atlanta / Cobb Galleria 2876 Spring Hill Pkwy., 770-384-0060, atlantagalleria.place.hyatt.com
Knights Inn Atlanta Northwest 5230 S. Cobb Dr., 678-4013396, knightsinn.com
Residence Inn Atlanta Cumberland/Galleria 2771 Cumberland Blvd., 770-4338877, marriott.com
Sun Suites Smyrna Extended Stay 3000 Highlands Pkwy. SE, 770-433-1200, intownsuites.com
S n e l lv i l l e
Crestwood Suites Snellville Extended Stay 1784 Presidential Cir., 770-982-5250, intownsuites.com
La Quinta Inn & Suites Snellville - Stone Mountain 2971 Main St. W, 770-736-4723, lq.com
STockBridge
Americas Best Value Inn & Suites-Stockbridge/Atlanta 110 Hwy. 138 W, 770-389-5179, americasbestvalueinn.com
Comfort Suites - Stockbridge 3540 Cameron Pkwy., 770-5070444, choicehotels.com
Days Inn & Suites Stockbridge South Atlanta 7385 Hannover Pkwy. N, 770-5074440, the.daysinn.com
Econo Lodge - Stockbridge 7395 Davidson Cir. E, 770-7569668, choicehotels.com
Fairbridge Inn Express Stockbridge 100 N. Park Ct., 770-5076500, fairbridgeinns.com

Hampton Inn Atlanta - Stockbridge 7342 Hanover Pkwy. N, 770-389-0065, hamptoninn3. hilton.com
La Quinta Inn & Suites Atlanta Stockbridge 3581 Cameron Pkwy., 770-506-9991, lq.com
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Stockbridge/Atlanta South 195 Country Club Dr., 678-782-6100, 888-771-7171, microtelinn.com
Quality Inn & Suites - Stockbridge 7325 Davidson Pkwy. N, 770-507-7911, qualityinn.com
Red Roof Inn Atlanta Southeast 637 Hwy. 138 W, 678-782-4100, redroof.com
Sleep Inn & Suites - Stockbridge 7423 Davidson Cir. W, 770-474-3870, sleepinn.com
Stay Inn & Suites - Stockbridge 7465 Davidson Pkwy. S, 770-507-4700, stayinnstockbridge.com
Stockbridge Inn 7265 Davidson Pkwy. N, 770-474-1700, stockbridgeinnga.com
Super 8 - Stockbridge 1451 Hudson Bridge Rd., 770474-5758, 800-800-8000, super8.com
STone mounTain
Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Resort 4021 Lakeview Dr., 770-879-9900, marriott.com
Comfort Inn & Suites at Stone Mountain 5355 Stone Mountain Hwy., 770-465-1888, 800-2285150, choicehotels.com
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Stone Mountain 1852 Rockbridge Rd., 770465-6515, 800-456-4000, countryinns.com
Days Inn Atlanta Stone Mountain 2006 Glenn Club Dr., 770-879-0800, daysinn.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta/Stone Mountain 1737 Mountain Industrial Blvd., 770-934-0004, stonemountain.hamptoninn. com
Holiday Inn Express AtlantaStone Mountain 1790 E. Park Pl. Blvd., 770-465-8847, ihg.com
Metro Extended Stay Stone Mountain 5075 Memorial Dr., 404-292-5075, 877-637-4683, metroextendedstay.com
Quality Inn - Stone Mountain 1595 E. Park Pl. Blvd., 770-4651022, choicehotels.com
Stone Mountain Inn 1058 Robert E. Lee Dr., 770-4693311, mariott.com
S u wa n e e
Comfort Inn & Suites Suwanee - Sugarloaf 2945-A Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd., 678-714-7707, choicehotels.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Suwanee 310 Celebration Dr., 770-831-7473, marriott.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Suwanee 105 Celebration Dr., 770-932-9292, marriott.com

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta-Johns Creek 7146 Mcginnis Ferry Rd., 678-6389800, 888-465-4329, ihg.com
Motel 6 Gwinnett Center 77 Celebration Dr., 770-271-5559, motel6.com
Quality Inn Suwanee 2945 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd., 770-945-1608, 800-228-5150, qualityinn.com
Red Roof Inn Atlanta - Suwanee/Mall of Georgia 3103 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd., 678-765-8101, redroof.com
Super 8 Suwanee 317 Sawmill Dr., 770-614-6222, super8.com
Tucker
Comfort Suites Northlake 2060 Crescent Center Blvd., 770-496-1070, 800-424-6423, comfortsuites.com
Courtyard by Marriott Atlanta Northlake 4083 Lavista Rd., 770-938-1200, marriott.com
Days Inn & Suites Tucker/ Northlake 2081 Northlake Pkwy., 770-270-9009, daysinn. com
Econo Lodge Stone Mountain 1820 Mountain Industrial Blvd., 770-939-8440, 800-424-6423, econolodge.com
Knights Inn Atlanta E. 2942 Lawrenceville Hwy., 770-9345060, knightsinn.com
Masters Inn Tucker 1435 Montreal Rd., 770-938-3552, mastersinn.com
Motel 6 Atlanta Tucker Northeast 2810 Lawrenceville Hwy., 770-496-1311, motel6.com
Studio 6 - Atlanta Northlake 1795 Crescent Center Blvd., 770-934-4040, staystudio6.com
Super 8 Motel Tucker/Stone Mtn/Atl Area 1600 Crescent Center Blvd., 770-491-8778, super8.com
union ciTy
Econo Lodge - Union City 7410 Oakley Rd., 770-964-9999, econolodge.com
Magnuson Hotel Atlanta South 6840 Shannon Pkwy. S, 770-306-6067, 866-904-1309, magnusonhotels.com
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Union City/Atlanta Airport 6690 Shannon Pkwy., 770-306-3800, 877-503-0954, microtelinn.com
Motel 6 - Union City 3860 Flat Shoals Rd., 770-969-0110, motel6.com
Quality Inn - Union City 6800 Shannon Way, 770-306-2677, qualityinn.com
Resorts, Lodges & Plantations
Buford
Legacy Villas at Lanier Islands 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy., 770-945-8787, lanierislands. com/accommodations/villas

Bed & Breakfasts and Inns
aTlanTa: midTown
Shellmont Inn Bed & Breakfast 821 Piedmont Ave. NE, 404-872-9290, shellmont.com
Stonehurst Place Bed & Breakfast 923 Piedmont Ave. NE, 404-881-0722, stonehurstplace.com
Sugar Magnolia B&B 804 Edgewood Ave. NE, 404-2220226, sugarmagnoliabb.com
Virginia Highland Bed & Breakfast 630 Orme Cir. NE, 404-892-2735, virginiahighlandbb.com
m a r i e T Ta
Stanley House Inn 236 Church St. NE, 770-426-1881, thestanleyhouse.com
pa l m e T To
The Inn at Serenbe 10950 Hutcheson Ferry Rd., 770463-2610, serenbeinn.com
La Hacienda Bed & Breakfast 5541 Cochran Mill Rd., 770-851-4422, lahaciendaatlanta.com
Rusch Home Bed & Breakfast 520 Main St., 678-6371563, ruschhome.com
Campgrounds and RV Parks
Buford
Shoal Creek CampgroundCOE 6300 Shadburn Ferry Rd., 678-482-0332, lakelanier. com
liTHia SpringS
Sweetwater Creek State Park 1750 Mt. Vernon Rd., 770-732-5871, 800-864-7275, georgiastateparks.org/sweetwatercreek
m a r i e T Ta
Atlanta-Marietta RV Resort 1031 Wylie Rd. SE, 770-427-6853, 877-727-5787, amrvresort.com
mcdonougH
Atlanta South RV Resort 281 Mt. Olive Rd., 770-957-2610, 800-788-0668, atlantasouthrvresort.com
STockBridge
Panola Mountain State Park 2600 Hwy. 155 SW, 770-389-7801, 800-8647275, georgiastateparks.org/ panolamountain
STone mounTain
Stone Mountain Park Campground 4003 Stonewall Jackson Dr., 770-498-5710, 800-385-9807, stonemountainpark.com

ExplorEgEorgia.org

75

CLASSIC SOUTH
Explore Georgia's prominent role in American history in the Classic South region, where you'll find important sites from both the Civil War and the Revolutionary War. Nature lovers and outdoor adventurers will also find
plenty to see and do here, including kayaking along the riverways, exploring rugged trails, embarking on a turkey hunt, enjoying a game of disc golf, or simply cooling off in one of the many lakes.
{ A B OV E: E L I JA H C LA R K STAT E PA R K , L I N C O L N TO N }

GDED LADY ANTEBELLUM PAVILION STATUE AUGUSTA CVB BLIND WILLIE THOMSON MCDUFFIE CVB

Lady Antebellum Pavilion This mammoth venue in Evans welcomes 10,000 fans to its 140,000 square feet of lawn space. Named for the country act that includes Columbia County natives Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood, it has hosted musical guests such as Lynyrd Skynyrd, Li le Big Town, and of course, its namesake group.

76

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

MUSICAL NOTES
James Brown Statue The Godfather of Soul's music lives on-- and so does his image, thanks in part to a nearly life-size bronze statue of the superstar. Located near the Imperial Theatre where he performed and the portion of Augusta's Ninth Street named for him, the landmark features a camera that can send a photo of you and James Brown to your cell phone.

Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival This popular festival takes place May 7 in Thomson, the 1901 birthplace of William "Blind Willie" McTell, one of the stalwarts of blues. Though he lost his sight, he became a masterful guitarist and storyteller. This festival in his honor includes both local and national blues greats.

FIELD TRIALS BURKE COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEADOW GARDEN GDED PHINIZY SWAMP NATURE PARK LIAM WOLFF

CLASSIC SOUTH

Capital Files
By Elizabeth Florio

Trivia fans, take note: Georgia's Classic South region lays claim to some unique superlatives. Sandersville, for example, is the "Kaolin Capital of the World." What's kaolin, you ask? It's a white clay used in everything from porcelain to rockets, and so vital is it to Sandersville's economy, the town hosts a celebratory Kaolin Festival each October complete with a golf tournament, mine tour, and Miss Kaolin pageant.
Over in Swainsboro, the timber industry reigns, making the town the unofficial "Pine Tree Capital of the World." Each May, Swainsboro's longstanding Pine Tree Festival & Southeast Timber Expo stages a parade and plenty of spectacles (motocross stunts, pig races, a car show, and more).

Field Trials, Waynesboro
Then there's Waynesboro. For more than a century, it has hosted a prestigious bird-dog competition called the Field Trials; today, the town declares itself the "Bird Dog Capital of the World" on its water tower. Di-Lane Plantation Wildlife Management Area, where the trials take place, is a popular hunting destination for deer, quail, and turkey. (Instagrammers, take note: The grounds house a beautiful cemetery for 100-plus quail dogs beloved

Meadow Garden, Augusta
by the original landowner, a 1930s tycoon.)
Augusta and Louisville did back-toback stints as actual state capitals in the aftermath of the Revolutionary War. Today, visitors can view structures from this period, including Augusta's Meadow Garden, home of Declaration of Independence signer George Walton, and Louisville's Old Market House, a trading post dating back to the 1790s.

WORD OF MOUTH