Georgia travel guide 2017

GYEEAORRGOIFA FILM

Travel Guide

LAND OF THE FREE 30 no-cost Georgia attractions
ROMANTIC ESCAPES that will sweep you off your feet
PUT IT IN DRIVE Georgia's best road trips
The Vampire Diaries star Ian Somerhalder at Mystic Grill in Covington, Georgia. The city doubles as the fictional town of Mystic Falls.

VAMPIRE DIARIES'
ON WHY GEORGIA IS TO DIE FOR

get artsy in suwanee
quirky meets inspiring.
Want some creative reasons to visit Suwanee? Start with 25 artistic ones in our rockin' Town Center. Come here to discover the whimsical. The colorful. The powerful. Be moved by our World Trade Center artifact, Remembrance.
suwanee.com 330 Town Center Ave. 770-945-8996 Suwanee is 30 minutes northeast of Atlanta. Take Exit 111 off I-85 and you're here.

contents
14

6 A Note From the Governor | 48 Map of Georgia
45

40

32

Features
14 Interview with a Vampire 18 Fan Favorite 22 It's Go Time! 28 Honing their Craft 30 Fabulous Finds 32 Welcome Sports Fans 34 Secrets of Georgia State Parks 36 30 Free Things to Do in Georgia 40 Main Street News! 45 Swept Away

4

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

118

144

50 74
104 174

134

162

84

Georgia's Nine Regions: Attractions & Lodging
50 Atlanta Metro 74 Classic South 84 Coast 104 Historic Heartland 118 Historic High Country 134 Magnolia Midlands 144 Northeast Mountains 162 Plantation Trace 174 Presidential Pathways
ABOUT THE COVER The Vampire Diaries star Ian Somerhalder at Mystic Grill in Covington, Georgia. Photograph by Harold Daniels.

14: HAROLD DANIELS; 45: BARNSLEY RESORT; 40: MADISON CVB; 32: LAKEPOINT SPORTING

RELAX, HAVE FUN AND ENJOY
Genuine southern charm.
FROM DELICIOUS LOCAL CUISINE, AWARD-WINNING MUSEUMS AND ATTRACTIONS TO PLENTY OF RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES,
YOU'LL FIND IT ALL IN ALBANY, GEORGIA.
ALBANY, GEORGIA'S HOMETOWN SIGHTS Albany Museum of Art | Albany Civil Rights Institute Chehaw Wild Animal Park | Flint River | Flint RiverQuarium
Radium Springs Gardens | Ray Charles Plaza Thronateeska History & Archives Center | Wetherbee Planetarium

---------- WHERE ----------
history AND nature flow
------------------------------------

VISITALBANYGA.COM

A NOTE FROM THE GOVERNOR

Welcome to Georgia!

Here you will find unique

destinations, including cultural

and historic a ractions, events,

dining experiences, outdoor

adventure, beaches, mountains,

and so much more.

The 2017 Georgia Travel

Guide celebrates the "Year of

Georgia Film" as we set the

stage by focusing on film- and

television-inspired tourism

destinations. We invite you

to explore our film locations,

First Lady Sandra Deal and Governor Nathan Deal

a ractions, movie tours, restaurants, and more that are featured in some of your favorite movies and TV shows.

For the past 40 years, the more

than 1,000 productions that have shot here have all played vital roles in

casting Georgia as a top-tier film and travel destination.

Our annual state travel guide 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 2017 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 48) 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 "2017 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 2017 Georgia Travel Guide quickly and easily by visiting ExploreGeorgia. org/readerservice.

Travel Guide
Georgia Department of Economic Development
COMMISSIONER
Pat Wilson
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
SENIOR EDITOR
Jennifer Green
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 WRITERS
Larry Bleiberg, Jayne Clark, Sco Freeman, Shayla Martin, Jennifer Senator,
Anne e Thompson, T. Wayne Waters
INTERNS
Anna Holman, Aadithya Prem
EDITOR EMERITUS
Kevin Benefield
Copyright 2017 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.

ADVERTISEMENT

ISLANDS
IN THE
SUN

Georgia's Golden Isles, with its storied past, provides a magical retreat.

Atlanta

Athens

Macon

95 17

I-95 & Surrounding Areas
25
341

17

520 95

Historic Brunswick

Little St. Simons
Island

St. Simons Island

Sea Island

Jekyll Island

Savannah

GoldenIsles.com

Along the 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. Because of this, the Golden Isles received the 2016 USA Today Reader's Choice Award for Best Warm Weather Getaway for its five unique towns.
Find a private natural retreat on Little St. Simons Island, where you can experience sensational cuisine and a myriad of activities in the most memorable setting. Or spend

your time on St. Simons Island, a family-friendly retreat with mossdraped oak-lined streets, sandy beaches and exceptional historic sites.
Visit Jekyll Island, a unique state park heralded for its open wilderness and National Historic Landmark District. Experience private luxury on Sea Island, an internationally acclaimed Five-Star resort. Or step back in time and into the charming city streets and squares still bearing their colonial names in the historic port city of Brunswick.
Your visit to the Golden Isles is bound to be a slice of heaven, letting you experience so much within one destination.

ADVERTISEMENT

P

rized for its pristine beauty, gracious hospitality and secluded worlds-away appeal, Little St. Simons Island (LittleSSI.com) offers seven

miles of secluded beaches and over 11,000 acres of

undeveloped wilderness for exploration and relaxation.

Privately owned, Little St. Simons Island has

retained the charm and unhurried pace of coastal

living and features gracious

accommodations for only thirtytwo overnight guests. The island

Little St. Simons Island

is a paradise for nature lovers

and offers a host of naturalist-

led experiences, including birding, fishing, hiking, kayaking, bicycling, beachcombing, and

Brunswick

Sea Island
St. Simons Island

more. Jekyll Island

Accessible only by boat from the north end of St. Simons Island, this extraordinary natural sanctuary--among the last of its kind anywhere--welcomes your discovery.

LITTLE ST. SIMONS ISLAND

Little St. Simons Island

GoldenIsles.com

ADVERTISEMENT

ST. SIMONS ISLAND

Little St. Simons Island

T he largest of the isles, St. Simons Island (Voted both

"America's Most Romantic

Town" and "Favorite Beach

Sea Island

Town" by Travel + Leisure),

Brunswick

St. Simons Island

features hundreds of quality

dining and shopping options to

Jekyll Island

please any taste. The picture-

perfect 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.

Surround yourself with nature's tropical beauty, rich history, and island charm at the oceanfront King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort on St. Simons Island (kingandprince.com). For over eighty years, the tranquil haven has combined gracious southern hospitality and modern amenities, earning the resort six consecutive TripAdvisor Certificates of Excellence.

Choose from a wide variety of accommodations, whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation. Guest rooms offer various settings and views--from the Historic Building to the oceanfront poolside building. The Resort's amenities include five oceanfront pools, the King and Prince Golf Course, massage therapies, tennis, children's

Tramici
activities (seasonal) and an oceanfront restaurant.
ECHO, the only oceanfront restaurant and bar on St. Simons, serves coastal cuisine, cocktails, craft brews, and an extensive wine list. Guests enjoy indoor/ outdoor oceanfront seating with spectacular views-- from breakfast at sunrise to dinner and drinks at moonrise--as well as weekend entertainment.
Looking for another unique dining experience? From classic, imaginative cuisine to authentic neighborhood Italian fare, flavors and experiences surpass expectations at Halyards (HalyardsRestaurant.com) and Tramici (TramiciRestaurant.com), two beloved island favorites side by side on St. Simons Island.
Owner and Executive Chef Dave Snyder invites you to enjoy Chef-caught seafood, lively bars, indoor or open-air courtyard dining to savor selections that delight every taste and tempo. For parties of few to gatherings of hundreds, the Halyards catering team (HalyardsCatering.com) has a passion for perfect events with precise planning, crisp execution, and thoughtful attention to every detail.

King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort
GoldenIsles.com

ADVERTISEMENT

Avenue of the Oaks

Little St. Simons Island

Brunswick

Sea Island
St. Simons Island

Jekyll Island

A

n internationally acclaimed resort, Sea Island is the only resort in the world to have received four Forbes Five-Star

SEA ISLAND

awards for eight consecutive years. 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 a 65,000-square-foot Forbes Five-Star spa.

For those seeking the most intimate and luxurious experience, Sea Island has it all.

On St. Simons Island, with access available to many Sea Island amenities, along with on-site pool, evening bar, complimentary wifi and laundry facilities.
SI_GaStateTravelGuide_2017Ad.indd 1

seaisland.com 800-704-8130
Go1ld2/5e/1n6 Is1l0e:5s0 .AcMom

ADVERTISEMENT

JEKYLL ISLAND

T he southernmost island, Jekyll Island, offers ten miles of beaches, more than twenty miles of bike paths, a National Historic Landmark District, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center and coastal dining options to suit any palate. The island is perfect for welcoming families with a variety of shops, coastal activities and accommodations to fit any budget.
Little St. Simons Island

Brunswick

Sea Island
St. Simons Island
Jekyll Island

National Historic Landmark District, Jekyll Island
The largest oceanside resort on Jekyll Island, Villas by the Sea (VillasbytheSeaResort.com) offers affordable and comfortable accommodations for family vacations, meetings, or getaways, nestled among seventeen oceanside acres of lush landscaping and towering windswept oaks. Whether you choose a one-, two- or three-bedroom villa, you will find all the comforts of home.

Villas by the Sea

Days Inn & Suites

Holiday Inn Resort

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton

Family- and budget-friendly lodging options are plentiful on Jekyll Island. Days Inn & Suites Jekyll Island (daysinnjekyll.com) is an award-winning, centrally located hotel that offers ocean and island view guest rooms, as well as oceanfront one-bedroom suites that feature a galley kitchen, a living room and a private balcony or patio. Guests enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast, free WiFi, two pools, bike and kayak rentals and more.
GoldenIsles.com

For a kid, adult and petfriendly stay on the ocean, head to the Holiday Inn Resort (hijklresort.com). Sporting 157 new, contemporary rooms, the oceanfront resort also offers an expansive outdoor deck with a fire pit and The Anchor, a poolside bar and grill. Indoors, the Beach House restaurant features fresh local seafood and craft beers on tap. Everyone loves the lobby bike rentals and the Kid's Club with its onsite activities director.

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton (jekyllislandhamptoninn.com) offers wide open beaches during any season. The hotel's modern, spacious guest rooms and hotel accommodations feature On the House breakfast daily, a swimming pool, hot tub, and full-service lobby bar with casual menu. Whether it be for a vacation, wedding or to attending a meeting come... Feel the Hamptonality!

ADVERTISEMENT
The Westin Jekyll Island (westinjekyllisland.com) is a year-round oceanfront destination. Relax and renew in your serene guest room, which features Westin's famous Heavenly Bed and Heavenly Bath. Explore the island's breathtaking beaches on foot or by bicycle and be sure to stop by the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. Premium shopping is next door at Jekyll Island Beach Village and, in addition to offering direct access to the beach, we're just a three-minute drive from championship golf.

Westin Jekyll Island
The Jekyll Island Club Hotel (jekyllclub.com) is a National Historic Landmark and Historic Hotel of America. The hotel's iconic turret, a romantic Victorian beauty, beckons all travelers. Once the playground for wealthy industrialists and financiers of the 20th century, it is now a first-class vacation and meeting resort. On this unhurried, undeveloped, unspoiled barrier island awaits a world of compelling contrasts and perfect balances. Rich history and modern comforts. Elegant surroundings and simple pleasures. Romance and laughter. Grand dining and beach picnics. Vitalizing activities and complete relaxation.

Jekyll Island Club Hotel

BRU NSW ICK

Brunswick Golden Isles Airport

Little St. Simons Island

I t's so easy to get here, all of the Golden Isles adventures are at

your fingertips. Connect

from 300 destinations, and

Sea Island fly direct from Atlanta on

Brunswick

St. Simons Island

37-minute Delta flights to the Brunswick Golden Isles

Jekyll

Airport (flygcairports.com),

Island

BQK. From the moment

you land, you'll feel the unique Southern charm of

the area. The terminal was designed with Spanish

influence of the area's famed resorts, offering

passengers a relaxed travel experience.

Venture into the city of Brunswick to discover history as rich as its seafood. From the unique signature squares of Brunswick to the famous Historic Ritz Theatre, find architecture dating

back to the early 1800s. With shrimp boats heading out from the docks daily, there is always penty of fresh, local seafood to be had--and don't miss the area's namesake dish, Brunswick Stew! Need to take a break from your adventures for a quick snack? A Golden Isles favorite, Flash Foods (flashfoods.com) offers refreshing fountain drinks and premium coffee blends at its Brunswick and Jekyll Island locations. Download their free app to get your GOBLUE card to save five cents on every gallon of fuel and receive special discounts.
Flash Foods
GoldenIsles.com

Ian Somerhalder in downtown Covington

Since 2009, Covington, Georgia, has doubled as Mystic Falls, the fictional small town in which the
CW series The Vampire Diaries is set. As the cult favorite reaches its final season, star Ian Somerhalder looks back on eight years spent
working and playing in Georgia.
Interview by ALLISON ENTREKIN

HAROLD DANIELS

The besT sTories are True.

What are your earliest memories of Georgia? I've been coming here since I was a kid, and I shot the pilot for Young Americans in Atlanta in 1999. We had so much fun here. We had apartments at the Georgian Terrace; it's located inside this little pocket on Peachtree Street that's so great. You can walk everywhere, and there are very good restaurants and great shopping.
What do you think of the growth of the film industry in Georgia? I've been here since the beginning [of the film boom]. When The Vampire Diaries came in 2009, we were kind of the only game in town. And that has changed drastically. To be a part of it is incredible.
Many of the show's scenes are shot in Covington. How would you describe the town? I love it. Not only because I've spent as much time in it as some residents, but also because it's been very welcoming. Everyone from the restaurant owners to the homeowners to the police force has been so gracious. Film crews are like big, disruptive cities, and we can make a lot of noise at three and four in the morning. This town has given us so much love and energy. I have such fond memories of really early mornings in the town square. I've spent at least 100 nights in Covington in the last eight years. It's a very special place.
A number of businesses inspired by the show have opened in Covington, including the Mystic Grill. For the first several years of filming, the building that's now the Mystic Grill was a law office that we used as a facade. You'd come in the front door and it was

LOVE STORIES
WAR STORIES
SUCCESS STORIES
real PeoPle. real sTories. real exPeriences.
Watch their stories and learn how you can be a part of the experience at:
VisitHenryCountyGeorgia.com

Henry Film Ad 4.625x9.5.indd 1

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

15 12/6/16 4:51 PM

16

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

The Vampire Diaries

desks and filing cabinets and two couches. Now it's this whole restaurant based on the one in the show--and I love their Mystic Salad.
Covington also has movie tours that showcase filming locations from The Vampire Diaries. They're genius for doing that. It's also really engaged the fan base. Look, at the end of the day, we're a television show. We're not saving lives. But I do have people come up to me and say, "I've gone through this horrific thing, or I've lost somebody, and this show got me through it." It really means something to a lot of people. So here's the way I see it: If we can make decent television and be a part of the film business in Georgia, and if this show has become an economic engine for communities and families, then we've done our job.

You reside in Midtown Atlanta. What do you like most about the city? Atlanta has an unbelievable amount of new everything. Between Inman Park and West Midtown, I've never seen two neighborhoods grow so rapidly or flourish at such a pace. I wish I would have bought even half the real estate I had the ability to buy when I first moved here.
What's next for you? My wife, Nikki [Reed], and I just closed a multi-year production deal with Warner Brothers. I absolutely want to bring our business here. There's a tremendous amount of infrastructure. The etiquette here, the ability to work, and the appreciation of work outweighs almost anywhere I've seen. The most incredible journey of my career thus far has been working in Georgia.

WARNER BROS ENTERTAINMENT INC

PLANES, TRAINS & HEROES
WARNER ROBINS, GEORGIA
RELAX & UNWIN D, E X PLORE H I STORY, PLAY HARD!
Located in the Heart of Georgia I-75, Exits #146 & #144
90 minutes south of Atlanta, 15 minutes south of Macon
JUNE 30, 2017
ANNUAL INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
It's not just a Concert, it's a Fireworks Tribute!
Museum of Aviation Rigby's Entertainment Center Elberta Depot Heritage Center Hotel Brands You Know & Trust Home of Robins Air Force Base
Plan your getaway at WarnerRobinsVisitorsCenter.com 888.288.9742

By ALLISON ENTREKIN

EaMxdtpoWdfoleCuoivtsrahristiooeneievranGtcganaMkelMdlsoomaafiruogtgoltmriviaecie.?

Thanks to the hundreds of movies and television shows shot in Georgia each year, film fans are seeing stars in the Peach State. During your next visit, check out filming locations for your favorite programs, reserve a table at one of the many restaurants frequented by the stars, or take in a popular film festival. These are just a few of the many ways to celebrate the Year of Georgia Film.

ROAD TRIP!
Get in the car and explore a tour and a trail showcasing Georgia's can't-miss film destinations. The Georgia Film Selfie Spot Tour (exploregeorgia.org) invites fans to "say cheese" at the most iconic film locations in the state. In Atlanta, take a snap outside President Snow's mansion from The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, or smile in front of Luther Williams Field in Macon, where pivotal scenes from 42 were shot. If you're a fan of The Vampire Diaries, The Originals, or The Walking Dead, you'll die for Georgia's Undead Trail (georgia sundeadtrail.com). This ninety-three-mile journey through urban landscapes and trendy downtowns showcases film locations, attractions, and restaurants important to these shows. It also illuminates how a few Georgia towns have transformed into the communities of Alexandria, Mystic Falls, and New Orleans.
TOUR-RIFIC
Georgia's many movie tours offer behind-the-scenes looks at some of the most legendary films and television shows ever made. Atlanta Movie Tours (atlantamovietours.com) offers a variety of tours highlighting everything from The Blind Side to Marvel's The Avengers to The Walking Dead. Custom group tours showcase the Swan House at the Atlanta History Center, which transformed into President Snow's mansion in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.
More box-office smashes are spotlighted on Peachtree City's Southern Hollywood Film Tour (visitpeachtreecity.com), includ-

18

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

BronzeLens Film Festival, Atlanta

Atlanta History Center, Atlanta

ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER BRONZELENS FILM FESTIVAL

MYSTIC FALLS TOURS

Mystic Falls Tours, Covington
ing Sweet Home Alabama and Fried Green Tomatoes. And on a Savannah Movie Tour (savannahmovietours.com), see filming locations from Forrest Gump, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, and more.
If you're a vampire fan, you won't want to miss Mystic Falls Tours (mysticfallstours.com), which takes visitors to important Covington filming locations from The Vampire Diaries and The Originals. Fans of The Walking Dead will stalk the Touring Dead II tour hosted by the Georgia Tour Company (georgia mercantile.com) in Senoia. The company also offers a tour showcasing Senoia's rich film history, with stops at locations from Drop Dead Diva, The Fighting Temptations and more.
BEST FESTS FOR FILM
Georgia is home to a wide variety of film festivals that invite the public to interact with filmmakers and attend panel discussions and movie screenings. The Atlanta Film Festival (atlanta filmfestival.com) lures nearly 25,000 movie buffs to its namesake city each spring. Now in its fourth decade, the Academy Awardqualifying film festival is one of the largest and longest-running in the country. Also in Atlanta, BronzeLens Film Festival (bronzelens.com) spotlights movies made by black filmmakers. Each fall, attendees gather for panels and screenings, plus master classes led by some of the top names in film.
But the single-largest film festival in Atlanta (and the largest festival of its kind in the world) is the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival (ajff.org), attracting nearly 40,000 moviegoers each winter. Smaller but also popular, the Athens Jewish Film Festival (athensjff.org) shows films focused on Jewish life around the globe every spring.
If you want to spy celebrities like Molly Shannon and Miles Teller, head to the Savannah Film Festival (filmfest. scad.edu), presented by the Savannah College of Art and Design. Some of Hollywood's hottest names descend upon Savannah each fall to celebrate independent and studio filmmaking at this fest.

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

19

"

MANY GEORGIA RESTAURANTS DELIVER A HEAPING HELPING OF CELEBRITY SPOTTINGS."
Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, Atlanta

Spicy tuna crispy rice at Umi, Atlanta

20

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Scoops, Covington

Milly Film Festival,
Milledgeville
Every August in Augusta, the Black Cat Picture Show (blackcatpictureshow.com) celebrates independent filmmaking. Its flagship venue, Le Chat Noir, is a 100-seat black-box theater located downtown. The Macon Film Festival (macon filmfestival.com) and the Rome International Film Festival (romeinternationalfilmfestival.com) also screen independent films in historic theaters during the summer and fall, respectively.
In Milledgeville, the Southern-gothic Milly Film Festival (milledgevillefilmfest.com) is held each spring. Events often focus on women in filmmaking and new media. And in Thomasville, Jane Fonda cofounded fall's Covey Film Festival (coveyfilmfestival.com), which screens films that relate to nature, community, and caring.
DINING WITH THE STARS
Many Georgia restaurants don't simply serve amazing food; they also deliver a heaping helping of celebrity spottings. At Atlanta's Umi (umi atlanta.com), Jennifer Lawrence orders the avocado salad, spicy tuna crispy rice, and black cod misoyaki, washing it down with a dirty martini. She's sometimes joined by her Hunger Games costar Liam Hemsworth, who prefers the madai carpaccio, tuna carpaccio, Kobe beef nigiri, otoro caviar, and sea bass yu-an yaki. His drink of choice? A bottle of Sapporo or Dassai 50.
Will Ferrell likes the slow-cooked rack of ribs at Bradley's Bar-B-Que (bradleysbbq.com) in Covington, while Ian Somerhalder orders the banana pudding ice cream at Scoops (scoops sweettreats.com) just up the road.
Other restaurants with celebrity clientele include The Old School Diner (oldschooldiner. com) in Townsend (Ben Affleck); H & H Soul Food (facebook.com/handhsoulfood) in Macon (Oprah Winfrey); Barnstormer's Grill (barnstormersgrill.com) in Williamson (Clint Eastwood); and Antebellum (antebellumrestaurant.com) in Flowery Branch (Drew Barrymore and Adam Sandler).

MARY CIMS ATLANTA JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL UMI COVINGTON/ NEWTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ITS GO TIME!
3 Essential Georgia Road Trips
By Elizabeth Florio Illustrated maps by Richard Faust

There are travelers who want to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible, and
there are travelers who understand that sometimes the journey is the destination. Whether you're taking the kids on an educational experience or simply broadening your own view of Georgia, try one of these themed itineraries.

2222

GGEEOORRGGIIAA OONN MMYY MMIINNDD

BIGSTOCK COM

1
Will Drive for Food:
GEORGIA GROWN TRAIL
301
FANCY YOURSELF a locavore? Hit the Georgia Grown Trail 301, which runs along Highway 301 in southeastern Georgia from Sylvania to Folkston. A leisurely day trip allows you to sample some of the trail's best homegrown treats, from fruitcake to grits. Begin by greeting the morning alongside the animals at Hunter Cattle Company, a welcoming farm outside Statesboro producing sustainably raised beef, pork, lamb, and poultry. Browse MooMa's Farm Store for meat and eggs produced on-site, plus organic goodies (cheese, honey) from nearby farms. Then head to nearby Freeman's Mill, a small family operation that stone-grinds grits, cornmeal, and flour on century-old mills and other vintage machinery. Be sure to call ahead to reserve a tour, and don't leave without buying a bag of freshly ground grits.
From there, it's a half-hour drive to Claxton, home of world-famous fruitcakes. (Trust us, their version is way better than Grandma's.) Founded in 1910, Claxton Bakery operates a storefront where you can pick out your favorite fruit-filled rectangles and view ovens that churn out cakes to be delivered around the country. Continue south to Glennville to family-run Folsom Farms Country Store, which specializes in sweet onions and pecans. Its country store stocks bags of both or, if it's not onion season, an array of onion-based sauces. Finally, head ten minutes west to Watermelon Creek Vineyard to cap off the day with a flight of muscadine and blueberry wines (or muscadine juice, if you're the driver) on the peaceful vineyard overlook.
// RESOURCES // Georgia Grown Trail 301 georgiagrowntrail301.com, Hunter Cattle Company huntercattle.com, Freeman's Mill freemansmill.com, Claxton Bakery claxtonfruitcake.com, Folsom Farms Country Store folsomfarmscountrystore.com, Watermelon Creek Vineyard watermeloncreekvineyard.com

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

23

2

Music Makers, Boundary Breakers:
AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY TRAIL

24

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

YOUR IMMERSION into Georgia's African American history begins in Albany, an early battleground for civil rights. The old Mt. Zion church, where desegregationists convened in the early 1960s, now houses the Albany Civil Rights Institute. Browse exhibits on the Albany Movement and, on the second Saturday of each month, hear the famed Freedom Singers perform spirituals that inspired the cause. Afterward, stroll along the river to Ray Charles Plaza, which pays homage to the legendary musician born here.
For more iconic African American musicians, head to Macon. Otis Redding was discovered at the Douglass Theatre, founded by the town's first African American millionaire, Charles Henry Douglass. Little Richard honed his flamboyant style at the Tic Toc Room, where patrons now savor steak dinners. Sports lovers shouldn't miss the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, which honors greats such as Jackie Robinson and Hank Aaron. Across the street is the gleaming new home of the Tubman Museum, dedicated to African American art, history, and culture.
Round out your trip in Atlanta, specifically the Sweet Auburn Historic District, once dubbed "the richest Negro street in the world" by Fortune magazine. Here you'll find the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site with its four stops: the visitor center, King's birth home, historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, and the King Center--his final resting place. For a serving of soul food alongside your history, the Atlanta Food Walks' tour of the area includes a stop at Paschal's, the modern remake of the restaurant where civil rights luminaries plotted strategy. The journey ends--and carries on--at the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, where exhibitions weave the American civil rights movement with other human rights struggles around the world.
// RESOURCES // Albany Civil Rights Institute albanycivilrightsinstitute.org, Ray Charles Plaza albanygeorgia.biz/raycharles/plaza.html, Douglass Theatre douglasstheatre.org, Tic Toc Room hotplatesrestaurantgroup.com/tic-toc-room.cms, Georgia Sports Hall of Fame georgiasportshalloffame.com, Tubman Museum tubmanmuseum.com, Sweet Auburn Historic District nps.gov/nr/travel/atlanta/aub.htm, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site nps.gov/malu, Atlanta Food Walks atlantafoodwalks.com, Paschal's paschalsatlanta.com, National Center for Civil and Human Rights civilandhumanrights.org

STATE PARKS
LODGING & CABINS
NATURE PROGRAMS

HISTORIC SITES
CAMPS & SHELTERS
GOLF COURSES

63 Unique Locations. Countless Possibilities.
With accommodations both rustic and refined, activities relaxing and exhilarating, it's the perfect time to make a lifetime of memories at Georgia's diverse State Parks & Historic Sites!
GaStateParks.org | 800-864-7275 reservations

3
Almost Heaven:
THE SOUTHERN HIGHROADS TRAIL

IN NORTH GEORGIA, the Southern Highroads Trail traverses sweeping mountain vistas, pristine lakes, and charming towns. Our itinerary begins just outside Chatsworth at Fort Mountain State Park, home to some of Georgia's loveliest hiking trails, complete with breathtaking overlooks and ancient Native American ruins. Work up an appetite before heading to Ellijay, where a historic trolley runs between the town's most popular dining spots and antique shops, charging riders $1 for the experience. Then head up Highway 76 to Blue Ridge, where Main Street teems with restaurants and art galleries; nearby, shimmering Lake Blue Ridge beckons water lovers. Depending on your pace, you may wish to overnight at the cozy Aska Lodge or familyfriendly Reid Ridge Lodge.

Next, head east on 76 toward Blairsville before briefly detouring to Brasstown Bald, Georgia's highest peak. From the parking lot, it's a steep half-mile climb (or free shuttle ride) to an unforgettable 360-degree view of four states. Refuel in nearby Hiawassee--perhaps on the porch of the Happy Hawg, savoring a view of Lake Chatuge. Then continue on 76 toward another gorgeous reservoir, Lake Burton, before veering south on Scenic Highway 197, a former moonshiners route now peppered with arts and crafts stores. Make a fro-yo or coffee stop in historic downtown Clarkesville before driving to Tallulah Gorge for a sunset view of the stunning canyon and falls. Finally, meander up Historic Highway 441 to Clayton for a meal on lively Main Street or a fine vintage on the porch of the Beechwood Inn.

// RESOURCES // Southern Highroads Trail southernhighroads.org, Fort Mountain State Park gastateparks.org/fortmountain, Ellijay Trolley ellijaytrolley.com, Blue Ridge blueridgemountains.com, Aska Lodge askalodge. net, Reid Ridge Lodge reidridgelodge.com, Brasstown Bald cfaia.org, Hiawassee mountaintopga.com, Happy Hawg 706-896-0012, Clarkesville clarkesvillega.com, Tallulah Gorge gastateparks.org/ tallulahgorge, Clayton downtownclaytonga.org, Beechwood Inn beechwoodinn.ws

26

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

HONING THEIR CRAFT
Great Georgia breweries share what's on tap
By Larry Bleiberg

Gate City Brewing, Roswell

FULL MEASURE PHOTOGRAPHY CAROLINE CARR TERRAPIN

In Georgia, gone is the time when beer choices were limited to national brands and a few imports. Nowadays, the state's cra

company grew, it launched a successful Kickstarter campaign to help fund its tasting room; visitors now step into an industrial area with exposed wood and big windows. "People just want a comfortable place to have a beer," Williams says.

brewers put their unique spins on the ancient art of fermentation, producing everything from barrel-aged stouts to pecan-flavored

In Statesboro, Daniel Long and Franklin Dismuke were seeking the same thing: a casual place for beer sipping. And at a 2012 New Year's Eve party, they resolved to create such a place themselves. Eagle Creek Brewing Company offers classic beers

ales. And many have tasting rooms, which means thirsty beer lovers may sample away and even take some brews home.

with a Southern twist, like sweet tea amber and Low Country pale ale. The tasting room, located in a former restaurant, often features live music and has an upstairs balcony for al fresco sampling.
In Blue Ridge, Grumpy Old Men Brewery is run by just

Le Nut Brewing, Gainesville

that--two retired friends, Steve Weber and Chipley McKnight, although they seem more like softhearted curmudgeons than all-out grumps. The pair began

IN ATLANTA head to Eventide Brewing,

brewing ales in an outdoor shower and gradu-

where you'll likely meet owner Geoffrey Wil-

ated to what they call a nanobrewery, with an

liams. The former logistics and supply-chain

official motto: "If we don't like it, we don't drink

manager started as a casual beer drinker, but

it. If we don't drink it, we don't sell it." Crowds

as he sampled different brews, he wondered

at the converted warehouse tasting room over-

how they'd taste with another flavor or finish. A

flow outdoors on sunny days, inviting guests (and

friend dared him to make his own, and Williams

their pets) to while away the hours. Still, be sure to

had a "eureka" moment, he says. "Once you realize

leave time for the town's other brewers, Blue Ridge

you can make beer, the world opens for you."

Brewery and Fannin Brewing Company.

He started the brewery with college friends, specializing in

In Woodstock, the co-founders of Reformation Brewery draw

beers that are subtle and satisfying, not huge and hoppy. As the

inspiration for their European-style ales and barrel-aged beers

28

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Urban Tree Cidery, Atlanta

Terrapin, Athens

from an unlikely source--religious leader Martin Luther. Spencer Nix and Nick Downs say their company embraces Luther's values of acceptance, moderation, and humility. But they still have fun in the tasting room with shelves of board games and a welcoming family atmosphere.
Another set of partners, the founders of Savannah's Southbound Brewing Company, have known each other for years. Smith Matthews and Carly Wiggins first met as teenage lifeguards, then worked together at Atlanta's SweetWater Brewing Company. Finally, they returned home to launch the city's first microbrewery, specializing in ales and Belgian-style brews. The laid-back warehouse tasting room has an industrial-chic vibe with exposed pipes and wall murals and also hosts special events and concerts.
Creature Comforts Brewing in Athens
Blue Ridge Brewery, Blue Ridge

has an equally cool tasting room, converted from a 1940s downtown Chevy dealership. Instead of disposing of the building's original wood during renovations, they used it to make their bars and picnic tables. "We try to pay attention to every detail and do things the right way," says co-founder Chris Herron. The company, best known for its IPA Tropicalia, hosts the city's farmers market on Wednesday afternoons and evenings April through November. While in Athens, beer fans should also check out Terrapin and the Southern Brewing Company.
If a brewery visit leads to fantasies of making your own beer, be careful: That's what happened to dentist Dr. Robert E. Lee (a distant relation of the Civil War general). Before he knew it, he had hired the man who had led his tour at Red Brick Brewing Company in Atlanta and started Omaha Brewing Company in Omaha, just south of Columbus. The brewery, which occupies an old schoolhouse, is built over an artesian spring that offers a ready water supply for its ales--including a bananaflavored Weissbier called Nada-Banana.
Cherry Street Brewing Cooperative began a little differently. The Cumming firm started as a brewpub restaurant and expanded to a taproom in 2014. Founder Nick Tanner's esoteric offerings include

Red Hare Brewing, Marie a
sours and barrel-aged brews, plus beers flavored with dates, coconut, and watermelon.
Craft beverages aren't limited to beer, though. Urban Tree Cidery, Atlanta's first maker of hard apple cider, uses North Georgia fruit to make traditional and seasonal varieties, available for tasting at its West Midtown plant. The owners studied cider-making in England, but the beverage has an American tradition too: At one time, many of the nation's apples were used for the drink; in fact, Johnny Appleseed's trees were used for cider, not eating. While you're in Atlanta, don't miss the metro area's many beer producers, including Jekyll Brewing in Alpharetta, Red Hare Brewing in Marietta, and Gate City Brewing in Roswell.
And for one of the state's newest tasting rooms, head to Gainesville's Le Nut Brewing in the Chicopee Mill and Village Historic District. Its stunning digs are almost as much of a draw as its beer. "The ceilings are all pine, and there's lots of brick and glass," says co-founder Nilanjan Datta. "It's a destination experience."

// RESOURCES // Eventide Brewing eventidebrewing.com, Eagle Creek Brewing Company eaglecreekbrewingco.com, Grumpy Old Men Brewery grumpyoldmenbrewing.com, Blue Ridge Brewery blueridgebrewery. com, Fannin Brewing Company fanninbrewingcompany.com, Reformation Brewery reformationbrewery.com, Southbound Brewing Company southboundbrewingco.com, Creature Comforts Brewing creaturecomfortsbeer.com, Terrapin terrapinbeer.com, The Southern Brewing Company sobrewco.com, Omaha Brewing Company omahabrewingcompany.com, Cherry Street Brewing Cooperative cherrystreetbrewing.com, Urban Tree Cidery urbantreecidery.com, Jekyll Brewing jekyllbrewing.com, Red Hare Brewing redharebrewing.com, Gate City Brewing gatecitybrewingcompany.com, Le Nut Brewing le nutbrewing.com

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

29

URBAN TREE CIDERY LEFT NUT BREWING RED HARE BREWING BLUE RIDGE BREWERY

Fabulous Finds Georgia-made products you can't return home without By Anna Holman

1
Peach Belt
Life's a peach when you wear this canvas belt
from Watkinsville-based Peach State Pride. Avail-
able at Empire South (shopempiresouth.com)
in Watkinsville. $44.

2
Muscadine Wine
Bring home a sweet reminder of your trip to Georgia with a bo le of muscadine wine. Warm Springs
Wine in Warm Springs makes seven varieties from muscadine grapes grown, vinted, and bo led on site (tastings available). Pick up a bo le from Plum Southern (plumsouthern.bridgecatalog.com)
in LaGrange. $17 each.

PHOTOS BY CAROLINE KILGORE

3
Tote Bag
Handcra ed in Thomasville with materials made in the United States, this bag from Sturdy Brothers is built to last. Pick it up at Sturdy Brothers Dry Goods (sturdybrothers.com) in downtown Thomasville. $145.

4
Trucker Hat
This popular American Bull hat is made by Heritage Clothing, a Georgia-based company founded by a Greensboro native. Buy it at Murphy's Gifts and More (facebook.com/murphysgiftsandmore)
in Greensboro. $25.

7
Hard Cider
Bulldog Hard Cider, brewed in the Northeast Georgia mountains, is the perfect addition to any tailgate. Savor
the classic apple cider, or if you want a true taste of Georgia, try the peach hard cider. Available at Betty's
Country Store (bettysinhelen.com) in Helen. $8.99.

5
Specialty Oils and Flour
Add a splash of Southern flavor to your meals with oils from Oliver Farm in Pitts. Family owned and operated
for more than 100 years, the farm specializes in high-quality sunflower oil, cold-pressed pecan oil, and more. Pick up these products at Uptown Girls
(facebook.com/uptowngirlsga) in Pearson. $8$25.

6
Tree Spirit Charms
St. Simons Island is known for its "tree spirits"--portraits of lost sailors carved into the trunks of living oak trees. Take home a beautiful reminder of these images with a spirit charm in silver or gold from Chadwick's Jewelers (chadwicksjewelers.net) on St. Simons Island. $35$350.

PHOTOS BY CAROLINE KILGORE

8
Nut Butters
Georgia and peanuts go handin-hand, so take home a jar of Georgia-made peanut butter. Atlanta-based Georgia Grinders offers a variety of nut butters and powders for smoothies and baking. Find them at Alon's (alons.
com) in Atlanta. $7$11.

9
Golf Club
Perfect your stroke with a Bridges Custom Series golf club. Family-owned West Georgia Golf Company (westgeorgiagolfcompany.com) assembles and sells
this custom line of clubs from their Tallapoosa headquarters.
$39.95$289.95.

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

31

College Football Hall of Fame, Atlanta
WELCOME SPORTS FANS Museums showcase Georgia's sporty side / By Larry Bleiberg

GEORGIA IS ONE terrific sport. Want proof? Visit Atlanta's new

It's Georgia for the win!

Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, wowing visitors with more than 3,000

College Football Hall of Fame, which recognizes more than 1,000 top players and coaches.

Around the Peach State, visitors find an impressive

artifacts, including NASCAR simulators. The hall covers not only Georgia's professional stars, but

"It does more than celebrate the people, traditions, and passion--it engages you in a way you've

lineup of a ractions dedicated to their

also high school and collegiate athletes, along with Olympic and Paralympic standouts. Visitors can

never seen before," says CEO Dennis Adamovich.
For example, when visitors arrive

favorite teams, athletes, and moments in

also shoot hoops and even pose for photos on a medal stand. Of course, the world knows

at the $68.5 million museum, their favorite school is encoded on their admis-

sports.

Georgia as sacred ground for golfers, and the Augusta Museum of History cel-

sion ticket. As they wander the grounds,

ebrates Masters greats like Ben Hogan, Jack

exhibits automatically highlight that team, playing

Nicklaus, and Arnold Palmer. Exhibits touch on

its fight song and noting its top players. There's also an

the region's rich golfing history and offer a rare chance to

indoor football field where you can test your pigskin mettle with a see one of the famed green jackets coveted by tournament players.

variety of challenges.

Golf fans should also plan a trip to the Atlanta History Center,

But Georgia's sports-museum glory extends beyond the gridiron. which features native son Bobby Jones, who won thirteen major

Macon boasts the largest state sports museum in the nation with the tournaments and counted President Dwight Eisenhower as a golf-

32

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME

Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, Macon

ing companion. The displays include historic clubs and even rule books from St. Andrews.
Of course, other sports stars hail from Georgia as well. In Royston, the Ty Cobb Museum celebrates the legendary baseball player in his hometown. See rare photos, his 1907 batting champion award, and a stirring film narrated by famed Georgia Bulldogs broadcaster Larry Munson.
Cobb also gets love at the Northeast Georgia History Center's Sports Hall of Fame in Gainesville. But the museum on the campus of Brenau University highlights the careers of many others as well, including NASCAR driver Bill Elliott and golfer Tommy Aaron.

Nearby, Demorest's Piedmont College remembers another hall of famer at its Johnny Mize Baseball Museum. The first baseman, nicknamed the Big Cat, tallied a career .312 batting average, powering the New York Yankees to five consecutive World Series titles. The small museum includes memorabilia, including baseballs, uniforms, and photos documenting Mize's storied career.
And turbo-charged fans must schedule a pit stop at Dawsonville's Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. As NASCAR devotees know, the first racers started out as moonshine runners, and the museum's white lightning exhibit shows that sports spirit takes many forms.

Off to the Races
Some of the biggest thrills in Georgia zoom by at 200 miles per hour. The state has a deep connection to auto racing, and many consider Dawsonville to be NASCAR's birthplace.
Nowadays, much of Georgia's racing action centers on Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton. The quad-oval track, which seats more than 100,000, wins raves as one of the country's fastest.
Georgia racing isn't limited to stock cars, though. Road Atlanta, a twisty, two-and-a-half-mile, twelve-turn road course in Braselton, hosts everything from motorcycle races to high-performance driving schools. One of its biggest events, the Petit Le Mans, runs every fall.
Speed freaks also flock to the Atlanta Dragway near Commerce. The red-clay track, a former airport runway, hosts the National Hot Rod Association Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals each spring.
For even more drag racing, don't miss the Silver Dollar Raceway in Reynolds, a fan favorite for thirty years thanks to its rolling terrain and grass-level parking.
But for old-school Southern-style competition, it's hard to beat Swainsboro Raceway, with kart and mud-bog racing on a dirt track.
Atlanta Motor Speedway atlantamotorspeedway.com, Road Atlanta roadatlanta.com, Atlanta Dragway atlantadragway.com, Silver Dollar Raceway silverdollarraceway.com, Swainsboro Raceway swainsbororaceway.com

// RESOURCES // College Football Hall of Fame chall.com, Georgia Sports Hall of Fame georgiasportshalloffame.com, Augusta Museum of History augustamuseum.org, Atlanta History Center atlantahistorycenter. com, Ty Cobb Museum tycobbmuseum.org, Northeast Georgia History Center negahc.org, Johnny Mize Baseball Museum piedmontlions.com, Georgia Racing Hall of Fame georgiaracinghof.com

GEORGIA SPORTS HALL OF FAME ROAD ATLANTA MERCEDES BENZ STADIUM

Stellar New Stadiums

It's a big year for Georgia sports fans, with two major new stadiums and a massive sports community opening.
SunTrust Park in Smyrna promises to be a grand slam for baseball fans. The Atlanta Braves' new Cobb County home accommodates 41,000 spectators, offering a higher percentage of seats close to the field than any other major league park. And when it's time for a snack, you'll find more than hot dogs and peanuts. The adjacent Ba ery Atlanta development offers a wide choice of restaurants, from a brewpub to a high-end steakhouse.
Not to be outdone, the Atlanta Falcons se le into the domed Mercedes-Benz

Stadium downtown with more bells and whistles than a C-Class Coupe. The field has a retractable, eight-panel pinwheel-shaped roof, and thirsty fans may order a cocktail from the 100-yard-long bar in the upper concourse. Soccer fans can get in on the fun since Atlanta United FC calls the field home, too.
Even amateur athletes get their due at LakePoint Sporting Community in Emerson. In addition to serving as the Southeast's largest indoor sports facility, it's also home to an entertainment area with restaurants, rock climbing, and thirty-six holes of miniature golf.
SunTrust Park atlanta.braves.mlb.com, Mercedes-Benz Stadium mercedesbenzstadium.com, LakePoint Sporting Community lakepointsports.com

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

33

SECRETS
of Georgia State Parks

From hidden caves to moonshine trucks, 9 unexpected discoveries
By Jayne Clark

Overlook at Fort Mountain State Park,
Chatsworth

Remote waterfalls and WWII aircra . An ill-fated moonshine truck and antebellum ruins. In Georgia's sixty-six state parks and historic sites, hundreds of treasures await. Find them on your own, or check out georgiastateparks.org/ hiddengems, which includes updates on special events-- such as ranger-led hikes and guided kayaking trips-- designed to spotlight under-the-radar gems.

1 A wartime workhorse
Stand in awe before a rare Boeing B-29A Superfortress, one of only twenty-two surviving models still on display, at Georgia Veterans State Park in Cordele. The behemoth was a World War II and Korean War superhero, capable of speeds of 400 miles per hour, a 5,000-mile range, and space for 20,000 pounds of bombs. This one, nicknamed Dark Slide, is no longer airworthy--but is certainly suited for ogling.
2 A moonshine truck that took a wrong turn
Amicalola Falls State Park in Dawsonville is best known for its 729-foot cascading waterfall--the tallest in the Southeast. But

another sight that consistently turns heads is the baby-blue 1950s Ford moonshine truck that crashed down a 200-foot embankment to its final resting place in a grove of poplars. No word on what happened to the driver. Or the hooch. The
Boeing B-29A Superfortress at Georgia Veterans State Park, Cordele

truck, off the West Ridge Trail, is just one of several moonshine cars and abandoned stills in the park, which makes sense, considering Dawsonville is the "Moonshine Capital of the World."
3 A storm's picturesque gi
Tornado-force winds blew into Fort Mountain State Park in Chatsworth a few years ago, knocking out a stand of trees on the 301 Mountain Bike Trail. To many a biker's delight, the lost foliage created a natural overlook with spectacular views of the western valley. Another gem lies on the opposite side of the mountain, where a hidden waterfall splashes into a deep gorge. It's accessible via the six-mile loop trail.
Gopher tortoise at George L. Smith
State Park, Twin City

34

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

4 Revered reptiles
Quick! What's Georgia's official state reptile? If the answer didn't roll off your tongue, it might be time to brush up on the gopher tortoise. And there's no better spot to do so than George L. Smith State Park in Twin City. The reptiles revel in its loose, sandy soil and wire grass; look for them along the park's three-mile loop trail. (You'll know one when you see one: They can grow to more than a foot long and weigh up to fifteen pounds.)
5 Plunging trails and a hidden cave
Spectacular views of the 1,000-foot-deep, two-mile-long Tallulah Gorge can be had from rim trails and also a suspension bridge that sways eighty feet above the canyon floor. But for a truly immersive experience, hike into the rocky depths (permit required) of this state park in Tallulah Falls. Yes, it's strenuous, but how many chances do you get to slide down a waterfall and explore a little-known cave? Easier on the legs is the Terrora Trail, which leads to a 1913 jailhouse.
6 A historic racecourse
Costumed interpreters reenact eighteenthcentury plantation life amid the live oaks and Spanish moss at the Wormsloe State Historic Site in Savannah. There's also a fascinating bit of early twentieth-century history tucked away just inside the front gate: an embankment that was part of the 1911 Great Savannah Races course--considered the precursor to Grand Prix racing.
7 Historical cemeteries and forgo en whiskey stills
Panola Mountain State Park in Stockbridge is cherished for its hiking and biking trails, but the vestiges of early settlers are worth checking out, too. Ranger-led hikes visit cultural relics such as cemeteries, whiskey

Chocolate Plantation Ruins, Sapelo Island
stills, and once-fertile farmland. Of course, the real gem is the mountain itself: It's one of the few monadnocks (small rock mountains) in the Southeast.
8 Signs of ancient hunter-gatherers
Sapelo Island is known for its circa-1810 Reynolds Mansion. But the wildlife management area on the north end of this 10,000-acre barrier island harbors

Panola Mountain State Park, Stockbridge

Chief Vann House, Chatsworth

Wormsloe State Historic Site, Savannah
its own fascinations. They include the antebellum ruins of Chocolate Plantation (where they grew cotton, not cocoa; the name comes from an Indian village named Chucalate). There are also massive 4,000-year-old shell rings--some twelve feet high and 300 feet in diameter--created by early hunter-gatherers.
9 A singed staircase
The Chief Vann House in Chatsworth is the state's best-preserved historic Cherokee residence. Built for the wealthy Cherokee Chief James Vann and later occupied by his even wealthier son, Joseph Vann, it almost burned down when Georgia militia threw a smoldering log inside. The burn marks on the stairway are still visible. The incident sparked the Vanns' 1835 move to Oklahoma as part of the Trail of Tears.

GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

35

Free Things



TO DO IN GEORGIA

Experience Georgia--without paying a cent
By Shayla Martin

Pier at Tybee Island

Having fun in Georgia doesn't have to cost a fortune. In fact, a surprising number of top a ractions and cultural sites welcome visitors for free. We did the
research and uncovered thirty amazing things to do in the Peach State without ever reaching for your wallet. You--and your bank account--will thank us.

1 Admire brilliant azaleas and
breathe in fragrant dogwoods at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia in Athens. This 313-acre "living museum" features 300,000 plant species, including stunning roses and peonies in the Flower Garden. May through October, spot the smallest birds in the world enjoying nectar meals on the Hummingbird Trail. botgarden.uga.edu

2

Good gourd! Gourds of all shapes and sizes from

twenty-three countries fill the

Gourd Place Museum in Sautee

Nacoochee. View reproductions

of early American items made

from gourds, as well as works from

contemporary gourd artists. gourd-

place.com/museum

4 The final resting place of 300
Civil War soldiers and First Lady Ellen Axson Wilson, Myrtle Hill Cemetery in Rome offers stunning views of Etowah Valley and the Appalachians and is widely considered one of the most picturesque cemeteries in the nation. romegeorgia.org

Ocmulgee National Monument, Macon
3 View a mysterious spiral mound built by Native Americans at
Ocmulgee National Monument in Macon. The twenty-foot-high site, the only known spiral mound in North America, was an important part of Native American life from 1350 through the late 1500s. But this area was inhabited well before then: Spearheads, which you can view in the on-site museum, indicate Paleo-Indians arrived here 17,000 years ago. nps.gov/ocmu

5

Pay homage to one of the world's greatest comedy

duos at the Laurel and Hardy

Museum in Harlem--the birth-

place of Oliver Hardy. Check out

memorabilia donated by fans

from around the world, and don't

leave before watching a flick or

two from the museum's collection

of 106 Laurel and Hardy movies.

laurelandhardymuseum.com

36

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

GDED MACON CVB

Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville

Georgia Winery, Ringgold

6 See America's story
through the largest collection of contemporary Western art east of the Mississippi at the Booth Western Art Museum in Cartersville. Admission is free the first Thursday of the month from 4 to 8 p.m. boothmuseum.org

7

Elberton is the "Granite Capital of the

World," and at the Elberton

Granite Museum, you'll find

an array of quarry equip-

ment and info on the history

of granite in the area. Don't

miss "Dutchy," a granite

statue once considered so

unattractive, he was buried

underground for several

decades. egaonline.com

8

Radium Springs in Albany is one of

Georgia's Seven Natural

Wonders, fed by an un-

derground cave pumping

70,000 gallons of crystal-

clear water a minute. At

Radium Springs Gardens

in Albany, admire the lovely

springs while relaxing in the

gazebos or strolling through

the garden. visitalbany.com

9

Enjoy a free tasting of "Georgia on My

Mind" peach-flavored wine

at Georgia Winery in Ring-

gold, the state's first farm

winery. georgiawines.com

10

You might not expect to find a

twenty-six-foot fossil of

a marine reptile called a

mosasaur in Statesboro, but

at the Georgia Southern

Museum, surprises abound.

Turns out the area's shallow

waters were once home

to the dreaded creature,

as well as primitive North

American whales. Discover

the region's natural history

through skeletal remains,

fossils, and replicas;

admission is free the last

Saturday of each month.

academics.georgiasouthern.

edu/museum

11

There's no charge to wander the piers

of Tybee Island and St.

Simons Island. Each is an

ideal spot to watch the

sun rise over the Atlantic

while dolphins play in the

surf. exploretybee.com,

goldenisles.com

12

America's first and largest national

military park, Chickamauga

& Chattanooga National

Military Park at Fort Ogle-

thorpe is situated on the site

known as the "death knell of

the Confederacy." Traverse

miles of trails, checking out

fascinating historical tablets

and monuments along the

way. nps.gov/chch

13

Visit and tour First African Baptist

Church in Dublin, where

fifteen-year-old Martin Lu-

ther King Jr. gave his first

public speech. Adjacent to

the church, a monument

with plaques and imagery

commemorates the event

and King's legacy. firstafri-

canbaptistdublinga.com

14 Watch pure cane
syrup transform into award-winning rum through fermentation and distillation during a tour of the Richland Distilling Company in Richland. Guests twenty-one and older may toast the experience with a taste of the spirit. richlandrum.com

First African Baptist Church, Dublin

Chickamauga & Cha anooga National Military Park, Fort Oglethorpe

Georgia Southern Museum, Statesboro

BOOTH WESTERN ART MUSEUM GEORGIA WINES GDED VISIT DUBLIN GA GEORGIA SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY GDED

Richland Distilling Company, Richland

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

37

Atlanta's Home to
75 Acres of Outdoor Nature Adventures Giant Screen Movies Archaeological Artifacts Free Parking Minutes from Midtown
Plan your visit at FernbankMuseum.org

Buy Online!
FernbankMuseum.org/CityPASS

38

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

30
FREE THINGS

White Oak Pastures, Blu on

15 Let the Harris family
give you a tour of their 150-year-old Bluffton farm, White Oak Pastures, now in its fifth generation. Tour their zero-waste facility, organic farms, and garden. whiteoakpastures.com

16 An early twentieth-cen-
tury quarantine sign. An iron lung. A Ped-O-Jet used to help eradicate smallpox. At the David J. Sencer CDC Museum in Atlanta, you'll view these fascinating items up close while learning about the history of the Centers for Disease Control and its contribution to the elimination of worldwide epidemics. cdc. gov/museum

17

One of the premier military attractions in the

country, the National Infantry

Museum & Soldier Center

at Fort Benning in Columbus

showcases an astounding

collection of 70,000 military

artifacts. Exhibits include "The

Last 100 Yards Ramp," with

life-sized depictions of signifi-

cant battles in the Infantry's

240-year history. nationalin-

fantrymuseum.org

18 You've no doubt heard
of Habitat for Humanity, but did you know the nonprofit's world headquarters are in Americus? At the Habitat for Humanity Global Village & Discovery Center, educate yourself on global poverty and see full-sized Habitat houses from around the world. habitat. org/gvdc

19

An art and history museum in one, the

Columbus Museum in Colum-

bus showcases American fine

art and Chattahoochee history

exhibits. There's even a garden

designed by the Olmsted

Brothers firm, founded by

famed landscape architect

Frederick Law Olmsted.

columbusmuseum.com

20 Civil War buffs won't
want to miss the Augusta Arsenal in Augusta, which once housed Confederate war materials. Check out the surviving structures, including the Commandant's House, which became the boyhood home of poet Stephen Vincent Benet. Benet, of course, wrote John Brown's Body, a famous book-length narrative poem on the Civil War. augusta.edu

21

Acclaimed early twentieth-century poet/

novelist Byron Herbert Reece

was also an Appalachian

farmer, and the Byron

Herbert Reece Farm &

Heritage Center in Blairsville

offers a glimpse into his life.

View his writing studio, learn

about the methods he used

to grow food, and take in the

stunning scenery that inspired

him. reecefarm.org

22

There's no more Southern way to enjoy your

weekend than by tapping your

toes to live old-timey music at

the Woodbine Opry in Wood-

bine. Enjoy bluegrass and gos-

pel on Friday evenings, and take

in a classic country-music show

on Saturday nights. There's no

cover charge! thewoodbineopry.

wordpress.com

23

Just try to divert your eyes as thousands of

dollars are counted, sorted,

and sometimes shredded at the

Atlanta Monetary Museum in

the Federal Reserve Bank of

Atlanta. You can also sneak a

peek of the bank's automated

vault and view rare coins and

currency. frbatlanta.org

Augusta Arsenal, Augusta

24

There's only one place on earth where you can

witness the birth of a hand-

sculpted Cabbage Patch Kid,

and that's Babyland General

Hospital in Cleveland. At this

Southern-style home, you can

also view Mother Cabbage

beneath the branches of the

Magic Crystal Tree and take

the oath of adoption to bring

home your very own Cabbage

Patch Kid (adoption fees ap-

ply). babylandgeneral.com

WHITE OAK PASTURES GDED

GDED

25

It may be one of the country's foremost fine arts museums, but there's no

charge to enter Atlanta's High Museum of

Art the second Sunday of each month. Bring

the kids--you'll enjoy special family-friendly

programming from 1 to 4 p.m. high.org

26

Peruse 600 pieces of East African art and thirty examples of antique

European fine porcelain at Annette Howell

Turner Center for the Arts in Valdosta, a

premier regional arts center. turnercenter.org

27

Gorgeous views of the Savannah River come standard on the dual-level

Augusta Riverwalk in Augusta. Enjoy a picnic

lunch in one of the gardens or simply relax on

a swinging chair while you take advantage of

the breezes drifting off the water. augustariv-

erwalk.com

Monastery of the Holy Spirit, Conyers

28 You don't have to be Catholic to
appreciate the thriving monastic community at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers. Admire the the monk-made stained glass in the gothic Abbey Church, wander the sprawling bonsai garden, and take a self-guided tour of the Monastic Museum, which teaches about the lives of monks. If you're feeling spiritual, you can even join Trappist monks for Mass and midday prayer. trappist.net

29

The world's most famous onion has its own shrine at the Vidalia Onion Mu-

seum in Vidalia. Learn about the vegetable's

history, check out the world's smallest onion

field, and meet Yumion, the museum's be-

loved Vidalia mascot. vidaliaonion.org

30

From Tuesday to Thursday, tour the entertaining spaces of the

24,000-square-foot Governor's Mansion in

Atlanta, including the impressive entrance

hall, library, state dining room, and circular

hall. Pay special attention to the furnishings:

Each piece is part of a Federal Period collec-

tion that's considered one of the country's

finest. mansion.georgia.gov

LIKE ALL THIS FREE THINKING?
Find 20 more free things to do in Georgia at ExploreGeorgia.org

Old Crow Medicine Show, at The Classic Center

Escape to Athens

cmLeniuvtsrieacl

You'll revel in the creative energy of this college town, known for music, good times, and the culinary and craft beer scenes. With Southern hospitality and trend-setting culture, Athens is an
escape for wanderers of all ages.
Plan your getaway at VisitAthensGA.com

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

39

MAIN STREET NEWS!

VISITORS REPORT TIME TRAVEL ALONG
GEORGIA'S CHARMING THOROUGHFARES
By T. Wayne Waters

The heart and soul of many a Georgia town is its Main Street. Lined with buildings that date back to the area's founding and
filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries, it's the local
gathering spot, whether or not it's actually called Main Street.

40

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Canton Street, Roswell

Broughton Street, Savannah
Savannah's Broughton Street is all spruced up. A major renovation project restored facades on historical buildings and brought in a number of name-brand stores, including Urban Outfitters, the Gap, and Victoria's Secret. But fear not: Independent favorites like Savannah Bee Company and Coffee Fox are still thriving, as is Leopold's Ice Cream, a Savannah institution since 1919. Check out the elegant Paris Market for everything from high-quality furniture to locally made jewelry to an impressive array of scented candle tins. At 24e Design Co., you'll find an eclectic selection of contemporary furniture and home decor items. Two of Broughton's most historical treasures include the Marshall House hotel, built in the 1850s, and Trustees Theater, a renovated classic film and live performance theater that originally opened in 1946. savannah. com/broughton-street
Main Street, Clayton
Clayton sits pretty as a picture in Georgia's northeast corner, surrounded by the peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The town's Main Street offers some exceptional dining experiences: Fortify Kitchen & Bar, for example, is a Georgia Trend Silver Spoon Award winner whose chef, Jamie Allred, has been listed in Best Chefs America many times over. Other notable Main Street restaurants include the venerable Clayton Cafe, a local favorite that's been serving up simple, stick-to-your-ribs Southern fare since 1931. Shoppers appreciate that this street is also home to several art galleries and an antique mall filled with treasures from yesteryear. Two small parks, Veterans Park and Rock House Park, face one another across

GDED GDED

Paris Market at Broughton Street,
Savannah
Madison-Morgan Cultural Center,
Madison
Main Street; the latter, as its name suggests, features a small house built entirely of rock in 1935. downtownclaytonga.org
Main Street and East Main Street, Woodstock
Nestled in picturesque northwest Georgia, Woodstock's two Main Streets flank either side of the historical railroad tracks. Between them, they constitute a foodie's paradise, with Century House Tavern serving up charcuterie boards and grilled beef tenderloin while Reel Seafood offers a mean shrimp and grits. Walk off your meal by browsing shops such as Blue Frog Imports, with its handmade mirrors from Mexico and colorful Talavera pottery. Be sure to say hi to the in-house folk artist who's usually working while you shop. On the north end of East Main is the Park at City Center, a lovely treed greenspace with a fountain, gazebo, and benches. A new

amphitheater featuring tiered grass seating for up to 6,000 people now serves as the primary performance stage for the Woodstock Concert Series; the summertime event has brought the likes of the Marshall Tucker Band and Little Texas to Woodstock in recent years. whatsupwoodstock.com
Canton Street, Roswell
Situated in the middle of Roswell's extensive historic district just north of Atlanta, Canton Street is lined with nineteenth-century buildings housing independent eateries, shops, and a surprising number of galleries. Browse for gifts like Georgia-themed dinner plates and colorful stoneware pitchers at the Chandlery; feast on Springer Mountain Farms Southern fried chicken at Table & Main; and pick up specialty meats and French delicacies at the Market. visitroswellga.com
Main Street, Greensboro
In east Georgia near Lake Oconee, Greensboro's Main Street is recognized as one of Georgia's Exceptional Main Streets, a designation reserved for select communities with well-established historic downtowns. A shopping haven, the street is loaded with stores for the home, including Genuine GeorgiaAn Artisan Marketplace. Here, you'll find handcrafted items made by Georgia artists, including colorful glass, decorative pottery, and handcrafted furniture. As you wander Main Street, you'll discover a treasure trove of architecture and public art, including the 1936 Post Office on South Main, which has two of the last WPA murals in the U.S. Postal Service, commissioned as part of FDR's postDepression, New Deal Work Projects Administration. For

a real treat, stop in for casual dining at the Yesterday Cafe, saving room for a piece of their signature buttermilk pie. downtowngreensboroga.com
Main Street, Madison
Visitors to Madison, a lovely town in the heart of Georgia, will find much to enjoy while strolling its Main Street. Pop into the many antique shops, art galleries, and gift
Main Street, Clayton
shops, including the charming Laughing Moon, a two-floor repository of clothing, handmade inspirational signs, and more. When you've worked up an appetite, head to Amici Italian Cafe on South Main. It's got a full menu of gourmet pizza and calzones, pasta dishes, sandwiches, soups, and salads and a laid-back atmosphere. After lunch, check out a few of the antebellum buildings Sherman deemed "too pretty to burn." Begin with a visit to Heritage Hall, a beautifully restored all-white Greek Revival home built in 1811. Another historical beauty is the striking redbrick Romanesque Revival building that houses the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, which dates to 1895. Inside, you'll find a restored late nineteenth-century classroom,

CLAY TON MERCHANTS AND BUSINES S AS SOCIATI ON M ADISON CVB

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

41

a regional history exhibit, and a circa 1856 Boxwood Parlor Furniture Exhibition with original silk brocatelle upholstery. madisonga.com
Court Square, Newnan
In west Georgia, Newnan's version of Main Street is the Court Square. Here, popular restaurants like Rednexican, Meat 'n Greet (just off the Square on Jefferson), and Goldens on the Square hold court alongside Ace Beer Growlers and Leaf and Bean. Shop for local pottery and paintings at the gift shop in Corner Arts Gallery, and browse for women's clothing and gifts at Gillyweed and Kendra's, boutiques on Jefferson. Across from the Square, a colorful wall mural on the side of Scott's Bookstore showcases Newnan's significant people, homes, and public build-

Broad Street, Thomasville
ings, along with historical scenes such as a wagonload of cotton bales being taken to market. mainstreetnewnan.com
Broad Street, Thomasville
The first Georgia city to be designated a Great American Main Street community, Thomasville in southwest Georgia considers Broad Street its main thoroughfare. It's lined with well-preserved historical buildings that are home to independent shops such as Sweet Grass Dairy (which sells local artisan cheeses) and Grassroots Coffee (where you can enjoy a cup of locally roasted joe and made-from-scratch soups). This is quail-hunting country, so don't miss Kevin's Fine Outdoor Gear & Apparel, where you'll find everything from guns to hunting bags to quail-themed decor. Afterward, "hunt" for the town's twelve bronze quails hidden in plain sight around downtown. downtownthomasville.com

East Fourth Street, Ocilla
This south Georgia town may be small--two stoplights and about 3,500 residents citywide--but Ocilla has a big heart. Tree-lined East Fourth Street is home to the Shoppes at Fourth & Cherry, which Matt and Roxie Seale opened in a former bank to sell antiques, home decor items, gifts, and clothing--and to lure visitors to their beloved town. The adjoining Cafe at Fourth & Cherry offers delicious handmade salads and sandwiches. You'll find great shopping at L's of Ocilla boutique, offering fresh fashions mostly for women but with a smattering for the guys. Still hungry? Sit down for tasty home cooking at the no-frills but friendly Catfish House. ocillachamber.net

PATRICIA WILLIAMS

42

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

WITH VALUE IN OUR NAME, YOU KNOW YOU'RE GETTING
A GREAT DEAL
Free internet and breakfast.* Quality hometown comfort with friendly service.
Over 1,000 convenient locations.
BOOK DIRECT for a great rate and the best value.
StayRLHC.com
*At participating locations. All hotels individually owned and proudly operated under franchise license. RLHC

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

43

the
ARTof
AMsEtRylIeCAN
A distinctive luxury shopping and dining district in one of America's most popular travel destinations.
AKRIS ALICE+OLIVIA BRUNELLO CUCINELLI CANALI CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN COS DIOR ETRO HERMS JIMMY CHOO JOIE JONATHAN ADLER LA PERLA LES COPAINS
LINDBERGH MONCLER ROBERT TALBOTT THEORY TOD'S TOM FORD AND MORE...
TheShopsBuckheadAtlanta.com | 3035 Peachtree Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30305 Developed and Graciously Managed by

e

Barnsley Resort, Adairsville
a

Whether you're in the mood for a secluded
beach vacation, a mountain getaway, the
charms of a small Southern town, or a resort
that grants your every wish, Georgia's romantic
escapes promise love at first sight.

Experience a weekend to remember in Georgia's most romantic destinations
By Jennifer Senator
AT GLEN ELLA SPRINGS INN in Clarkesville, you'll find a luxurious respite from your daily routine. You'll also find a little adventure: Book the "Discover the Falls" Package, which includes two hiking sticks, water bottles, a backpack, and a picnic lunch. Load your gear in the car and drive the short distance to Tallulah Gorge, where you'll want to cling to your sweetie as you walk along the suspension bridge eighty feet above the gorge. Be sure to also see nearby Toccoa Falls, breathtaking at 186 feet high (twentysix feet taller than Niagara Falls). Back at Glen-Ella, enjoy in-room massages before

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

45

BARNSLEY RESORT

Tallulah Gorge, Tallulah Falls

dinner at the inn's acclaimed fine-dining restaurant, then recap your day together in side-by-side front-porch rocking chairs.
If leisurely bicycling through town is more your speed, visit the Paxton Historic House Hotel, a tucked-away refuge built in 1884 near historic downtown Thomasville. Stay in one of four guest rooms in the elegant Victorian hotel or, for extra privacy, rent one of the on-site cottages, each with its own front porch and kitchen. Borrow complimentary bikes and ride downtown, where historic buildings house antique shops, boutiques, and an array of homegrown eateries, including the renowned Sweet Grass Dairy cheese shop, local roaster Grassroots Coffee, and Bacchus, a wine bar that's a favorite

The Twelve Oaks, Covington

46

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

with locals. You'll see these foods back at the hotel for breakfast, along with farmfresh eggs and locally sourced bacon and preserves.
To unplug completely and reconnect with your better half, take a forty-minute ferry ride to Cumberland Island's famed Greyfield Inn, where Wi-Fi, cell service, and TV are nonexistent. Enjoy a picnic lunch provided by the inn on the pristine white-sand beach, and keep an eye out for native birds pecking around the nationally protected seashore. Back at the inn--a nineteenth-century mansion built by the Carnegie family--experience Old World elegance with canapes at the bar and dinner in the formal dining room before snuggling up for the night in one of sixteen guest rooms.
If Southern love stories sweep you off your feet, look no further than the magnificent Twelve Oaks, a 12,000-square-foot mansion in Covington that is best known as the inspiration for the home of the same name in Gone With the Wind. Recently named one of "Georgia's Most Romantic Places" by Georgia Public Broadcasting, the inn is considered one of the South's best examples of antebellum architecture. Built in 1836, the Twelve Oaks was renovated in 2012 to include fireplaces in each room, soaking tubs, and modern amenities such as flatscreen TVs, Wi-Fi, Egyptian linens, and Turkish robes. After a cocktail on the front porch or a leisurely walk among the lawn's majestic oaks, make the short drive east to

GDED JUMPING ROCKS PHOTOGRAPHY

PETER FRANK EDWARDS PAXTON HISTORIC HOUSE HOTEL ERIC LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY GDED

Greyfield Inn, Cumberland Island

Dorminy-Massee House, Fitzgerald

The Paxton Historic House Hotel, Thomasville

historic downtown Madison, where you can stroll the town Sherman deemed too pretty to burn, home to more than fifty antebellum buildings and exquisite Southern gardens.
For more small-town charm, visit the Dorminy-Massee House in Fitzgerald, where the grounds of the century-old mansion--including a tranquil goldfish pond and a private gazebo--provide the perfect setting for long talks and quiet moments together. Enjoy cocktails and snacks out on the wide porch or in the elegant downstairs parlor with your host, who also happens to be the town mayor. He'll tell you about the history of this unique Southern city, which was founded by both Confederate and Union generals (many of the local streets are named after them). If you walk into town, look for the

city's beloved wild chickens, which freely roam city streets and are celebrated with the Wild Chicken Festival every March.
Sometimes, a romantic escape calls for extra magic, and Barnsley Resort has quite a dusting of it. Built in the 1840s and later owned by a prince (Prince Fugger of Bavaria), this resort offers the ultimate storybook setting for a romantic escape--including a fairy godmother on staff. Denise Webb flits across the vast Adairsville property with her crystalencrusted wand, busily creating magical moments for guests. Your wish is her command, whether it's a secluded dinner in the bamboo garden, a proposal in the historic Barnsley Ruins, or your loved one's favorite treats waiting upon arrival. Add a horseback ride through the fields, and your fairy tale is complete.

// RESOURCES // Glen-Ella Springs Inn glenella.com, Tallulah Gorge gastateparks.org/tallulahgorge, Toccoa Falls cityo occoa.com/toccoa-falls. cfm, The Paxton Historic House Hotel thepaxton1884.com, Sweet Grass Dairy sweetgrassdairy.com/cheeseshop, Grassroots Coffee grassrootscoffee.com, Bacchus bacchusthomasville.com, Greyfield Inn greyfieldinn.com, The Twelve Oaks thetwelveoaks.com, Madison madisonga.org, Dorminy-Massee House dorminymasseehouse.com, Barnsley Resort barnsleyresort.com

GREAT DATES
Top Georgia spots for a perfect time
together
Take the 1.8-mile "wine hike" at Dahlonega's Montaluce Winery, which includes a guided walking tour of the vineyard and nature trails followed by a wine tasting. montaluce.com
Send your hearts racing on the Silver Comet Trail, a 61.5-mile nonmotorized trail for walking, cycling, or rollerblading through Atlanta's western counties. For a romantic detour, duck off the main trail at Smyrna's Heritage Park and take the elevated boardwalk through the forest to historic Concord Covered Bridge. silvercometga.com
See an old-fashioned drive-in movie at the Jesup Drive-In Theater, the oldest drive-in in Georgia. Arrive when the gates open at 7 p.m. to set up a cozy spot on the lawn, or stay in the car (bonus points if you have a truck) and order burgers and fried Oreos from carhops in 1950s a ire. jesupdrivein.com
You can't go wrong with dinner at Canoe, an award-winning restaurant on the tranquil banks of the Cha ahoochee River in Atlanta. Stroll hand-in-hand along the waterfront and through the colorful gardens before or a er your meal. canoeatl.com
Bring your own picnic and a bo le of wine and se le in for lots of snuggling time on the three-hour Augusta Canal Sunset Cruise. Raise a glass as you pass herons, o ers, and alligators on your ride down the historic canal to the Savannah Rapids and back. augustacanal.com q

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

47

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

[ LEGEND ]
Interstates
Highways
Georgia Visitor Information Centers

48

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

2017 The Coca-Cola Company. "THE WORLD OF COCA-COLA" and the Contour Bottle Design are registered trademarks of The Coca-Cola Company.

worldofcoca-cola.com

ATLANTA METRO
Situated at the meeting place of modern amenities and historic charm, the Atlanta Metro region is considered by many to be the capital of the South. With world-class attractions, dining, sports, and shopping, it offers the best of the big city without sacrificing Southern hospitality. Enjoy a stroll through bustling downtown, or relax
in one of the numerous parks in the surrounding historical neighborhoods.
By Anne e Thompson
{ A B OV E : AT LA N TA B E LT L I N E }

GDED JERRY MUCKLOW BIGSTOCK COM PIEDMONT PARK CONSERVANCY

Agnes Scott College Wes Craven's Scream 2 fashioned this women's college in Decatur as its main set, and Tyler Perry's Single Moms Club turned it into a prep school. HBO transformed Agnes Sco into the University of Oklahoma for Confirmation.

CAUGHT ON FILM
Swan House What's that mansion behind The Hunger Games' President Snow? Why, the Swan House at the Atlanta History Center in Buckhead. During filming, set decorators even showed off many of the house's antique birdthemed objects.

Piedmont Park This popular green space in Midtown Atlanta has served as the backdrop for multiple films. The dude's group in What to Expect When You're Expecting took their weekly walks there, while a father and son had a tte--tte in Anchor Man 2. And Julia Roberts shouts, "Hello Atlanta" from inside the park in Mother's Day.

50

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

GDED ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN

ATLAN TA M ETR O

Scarle Fever
Fiddle-dee-dee! Atlanta Metro does give a damn about Margaret Mitchell's Gone With the Wind. Here's where to track down melodramatic, hoop-skirted, curtseys to the 1936 novel and 1939 film.
In Midtown Atlanta, the Margaret Mitchell House is home to "the Dump"--the apartment where the author penned the Pulitzer Prizewinning book. The three-story Tudor home features exhibits on Mitchell's life, including details about her death after being struck by a speeding car on Peachtree Street. Over at Atlanta-Fulton Public Library's downtown branch, Mitchell's Remington typewriter is on display in a collection that includes books she consulted while writing the novel. After you leave, be sure to pay your respects at her grave at Oakland Cemetery.

In Marietta, an 1880s

Margaret Mitchell House, Atlanta

redbrick warehouse serves

as the Gone With the

Wind Museum. Filled

with film relics such as

Scarlett's silk honeymoon

gown worn by Vivien

Leigh, it also features first-

edition books from around

the world and original

movie posters. Don't miss

the important exhibit on

the film's African Ameri-

can cast members.

Mitchell set most of the

novel around Jonesboro

(her grandparents lived on a nearby

take a historical bus tour of the town.

plantation and their stories inspired the

In addition to celebrating Gone With the

novel); the Road to Tara Museum now Wind, the museum helps visitors dif-

fills the town's old train depot. Gawk at ferentiate between stereotypes of the Civil

the original pantalets from the movie and War and Reconstruction and the reality of

a replica of the green curtain dress, then how they affected the region.

GET THE SHOT

WORD OF MOUTH
"Sophie and I love the sunsets on Lake Acworth.
#ExploreGeorgia"
@KAYAKJEFF7 (VIA INSTAGRAM)

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

1.
Atlanta Botanical Garden
By day, photograph the Lily Pond's blooming flowers and darting goldfish. At twilight, capture Midtown Atlanta's highrises twinkling just beyond the Grand Lawn.

2.
Kennesaw Mountain
From this National Ba lefield Park in Kennesaw, take pictures of green mountain vistas and the Atlanta city skyline. The
popular road to the top is only open to
shu le buses on weekends.

3.
Skyline Park at Ponce City Market
At this roo op amusement park in Atlanta's Ponce City Market, discover panoramas
of the city, plus a plethora of vintage games. Buskers vie for your a ention alongside mini golf,
Skee-Ball, and a three-story slide.

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

51

ATLA N TA M ET R O

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Feb. 128, 2017
Celebrate African American culture with month-long exhibits, author and artist talks, films, and poetry slams at the Roswell Roots Festival. Don't miss the popular cornbread cook-off and the inspiring Unity Concert.
March 5, 2017
Grab your pit passes and head to Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton for 500 miles of action at the Folds of Honor QuikTrip 500 NASCAR Race. Make a weekend of it by camping under the stars and upgrading your kiddos' tickets to include a Q&A with racing great Jimmie Johnson.
April 2223, 2017
It's the 1940s all over again during World War II Heritage Days at Falcon Field in Peachtree City. Actors stage mock ba les and impersonate period celebrities amid the WWII vehicles and vintage aircra in this living-history experience.
Aug. 27, 2017
Watch a parade, learn to salsa, and enjoy everything from Dominican to Brazilian cuisine at Festival Peachtree Latino. The celebration in
Atlanta's Piedmont Park showcases performers from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Colombia, Venezuela, and the Dominican Republic.



April 79, 2017
When the dogwoods and azaleas bloom, artists from around the country showcase their works in Piedmont Park at the Atlanta Dogwood Festival. Alongside art, there's a barbecue and brews event, a kids area, and a notable disc dog competition.
May 2628, 2017
This isn't your typical festival--at the Decatur Arts Festival, revelers celebrate the arts with a lantern parade, improv comedy acts, and a dance fest alongside the juried show.
June 34, 2017
The tenth annual Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival dazzles with flower shows and garden tours throughout Douglasville. (This year's featured hydrangea is the Ocean.) There are even folk art exhibits and mini gardens to explore.



Sept. 710, 2017
More than 400 artists and cra ers show off their creations at the forty-ninth annual Yellow Daisy Festival at Atlanta's Stone Mountain Park. Visitors wind through the canopy of trees to meet the artists and enjoy the festival foods and cra ing demos.

Oct. 67, 2017
Check out free live music in the streets of Alphare a during the Wire and Wood Songwriters Festival. At intimate stages, music lovers hear the behind-the-scenes stories that inspired popular country, rock, blues, and Americana songs.

Mid-Nov. 2017Early Jan. 2018
During Six Flags Holiday in the Park, more than one million LED lights transform Six Flags Over Georgia in Austell into a sparkling wonderland. Be sure to take a ride on the historic 1910 Riverview Carousel.

52

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Avalon, Alphare a
Shopping Mecca
Whether you prefer to window-shop, bargain hunt, or splurge on designer duds, you'll find remarkable buys in Atlanta Metro's celebrated shopping districts.
What's old is new again at the historic Sears Roebuck building, now Ponce City Market. The early twentieth century building houses big names such as Anthropologie, Frye boots, and Williams-Sonoma, plus smaller ones such as Sugarboo (gifts), Rye 51 (men's goods), and Ponce Denim (jeans). So impressive are the options, Ponce City Market was named one of Travel + Leisure's World's Coolest New Attractions.
Five miles north, the new Buckhead Atlanta development boasts three square blocks of dream-worthy emporiums. With upscale flair, shops tempt with shoes from Christian Louboutin and Jimmy Choo, as well as chic menswear from Billy Reid. Even Atlanta native Sara Blakely squeezes her Spanx into the mix.
Meanwhile, Avalon has fashioned a New Urbanism shopping destination in Alpharetta with top-rated retailers mixed with eateries and living quarters. Between Euro cafes and hipster whiskey joints, consumer palaces such as Athleta, Madewell, and Orvis entice shoppers with their wares.
When you have a yen for the vintage and historical, head to Scott Antique Markets in south Atlanta. Grab a treasure map at the monthly event to explore 365,000 square feet of indoor booths, plus acres of outdoor tents in which to hunt items ranging from silverware to settees. While you're in the area, swing by the Atlanta Farmers Market in nearby Forest Park for 150 acres of fresh Georgia food.

GDED JOHN WILLHOFF HYDRANGEA/MARACAS/GUITAR BIGSTOCK COM JONATHAN PHILLIPS RAFTERMEN

ATLAN TA M ETR O

Center for Puppetry Arts, Atlanta
Six Flags White Water, Marie a

The Chattahoochee River gives life to Atlanta: It's both a spot for fun and the city's main drinking-water
source. Explore its waterside trails at the Chattahoochee Nature Center in
Roswell (pictured) and learn about local flora and fauna. Or take a restful
view at Morgan Falls Overlook Park in Sandy Springs, where swings and lawn chairs face the reservoir. If you want to get wet, head to the National Heritage Area in Sandy Springs and
float your boat or inner tube.
KIDS CORNER

SECRET LANDMARK
Most folks have heard of Atlanta's Oakland Cemetery, but nearby Westview is the largest cemetery in the southeastern United States. Its stunning mausoleum is one of the world's largest shrines, capable of housing nearly 12,000 tombs.

Andre i Indoor Karting and Games, Roswell and Marie a
SkyHike at Stone Mountain, Stone Mountain

Center for Puppetry Arts This Atlanta favorite shows off the largest collection of Jim Henson puppets in the world. A er communing with Kermit, visitors may explore exhibits on puppetry in other cultures, then take in a production such as Old MacDonald's Farm and Three Li le Pigs. Teens enjoy puppet slams and shows such as Oliver Twist.
Andre i Indoor Karting and Games Kids with needs for speed find their mojo at this indoor go-kart park with locations in Roswell and Marie a. Thrill around curves at 35 mph and enjoy arcade games, rock walls, and a ropes course. An indoor zip line, bowling, and laser tag round out the fun.
Six Flags White Water Splash into cool summer fun at this Marie a park boasting more than fi y different water slides. Thrill junkies get a surge of adrenaline on the Dive Bomber, while Tree House Island makes for a calmer four-story play area. Three interactive kiddie sections, a huge wave pool, and a lazy river add to the watery fun.
SkyHike at Stone Mountain Face your fears as a family on an adventure course in picturesque Stone Mountain. Strap into a halter and safety system and choose from a twelve-foot, twenty-four-foot, or super-challenging forty-foot trail that combines high ropes with climbing walls and an obstacle course. A er a day in the air, everyone's spirits will no doubt be soaring.

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

53

CHATTAHOOCHEE NATURE CENTER WESTVIEW CEMETERY SARA HANNA PHOTOGRAPHY ANDRETTI INDOOR KARTING AND GAMES SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA STONE MOUNTAIN

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

Acworth

Alpharetta Johns Buford 85

KPSeponwrnieMndsgeaasrrwieStmt7ay55r7n5SapSRraoiCnnshdgwaysemllbD4leu0e0nwDouoluNCdt2yroh3erecLkroLilabsswuSLrruneowngacanenevvieillllee

Mableton Austell

285

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. 2293 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, awesomealphare a.com/what_to_do/ walk-of-memories
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, 404-584-2255, agathas. com
APEX Museum The African American Panoramic Experience (APEX) showcases art, dance, and African history. 135 Auburn Ave. NE, 404-523-2739, apexmuseum.org

Atlanta BeltLine The Atlanta BeltLine is the most comprehensive transportation and economic development effort undertaken in the City of Atlanta. Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, 10th St. & Monroe Dr., 404-477-3003, beltline.org
Atlanta Botanical Garden Thirty 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. SunTrust Park, 1100 Circle 75 Pkwy., 404-577-9100, 800-745-3000, homeo hebraves.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. Mercedes-Benz Stadium, 441 M.L.K. Jr. Dr. NW, 404-2238000, atlantafalcons.com
Atlanta Hawks Check website or call for schedule and ticket prices for this NBA team. Philips Arena, 1 Philips Dr., 866-7151500, 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
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, 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., 404273-2558, 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
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 Revivalstyle 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

Acworth Beach, Acworth

ACWORTHTOURISM ORG

54

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

FROM SQUARES TO SWEET SPOTS
FOX THEATRE GEORGIA AQUARIUM

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

Atlanta's Sweet Spot. travelcobb.org 800.431.3480

It's Hip to be Square mariettasquare.com 800.835.0445

56

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Fox Theatre, Atlanta

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, 404-222-7275, 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, 404-8733391, puppet.org
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
DTours A series of personalized tours that introduce travelers to Atlanta's unique blend of Southern urban culture. 170 Blvd. SE, Unit H417, 404-971-7763, dtour.me

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, 404929-6300, 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 10 million gallons of water and 120,000 fish and other sea creatures. 225 Baker St. NW, 404-581-4000, georgiaaquarium.org
Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta

Georgia Bicycle Adventures See Georgia's sights on guided bicycle tours ranging from threehour city tours to multi-day travel adventures. 320 MLK Jr. Dr. SE, Unit 3, 404-273-2558, gabikeadventures.com
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, 877-426-6868, cnn. com/tour

AT T R A CT I O N S

Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, Atlanta
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., 404-865-7100, jimmycarterlibrary.gov
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Atlanta A world of color, creativity, and fun with 15 a ractions, two rides, a 4-D cinema, and more designed for children aged 3-10. 3500 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-848-9252, legolanddiscoverycenter. com/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, 404-5466815, 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, thegatemuseum.org
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. NW, 404367-8700, 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. NE, 404-979-6455, 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., 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, thepeachtree trolley.com
Sweet Auburn Curb Market The Sweet Auburn Curb Market offers eateries, retail shops, and shops offering sweets, meats, and produce. 209 Edgewood Ave. SE, 404-6591665, thecurbmarket.com

770-425-1006 toursaroundatlanta.com

TROLLEY
SIGHTSEEING
TOURS

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

57

JIMMY CARTER PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM

58

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

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

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
ATL Airport District 404.334.7500, atldistrict.com
Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau 404.521.6600, atlanta.net
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, visithenrycounty georgia.com
*Marie a Visitors Bureau 4 Depot Street, Marie a, GA 30060, 770.429.1115, marie asquare.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
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
Visit Lawrenceville 678.226.2639, visitlawrenceville.com

GEORGIA VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER:
Located in the baggage claim area of the world's most-traveled airport; stop here for Georgia travel information.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport 6000 N. Terminal Parkway, 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.

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
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, 800-676-2653, worldofcoca-cola. com
The Wren's Nest Tour the museum, once home to writer Joel Chandler Harris, recorder of the Brer Rabbit stories. Storytelling Saturdays at 1 p.m. 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, 404-6249453, 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, glassblowers, photographers, and other artists open their studios so the public can view works in progress. 554 W. Main St., Bldg. C, 470-3266656, tanneryrowartistcolony.com
Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags Over Georgia, Austell

SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA

Michael C. Carlos Museum of Emory University

Discover the World in DeKalb County, Georgia
Request a FREE Visitors Guide 1-866-633-5252 | AtlantasDeKalb.com
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

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

59

Powder Springs

AT LA N TA M ETR O AT TRACTI O N S
Dunwoody Nature Center, Dunwoody

Your Hometown Destination for Recreation & Entertainment

www.cityofpowdersprings.org

60

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Chattahoochee Hills
Cochran Mill Nature Center Located just 20 minutes south of Atlanta in Cha ahoochee Hills, hike and see wild animals, including reptiles and birds of prey. 6300 Cochran Mill Rd., 770-306-0914, cochranmillnaturecenter.org
Dacula
Doug Youngblood's 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
Decatur
Decatur Cemetery This 58-acre cemetery is the oldest burial ground in the Atlanta metropolitan area. A self-guided tour brochure is available. 299 Bell St., 404-378-4411, decaturga. com/city-government/city-departments/public-works/decaturcemetery
Woodlands Garden Dedicated to preserving a woodland garden as an urban sanctuary to educate and engage the community in the natural world. 932 Sco Blvd., 404-373-2222, woodlandsgarden.org
Your DeKalb Farmers Market Shop this 140,000-square-foot international farmers market with exotic, ethnic, and organic produce, meat, bakery items, and more. 3000 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., 404-377-6400, dekalbfarmersmarket.com

Douglasville
Douglas County Museum of History & Art Newly revamped museum offers more than 200 collections, including a number of mid-20th century rotating exhibits. 6754 W. Broad St., 678-449-3939, douglascountymuseum.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., 770-577-1434, musicheritageo hesouth.com
Duluth
The Hudgens Center for the Arts See rotating gallery exhibits, a sculpture garden, and gi 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 Comprising 150 acres, the 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-farmersmarket.aspx
Hampton
Army Aviation Heritage Foundation Dedicated to presenting the story of Army aviation through flying presentations and static displays of aircra and equipment. 506 Speedway Blvd., 770-897-0444, armyav.org
Atlanta Motor Speedway Atlanta's venue for NASCAR's Sprint Cup Series, XFINITY Series, and Camping World Truck Series racing. 1500 Tara Pl., 770-946-4211, atlantamotorspeedway.com
Nash Farm Ba lefield & Museum The 204-acre public park was the scene of considerable military activity during the Civil War. Museum open Fri-Sat, 9am-5pm. 100 Babbs Mill Rd., 404-281-8651, henrycountyba lefield.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., 770-603-5606, ccwa.us/ newman-wetlands-center

DUNWOODY NATURE CENTER

Home of the Cherry Blossom Festival
Your Gateway to Atlanta
Enjoy upscale shopping, exceptional dining and convenience to Atlanta area attractions. Relax at one of our 14 spacious parks or two beautiful lakes.
Brookhaven offers 11 hotels for a memorable vacation or weekend getaway.

1-866-633-5252 | DiscoverBrookhaven.com

Convention & Visitors Bureau

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

61

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

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan
Mandir, Lilburn

AABEBTLYOAOVNNETDA.,..
THE EXPECTED
Located just above Atlanta, you'll soon discover Dunwoody is far beyond what you might expect. A little bit metropolitan chic, alittle bit small-town escape, all seamlessly tied together by an authentic community that is filled with surprises. Let the homegrown tastes, handcrafted art and family-friendly activities take your visit above and beyond.
C V B D U N W O O DY. C O M

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., 678-366-3511, 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., 678-512-3200, johnscreekga. gov/RecreationandParks/Parksand-Facilities/Newtown-Park/ Veterans-Memorial-Walk
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., 770-473-5430, 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, 800662-7829, atlantastruesouth. com/gone-with-wind/historicbus-tours
Road to Tara Museum Relive Rhe and Scarle 's romance through original manuscripts, reproductions of Scarle 's dresses, and a Civil War exhibit. 104 N. Main St., 770-478-4800, 800-662-7829, atlantastruesouth.com/gonewith-wind/road-to-tara-museu

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, 800-662-7829, 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., 770-9190248, smithgilbertgardens.com
Southern Museum of Civil War & Locomotive History Includes a Civil War-era locomotive, re-created early-20th-century locomotive, and many Civil War relics. 2829 Cherokee St., 770-427-2117, 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. PO Box 1222, 770289-1543, georgiafishing.com

Gwinne Braves Check website for ticket pricing and schedule information for this AAA team owned and operated by the Atlanta Braves. Coolray Field, One Braves Ave., 678-277-0300, gwinne braves. com
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament Feast on a bountiful, four-course meal while cheering for brave knights on horseback competing in a jousting tournament. 5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy., 888-935-6878, medievaltimes.com/atlanta.aspx
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 is popular for fishing and kayaking. 1750 Mt. Vernon Rd., 770-732-5871, 800864-7275, georgiastateparks.org/ sweetwatercreek

62

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

EXPLORE GWINNETT

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, arabiaalliance.org
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

Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, Lithonia

AT TRACTI O N S ATLAN TA M ETR O

PHIL VARNEY

Big City Excitement
Meets
Outdoor Adventure

VisitSandySprings.org
2017 Sandy Springs Hospitality and Tourism. All Rights reserved.
When you stay in Sandy Springs, you're just 15 miles from downtown Atlanta and next to more than 950 acres of natural areas. There's no need to choose between a day in the city and a hike in the woods. From one location, you can have it all.

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

63


Get exclusive access to the world headquarters of CNN.
TOURS DAILY 9 AM - 5 PM
To make a reservation, please call 404-827-2300 or 1-877-4CNNTOUR
CNN.com/tour Connect with us: #CNNstudiotours

GONE
WITH THE
WIND
TRAIL

*HRUJLDV2IFLDO6WDWH 'HVLJQDWHG7UDLO

Visit us online at GWTWTrail.com

64

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

@ Raging Burrito #decaturga

GET here...
DECATUR.
Find artful events, curated wares, and creative cuisine all over Atlanta's Eastside indie hub Decatur.

visitdecaturga.com

Visitors Center 113 Clairemont Ave.

FAMILY FRIENDLY FUN FOR ALL AGES!
See the General locomotive, made famous during one of the most daring episodes of the
Civil War, and other rare artifacts!
SOUTHERNMUSEUM.ORG
Open Daily! Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm, Sun 11am-6pm Exit 273 on I-75 in Kennesaw 770-427-2117
Bring in this coupon for $1 off adult admission. Excludes special events. May not be combined with any other discounts. Code: GATravel The Southern Museum is a Smithsonian Institute Affiliate.

moDeRn SPiRit. Southern Soul.

For more information call 800-776-7935 or visit us at www.visitroswellga.com

BCohuorcboolnataen7dLBayaecroCn aInkfeuwseitdh Mile-high Whipped Cream

ingredients & directions

Entire package

2 cups

Dash Assortment Add to taste

Blend Layer

Liberally

ECnhdaletstashfouonchee River HRAFSierrpssiteettncogadariuasylrlleaaernnivteedssnftaasannmddilbybroeuwteiqruieess

Groups of 10 or more receive discounted admission.

TAKE

A TRIP BACK

IN TIME!

atlantahistorycenter.com

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

65

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

AT TRACTI O N S
Historic Marie a Walking-Driving Tour A self-guided tour leading to more than 50 historic buildings and homes throughout Marie a's National Historic Districts. 4 Depot St., 770-4291115, 800-835-0445, marie asquare.com
Marie a Fire Museum Museum honoring the Marie a Fire Department featuring antique firefighting memorabilia dating back to the 1800s. 112 Haynes St., Fire Station #1, 770-794-5466, marie aga.gov/city/fire/department/museum
Marie a Gone with the Wind Museum: Scarle on the Square GWTW 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, 770-794-5710, marie ahistory.org
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, pumpkins, corn maze, and fall fun. 1658 Turner Church Rd., 770-2882582, southernbellefarm.com

SOUTHERN BELLE FARM

66

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

Southern Belle Farm, McDonough

Stone Mountain Park, Stone Mountain

AT TRACTI O N S ATLAN TA M ETR O

Morrow
Georgia Archives Georgia's most valuable historical documents are housed here. 5800 Jonesboro Rd., 678-3643710, 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
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
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., 770-6403855, 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, 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., 770-641-3801, roswellgov.com/government/fire/roswell-fire-museum

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, corn crib, and kitchen. 935 Alphare a St., 770-641-3978, archibaldsmithplantation.org
Sandy Springs
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
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 Chattahoochee River. Rentals for tubing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and ra ing are available. 5450 Interstate N. Pkwy., 770-226-9519, noc.com/ plan-your-trip/cha ahoocheeriver

Smyrna
Smyrna History Museum See 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. 2620 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, and cut-your-own Christmas trees in November and December. 3565 Hwy. 155 N, 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 sights, two hotels, campground, golf courses, and woodland hiking trails. 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd., 770-4985690, 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

Experience
Awesome in ONE great destination!
250+ stores in 5 shopping districts. 175+ dining options.
23 modern & affordable hotels. 20+ festivals & seasonal events. 15 miles of hiking & biking trails. 10+ music & entertainment venues. 5+ art galleries & experiences.
4 live music venues. 3 cooking schools.
One awesome weekend in Alpharetta, Georgia!
Call today
to request an Official Visitors Guide. Find a detailed list of Alpharetta
attractions, events, stores and restaurants at awesomealpharetta.com
The Official Destination Marketing Organization for Alpharetta, GA

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

67

STONE MOUNTAIN PARK

EXPERIENCE ATLANTA
FILMING LOCATIONS
WITH AN INSIDER WHOD PERFORMS ON SET

OVER 200 TITLES FILMED IN THE NEW ENTERTAINMENT CAPITAL

Sully Triple 9 The Originals Hidden Figures Stranger Things Being Mary Jane

Ride Along Fast and Furious The Hunger Games Captain America: Civil War Guardians of the Galaxy 2 Spider-Man: Homecoming

Taken 3 The Boss Baby Driver The Nice Guys The Walking Dead Driving Miss Daisy

TICKETS AND PRICING
atlantamovietours.com 2014 Winner

2015 Winner

2016 Winner

Atlanta Movie Tours is in no way affiliated with any movie or television production company, their subsidiaries or studios.

Awe.
This ad is tiny. This temple is huge.

Be amazed at ExploreGwinnett.com.

68

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

WH E R E TO STAY
Hotels & Motels
ACWORTH
Americas Best Value Inn - Acworth/Kennesaw 5245 Glade Rd., 770-966-1644, americasbestvalueinn.com
Best Western Acworth Inn 5155 Cowan Rd., 770974-0116, bestwestern.com
Days Inn 164 North Point Way, 770-975-9000, daysinn.com
Econo Lodge 4980 Cowan Rd., 770-974-1922, 800424-6423, econolodge.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Acworth-Kennesaw Northwest 200 North Point Way, 678-574-4222, 800-439-4745, hiexpress.com
La Quinta Inn 184 North Point Way, 770-975-9920, laquintaacworth.com
Red Roof Inn 5320 Cherokee St., 770-974-5400, redroof.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 5455 Windward Pkwy. W, 770-6647997, comfortinn.com
Courtyard Atlanta Alphare a 12655 Deerfield Pkwy., 678-366-3360, marrio .com
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Atlanta - Alphare a 2925 Jordan Ct., 678-347-0022, doubletree3.hilton. com
Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta Alphare a 5955 North Point Pkwy., 678-566-8800, embassysuitesalphare a.com
Extended Stay America - Atlanta - Alphare a 1950 Rock Mill Rd., 770-475-2676, 800-804-3724, extendedstayamerica.com
Extended Stay America - Atlanta - Alphare a - Northpoint - East 3331 Old Milton Pkwy., 770-4757871, 800-804-3724, extendedstayamerica.com
Extended Stay America - Atlanta - Alphare a Northpoint - West 3329 Old Milton Pkwy., 770-5691730, 800-804-3724, extendedstayamerica.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Alphare a 11385 Haynes Bridge Rd., 770-663-4000, 800-236-2427, marrio .com/atlfi
Hampton Inn & Suites 16785 Old Morris Rd., 678393-0990, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hampton Inn Alphare a/Roswell 10740 Westside Way, 770-640-5511, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta North/Alphare a 4025 Windward Plz., 770-360-7766, hiltongardeninn3. hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Northpoint 10975 Georgia Ln., 678-566-3900, hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alphare a - Windward Parkway 12505 Innovation Way, 678-3390505, ihg.com/holidayinnexpress
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, alpharettawindwardparkway.place.hya .com
La Quinta Inn & Suites Atlanta Alphare a 1350 North Point Dr., 770-754-7800, laquintaatlantaalphare a.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., 770-664-0664, marrio .com

WH E R E TO STAY ATLAN TA M ETR O

Staybridge Suites AlpharettaNorth Point 3980 North Point Pkwy., 770-569-7200, staybridge.com
TownePlace Suites Atlanta Alpharetta 7925 Westside Pkwy., 770-664-1300, marriott.com
Wingate by Wyndham 1005 Kingswood Pl., 770-649-0955, wyndhamhotels.com
ATLANTA AIRPORT
Comfort Suites 5087 Clark Howell Hwy., 404-209-7299, choicehotels.com
Crowne Plaza 1325 Virginia Ave., 404-768-6660, cpatlantaairporthotel.com
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel 3400 Norman Berry Dr., 404-763-1600, doubletree3. hilton.com
Drury Inn & Suites 1270 Virginia Ave., 404-761-4900, druryhotels.com
Econo Lodge - Atlanta/Airport North 1360 Virginia Ave., 404-761-5201, choicehotels. com
Embassy Suites by Hilton 4700 Southport Rd., 404-7671988, atlantaairport.embassysuites.com
Hilton 1031 Virginia Ave., 404767-9000, 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/holidayinnexpress
La Quinta Inn & Suites 4820 Massachusetts Blvd., 770996-0000, lq.com
Marriott 4711 Best Rd., 404766-7900, marriott.com/atlap
Marriott Gateway 2020 Convention Center Concourse, 404-763-1544, marriott.com/ atlma
Motel 6 Atlanta 1377 Virginia Ave., 404-762-5111, motel6. com
Renaissance Concourse Atlanta Airport Hotel One Hartsfield Center Pkwy., 404-209-9999, 800-468-3571, marriott.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 4736 Best Rd., 404-762-7676, 866-716-8108, westinatlantaairport.com
ATLANTA: BUCKHEAD
Atlanta Marriott Buckhead Hotel & Conference Center 3405 Lenox Rd., 404-2619250, marriottbuckhead.com

Courtyard by Marriott 3332 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-8690818, marriott.com
Doubletree by Hilton Hotel 3342 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-231-1234, doubletree3. hilton.com
Embassy Suites 3285 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-2617733, embassysuites3.hilton. com
Extended Stay America 3967 Peachtree Rd., 404-237-9100, extendedstayamerica.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites 3092 Piedmont Rd. NE, 404-8460900, fairfieldinn.com
Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead 3300 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-237-1234, 800-233-1234, atlanta.grand.hyatt.com
Hampton Inn 3398 Piedmont Rd. NE, 404-233-5656, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites 800 Sidney Marcus Blvd., 404-949-4000, 888-465-4329, ihg.com/holidayinnexpress
Homewood Suites by Hilton 3566 Piedmont Rd., 404-3650001, 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
Quality Suites Buckhead Village 505 Pharr Rd. NE, 404-262-7880, qualityinn.com
Residence Inn 2960 Piedmont Rd. NE, 404-239-0677, marriott.com
Residence Inn Atlanta Buckhead/Lenox Park 2220 Lake Blvd. NE, 404-467-1660, 888-236-2427, marriott.com
The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead 3434 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-237-2700, 800-542-8680, ritzcarlton.com
SpringHill Suites 3459 Buckhead Loop NE, 404-8444800, marriott.com
St. Regis Atlanta 88 W. Paces Ferry Rd., 404-563-7900, 866716-8116, stregisatlanta.com
Staybridge Suites 540 Pharr Rd., 404-842-0800, 877-2388889, ihg.com/staybridge
W Atlanta - Buckhead 3377 Peachtree Rd. NE, 678500-3100, 877-822-0000, watlantabuckhead.com
The Westin 3391 Peachtree Rd. NE, 404-365-0065, 800-937-8461, westin.com/ buckhead

Wingate by Wyndham 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, 404-5776970, 800-242-4642, innatthepeachtrees.com
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Atlanta Downtown South at Turner Field 759 Pollard Blvd. SW, 404-6581961, countryinns.com
Courtyard 133 Carnegie Way NW, 404-222-2416, marriott. com
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel 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 54 Peachtree St. SW, 678-7028600, marriott.com/atlus
Grant Park Hotel 795 Pollard Blvd. SW, 404-658-1610, grantparkhotelatlanta.com
Hampton Inn & Suites 161 Spring St. NW, 404-589-1111, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta Georgia 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 275 Baker St., 404-577-2001, hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites 111 Cone St. NW, 404-5247000, ihg.com/holidayinnexpress
Home2 Suites by Hilton 87 Walton St., 404-965-7992, home2suites3.hilton.com
Hyatt Place 330 Peachtree St. NE, 404-577-1980, atlantadowntown.place.hyatt.com
Hyatt Regency Atlanta 265 Peachtree St. NE, 404-5771234, atlanta.regency.hyatt. com
The Inn at Centennial Park 101 Andrew Young International Blvd. NW, 404-5245555, theinnatcentennialpark. com
Motel 6 311 Courtland St. NE, 404-659-4545, 800-899-9841, motel6.com
Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center 100 CNN Center, 404-659-0000, 800-8436664, omnihotels.com

Residence Inn 134 Peachtree St. NW, 404-522-0950, marriott.com
The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta 181 Peachtree St. NE, 404-6590400, ritzcarlton.com
Savannah Suites 140 Pine St. NE, 404-591-2400, savannahsuites.com
Sheraton Atlanta Hotel 165 Courtland St. NE, 404659-6500, 866-716-8134, sheratonatlantahotel.com
W Atlanta - Downtown 45 Ivan Allen Jr. Blvd., 404582-5800, 877-822-0000, 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 35 14th St. NE, 404-876-8888, marriott.com
Courtyard Atlanta Midtown/ Georgia Tech 1132 Techwood Dr. NW, 404-607-1112, marriott.com
Crowne Plaza 590 W. Peachtree St. NW, 404877-9000, 877-684-9381, cpatlantamidtown.com
The Georgian Terrace 659 Peachtree St. NE, 404-8971991, 800-651-2316, thegeorgianterrace.com
The Highland Inn 644 N. Highland Ave. NE, 404-8745756, thehighlandinn.com
Hilton Garden Inn 97 10th St. NW, 404-524-4006, hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton 97 10th St. NW, 404-5244076, homewoodsuites3. hilton.com
Hotel Indigo 683 Peachtree St. NE, 404-874-9200, 877-846-3446, ihg.com/ hotelindigo
Hyatt 125 10th St. NE, 404443-1234, atlantamidtown. hyatt.com
Loews Atlanta Hotel 1065 Peachtree St. NE, 404745-5000, 877-872-0104, loewshotels.com
Regency Suites Hotel 975 W. Peachtree St., 404-876-5003, 800-642-3629, regencysuites. com
Renaissance Atlanta Midtown Hotel 866 W. Peachtree St. NW, 678-412-2400, 800716-6009, marriott.com
Twelve Hotel & Residences Atlantic Station 361 17th St. NW, 404-961-1212, twelvehotels.com/atlanticstation
W Atlanta Midtown 188 14th St., 404-892-6000, 877-8220000, watlantamidtown.com

ATLANTA: PERIMETER CENTER
Comfort Suites 6110 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., 770-828-0330, 800-424-6423, comfortsuites.com
Hilton Atlanta Perimeter Suites 6120 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., 770-668-0808, hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn 1501 Lake Hearn Dr., 404-459-0500, hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn AtlantaPerimeter/Dunwoody 4386 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., 770-457-6363, hiperimeter.com
Hyatt Atlanta Perimeter at Villa Christina 4000 Summit Blvd., 678-539-1234, atlantaperimeter.regency.hyatt.com
Atlanta Marriott Century Center/Emory Area 2000 Century Blvd. NE, 404-3250000, marriott.com/atlne
ATLANTA: PERIMETER NE
Clarion Hotel & Conference Center North Atlanta 2001 Clearview Ave., 770-4553700, 877-424-6423, clarionhotel.com
Courtyard Atlanta Executive Park/Emory 1236 Executive Park Dr., 404-728-0708, 888236-2427, 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, 404320-6600, 800-426-7866, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hampton Inn AtlantaNorthlake 3400 Northlake Pkwy. NE, 770-493-1966, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Holiday Inn AtlantaNorthlake 2158 Ranchwood Dr., 770-934-6000, holidayinn.com
Holiday Inn Express Atlanta Northeast I-85 Clairmont 2920 Clairmont Rd. NE, 404248-1550, hiexpress.com
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Atlanta/Buckhead Area 1840 Corporate Blvd. NE, 404-325-4446, microtelinn.com
Quality Inn Northeast - Atlanta 2960 N.E. Expressway, 770-451-5231, 800-424-6423, qualityinn.com

EXPLOREGEORGIA.ORG

69

ATLA N TA M ET R O W H E R E TO STAY

Quality Inn Northlake 2155 Ranchwood Dr. NE, 770-4917444, atlantaqi.com
Red Roof Plus+ Atlanta Buckhead 1960 N. Druid Hills Rd. NE, 404-321-1653, 800733-7663, redroof.com
TownePlace Suite by Marriott Atlanta Northlake 3300 Northlake Pkwy., 770-9380408, towneplace.com/atlts
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. SE, 770-9527900, atlantamarriottnw.com
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson - Atlanta-NW at Windy Hill 4500 Circle 75 Pkwy. SE, 770-956-9919, countryinns.com
Courtyard Atlanta Cumberland/Galleria 3000 Cumberland Blvd., 770-952-2555, 800-321-2211, marriott.com
Courtyard Atlanta Marietta/ Windy Hill 2045 S. Park Pl., 770-955-3838, 800-321-2211, marriott.com
Days Inn Atlanta Marietta Galleria 4502 Circle 75 Pkwy., Windy Hill Rd., 770541-9399, the.daysinn.com/ hotel/12331
DoubleTree by Hilton Atlanta - Marietta 2055 S. Park Pl., 770-272-9441, 800-222-8733, doubletree3.hilton.com
DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Atlanta-Galleria 2780 Windy Ridge Pkwy., 770980-1900, 800-222-8733, doubletree3.hilton.com
Embassy Suites Atlanta-Galleria 2815 Akers Mill Rd. SE, 770-984-9300, 800-362-2779, embassysuites3.hilton
Extended Stay America - Atlanta - Marietta - Interstate N. Pkwy 2225 Interstate North Pkwy. W, 770-2260242, 800-398-7829, extendedstayamerica.com
Extended Stay America - Atlanta - Vinings 2474 Cumberland Pkwy., 770-436-1511, 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 Pkwy., 770988-9449, homewoodsuites3. hilton.com
Hotel Indigo Atlanta-Vinings 2857 Paces Ferry Rd., 770-432-5555, ihg.com/ hotelindigo
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, 678-2146000, 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, 888465-4329, ihg.com/holidayinnexpress
Knights Inn Atlanta West Near Six Flags 1595 N. Blairs Bridge Rd., 770-944-0824, knightsinn.com
Sleep Inn at Six Flags 125 S. Service Rd., 770-819-2805, 800424-6423, 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 at Mall of Georgia 1395 Mall of Georgia Blvd. NE, 770-271-1441, 800830-5222, countryinns.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Buford/Mall of Georgia 1355 Mall of Georgia Blvd., 678714-0248, marriott.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, 888-465-4329, ihg.com/ holidayinnexpress
SpringHill Suites Atlanta Buford/Mall of Georgia 3250 Buford Dr., 678-714-2150, marriott.com
CHAMBLEE
Motel 6 Atlanta 2820 Chamblee Tucker Rd., 770-4586626, motel6.com
Residence Inn Atlanta Perimeter Center East 1901 Savoy Dr., 770-455-4446, marriott.com

Studio 6 5280 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., 678-805-3400, staystudio6.com
Super 8 Atlanta Northeast 2822 Chamblee Tucker Rd., 770-458-2671, super8.com
WoodSpring Suites Atlanta Chamblee 2877 Dresden Dr., 770-674-8766, woodspring. com
COLLEGE PARK ATLANTA AIRPORT
Baymont Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport South 2450 Old National Pkwy., 404684-9898, 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 W. Fayetteville Rd., 770-991-1099, 800-5962375, countryinns.com
Courtyard Atlanta Airport South/Sullivan Road 2050 Sullivan Rd., 770-997-2220, 800-922-3653, marriott.com/ atlca
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/hotel/04418
Days Inn College Park Airport Best Road 4505 Best Rd., 404-767-1224, daysinn. com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport South/Sullivan Road 2020 Sullivan Rd., 770-9943666, marriott.com
Hampton Inn 1888 Sullivan Rd., 770-996-2220, 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., 404-487-5000, 800-9722404, ihg.com/holidayinn
Holiday Inn Express Atlanta Airport-College Park 4601 Best Rd., 404-761-6500, 800972-2404, hiexpress.com/ collegeparkga
Hotel Indigo 1776 Harvard Ave., 404-767-8881, ihg.com/ hotelindigo
Hyatt Place Atlanta Airport South 1899 Sullivan Rd., 770-994-2997, atlantaairportsouth.place.hyatt.com
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham 4839 Massachusetts Blvd., 770-994-3003, microtelinn.com
Quality Inn & Suites Atlanta Airport South 2480 Old National Pkwy., 404-766-0000, qualityinn.com

Ramada Plaza 5010 Old National Hwy., 404-768-9199, ramada.com
Red Lion Hotel 1419 Virginia Ave., 404-400-5900, redlion. com
Sleep Inn 1911 Sullivan Rd., 770-996-6100, choicehotels. com
SpringHill Suites Atlanta Airport Gateway 2091 Convention Center Concourse, 770-907-8880, marriott.com
Super 8 2010 Sullivan Rd., 770-991-8985, super8.com
Super 8 College Park / Atlanta Airport West 4979 Old National Hwy., 404-669-8616, super8.com
Travelodge 2471 Old National Pkwy., 404-477-1050, travelodge.com
CONLEY
Econo Lodge 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 4095 Covington Hwy., 404286-2500, americasbestinn. com
Americas Best Value Inn - Decatur/Atlanta 2574 Candler Rd., 404-243-4422, americasbestvalueinn.com
Country Hearth Inn & Suites 2945 Gus Pl., 404-212-8882, countryhearth.com
Courtyard Atlanta Decatur Downtown/Emory 130 Clairemont Ave., 404-3710204, courtyarddecatur.com
Econo Lodge 4600 Glenwood Rd., 404-289-4940, 800-424-6423, econolodge. com
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Atlanta Perimeter Dunwoody 4565 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., 770-3509995, hamptoninn3.hilton. com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Atlanta-Emory University Area 2183 N. Decatur Rd., 404-320-0888, 800-9722404, ihg.com/holidayinnexpress
Metro Extended Stay 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
Rite 4 Us Inn & Suites 4300 Snapfinger Woods Dr., 770981-5670, rite4usinnandsuites. wix.com
Super 8 Decatur/Dntn/ Atlanta Area 917 Church St., 404-378-3765, 800-454-3213, super8.com

Super 8 Decatur/Lithonia/Atl Area 5354 Snapfinger Park Dr., 770-987-5128, super8.com
D O R AV I L L E
Lodge Atlanta 4422 N.E. Expressway, 770-448-2535, lodgeatl.com
DOUGLASVILLE
Americas Best Value Inn 5481 Westmoreland Plz., 770-9494926, americasbestvalueinn. com
Comfort Inn 5487 Westmoreland Plz., 678-504-2000, 800424-6423, choicehotels.com
Days Inn DouglasvilleAtlanta-Fairburn Road 5489 Westmoreland Plz., 770949-1499, the.daysinn.com/ hotel/06685
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites 8304 Cherokee Blvd., 770489-4863, econolodgeatlwest.com
FairBridge Inn Express 8315 Cherokee Blvd., 770-9493090, fairbridgeinns.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/ atlantawest
InTown Suites 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
Quality Inn near Six Flags 5479 Westmoreland Plz., 770949-5730, qualityinn.com
Sleep Inn 7055 Concourse Pkwy., 770-920-8887, 800424-6423, 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 Atlanta Duluth/ Gwinnett Place 3550 Venture Pkwy., 770-476-4666, marriott.com
Extended Stay America - Atlanta - Duluth 3430 Venture Pkwy., 770-622-0270, extendedstayamerica.com
Extended Stay Deluxe Atlanta - Gwinnett Place 3390 Venture Pkwy., 770623-6800, 800-804-3724, extendedstayamerica.com
Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Gwinnett Place 3570 Breckinridge Blvd., 678-924-1023, marriott.com

70

GEORGIA ON MY MIND

WH E R E TO STAY ATLAN TA M ETR O

Hampton Inn & Suites Atlanta/Duluth/Gwinnett County 1725 Pineland Rd., 770-931-9800, hamptoninn3. hilton.com
Haven Hotel 1920 Pleasant Hill Rd., 770-476-8700, 800526-3766, havenhotels.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta NE/Gwinnett Sugarloaf 2040 Sugarloaf Cir., 770495-7600, hiltongardeninn3. hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Duluth - Mall Area 3530 Breckinridge Blvd., 678405-2900, 888-465-4329, ihg. com/holidayinnexpress
Holiday Inn Gwinnett Center 6310 Sugarloaf Pkwy., 770-476-2022, 877-834-3613, ihg.com/holidayinn
Hyatt Place Atlanta/Duluth/ Gwinnett Mall 3530 Venture Pkwy., 770-623-9699, 800833-1516, duluthgwinnettmall. place.hyatt.com
InTown Suites 3750 Satellite Blvd., 770-622-9700, intownsuites.com
La Quinta Inn Atlanta Duluth 2370 Stephens Center Dr., 678-957-0500, lq.com
Quality Inn 3500 Venture Pkwy., 770-623-9300, 800424-6423, 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 Rd., 770-923-1775, sonesta.com
Studio 6 Atlanta Gwinnett Place 3525 Breckinridge Blvd., 770-931-3113, 888-8970202, staystudio6.com
Suburban Extended Stay 2350 Stephens Center Dr., 678-474-9700, 800-424-6423, suburbanhotels.com
Sun Suites Gwinnett Place Mall Extended Stay Hotel 3720 Steve Reynolds Blvd., 770-931-3320, intownsuites. com
Wingate by Wyndham Duluth/Atlanta 3450 Venture Pkwy., 770-622-7277, wingatehotels.com
Wyndham Garden 1948 Day Dr., 770-814-2800, wyndham. com
D U NWO O DY
Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center 246 Perimeter Center Pkwy. NE, 770-394-6500, atlantamarriottperimeter.com
Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., 770-395-7700, cpravinia.com
Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta Perimeter Center 1030 Crown Pointe Pkwy., 770-3945454, atlantaperimetercenter. embassysuites.com

Le Meridien Atlanta Perimeter 111 Perimeter Center W, 770-396-6800, 877-782-0016, lemeridienatlantaperimeter. com
Staybridge Suites Atlanta Perimeter Center 4601 Ridgeview Rd., 678-320-0111, ihg. com/staybridge
EAST POINT ATLANTA AIRPORT
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, Atlanta Airport North 1365 Hardin Ave., 404-767-9787, 800-830-5222, countryinns.com
Courtyard Atlanta Airport West 3400 Creek Pointe Dr., 404-344-4414, marriott.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 AirportNorth 3415 Norman Berry Dr., 404-768-8484, atlantaairportnorth.place.hyatt.com
FA I R B U R N
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson 7815 Senoia Rd., 678-782-4900, 800-830-5222, countryinns.com
Hampton Inn AtlantaFairburn 7790 Ella Ln., 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 140 E. Lanier Ave., 770-461-5600, ihg.com/holidayinnexpress
FOREST PARK
Econo Lodge Atlanta Airport East 5060 Frontage Rd., 404363-6429, econolodge.com

Ramada Limited 357 Lee St., 404-768-7799, 800-854-9517, ramada.com
Super 8 410 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 & Suites 1078 Bear Creek Blvd., 770-7071477, westerninnhampton. com
HAPEVILLE
Best Western Plus Atlanta Airport-East 301 N. Central Ave., 404-763-8777, 800-7807234, bestwestern.com
Courtyard Atlanta Airport North/Virginia Avenue 3399 International Blvd., 404-5591043, 800-922-3616, marriott. com
Residence Inn Atlanta Airport North/Virginia Avenue 3401 International Blvd., 404761-0511, marriott.com
Staybridge Suites Atlanta Airport 3420 Norman Berry Dr., 404-305-9930, 888-4654329, ihg.com/staybridge
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 340 Upper Riverdale Rd., 770-991-0069, 800-424-6423, choicehotels. com
Home 1 Extended Stay Suites 8240 Tara Blvd., 770280-3400, home1extendedstayjonesboro.com
InTown Suites 7021 Tara Blvd., 770-472-5999, 800-553-9338, intownsuites.com
Motel 6 628 Southside Commercial Pkwy., 678-674-1360, motel6.com
K E N N E S AW
Baymont Inn & Suites 3192 Barrett Lakes Blvd., 770-4237105, baymontinns.com
Best Western Kennesaw Inn 3375 Busbee Dr. NW, 770-424-7666, 800-780-7234, bestwestern.com
Comfort Inn 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 760 Cobb Place Blvd., 770-419-1576, daysinn. com
Embassy Suites by Hilton Atlanta Kennesaw Town Center 620 Chastain Rd. NW, 770420-2505, 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., 678-322-1140, 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, 800-225-5466, homewoodsuites3.hilton.com
Quality Inn 750 Cobb Place Blvd. NW, 770-419-1530, 800424-6423, qualityinn.com
Residence Inn 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 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/atltk
University Inn 1460 George Busbee Pkwy. NW, 770-5900519, uhotelkennesaw.com
Wingate by Wyndham 560 Greers Chapel Dr., 770-514-7344, 877-473-7815, wingatehotels.com
LAW R E N C EV I L L E
Comfort Suites 2225 Riverside Pkwy., 678-377-0003, choicehotels.com
Country Inn & Suites by Carlson 989 Duluth Hwy. (SR 120), 770-339-1991, 800-830-5222, countryinns.com
Crossland Economy Studios - Atlanta - Lawrenceville 474 W. Pike St., 770-962-5660, crosslandstudios.com
Days Inn 731 Duluth Hwy., 770-995-7782, 800-325-2525, daysinn.com
Hampton Inn Atlanta Lawrenceville I-85 - Sugarloaf 6010 Sugarloaf Pkwy., 678-407-0018, hamptoninn3. hilton.com

Hampton Inn 1135 Lakes Pkwy., 770-338-9600, 800426-7866, hamptoninn3. hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express & Suites 520 John B. Wilson Ct., 770277-8009, 800-972-2404, ihg. com/holidayinnexpress
Homewood Suites by Hilton Atlanta I-85 - LawrencevilleDuluth 1775 N. Brown Rd., 770-277-1243, homewoodsuites3.hilton.com
Magnuson Hotel 571 Buford Dr., 770-513-0028, magnusonhotels.com
Metro Extended Stay 652 Buford Dr., 770-682-2197, 877-637-4683, metroextendedstay.com
LITHIA SPRINGS
Candlewood Suites Atlanta West I-20 913 Bob Arnold Blvd., 678-238-1980, ihg.com/ candlewood
Comfort Inn & Suites 960 W. Pointe Ct., 678-945-0945, 800300-8800, choicehotels.com
Hampton Inn & Suites ATL-Six Flags 999 Bob Arnold Blvd., 770-745-9990, hamptoninn3.hilton.com
Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta West/Lithia Springs 110 Interstate West Pkwy., 770994-8980, hiltongardeninn3. hilton.com
Holiday Inn Express Atlanta West - Theme Park Area 850 Crestmark Dr., 770-941-5384, ihg.com/holidayinnexpress
InTown Suites Atlanta West 637 W. Market Cir., 770-9488331, intownsuites.com
Motel 6 Atlanta 920 Bob Arnold Blvd., 770-941-6464, motel6.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/holidayinnexpress
Hyatt Place Atlanta-East/ Lithonia 7900 Mall Ring Rd., 770-484-4384, atlantaeast. place.hyatt.com