Callaway Gardens

Like an oasis not far from the Atlanta metropolis, Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain is an absolute getaway that is not very far away.

Imagine a world where thousands of plants, trees and flowers are carefully cultivated and the natural world is thoroughly appreciated.  Such a place exists at Callaway Gardens, about 45 minutes south of Atlanta. You could say it’s the opposite of paving paradise to put up a parking lot.

Soaking in nature is paramount to the purpose of Callaway Gardens. With all of the gardens’ meandering pathways, nature trails and recreational activities, ignoring the urge to relax and enjoy is next to impossible.

It’s best to start off your visit at the Virginia Hand Callaway Discovery Center where you will find an orientation theater, interactive information kiosks and educational assistance, programs and exhibits.

Spend some time in the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center where over 1,000 butterflies float throughout the glass conservatory. Nearby, the John A. Sibley Horticultural Center features a fern grotto and a 22-foot indoor waterfall.

Outdoors you will find a 10 mile bicycle trail, pioneer log cabin, 6.5 miles of nature trails, a giant vegetable garden, a Gothic-style chapel, even a beach at Robin Lake. The lakeside amphitheater is sure to entertain and educate with its “birds of prey” show. In the spring, take in over 700 varieties of azaleas in the Overlook Garden. And families will enjoy the lake’s fishing, swimming, paddleboats, water sports, water playground and mini-golf during the summer.

Looking for something more? Callaway Gardens is also home to a ropes course (for groups), so you’ll never get bored.

Although the gardens are not far from Atlanta, the villas, cottages, inn or new Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens will transport you a world away. Forget the hustle and bustle with a night in the budget friendly, yet luxurious, rooms and enjoy amenities like massage, hydrotherapy, a game of tennis or perhaps a round of golf.

On the gardens’ property, you will also find boutique shopping and dining. The Callaway Gardens Country Store stocks popular food items for you to take home.

And keep Callaway Gardens in mind for your next event, wedding or meeting.

Admission is $18 for adults; $15 for seniors 65+; $9 for children 6-12; Children five and under are admitted for free Special event pricing will be $25 for adults (no senior price); $12.50 for children 6-12; Children five and under are admitted for free.

- by Christine Foster, Atlanta Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Christine Foster

Christine is a freelance writer currently living in North Atlanta. She has worked as a reporter for numerous newspaper, magazine and online media companies, including the Florida Keys Keynoter and The Sunday Paper in Atlanta. When she's not working Christine enjoys baking and antiquing.