This was our families first time staying at the resort while visiting Callaway Gardens. We had come before but only for a day trip. I have to say, I was blown away by our weekend getaway. I’m glad we had a few days to stay and play so we could take our time with all there is to see and do.
ABOUT CALLAWAY GARDENS
Callaway Resort & Gardens is a beautiful and unique resort located in the heart of Pine Mountain, Georgia. The gardens were established in 1952 by the Callaway family with the dream to connect man and nature in a way that benefits both. This 2,500-acre property offers plethora of family friendly entertainment including: golfing, bike riding, nature trails, butterflies aviary, educational shows, zip lining and much more.
STAYING AT CALLAWAY
I had to start off by sharing pictures and information about staying on site. There are a few options to meet every families needs and budget. There are four options: The Lodge, Cottages, Villas and the Mountain Creek Inn. We chose to stay at the luxurious Lodge. Which offers the perfect place to unwind. This absolutely stunning hotel offers modern guest rooms and suites with balconies that offer stunning views of the lake, woodland and garden. One of the great things about staying at the Lodge is that it includes admission to the Garden.
DAY BUTTERFLY CENTER
The Day Butterfly Center is the main attraction at Callaway. You wont want to miss exploring the glass-enclosed conservatory, where you’ll find yourself in a tropical paradise. The aviary is filled with beautiful plants and over 50 different species of butterflies. As you stroll through the path, butterflies flit about you. If you stand really still, you might get lucky enough for one to land on you.
ROBIN LAKE BEACH
I think my boys favorite spots at Callaway Gardens is Robin Lake Beach. It’s a great place to splash and play. Access to the beach is included in general admission; so you can swim and sunbathing at your own leisure. Some free amenities include: picnic tables, playground, life-sized chess set and checker game, table tennis and miniature golf course. There are some great activities available for an additional fee. Play on the Aqua Island, a giant floating playground, where you can go down giant slides and do ninja war type obstacles. You can rent paddle boats, ride on a Roadster or even go waterskiing, wakeboarding and tubing. One thing I highly recommend doing early in the day is renting a beach chair and umbrella or cabana because it can get extremely hot in the summer sun. Another thing I enjoyed was summer movies on the beach.
DISCOVERY CENTER & BIRDS OF PREY
The Discovery Center is the main information site and is a great place to start your journey off. Here you can learn about the gardens history and gather information on planning out your visit. One of our favorite attractions at the Discovery Center is the Birds of Prey show. This educational show features an array of birds such as a horned owl and a red-tailed hawk. It’s really neat to watch the birds sore overhead as the presenter provides interesting facts and information about birds of prey.
HIKING & BIKING TRAILS
The best way to experience Callaways beauty truly is to Bike through the trails. We had so much fun biking around the garden. It’s a great way to get your kids energy out while still enjoying the beautiful views. I was impressed that they had special bikes for small children. My oldest son rode along on a bicycle built for two. My youngest rode along in a carriage attached to the back of my bike. Bicycle rentals start from $15 per person for a half day. Locks and helmets are also available for rent.
TREE TOP ADVENTURES
Most adventure courses are designed for older children. I can’t tell you how happy I was to discover they have a Sapling Course for guests between 36 and 60 inches tall. This course strengthens self-esteem and enhances problem solving skills, as your little one ventures through obstacles. Since the course is never higher than 5 feet you can walk along side and cheer on your child. Don’t forget to pack closed toed shoes so your little one can partake in this activity. If you have older children or are feeling adventurous your self their are two ropes courses for guest 54 inches or taller. It costs extra to brave the ropes course; however, I highly recommend it.
DINING
Our families favorite place to eat was at the Country Store right outside of the garden. It’s a quaint little store and restaurant with a southern charm. Many of the tables offer stunning views of the mountain. Start your meal off with complimentary homemade biscuits and cornbread that are heavenly. You can’t go wrong with anything you order from the menu since it’s all homemade.
HOLIDAYS & EVENTS
If you are reading this and wishing you had made Callaway a part of your summer vacation plans but ran out of time; consider planning a trip to Callaway for Labor day weekend for the Balloon Festival or in the winter for Fantasy in Lights.
INFORMATION
Callaway Resort & Gardens
17800 US Hwy 27
Pine Mountain, GA 31822
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