Indoor water park, must-see museums, hands-on history and taste bud tempting eateries make for a can’t-miss West Georgia getaway
This winter, give the gift of experience and plan to visit LaGrange, Georgia, easily accessible via Interstate 85, near the Georgia/Alabama line. Whether planning a holiday-themed getaway or gifting a future excursion for spring or fall break, mouthwatering food, energetic entertainment and opportunities for memory-making mean LaGrange makes memories that last beyond the gift wrap.
Join the pack at Great Wolf Lodge
Pack your bags for LaGrange’s 500,000-square-foot, multi-faceted Great Wolf Lodge (150 Tom Hall Parkway), Georgia’s only location and the ultimate water park experience, rain or shine. With games, attractions and activities throughout the resort, there are tons of fun things to do, keeping your kids busy for hours–and even better–it’s all under one roof. Don’t forget the spacious suite options, on-site dining, shopping outlets and kid’s spa.
Must-see museums
Nearby, explore the history of the area with a visit to Legacy Museum on Main (136 Main Street), which tells the story of the people of West Georgia. Using temporary and permanent exhibits of photographs, artifacts and documents, the museum brings to life the history and traditions of a population rich in diversity. LaGrange Art Museum (112 Lafayette Square) occupies a renovated three-story 1892 Victorian building and showcases changing exhibits featuring a wide range of artists. Art classes are also available.
Hands-on history
The whole family can enjoy stepping back in time at LaGrange’s Biblical History Center (130 Gordon Commercial Drive), a walk-through living history museum focusing on what life was like during the time of Jesus. Participate through interactive learning as you walk through replicas of Life of the Shepherd, Life of the Farmer and Life of the Village. See a goat-hair tent, an oasis, sheep folds, Old Testament and Christian period tombs, a first-century village and many other replicas of ancient life in the Middle East. Enjoy a Roman period meal with foods typical in ancient times. Kids can become young archaeologists in the Kid’s Dig and shepherds during the bread-making experience.
Visit Hills and Dales Estate (1916 Hills & Dales Drive), the home of textile magnate Fuller E. Callaway Sr. and his family. The estate features the historic Ferrell Gardens created by Sarah Coleman Ferrell in the early 19th century. Completed in 1916, the Callaway home is an Italian villa designed by noted architects Neel Reid and Hal Hentz and is 0pen for tours year-round.
Tempt the taste buds
Adventures build appetite and LaGrange satisfies with a menu of offerings sure to please the pickiest palates.
Taste of Lemon (204 Morgan Street) is open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. This local treasure served as a church in past years and has since saved many guests who were hungry from their travels, satisfying with delicious meat and vegetable options. (Hint: Be sure to ask for the Sherried Chicken.)
Venucci (129 Main Street), a restaurant led by Chef Tulla White, is located just off the square and features traditional Italian food and a fabulous ambiance. The eatery is open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Don’t miss Charlie Joseph’s (128 Bull Street), a LaGrange tradition featuring its famous hot dogs, burgers and treats since 1920. Grab a bite from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday.
For a fancier affair, C’Sons (120 Main Street) sets the scene with its upscale, airy atmosphere featuring a New American eclectic menu and is open 5-10 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.
Satisfy a carb craving at Mare Sol’s (124 Main Street) where the Mediterranean menu boasts its handmade pastas. The restaurant is open 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5-10 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday.
Get outdoors
Warm weather calls visitors outdoors. Seize the day and stop by one of the many parks that surround West Point Lake. Hit up the tennis courts, ball fields, basketball courts or cast a line off the fishing piers. These Army Corps of Engineer parks also have more than a dozen nature and hiking trails. Get lost in these beautiful tree-laden paths that accommodate hikers of every skill level. Each trail has its own unique feature–like waterfront views, benches, rest shelters and playgrounds. This is also a bird-watching haven. Keep eyes peeled while walking the paths, because this area is home to purple martins, herons, egrets, osprey and several pairs of bald eagles. Had enough excitement for one day? Kick back by digging toes in the sand at one of the three public beaches or reserve a picnic shelter to share a meal together, al fresco. Visit http://www.sam.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Recreation/West-Point-Lake/ for more information.
Don’t miss a single attraction. Download the app for the “Downtown Walking Tour,” or pick up the map by the same name at the LaGrange Troup County Chamber of Commerce (111 Bull Street). To learn more about visiting LaGrange-Troup County area, visit www.VisitLaGrange.com.
Sweet dreams
In addition to Great Wolf Lodge’s LaGrange location–the only one in Georgia, guests can also rest easy in the recently opened, Courtyard by Marriott, located on the square in downtown LaGrange and within walking distance of shopping and a variety of locally-owned restaurants. Or, try the new 89-room Home2Suites by Hilton.
Nearby, you’ll find one of the newest craft breweries in the region, Wild Leap Brew Co. (308 Main Street), where you can take a tour while enjoying a variety of original beers certain to please the most discriminating palate.
If you go It’s always a great time to visit. Don’t miss special, ongoing events. Visit www.VisitLagrange.com/news-events/events/ for details on happenings.