WYTHEVILLE, VIRGINIA–AUGUST 2025–Wytheville, Virginia, may seem to be an off-the-beaten-path spot for a spring break getaway. In fact, its convenient location makes it very easy to get to and its list of fun, home-grown attractions offers a refreshing option for families looking for a new place to play. And from Wytheville’s smallest church (1090 Nye Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382), the smallest church in Virginia, to the state’s largest pencil, this is a destination full of surprises.

Its Blue Ridge Mountain location at the intersection of two major Interstates, I-77 and I-81, has long made this a convenient stopping point for travelers and the list of convenient hotel options near the Interstate is joined by independent and boutique lodging options downtown.

Family-friendly attractions are at the heart of this Virginia destination. A longtime favorite is Big Walker Lookout (8711 Stoney Fork Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-663-4016), an attraction known for its outstanding views and authentic local charm. The family-owned and -operated attraction is the oldest and highest private attraction in Virginia, located at 3,405 feet. It features a 100-foot Observation Tower where climbers are treated to a spectacular panoramic view. Local goods and souvenirs are available at the country store.

Crossroads Social House (180 Dominion Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-335-2288) is an entertainment center where 14 bowling lanes, an arcade, laser tag arena, trampoline zone, billiards and darts are all part of a day’s play. There’s also a restaurant and an outdoor patio area. For some racing fun, the Wythe Raceway (164 Race Track Road, Rural Retreat, Virginia 24368; 276-686-4261) offers family-friendly Saturday night excitement April through October, and kids always get in free. Activities include bicycle races, bubble wrap night and the kid’s goldrush, with 10,000+ coins dropped on the track. 

Animal encounters are up close and personal in Wytheville. Cobb Hill Alpacas (Cobb Hill Alpacas, 448 Turley Farm Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-780-1690) is a small family-owned and -operated alpaca farm. Visitors can interact with alpacas as they graze in their rolling mountain pastures. There are also opportunities to collect eggs from the farm’s free-range chickens or observe honey bees busy at work. Tours are available by appointment and visitors are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy along the creek. There’s even more animal variety at Fort Chiswell Animal Park (569 Red Hollow Road, Max Meadows, Virginia 24360; 276-637-6754), home to more than 200 animals from six continents. Visitors travel through the open areas via safari bus as the animals roam free. The park, which has grown from a mobile petting zoo to full-blown safari park, is the largest zoo in Southwest Virginia and is home to antelope, buffalo, ostrich, monkeys, camels and more, as well as a petting zoo.

For a bit of history, there are downtown museums that recount intriguing stories of Wytheville’s history and its most famous native, and this place, with an identity all its own. A popular way to explore its beginnings is to spend time at the nine-acre Willow Brook Jackson-Umberger Homestead Museum (1125 Tazewell Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-223-3330), where restored buildings and period tools and furnishings bring the past to life. The interpretative site depicts life here from the late 1700s to the mid-20th century. For an immersive look at early Native American life, there’s Wolf Creek Indian Village (6394 North Scenic Highway, Bastian, Virginia 24314; 276-688-3438). This is a reconstructed village where tour guides give visitors a glimpse into the life of the Eastern Woodland Indians, their homes and families, pottery and basket making, arrowhead and tool making, food and cooking, hunting and hide tanning practices.

Of course, there is outdoor fun, as well. The beautiful and unique New River Trail State Park (Headquarters: 116 Orphanage Drive, Max Meadows, Virginia 24360; 276-699-6778) is home to the 57-mile New River Trail, one of America’s premier rails-to-trails routes. It runs adjacent to the river and is a haven for bikers, horseback riders and paddlers. Camping, bikes and canoe rentals are available on site. At Crystal Springs Recreation Area (723 Pump Hollow Lane, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-223-3378), located just three miles from downtown Wytheville, both hikers and bikers enjoy the 1,800-acre preserve. Its mountain bike terrain park has more than a dozen features such as balance beams, a teeter-totter and a wooden berm wall. Hiking trails offer easy half-mile options as well as the more challenging seven-mile boundary trail.

Where to eat

When in Wytheville, it’s difficult to resist a stop at Skeeter’s World Famous Hotdogs (165 East Main Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382). Established in 1925, this is one of Virginia’s oldest continuously operating restaurants. Classic dogs, glass bottled colas and an old school lunch counter make for a delightful experience. For more classic American cuisine in a down home atmosphere, there is Grayson Restaurant (100 Grayson Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-228-5304). Breakfast is a favorite here, but burgers, pasta and more are popular all day long. Family-friendly breweries are a lively part of the food scene here, too. 7 Dogs Brew Pub (360 West Spring Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-228-0994) is the perfect spot to enjoy snacks, burgers or sandwiches and taste the local brews. Nearby Seven Sisters Brewery (355 East Main Street, Wytheville, Virginia 24382; 276-227-0999) has brews of its own. Visitors can enjoy the game hall, live music and fare from a rotating food truck lineup.

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Fridays on the Flint These free community events happen the first Friday of the month in May, June, September, October, November and December.  Offering live music, vendors, a kid zone and more, there’s no better way to wind down your week than a fun filled evening on the Flint River!

Head to Ann’s Garden Shop for a Mother’s Day Sip & Stroll from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., on Saturday, May 3, 2025. Guests can enjoy muffins and mimosas while strolling through the garden, greenhouse and store. It’s the perfect opportunity to shop for a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift or bring mom along and let her choose something beautiful herself. Complimentary gift wrapping will be available. Ann’s Garden Shop is located at 1440 Gillionville Road, Albany, Georgia 31707.

The Wonderfully Made May Market returns! The second annual May Market is back, celebrating the beauty and simplicity of the Cottagecore lifestyle. This charming spring event will feature a curated selection of vendors offering handcrafted goods, heirloom botanicals, and one-of-a-kind artisanal gifts. It’s a delightful way to welcome the season and support some of Albany’s local makers. Wonderfully Made is located at 2401 Dawson Road, Albany, Georgia 31707.

Summer Camps at Chehaw is where adventure meets learning! Chehaw Park and Zoo is the perfect place for kids to explore, play, and discover the wonders of nature. This summer, weeklong half-day and full-day camps will be offered for children ages 4–12, running from May 27-August 5. Each camp day includes exciting zoo visits, up close animal encounters, creative crafts, games, hands-on activities, a snack, and a cool camp tee shirt. Campers will have a blast while learning through fun, nature-based experiences. Full-day camps are available for children ages 5–12 and half-day camps are available for children ages 4.

Find your flow with Yoga In The Gallery at the Albany Museum of Art. Unwind and recharge with yoga in the inspiring, art-filled setting of the Albany Museum of Art. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or a first timer, all are welcome—no experience necessary. Just be sure to wear comfortable clothing and bring a mat. Classes are led by instructor Renea Miller. Click here for more information Yoga In The Gallery dates.

Mark your calendar for May 8 for the next Homeschool Day at the AMA. This event offers K–5th grade homeschool students the opportunity to explore art and learn at the Albany Museum of Art. Students are in for a real treat with a day of combining gallery lessons with a hands-on take-home project in the classroom. These sessions support subjects like history, science, math, and language arts while building creativity, critical thinking, and social skills in a vibrant, art-filled environment. Click here for more information.

Don’t miss “A Night in the Archives,” a sip-and-see style celebration at Thronateeska honoring 10 years of preserving the region’s history and heritage. This special evening not only celebrates a decade of achievements but also raises awareness and support for the continued care and preservation of South Georgia’s archival treasures. It’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on the past while investing in the future. Click here for more information.

The post Fill Your Calendar with Albany, Georgia’s Spring Events appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

ST. MARYS, GEORGIA – APRIL 2025 – Springtime in St. Marys, Georgia is like stepping into serenity but don’t let that stop you from packing your sense of adventure! Picture the sun rising over the St. Marys River, casting a golden glow on the water as you glide along in a kayak. The air smells like salt and blooming jasmine, and the only sounds are the subtle splash of your paddle and the occasional call of a heron. Later, you’re biking under a canopy of moss-draped oaks, past centuries-old homes, inviting storefronts, and charming shops. By afternoon, you’re hiking through maritime forests, spotting deer and maybe even a wild horse or two. This isn’t just a St. Marys daydream—it’s a foray full of water, nature, and history meant to make your spring unforgettable.

Paddle through Paradise: Kayaking & Water Adventures

St. Marys, part of the Southeast Coast Saltwater Paddling Trail, often shines brightest on the water, and the St. Marys River is a paddler’s paradise perfect for boating, kayaking or paddleboarding. Imagine launching your kayak during a colorful sunrise while dolphins playfully break the surface nearby. If you’re lucky, you might even spot river otters or a manatee lazily drifting along as you traverse marshes and channels amid shady, soaring oaks. St. Marys has semidiurnal tides (two highs and two lows per day) and it’s important to know the tide times for your excursion. Make sure to wear a life vest and take plenty of drinking water and snacks. Don’t forget to paddle with a buddy, use sunscreen, and leave a paddle plan with someone ashore. For those who are inspired by the splendor and want to dive deeper into the area’s natural wonders, rentals for experience paddlers and guided eco-tours are available with Adventures Up the Creek, and Knucklehead’s in downtown St. Marys can help with rentals.

Just a short paddle or ferry ride away lies Cumberland Island, a haven that serves as the crown jewel of Georgia’s coast. Paddle along its marshy waterways and then trade your kayak for hiking boots to explore the island’s wild terrain. You’ll find pristine beaches, towering dunes, and even the remnants of a Carnegie mansion known as Dungeness. While on your Cumberland Island adventure, don’t forget about the island’s favorite residents, the majestic wild horses.

Crooked River State Park, located just 10 minutes from St. Marys Waterfront, is another perfect spot with three kayak trails ranging from 4.3 miles to 8.4 miles. The Cherry Point Trail is rated moderately difficult. Launch should take place 90 minutes prior to low tide, has many opportunities to get out and stretch on sand bars, and has you riding the incoming tide back to the launch site. 

Pedal the Town: Biking the Tabby Trail

If you prefer to keep your feet (or wheels) on solid ground, St. Marys has solutions. The St. Marys Tabby Trail is an 11-mile bike and multi-use hard surface path from St. Marys Waterfront Park to Crooked River State Park. Comfort stations are located at Sweetwater Park on Pt. Peter Road and at the McIntosh Sugar Mill Ruins on Ga Spur 40 (across from the Stimson Gate of NSB Kings Bay). Restrooms and a Bike Repair Station are located at the St. Marys Waterfront Park. Paths are still in progress along the route and the trail is part of the Three Rivers Trail system which will connect Woodbine, Kingsland, St. Marys, and Crooked River State Park and the East coast Greenway. You might also choose a leisurely ride in the downtown historic district where you’ll pass colonial-era homes, their porches adorned with rocking chairs and flower boxes and dozens of historic markers and attractions to keep your interest along the way. The picturesque St. Marys Waterfront Park is perfect for a quick rest. Take it all in and then stop by one of the local cafés for a much-deserved sweet tea or a freshly baked treat. If you want to rent a bike, or just need supplies or service for your own bike, be sure to visit local cycling experts at the Camden Bicycle Center. You can also download local rides on Strava or Trek’s Ride Club App.

Stay & Savor: Where to Rest and Refuel

After a day of paddling and pedaling you’ll need a comfortable place to rest your head. Fortunately, St. Marys has diverse lodging options to suit every style, need, and budget. For a truly unique experience, check into the Goodbread House Inn, a charming bed and breakfast housed in a historic building. Picture a sumptuous breakfast in the dining room followed by a front porch cup of coffee underneath the magnolia’s shade. Inside, each room is thoughtfully decorated with its own romantic theme, making your stay as memorable as your escapades. Other downtown spots are the Riverview Hotel, Spencer House Inn, and the Mermaid Cottage.

If you’re looking for something a bit more modern, the SureStay by Best Western offers updated, comfortable rooms and reliable amenities such as a screened-in pool and business center, all at an affordable price. Those who want to explore even more sleep options will find that St. Marys has plenty of other places, from cozy to modern vacation rentals. Enjoy a brush with history where Aaron Burr hid after his infamous duel with Alexander Hamilton in 1804 at The Federal Quarters or a group stay at a contemporary vacation village at Borne 605 in the heart of downtown.

When it’s time to indulge in a fresh St. Marys meal, head to one of the town’s terrific downtown restaurants. Locals Dockside, Southern River Walk, and The Firefly Taco Cantina are all fantastic eateries with a friendly, laidback vibe. The peaceful atmosphere and local flavors make dining in downtown St. Marys and Midtown and beyond an inspiring experience in itself and the treats at Kraken Coffee Kitchen, Market on the Square, and The Café at Cottle and Gunn are worth the trip themselves.

Spring into St. Marys

Start planning your itinerary today, and don’t forget to check out the calendar of events at visitstmarys.com/calendar to see what’s happening during your visit. Your perfect spring getaway is just a paddle or pedal away located less than an hour’s drive north of Jacksonville, Florida, and only 5 miles east of I-95.

The post Paddle, Pedal, Play: A Spring Adventure Guide to St. Marys, Georgia appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

With plenty of things to see and do, family friendly restaurants, shopping and so much more, there’s plenty of reasons to visit Albany for your spring break.

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Albany. Temperatures are mild making it a great time to enjoy the great outdoors with plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Start by hitting the trails. Albany’s many hiking and biking trails make exploring the area by foot an absolute breeze. The Riverfront Greenway Trail spans miles of the Flint River’s banks. This flat and paved trail is ideal for pedaling and enjoying the area’s serene beauty.  For a more picturesque and peaceful stroll, check out the four-mile trail at Radium Springs. Adventure seekers love exploring the wilderness and getting up close with nature on the walking and biking trails inside Chehaw Park and Zoo.

Speaking of Chehaw Park and Zoo, the kids are going to love this spot! Chehaw Park and Zoo offers a 100-acre zoo featuring over 200 animals including cheetahs, black rhinoceroses, alligators and many more. Patrons can take advantage of the BMX track, R/C car track and 18-hole disc golf course. It’s truly a one-stop shop for family fun and adventure.

Get out on the water! Kayak Attack Adventures has everything you need for a day of exploring on the water. Offering kayak and canoe rentals, along with an array of services from simple pick-ups and drop offs along local creeks and rivers to guided tours, private lessons and a ton of adventure, this is an easy way to explore the best of Albany’s water adventures.

Next up, explore The Flint RiverQuarium. This is a phenomenal adventure following the river’s incredible 350-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. The 175,000-gallon Blue Hole is one of only a few open-air aquariums across the globe, featuring more than 100 species of fish, alligators, turtles and other marine life. Don’t miss the Cypress Pond Aviary where more than 30 indigenous (to Flint River watershed) birds make their home. Insider tip: look for special events like dive shows and alligator feedings for over-the-top excitement.

For even more adventure, check out Providence Canyon State Park, which is just a short drive away. Providence Canyon State Park is the home of the “Little Grand Canyon.” This 1,108-acre park features spectacular views, pioneer camping and hiking trails.

Where to stay

Located in the heart of the city, the Hilton Garden Inn is an ideal place for families because of its quick an easy accessibility of downtown attractions. Another great family option is Albany’s Holiday Inn Express. Featuring a business center, fitness center, high speed internet, interior corridors, a pool and free breakfast, this is ideal for families.

For an outside the box lodging experience, check out The Resora Experience. The Resora offers guests a glamping oasis getaway featuring several elegantly furnished lodges, a guest house and a studio bunk house on an 85-acre lake, all situated on a 1,638-acre former plantation. Guests love the tranquil trails, serene lake and remote location of this beautiful property.  It’s glamping at its very best.

For more on things to do and see in Albany, Georgia, this spring, click here.

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Check out this bucket list of top picks for spring break outings with the family:

1. Take a scenic drive on Aska Road for beautiful views of the Toccoa River Rapids. Cross the historic Shallowford Bridge over the Toccoa to Sandy Bottoms Canoe Launch, for an up-close view of the river. It’s the perfect place for a family picnic. Check out this link to driving tours.
2. Hike to Fall Branch Falls, where the upper portion is a series of cascades that lead to a single major drop of some 30 feet, with the water plunging into a deep pool at the base of the falls.
3. Go horseback riding at Blue Ridge Mountain Trail Rides (319 Hell’s Hollow Road). Also onsite, kids will love fishing in the pond, gem mining and wandering the nature trail.
4. Connect with nature in a wild way. Hike Project Chimps, the newest chimpanzee sanctuary in the United States, providing lifelong care to 200 former research chimpanzees living on more than 230 acres of forested land. There are several trails to choose from, including the kid-friendly Nature Trail with 24 interpretive educational signs. The organization also offers special events as well as private parties and group tours by request.
5. Catch a movie the old-fashioned way at the Swan Drive-In (651 Summit Street), one of Georgia’s four remaining drive-ins. Established in 1955, the Swan Drive-in features a full concession stand, including funnel cakes and fried Oreos.
6. Ride the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway (241 Depot Street) and chugga-chug down the 13-miles of rails comprising the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. The 45-minute (each way) excursion is a generation-bonding adventure that starts at the historic 1905 depot in Downtown. Vintage climate-controlled and open-air rail cars wind alongside the Toccoa River, with a stop in the twin border towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. Copperhill/McCaysville is one town with two names because it is split by the GA/TN state line. Here, visitors have a two-hour layover with plenty of time to eat lunch, shop for unique crafts and antiques, snack on ice cream or walk around.
7. Bike the trails.  That’s right—you can ride the rails via train or bike them via railbikes, March through November! Embark on a new and exciting journey through the Blue Ridge Countryside aboard a custom-built, four-person electric railbike. Sit back and explore as you leisurely pedal your motor-assisted railbike through the foothills of North Georgia. Leave the depot in historic downtown Blue Ridge and begin a 11-mile round-trip adventure as you meander alongside streams, vineyards and the tall, swaying Georgia pines. Halfway through your trip, your friendly guide will pause the tour to allow you to snap some photos of the local flora and fauna.
8. Mine for gems, go fishing, take a hike or play a round of mini-golf, all at Blue Ridge’s destination for family fun–The Lilly Pad Village. Pets are welcome, too.
9. Take a farm tour of Mercier Orchards (8660 Blue Ridge Drive), a family- and veteran-owned and operated apple orchard. Founded in 1943 by Bill and Adele Mercier, the business is now enjoying four generations and more than 80 years of fruitful harvest. In the spirit of celebration, Mercier Orchards holds special events throughout the year. Reward your senses with bushels of apples, strawberries and other produce, fresh pressed cider, warm fried pies and memories. The onsite store serves up a variety of farm toys, pet items, kitchen paraphernalia, home decor and is host to a meat and cheese shop. Visit the tasting room, offering hard ciders and wines, including locally produced varieties.
10. Track the Trout The Trout Art Trail Name Finder Game is a fun treasure hunt to discover the colorful trout statues placed around town. Visit each, fill in the fish names after printing the worksheet, and take it to the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center for a prize.  (152 Orvin Lance Drive, Blue Ridge, GA 30513, right behind CVS Pharmacy across from Ingles on Highway 515. 706-632-5680 1-800-899-MTNS (6867) This adventure is also available as a challenge on the app – check in at each location, receive a badge upon completion, and claim your prize at the Welcome Center. Some of the hiking on the Fannin County Trout Adventure Trail is best for the fit and active. Visit this link the Blue Ridge Blog for tips on hiking with kids.
11. Take the kids to Huck’s General Store (500 E Main Street). Step back in time with an authentic general store experience in downtown Blue Ridge, complete with barrels of candy from yesteryear.
12. For indoor fun check out 2^nd Story Entertainment (733 East Main Street, Suite C) where 18 holes of mini-golf, giant checkers and connect four, dart boards, air hocky and more provide the ultimate family game day. Nearby, try Vertigo Pinball (500 East Main Street, Suite 206) where you can challenge the family to a nostalgic match while enjoying unique eats and craft beer.
13. For more fun things to do with kids, visit the Blue Ridge blog post:  https://www.blueridgemountains.com/blog/30-fun-things-to-do-with-kids/  

Where to Eat

1. Whether the family is taking the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway or driving to McCaysville, Burra Burra on the River is not to be missed.  Enjoy dining on the deck by the Toccoa River for lunch or dinner with classic American food, beer and wine. (100 Blue Ridge Drive, McCaysville, Georgia)
2. Carroll’s Barbeque serves everything a family loves, from smoked chicken, pork and beef to soups and salads, with Southern desserts like cobbler and banana pudding. (39 Lance Street, Suite 1 Blue Ridge)
3. Iron Bridge General Store and Café (8436 Aska Road) delights with a family-friendly breakfast, lunch and dinner, including favorites from pancakes to burgers and pizza, all alongside views of the sweeping Toccoa River and more than 100-year-old Shallowford Bridge.
4. Cucinella’s Pizzeria: A family tradition since 1932 serving brick oven pizzas with a wide variety of toppings along with specialty pizzas like Calzone, Margherita, Veggie Lovers, Spinach and more. Gluten-free cauliflower crust is also available. (322 West Main Street, Unit 1C)
5. For sweet treats, try Bob’s Eatery (511 East Main Street) known for their variety of shakes like Graham Me S’More and Banana Nutella, Three Sisters Fudge (662 East Main Street) with fine fudge made on-site, The Chocolate Express (634 East Main Street) tempting with hand-dipped chooclates, ice cream and sugar-free candies along with other sweet-tooth curing delights, or The Sweet Shoppe of the South (721 East Main Street), winner of Food Network’s “Cupcake Wars,” with their gourmet cupcakes, specialty caramel apples, truffles, cake pops, chocolate dipped bananas, grapes, strawberries, blueberries and cherries.

Don’t Miss!

Escape Blue Ridge (644 East Main St.): Bring video games to life with Blue Ridge’s exclusive physical adventure game, where groups come together to solve a puzzle in a limited amount of time.

If you go

Find links to rental companies for mountain cabins with lake-views and room for up to 20 (hot tub included!) at www.BlueRidgeMountains.com.

The post Break Routine with a Spring Getaway to Blue Ridge, Georgia appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

BLUE RIDGE, GEORGIA—MARCH 2023—Kids can keep on learning while having fun this spring and summer in Blue Ridge and Fannin County. Take an extended family field trip, combining outdoor adventure and discovery in the North Georgia mountains, about 90 minutes north of Atlanta off Interstate 575 and an hour and a half from Chattanooga, Tennessee. There’s so much fun to be had that (shhh!) the kids will never know it’s also about education.

To adults, Blue Ridge is an exquisite North Georgia mountain gateway town with wineries and craft breweries, art galleries, delectable restaurants, downtown shopping and lodging as well as getaway cabins on mountain ridges, in peaceful valleys and on scenic waters. For the family, geography and biology lessons are all around. Fannin County lies in the Appalachian Mountains, 90 miles north of Atlanta, bordering North Carolina and Tennessee. 

Experience Farm to Fork Only one mile from Blue Ridge on Georgia Highway 5, Mercier Orchards has tractor tours and spring/summer u-pick strawberries, blueberries–and apples in August. Stop in the store for yummy fried pies, apple cider, apples, peaches, jams and preserves. At The Folk Collaborative enjoy U-pick, wagon rides, fried pies, the mercantile, movie nights and other events.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway: history and geography Railroads were once the driving force for development, commerce and early tourism. The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway excursion starts downtown at the historic 1905 depot. Ride in vintage climate-controlled or open-air rail cars alongside the Toccoa River, with a stop in the twin border towns of McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. Copperhill/McCaysville is split by the Georgia/Tennessee state line. On Toccoa/Ocoee Street, look for the Blue Line and take a selfie with a foot in each state.

Trout Trail From the county seat of Blue Ridge to the county borders north, south, east and west, more than 100 miles of trout streams and rivers wind through and across 100,000 acres of the Chattahoochee National Forest. This natural resource inspired the Georgia State Legislature to designate Blue Ridge and Fannin County as the “Trout Capital of Georgia.” Earn a distinctive commemorative award patch on the Fannin County Trout Adventure Trail^®.

Begin at the watershed of Springer Mountain, the starting point of the bucket-list Appalachian Trail. Hike to Long Creek Falls and walk the 260-foot Toccoa Swinging Bridge (the longest east of the Mississippi River). Visit the Chattahoochee National Fish Hatchery, where more than a million rainbow trout are raised each year to stock North Georgia rivers. Fish Rock Creek and take a tour to learn more about the Southern Appalachian Ecosystem (Highway 60 South between Morganton and Dahlonega). Maps and details on each stop can be found in these two documents: Trout Streams & Learning Adventure and The Trout Adventure Trail guide.

The Trout Art Trail Name Finder Game is a fun treasure hunt to discover the colorful trout statues placed around town. Visit each, fill in the fish names after printing the worksheet and take it to the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center for a prize. (152 Orvin Lance Drive, Blue Ridge, Georgia 30513, right behind CVS Pharmacy across from Ingles on Highway 515. 706-632-5680; 1-800-899-6867).

Please Your Whole Pack Families with varied ages or interests can mine for gems, go fishing, take a hike or play a round of mini-golf, all at The Lilly Pad Village (7.5 miles from Blue Ridge on Aska Road at 24 Adelaide Drive). Pets are welcome, and fishing poles and bait are provided. Tweens and teens give high marks to the high energy of Axe Throwing Therapy, Blue Ridge Paintball, Walk the Line Axe Throwing and whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River. Haunted Blue Ridge Ghost Tours is a fascinating account of Native American early white settler lore, combined with history and shivers.

Rain Plans Don’t let Mother Nature rain out your adventure. Blue Ridge’s indoor mini-golf course at 2nd Story Entertainment features a variety of themes throughout nine rooms in addition to an arcade and games like giant tic-tac-toe, darts and checkers that guests can play as they move throughout the course. Vertigo offers fun, food, craft beer and a great collection of vintage pinball machines, no tokens or quarters needed, just buy a wrist band for the length of time you want to play.

Recess Take a break at The Chocolate Express for homemade fudge, hand-dipped chocolates and ice cream, sodas, floats and more (634 East Main Street). For cake pops and chocolate dipped bananas, grapes, strawberries, blueberries and cherries, stop at The Sweet Shoppe of the South, winner of Food Network’s “Cupcake Wars” (721 East Main Street). In the evening, catch a movie the old-school way at the Swan Drive-In, one of the few remaining in Georgia. This 1955 treasure features first-run movies and a full concession stand, including funnel cakes and fried Oreos.

Lights Out Intown, unique overnight options range from chic lofts overlooking the town to the new upscale, modern Hampton Inn Blue Ridge featuring balcony rooms and the city’s only rooftop bar/restaurant, Hook & Eye. In surrounding Fannin County choices include lodging with stunning mountain views, creekside retreats, riverfront lodges, cabins on the lake and much more. To search for the perfect in-town hideaway or mountain retreat, go to www.BlueRidgeMountains.com/where-to-stay. For dining and itinerary ideas, visit www.BlueRidgeMountains.com

That’s just a few of the ways summer fun and experiential learning come together in Blue Ridge. For more, visit the Blue Ridge blog, 30 Fun Things to Do with Kids and www.BlueRidgeMountains.com/things-to-do/family-fun. Download or pick up The Family Fun Adventure Game in one of the Visitor Centers. it’s a great way to spend the day and explore, with a coloring book and a prize when returned to one of the centers.

The post Field Trip Vacations: Blue Ridge, Georgia, is Nature’s Classroom appeared first on Travel Media Press Room.

Set your sights on spring break adventure in Henry County, only 30 minutes south of Atlanta. From archery to airplanes, this easily accessible destination is only a stone’s throw from Atlanta and offers affordable adventure for all ages, whether you’re seeking a weekend or week-long getaway.

Set the stakes high

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Panola Mountain State Park (2620 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge). Various hikes provide ample opportunity for communing with Mother Nature. Elevate the experience with an adventure exploring the canopy above through tree climbing. Exercise buffs will enjoy this strenuous activity which has participants using a rope and a harness to ascend into a large tree where they can climb, swing and test athletic prowess. Climbers can choose how high they would like to go and even swing to and walk on branches 30-plus feet off the ground. After a long day of outdoor fun, catch some ZZZ’s in the Trees. Soak in a tranquil night in the canopy as you lay in your “treeboat,” viewing stars through glistening branches.

Rent bicycles from Atlanta Trek (120 Westridge Parkway, McDonough), which offers rentals for bikes, mountain bikes and electric bikes. Hit the trails throughout Henry County. Panola Mountain also rents bikes. Paved PATH Foundation trails connect to the Monastary of the Holy Spirit and go all the way to the Mall at Stonecrest.

Practice archery here, too. The park offers a static range and a 3D range. BYOE (bring your own equipment) and purchase a pass to practice on your own. Or, if you’re more of a novice, learn archery basics during one of the Park’s regular classes.

For more information: GastateParks.org/panolamountain.

Zoom towards adventure

EchoPark Speedway (formerly known as the Atlanta Speedway) (1500 Tara Place, Hampton) offers several opportunities to express your need for speed. Participate in a driving school class and ride along in a real race car or try on a fire suit and take control behind the wheel. Families with younger ones in tow will enjoy a behind-the-scenes look with an official track tour. These tours include a brief track history, a visit to Petty Garden, a tour of an EchoPark Speedway suite, a sneak peek at the garages and Victory Lane, as well as three laps in the Speedway van around the same 1.54-mile track that stars like Jimmie Johnson and Kyle Busch race on. Call (770) 707-7970 in advance to schedule your track tour, regardless of the size of your group.

Go wild!

For an activity that is as much fun for the adults as for the kids, don’t miss Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary, home to over 1,500 animals with over 100 species represented. This free attraction features exotic animal habitats. Open noon to 3 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday. Nature center, playground and picnic area open 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Catch a thrill

From two-year-olds to expert riders, BMX lovers can practice skills at the Sandy Ridge BMX (1200 Keys Ferry Court, McDonough), open to the public seven days a week. New to the sport or want to improve? Sign up for a clinic to help improve speed and skills like pumping, jumping, passing and cornering. The Park requires an USABMX license as well as proper race gear, including a helmet, long-sleeved shirt, race pants, jeans or shorts with full shin guards. Check the website, www.SandyRidgeBMX.org, or call 678-448-6155 to confirm the course is open, as it closes for races and weather.

Pick your own adventure

Keep the memories fresh with a trip to Southern Belle Farm (1658 Turner Church Road, McDonough). Starting in April (check website for exact dates as U-Pick varies seasonally), families can pick their own perfectly fresh strawberries. On the weekends, the kids will love flying high on the jumping pillow, climbing aboard the cow train and chugging along the Hayride. Peruse the Country Market, and make selections of seasonal produce, canned goods, jams and jellies. This unique farm experience wouldn’t be the same without a stop at Mimi’s Kitchen. This bakery serves up mouth-watering treats, like homemade seasonal cobblers, strawberry and peach ice cream and fried pies.

Take your best shot

Hot Shots Paintball & Airsoft at Windy Hill Park (100 Ronnie Stewart Drive, McDonough) is the premier paintball and airsoft facility in metro Atlanta. Along with six paintball fields and a 25,000-square-foot airsoft field, it also offers a 150,000-square-foot “Fort Deadwood” Old West-scenario field. It is a great location for birthday parties, corporate events and family reunions. Call 404-797-0850 for special group rates. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Monday through Friday by appointment for VIP parties.

More than remote(ly) fun

RC lovers can watch radio-powered races at Henry County Remote Control Racing Track, located at Windy Hill Park (100 Ronnie Stewart Drive, McDonough). If you prefer aeronautical adventure, the Henry County RC Club runs remote-controlled airplanes at the Red Hawk Nature Preserve (143 Henry Parkway, McDonough). Participants must be a member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) to fly at Red Hawk, but all are welcome as spectators. Head to the Park from 8 a.m.-noon, Tuesdays and Thursdays, weather-permitting, for the best chance to view.

http://www.hcrcr.com/

If you go
Extend your stay with more ideas about how to seize the season in Henry County.

Visitors can rest easy, choosing from a variety of lodging options, including name brand hotels or sleeping under the stars at one of the beautiful campsites in the area. Whether looking for an adventure-packed trip or an easy-going escape, visitors will leave with lasting memories–and full pockets! www.VisitHenryCountyGeorgia.com

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