Newcomer Magazine | Spring 2023

Navigating Atlanta Like a Native

With a sprawling footprint, four different interstates and a traffic lingo all its own, Atlanta can be an intimidating place for commuters. Here’s our guide to navigating the city like a native.

Exploring Summer Camps

Even though summer is still months away, the time to start planning to enroll in summer camp is right now. We break down the benefits and show you how to choose the best fit for your child.

Atlanta’s Top Attractions

Check out our list of 20 of Atlanta’s must-see sites and places, from world-class museums to theme parks and a variety of other familyfriendly destinations.

Spring Travel Guide

From one-tank trips just a couple of hours from Atlanta to exciting excursions into a few of our neighboring states, we’ve compiled some of our favorite springtime getaways.

Relocation

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A guide to help you find your way before, during and after your move, including

We wish to thank all the people who made this publication possible through their valuable time and dedication. Many thanks to our advertisers for their support of Newcomer magazine.

publisher/president Patrick Killam pkillam@killampublishing.com

editor

Everett Catts

marketing & promotions

Jeff Thompson

contributing writers

Daniel Beauregard, Anna Bentley, Susan Flowers, Tony Jenkins, Muriel Vega

director of sales & marketing

Patrick Killam pkillam@killampublishing.com

account director

Lacey James advertising@killampublishing.com

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Newcomer magazine, Spring 2023, Volume 27, Issue 1. Submissions, photography or ideas may be sent to Killam Publishing, Inc., 200 Market Place, Suite 230, Roswell, GA 30075. Submissions will not be returned unless otherwise requested and accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Newcomer magazine reserves the right to revise submissions as necessary. Reproduction in whole or in part of any elements of this publication are strictly prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. © 2023 Killam Publishing, Inc.

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inFOCUS

NEWS BITES FROM AROUND ATLANTA

ALONG CAME A

SPIDER

Experience a classic children’s tale in a whole new way with Charlotte’s Web at the Center for Puppetry Arts. Children of all ages will be spellbound as Charlotte the spider uses her webs to help save her friend Wilbur the pig in this production that uses the magic of puppetry to spin a heartwarming story of friendship and ingenuity. April 4 through May 21. 404-873-3391, puppet.org.

TROLLS IN THE GARDEN

If you happen upon some giant monsters at the Atlanta Botanical Garden this spring and summer, don’t be alarmed. They’re just part of Thomas Dambo’s Trolls: Save the Humans, an outdoor art exhibit calling attention to the importance of sustainability and protecting the environment. These amazing sculptures, each created from reclaimed wood, are part of a series of troll sculptures on display across the globe. Catch them through Sept. 17. atlantabg.org.

A group of high school students from Baylor — an independent day and boarding school just two hours up the road in Chattanooga, Tenn. — have earned the exciting opportunity to fly a payload on a suborbital flight as part of NASA’s TechRise competition. Their experiment, which will test whether machine learning can be used to characterize methane leaks in low Earth orbit, will launch on a high-altitude balloon this summer. Congratulations to all.

Take your kids on a visit to Mossy Bottom Farm when Shaun the Sheep: Flock This Way opens at Children’s Museum of Atlanta. This brand-new exhibit featuring the star of the stop-motion animated series “Shaun the Sheep” helps young visitors ages 3 to 9 hone their problem-solving skills, and also includes a “tot spot” for children under 3 years of age. May 13 through Sept. 4. 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

PHOTO: Rod Reilly

Leader Of The Flock

Flying High

Woodward Academy recently paid tribute to instructor Chris Greenway with the naming of the Chris Greenway Gallery inside Richardson Hall on the upper school campus. Greenway, who retired during the pandemic, made Woodward’s visual art department the envy of any college arts program during his 35-year tenure, with his students winning recognition and awards at festivals and competitions.

Woodward Honors Arts Teacher

PHOTO: Billy Howard Photography

By Muriel Vega

As a new resident, finding your way around Atlanta can be intimidating. It’s a big place, after all, with different neighborhoods and landmarks spread out across a metropolitan area that stretches across several counties. In addition, there are four different interstates crisscrossing the city to keep track of. And of course, there are more than 70 streets with “Peachtree” in the name. To help you get your bearings, we’ve broken down some of the major streets, interstates and public transportation options you’ll need to know.

MAIN ROADS AND HIGHWAYS

It all starts on Peachtree Street. Atlanta’s Main Street begins in the Five Points area of downtown, passing such landmarks as the Georgia-Pacific Tower and the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel before crossing northward into Midtown, where you’ll encounter the Margaret Mitchell House, the Woodruff Arts Center (home of the High Museum of Art) and the Fox Theatre. Just before passing

Piedmont Hospital, it becomes Peachtree Road (specifically, at Palisades Road) before continuing on to the Buckhead district and Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza malls. From there it’s on to Brookhaven, where it becomes Peachtree Boulevard before crossing I-285 to become Peachtree Industrial Boulevard.

Other prominent roads to know are West Peachtree Street, which runs parallel to Peachtree in downtown and Midtown;

Ponce de Leon Avenue, which begins in Midtown and travels eastward to Decatur; and Buford Highway, the area’s center of international culture and cuisine, which is located primarily in DeKalb County to the northeast.

The Downtown Connector is the unofficial name of the approximately 7.5-mile stretch of highway where Interstates 75 and 85 merge as they pass through downtown Atlanta. Also known as 75/85, the Connector begins near

The Downtown Connector

westward toward the airport and College Park. Two major landmarks along this route are the Cobb Cloverleaf, where 285 connects with I-75 northwest of the city, and the Tom Moreland Interchange, or Spaghetti Junction, where it intersects with I-85 near Tucker.

Georgia State Route 400, also known as Georgia 400, splits off from I-85 and cuts northward through Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Alpharetta and Cumming, after which it becomes a surface road near North Georgia Premium Outlets in Dawsonville. The major landmark along this road is the Concourse at Landmark Center, known for a pair of distinctive office towers nicknamed the King and Queen buildings.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) provides rail and bus service to the metro Atlanta area, with four rail lines operating primarily in Fulton and DeKalb counties. All four lines connect, offering transfers at the Five Points station located downtown off Peachtree Street. The one-way fare is $2.50 including transfers, and payment is easy with prepaid $2 MARTA Breeze cards, which can be purchased at the train stations.

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

at the Langford Parkway exit and runs north past the campuses of Georgia State University and later Georgia Tech. The Connector ends in Midtown, at an interchange known as the Brookwood Split.

The east side of the metro area is served by Interstate 85. Heading south from the Connector, I-85 leads to East Point, College Park and the airport; its northward stretch passes through Chamblee, Doraville, Duluth and Suwanee on its way to the Carolinas. Just past Suwanee, it branches off into Interstate 985, which leads to Buford, Flowery Branch and Gainesville.

After splitting with I-85, Interstate 75 heads northwest, climbing through Smyrna, Marietta and Kennesaw on its way toward Chattanooga, Tennessee. Its southern stretch heads southeast toward Macon and eventually to Florida. Interstate 20, meanwhile, passes Six Flags Over Georgia on its way from Alabama into Atlanta, crossing the Connector and Interstate 285 on its way east.

Approximately 64 miles long, Interstate 285 is also known as “the Perimeter” because it forms a circle around the city. From East Point in the

south, it travels north toward Smyrna, arcing east past Sandy Springs in the north (radio traffic reports usually refer to this section as “the top end”) and then south through Doraville, Tucker and Stone Mountain, and then looping

The Gold and Red lines travel a north-south trajectory, while the Blue and Green lines take an east-west route that runs mostly through the city of Atlanta. The Gold line goes from the airport through downtown and the busi-

The Downtown Connector is the unofficial name of the approximately 7.5-mile stretch of highway where Interstates 75 and 85 merge as they pass through downtown Atlanta.

MARTA train station

Piedmont Park

ness district, past Lenox Square and Chamblee to end in Doraville. The Red line makes the same trek from the airport through the downtown area, but splits after the Lindbergh station and heads toward Buckhead and Dunwoody, ending in Sandy Springs.

The Blue line is the longest route, covering Avondale, Decatur, Candler Park, Inman Park, Grant Park and Cabbagetown to the east. To the west, it stops at several landmarks, including CNN Center, Centennial Olympic Park and Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The Green line starts at Edgewood in the east and splits from the Blue line after the Vine City neighborhood, terminating in Bankhead to the west of the city.

To complement the rail service, MARTA offers bus and shuttle service. Bus stops are located throughout metro Atlanta with affordable fares and reliable schedules. MARTA also

offers a free shuttle to Midtown’s Atlantic Station development and IKEA store, which departs from the Arts Center station on the Red and Gold lines.

Other public transportation options include CobbLinc, providing bus service throughout Cobb County and to downtown Atlanta; Gwinnett County Transit, serving Gwinnett County with bus service to downtown, and the State Road and Tollway Authority, which operates the Xpress commuter bus service, offering 27 routes across 12 metro Atlanta counties. The ATL (Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority) was established in 2018 to unite all the metro area’s transit agencies.

Now that you’re familiar with Atlanta’s major thoroughfares and transit options, you’re well on your way to getting around like a native. Bon voyage!

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) dot.ga.gov

511 (GDOT website and mobile app) 511ga.org

MARTA

404-848-5000, itsmarta.com

Cobb Linc 770-427-4444, cobblinc.com

Gwinnett County Transit 770-822-5010, gctransit.com

Xpress 404-463-4782, xpressga.com

Approximately 64 miles long, Interstate 285 is also known as “the Perimeter” because it forms a circle around the city.

OFFERING THE BEST OF CITY AND SUBURB LIVING

When you’re relocating to Atlanta, choosing which part of the metropolitan area to call home can be a challenge. Do you go for the hustle and bustle of a city environment, or do you choose a more relaxed but sometimes less exciting life in the suburbs? DeKalb County offers the best of both worlds, hosting approximately 10 percent of the city of Atlanta as well as several appealing suburban communities.

By Susan Flowers

COMMUNITY LIVING

DeKalb is home to more than 757,000 residents, making it the fourth largest county in the state and boasting a larger population than Alaska, Vermont and Wyoming, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

DeKalb County residents enjoy a median household income of $69,423 and a median home value of $349,000, both similar to the city of Atlanta.

Relocating residents will find a wide array of housing options. Whether you want a condo in artsy, close-in Decatur or Candler Park or a single-family home in more suburban Tucker or Lithonia, DeKalb’s small cities and unincorporated communities offer

something to fit every budget. According to Rocket Homes and the DeKalb Chamber, home prices can range from a low of $105,000 to around $12 million, if you’re shopping in the area around Emory University.

Decatur, the county seat, is a charming, historic city known for its pedestrian-friendly streets, great shops and restaurants and its Courthouse Square, which hosts numerous festivals and events year-round. Dunwoody, a popular suburb for families and young professionals, boasts such attractions as the 22-acre Dunwoody Nature Center and Perimeter Mall, the second-largest shopping mall in the state. DeKalb’s other cities are Avondale Estates, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Clarkston, Doraville, Lithonia, Pine Lake, Stonecrest, Stone Mountain and Tucker.

Visitors to these varied neighborhoods will find that DeKalb offers the best of big-city

PHOTO: Decatur Downtown Development Authority

Decatur boasts a variety of pedestrian-friendly streets, shops and restaurants and even a view of the Atlanta skyline.

diversity. The DeKalb Chamber boasts that the county is the most ethnically diverse in the Southeast, with residents from more than 100 countries speaking at least 100 languages.

Thanks to its location just east of Fulton County and its excellent transportation options, getting to and around DeKalb is easy and convenient. Interstates 20, 85, 285 and 675, as well as U.S. Highway 78, traverse the county, as does MARTA. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is only 6 miles from the county’s southern border, and the DeKalb Peachtree Airport, said to be the state’s second busiest, is located in Chamblee.

BUSINESS AND EDUCATION

DeKalb’s central location allows residents to seek employment options in the city of Atlanta or in many of the area’s bustling suburbs. But there are plenty of great opportunities

within the county’s borders, as well. More than half of the Fortune 500 companies in Atlanta have operations in DeKalb, according to the Chamber. Among DeKalb’s top employers are its government and public school system, as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, AT&T, Kroger, Emory Healthcare and Emory University.

Nationally renowned Emory is just one of several excellent post-secondary schools located in Decatur, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in subjects encompassing everything from liberal arts to mathematics and science, as well as schools of law, medicine, nursing, business, public health and theology. The city is also home to Agnes Scott, a private liberal arts college for women, and the Columbia Theological Seminary. Outside Decatur, the county also boasts Mercer University’s Atlanta campus and Oglethorpe

University, a private liberal arts school in Brookhaven featuring a gorgeous campus with gothic architecture in a big-city setting. And Georgia State University, formerly Georgia Perimeter College, has campuses in Clarkston, Decatur and Dunwoody.

The DeKalb County public school system is the third largest in the state, serving the about 92,000 students not located within the Atlanta portion of the county. In addition, City Schools of Decatur, an independent public school system, serves the children of Decatur with 10 schools.

SHOPPING, DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT

When it’s time for leisure, DeKalb residents don’t have to venture past the county line to find all kinds of options for entertainment and dining. Stone Mountain Park, the No. 1

Clockwise From Top Left: Stone Mountain Park offers a cable car taking visitors to the top. Fernbank Museum of Natural History has the world's largest dinosaur replicas. Arabia Mountain has some of the most unique and beautiful natural scenery in the state. Callanwolde Fine Arts Center regularly hosts visual and performing arts events.

attraction not just in the county but the state, is a 3,200-acre state park that includes Stone Mountain itself, as well as a theme park, a cable car, a train that circles the mountain, golf courses, hiking trails, fishing, a laser show and much more.

Twelve miles south of Stone Mountain is its little sister, Arabia Mountain, and the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area. It includes the 2,550-acre Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve that boasts some of the most unique and beautiful natural scenery in the state.

The Fernbank Museum of Natural History lets visitors gaze in awe at the world’s largest dinosaur replicas and take in a movie at the museum’s IMAX theater. Those looking to get back to nature for an hour or two can stroll through Fernbank’s 65-acre hardwood forest.

Some of the county’s most sought-after communities are also great places for shopping, dining and entertainment. The Decatur Square offers proximity to more than 200 businesses, including shops, restaurants and live music venues such as Eddie’s Attic. Candler Park, just five minutes from downtown Atlanta, features great options for weekend fun, with one-of-a-kind retail shops, art galleries, bars and restaurants. Antique lovers won’t want

HOMES & COMMUNITIES

From affordable housing to a wealth of businesses and education, dining and recreation options, DeKalb County offers all of the convenience of Atlanta, along with many comforts, attractions and unique communities all its own.

ESSENTIAL INFO

DeKalb County Government co.dekalb.ga.us

DeKalb Chamber dekalbchamber.org

City of Chamblee chambleega.com

City of Decatur decaturga.com

City of Dunwoody dunwoodyga.gov

Atlanta Public Schools atlanta.k12.ga.us

to miss Chamblee’s Antique Row, a cluster of shops known as the antique capital of the South, offering everything from vintage books to classic hardware.

Music lovers will love the fact that many of DeKalb’s cities and communities cater to their residents with outdoor events, including concerts such as the Avondale Estates Weekend Wind Down Concert Series, the Chamblee Summer Concert Series, Decatur’s Concerts on the Square and Blue Sky Concerts series and Dunwoody’s Groovin on the Green series.

Of course, good restaurants are easy to find in DeKalb. The county’s dining options are as diverse as its population, with eateries ranging from Decatur’s Buena Gente to the Southernstyle fare at such venues as the Flying Biscuit, Community Q BBQ and Matthews Cafeteria. Buford Highway, which begins near Midtown Atlanta and runs through DeKalb, offers a wide variety of international cuisines.

And those looking to prepare their own delicious meals head to the DeKalb Farmers Market. Covering 140,000 square feet and serving as many as 120,000 shoppers each week, it offers produce, seafood and other items from all over the world and is known as the world’s largest indoor farmers market.

DeKalb County Schools dekalb.k12.ga.us

City Schools of Decatur csdecatur.net

Agnes Scott College agnesscott.edu

Emory University emory.edu

Georgia State University gsu.edu

Mercer University mercer.edu/atlanta

Oglethorpe University oglethorpe.edu

Stone Mountain Park stonemountainpark.com

Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area arabiaalliance.org

DeKalb Farmers Market dekalbfarmersmarket.com

Hopstix, an Indonesian-inspired gastropub in Chamblee, is an example of DeKalb County's international food scene.

By Daniel Beauregard and Anna Bentley

Summer is still months away. But for parents who want to turn those lazy summer days into exciting opportunities for learning and adventure for their children, the time to begin planning is now, since spots fill up well before the start of summer. With so many kinds of camps available today, there are several things parents need to consider before signing the form and packing the duffel bag.

DAY CAMP VERSUS EXTENDED-STAY CAMP

Your first choice is to decide between day camp and overnight camp. “Camps truly give children some of their first opportunities to take on personal responsibility, to experience independence and to develop social and life skills in a uniquely nurturing environment,” says John Dovic, director of High Meadows Summer Day Camp. He added that High Meadows, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, is “often described as a traditional overnight camp, but without spending the night.” “An outstanding camp,” Dovic says, “will help children develop their potential by exploring and celebrating their sense of self and in forming meaningful and respectful relationships with others, all in an environment of fun and adventure.”

Once you’ve decided which camping format is best for your child, the next step is deciding between a traditional camp, an educational

camp or a specialty camp that focuses on a particular pursuit, such as academics, dance or science. All offer important benefits; which type you choose depends on several factors, including your child’s temperament, interests, goals and educational needs.

TRADITIONAL SUMMER CAMPS

The words “summer camp” conjures vision of swimming, campfires and crafts. With today’s educational focus on test scores and technological proficiency, these activities are sometimes seen as mere “play.” But in actuality play is a child’s most important activity, and the skills and traits it develops are just as important in adult life as technical ones:

“Camp is so much more than childcare to fill in time between school grades. It gives children outstanding opportunities to help them become their best selves, to explore interests and unique activities and to be part of a community full of inspiration, growth and fun,” Dovic says.

And in today’s over-scheduled world, even youngsters need time to step away from the computer, have fun and enjoy being a kid.

High Meadows offers a traditional camp setting focused on the outdoors and experiential learning, in which campers learn about subjects through direct, hands-on experience gained over the course of a three-week session. High Meadows, which accepts rising kindergartners through rising ninth-graders, offers a range of activities including arts and crafts, Native American lore, swimming and more. (highmeadowscamp.org)

EDUCATIONAL CAMPS

Other educational camps combine classroom learning with outdoor recreational activities to help students improve educationally— while still having plenty of fun in the process. Squirrel Hollow Camp at The Bedford School, a school for children with learning disabilities, combines mornings of small-group tutoring with afternoon exploration of the school’s 45-acre Fairburn campus, including swimming, soccer and conquering the school’s challenge course.

“Squirrel Hollow is designed to provide academic tutoring in a recreational setting,” says Betsy Box, Bedford’s admissions director and director emeritus. “Students who attend

all four weeks make average gains of six to eight months in reading, math and written expression.” (thebedfordschool.org)

At McGinnis Woods Country Day School, campers can pair subject-specific academic camps in math, Spanish and even chess with the school’s Sunsational Summer Camp program. Campers also take an educational field trip each week; past camps have visited the Atlanta Botanical Garden, the Center for Pup petry Arts and Cagle’s Family Farm. (mcginniswoods.org)

SPECIALTY CAMPS

For children with a particular interest or passion, specialty camps afford an opportunity to explore it in-depth. For pint-sized scientists, there are plenty of specialized science camps covering topics like video game develop ment, computer programming, robot ics and biology. Science-based specialty camps in Atlanta include those offered by the Georgia Institute of Technology’s Center for Education Integrating Science, Mathematics, and Computing (CEISMC), and Camp H2O at the Georgia Aquarium. Georgia Tech’s programs are mostly for

middle- and high-school students and focus on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) topics such as robotics, computer programming and modeling. Camp H2O, meanwhile, is geared toward giving firstto fifth-graders a behind-the-scenes look at

Zoo Atlanta’s Safari Camps

the aquarium through animal encounters and lessons from caregivers.

Kids with other interests will find camps to suit them as well. Zoo Atlanta’s hands-on Summer Safari Camp introduces children to animals ranging from pandas to parrots to pine snakes. Each week campers will go on a different zoo exhibition, exploring wildlife and wild places. (zooatlanta.org/program/summer-camp)

“Summer Safari Camp provides youth ages 5-14 the opportunity to explore animals from around the world, participate in handson STEAM activities, learn how they can help save wildlife and wild places and have fun,” says Staci Wiech, the zoo’s senior director of education.

The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta hosts a variety of summer camps, including cooking, sports, theme, performing arts and outdoor camps, plus an inclusion program for children with special needs. (mjccadaycamps.org)

“I think the fact that we have a 52-acre campus that has outdoor pools, a zip line and ropes

courses, indoor camps like dance and gymnastics and sports camps and tennis camps and culinary camps makes the center stand out,” says Jodi Sonenshine, director of its day camps.

ART CAMPS

Arts organizations across metro Atlanta are hosting summer camps once again this year. The Center for Puppetry Arts is hosting Puppet Camp with three different age groups. Children will learn about the creative and collaborative world of puppetry. (puppet.org) The Alliance Theatre will have a variety of camps for grades K-12 in different age groups to help young actors build character, confidence and creativity. (alliancetheatre.org)

The High Museum of Art will host a plethora of camps for grades 1-8. Campers will learn about the museum’s collection and special exhibitions while honing their drawing, painting and design skills. (high.org/camp). The Spruill Center for the Arts and Stage Door Theatre will partner to host visual and performing camps for ages 3-18. (spruillarts.org/camps)

Art Station will host a variety of camps for ages 5-14 in the performing, literary and visual arts. (artstation.org)

MAKING YOUR SELECTION

So how do you go about finding a camp?

The American Camp Association’s website (acacamps.org) is a great resource, with more than 3,600 accredited camps. After researching the different options available, it’s time to narrow down your choices. Talk with your child about his interests and expectations for summer camp, match them to your own, and then do your homework to select the best option. Once you’ve found some promising choices, contact them directly with questions to determine if they meet your needs. (See sidebar).

With such a large number and variety of camps available, it takes a little legwork to choose the right one, but it’s worth the effort. Your child will have fun while learning and making friends and memories for a lifetime— and you’ll get some summer afternoons to enjoy some peace and quiet.

• Is the camp accredited?

• How are counselors trained? Are they cer tified? What is the average age?

• What is the background of the director and leadership staf f?

• How does the camp address safety concerns? Is there adequate super vision at all times?

• What are the camp’s policies regarding campers’ cell phones and other electronic devices?

• Can the camp provide references?

Before you know it, summer will be here! Now is the time to explore your options for the right summer camp experience for your child—before all spots have been taken. Metro Atlanta offers a plethora of summer camps in a variety of formats. There are day camps, overnight/extended-stay camps, traditional, educational and specialty camps, just to name a few. The following profiles represent some of the unique camp programs you’ll find in metro Atlanta.

Landmark Christian School

At Landmark, students are prepared to impact the world for Christ. Toward this goal, the school offers a world-class education in a Christcentered environment. Landmark students step into college ready to live out their faith, equipped to lead well and prepared to steward God’s unique purpose for their lives.

Its faculty and staff members steward the daily opportunity to prepare students for this goal of impact in the context of a college-preparatory education and in covenantal partnership with Christian families.

Landmark is ranked as one of the best schools in the state and nation, serving grades PK3-

12 with campuses in Fairburn and Peachtree City. The school invests in children's spiritual, academic and overall development with engaging academics, Christian values and immense opportunities. 100% of graduates have college acceptances, most with scholarships and college credits.

With intentionally small class sizes and a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:8, world-class faculty offer dynamic learning environments helping students discover their passions and develop their talents to impact the world for Jesus Christ. Students are immersed in hands-on learning stimulating imagination and invention. Innovative offerings include the academies: aviation, music, film, leadership, visual arts, engineering/STEM, leadership and fashion.

Dual enrollment taught uniquely on campus, AP, honors and online courses paired with numerous sporting and arts opportunities create an exceptional student experience.

TED, Spotlight Theatre and Imagination Stations stir the minds of the youngest. A new state-of-the-art high school opened in 2021.

Landmark’s summer camps are a reflection of its Christian values. This year it will host camps in football, basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball, soccer, tennis/racquetball, dance, voice, theatre, adventure, pre-algebra awareness and sixthgrade math.

For more information or to register, call 770-692-6742 or visit landmarkchristianschool.org

Walker Summer Camp

Over 500 campers agree—Walker Summer Camp is the best way to spend your summer! Located just 2 miles from the Marietta Square, Walker offers a diverse selection of academic, athletic and artistic opportunities in the metro Atlanta community. Choose from half-day (Lower and Middle School) or full-day (all ages) options. Early morning drop-off and late pickup are also available.

Summer camp dates for 2023 are June 5-July 28. For more information or to register for camp, visit thewalkerschool.org/summer

Loganville Christian Academy’s Summer Camp Program

“I’m bored.” It’s the dreaded statement that parents hate to hear! While we all love the more relaxed pace of summer, oftentimes after the first week or so, children can become bored and begin to crave social interactions and activities. That’s why it is important to be proactive in planning your child’s summer today!

Are you looking for opportunities for your child to learn new skills, try a new sport, or simply spend time with friends outside of the house? Loganville Christian Academy’s summer camp program seeks to provide these opportunities for the community throughout the summer months!

Join hundreds of children, grades K-12, who have registered to attend the over 25 different camp offerings provided by LCA. The school’s summer camps will run through the months of June and July, hosting a variety of one-week camp offerings.

Drama Camps from the Tony Award-winning Alliance Theatre

Take the center stage! Spend spring break and summer at the Tony Award-winning Alliance Theatre. Available for children age 4 to grade 12, summer drama camps offer a wide range of programming for children of all ages and skill levels and provide a fun and supportive environment for campers to explore their creativity, build confidence and make new friends. Available camps include musical theater camp, songwriting camp, creative drama camp, performing arts camp, acting for camera, playwriting camp, improv camp, theater tech camp and audition camp.

Now in its 54th season, the Alliance Theatre is the leading producing theater in the Southeast, reaching more than 165,000 patrons annually. The Alliance is a recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award for sustained excellence in programming, education and community engagement.

Session Dates:

Spring Break Camp: April 3-7;

Summer Camps: May 30 - July 31 (1-week and 2-week sessions)

Recommended Age: 18 Months - Grade 12

Cost: One week camp: $425

Locations:

The Woodruff Arts Center

1280 Peachtree St NE Atlanta, GA 30309

The Museum School

923 Forrest Blvd Decatur, GA 30030

Oglethorpe University

4484 Peachtree Rd NE Brookhaven, GA 30319

The Lovett School

4075 Paces Ferry Rd NW Atlanta, GA 30327

The Galloway School

215 Chastain Park Ave NW Atlanta, GA 30342

Grant Park at Atlanta Neighborhood Charter School Middle Campus

820 Essie Ave SE Atlanta, GA 30316

To register, visit the alliancetheatre.org/ education/youth/camps, or for more information call 404-733-4600.

The goal of LCA’s summer camp program is to provide camps that interest every child in the community. Does your child love to bake, or is he or she interested in learning how to cook? LCA will be providing not one but three cooking opportunities! Fine arts camps like Art Under the Sea, Interpretive Dance and Praise JAM! Camp will be offered along with other camps such as Disney Camp, STEM Camp and PickleBall!

Speaking of pickleball, the school’s athletic camps provide the perfect opportunity for parents to have their young athletes try out new sports without committing to an entire season. This year, LCA will be providing training camps for baseball, softball, clay targets, cheer, football, speed & agility, soccer, basketball, volleyball and flag football.

For more information or to register, visit lcalions.com/ summercamps to learn more about all the offerings LCA will provide throughout summer 2023!

PHOTO: Courtesy of the Alliance Theatre

Squirrel Hollow Camp

Squirrel Hollow Camp, for children who need an academic boost in the summer, is held on the beautiful 46- acre campus of The Bedford School in Fairburn, 12 miles south of Hartsfield-Jackson

Atlanta International Airport. It offers two sessions of two weeks each. Rising first-through eighth-graders receive small group tutoring in reading, math and writing skills in the mornings. After lunch, campers participate in recreational activities using the gymnasium, challenge course, soccer field and outdoor pool. Campers make academic gains in reading and math as well as build social skills and have fun! The day is from 8:15 a.m. to 4 p.m. (aftercare is available until 5 p.m.). There are discounts for early registration by May 1 and for registering for both sessions.

For more information, call Betsy Box at 770-774-8001 or visit thebedfordschool.org and click on Squirrel Hollow at the top of the homepage.

High Meadows Summer Camp

High Meadows Camp is a summer day camp in a relaxed and caring atmosphere set on 40 acres of a farm and woodland in Roswell. Children who are going into kindergarten through ninth grade have opportunities for self-discovery, while gaining confidence through age-appropriate activities. Activities include archery, animal encounters, woodworking, canoeing, crafts, swimming, drama, nature and sports.

Each day, 300 children attend camp in a structured recreational program focusing on self-improvement, personal responsibility and environmental respect. Camp sessions are three weeks long, offering campers the opportunity to develop strong relationships with their peers and with their staff role models and giving them time for projects and skill development. High Meadows Camp has been providing outstanding traditional outdoor experiences enriching lives in a caring, nurturing, child-centered setting since 1973.

For more information, call 770-993-7975 or visit highmeadowscamp.org

Lyndon Academy Preparing Students For The Future

By Everett Catts

With the vision of building an elite private international school, Linda Murdock, with her family’s aid, founded Lyndon Academy in Cherokee County in 2005.

Now, nearly 20 years later, the school has accomplished that mission as a top school in metro Atlanta with a thriving international program. Starting as a junior kindergarten school in a renovated daycare building, Lyndon has added a grade each school year and had its first senior class graduate in 2019. It opened a new campus in 2010.

Today it has an enrollment of 178 students in grades pre-K through 12. Lyndon is a nonsectarian school that utilizes a teaching system that brings together the top learning methods from the nation’s top schools. It takes a whole-child strategy on education, teaching four core values: compassion, honesty, respect and responsibility. The school is focused on preparing its students for college and a career as independent learners, with 100% of its seniors being accepted to colleges each year.

“We also put a lot of emphasis on character building, just creating a stronger individual to go out into the workforce,” says Dawn Schooley, Lyndon’s director of admissions.

And the school’s international focus ensures students are global learners, with students taking as many as three foreign language classes each year. In 2022-23 Lyndon has expanded its international student program, which normally has one or two pupils, to eight. This year students are from Spain, Italy, Belgium and China, Schooley says.

In her first year at the school, she says she’s found Lyndon’s students are eager to speak to visitors, including prospective parents and students, about what makes the school so special. On one recent tour with parents, as Schooley was walking down a hallway and talking to them about its

international program, some of the school’s international students piped in.

“They said, ‘Yes, hi, welcome, we’re from Italy, and we’re enjoying our time here,’” she says. “In any class I walk into, the students are very engaging and they’re willing to answer any questions the potential parents or students may have.”

In recent years, Lyndon’s students have exceeded the state average on the ACT and eighth through 10th-graders scored in the 94th percentile on the PSAT.

The school also emphasizes balance with a plethora of extracurricular activities. That includes a top-notch varsity sports program where its girls’ basketball, fast-pitch softball and boys’ and girls’ cross country teams have participated in regional and state competitions since it was formed in 2018, with the squads winning several state titles since then.

Also, Lyndon’s theater department has hosted large-scale productions, and the school has offered students a trip to China. The school also emphasizes community service, even requiring all high school students to volunteer for at least 60 hours before graduating.

“The other thing we focus on is how closeknit it is,” Schooley says. “Your student isn’t just a number. We want to get to know each student and their families, and it is one big happy family. We want to build those close relationships with our students and our families.” N

THE SPECIFICS

Grades: PK-12

Student/Teacher Ratio: 12:1

Tuition: $12,500-$17,000

Location: Holly Springs

Contact: 485 Toonigh Road, Holly Springs, GA 30188 770-926-0166

Web: lyndonacademy.org

By Anna Bentley

THE MUST-SEE SITES AND STOPS IN YOUR NEW CITY

Welcome to Atlanta! By now, you’ve probably realized how many things there are to do and see in your new hometown. It’s got something for everyone: art lovers, history buffs, sports fanatics … even whale shark enthusiasts. While there are dozens of sights to take in and places to explore, on the pages that follow we’ve narrowed down 20 of the city’s must-see picks.

HISTORY AND CULTURE

1. ATLANTA HISTORY CENTER

Everything you need to know about the history of Atlanta can be found here. Permanent exhibits detail the Civil War, Southern folk art, Atlanta’s hosting of the 1996 Olympic Games and more. The Atlanta Cyclorama moved into a new space at the center in 2019. There’s also a vast collection of original papers and artifacts. The center also operates three historic houses, including the famed Swan House, which appeared in “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” in 2013. 404-814-4000, atlantahistorycenter.com

2. FOX THEATRE

There’s nothing like catching a show at the Fox. Whether it’s a concert, movie screening or Broadway play, everything looks more special

under the Fabulous Fox’s twinkling night sky. But you don’t have to see a performance to experience its ornate, detailed design: The Fox hosts guided, behind-the-scenes tours two to three days per week that highlight 10 of the theatre’s special features, including Mighty Mo, the world’s largest working Moller organ. 404-881-2100, foxtheatre.org

3. CENTER FOR CIVIL AND HUMAN RIGHTS

Opened in 2014 just steps from Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola, this must-see destination features exhibits and educational programs that aim to show visitors how the American civil rights movement and modern civil rights issues around the world are linked—and empowers them to enact change in their own communities. Its latest exhibition, Rolls Down Like Water: U.S. Civil Rights Movement, features sights, sounds and interactive displays de-

PHOTO: Dustin Chambers

picting people’s struggles in bringing equal rights to all in the U.S. 678-999-8990, civilandhumanrights.org

4. GONE WITH THE WIND MUSEUM

Located in Marietta, the Gone with the Wind Museum is a fascinating shrine to the classic novel and film, with movie memorabilia, some of Margaret Mitchell’s personal volumes of the book and much more. The museum offers group tours, has a gift shop and rents indoor and outdoor space for events, including weddings. 770-794-5576, gwtwmarietta.com

5. HIGH MUSEUM OF ART

The Southeast’s leading art museum features more than 14,000 paintings, sculptures, photographs and drawings spanning 19thand 20th-century American, European and

African art in its permanent collection, plus an impressive selection of special and traveling exhibits. New exhibits this year include Joseph Stella: Visionary Nature (Feb. 24-May 21) and Evelyn Hofer: Eyes on the City (March 24-Aug. 13). 404-733-4400, high.org

6. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

This can’t-miss attraction showcases significant landmarks of the civil rights movement and the history of both Atlanta and the nation. It’s actually made up of five sites: the home on Auburn Avenue where King was born; Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he began preaching at age 19; the King Center, where King and his wife Coretta Scott King are buried; the Peace Plaza, home of the “I Have A Dream” World Peace Rose Garden; and the Visitor’s Center. 404331-5190, nps.gov/malu

KID-FRIENDLY PICKS

7. CENTER FOR PUPPETRY ARTS

Located in Midtown, the center for 45 years has been Atlanta’s home for everything related to puppets. It regularly hosts puppet shows, both for children ages 4 to 12 and for kids even younger. The center also boasts the Worlds of Puppetry Museum, which includes two signature galleries and an annual calendar of rotating special exhibitions. The Global Gallery explores the puppetry history and traditions of regions worldwide. The Jim Henson Gallery features puppets, props and costumes from the man behind Sesame Street, The Muppet Show and other TV shows and movies. 404-873-3391, puppet.org

8. CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF ATLANTA

This downtown destination stimulates the imagination and encourages a sense of discovery with interactive exhibits that let kids learn how food goes from farm to table, create works of art, engage in creative problem-solving and more. The museum has both permanent exhibits and temporary traveling ones. This year’s traveling exhibits include Jim Henson’s Splash and Bubbles: Dive In, Lend a Fin! (through April 30) and Shaun the Sheep: Flock This Way (May 13-Sept. 4). 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org

High Museum of Art

Fox Theatre

Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Ebenezer Baptist Church

PHOTO: (Top Left) Kevin C. Rose/AtlantaPhotos.com

9. FERNBANK MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

There are a lot of cool things about the Fernbank Museum: the striking dinosaur skeletons in the grand lobby, the fossils embedded in the limestone floors and the twinkling constellations in the Star Gallery. The museum is a great place for children to learn about science and Earth’s history, and its grounds include a 65-acre forest with immersive trails, play areas and sensory stations. 404-929-6300, fernbankmuseum.org

10. GEORGIA AQUARIUM

This popular spot was billed as the world’s largest aquarium when it opened in 2005, and it’s only grown since. The aquarium is the home of more than 100,000 animals, with hundreds of species including sharks, beluga whales, sea otters and dolphins. The dolphins even star in their own musical show. In addition to its themed galleries, the aquarium offers visitors unique experiences like behindthe-scenes tours, penguin encounters and even diving with whale sharks. 404-581-4000, georgiaaquarium.org

11. ALLIANCE THEATRE

Opening in 1968, this Midtown haven for plays and musicals regularly hosts shows in three categories: the main season (for adults and children 6 and older) and Young Audiences and Theatre for the Very Young (both for children 0 to 5). In 2019, the Alliance opened its Coca-Cola Stage following a $32 million renovation. 404-733-4600, alliancetheatre.org

12. SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA

Families and thrill-seekers alike have been coming to the Austell theme park for over 55 years to ride roller coasters like the Georgia Cyclone, Great American Scream Machine and Mind Bender. In 2020, the theme park added two rides: Catwoman Whips and Poison Ivy Toxic Spin. 770-739-3400, sixflags.com/overgeorgia

13. WORLD OF COCA-COLA

It’s only fitting that the World of CocaCola is located in Pemberton Place, a downtown plaza boasting some of the city’s top attractions: It’s named after John S. Pemberton, the inventor of CocaCola. The World of Coca-Cola celebrates Pemberton’s invention with exhibits about the soft drink brand’s history, memorable advertising campaigns and global reach. 404-676-5151, worldofcoca-cola.com

14. ZOO ATLANTA

Ever wanted to feed a giraffe? Meet an African elephant? How about spy on a giant panda cub? You’re in luck: Zoo Atlanta offers all these experiences, plus wildlife shows, keeper training demonstrations and more than 200 species of birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals on display. The zoo also offers educational summer camps and NightCrawler overnight adventures for kids and families. 404-624-9453, zooatlanta.org

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

15. ATLANTA BOTANICAL GARDEN

Just off Piedmont Park, the Atlanta Botanical Garden is devoted to developing and maintaining an impressive collection of plants for education, research, conservation and enjoyment. Must-see areas include the Fuqua Orchid Center (the nation’s largest collection of orchids under glass), the Kendeda Canopy Walk above the Storza Woods and the elegant Rose Garden. 404-876-5859, atlantabg.org

16. OAKLAND CEMETERY

It might seem like an odd pick, but Historic Oakland Cemetery, a Southern example of the garden cemeteries popular in the mid- to late 1800s, is one of the city’s most peaceful greenspaces. More than 1,400 trees dot its 48 acres, and heirloom daffodils, garden mums, irises and evergreens can be enjoyed throughout the year. Take a self-guided stroll or opt for one of the cemetery’s popular guided tours, highlighting its most famous residents. 404688-2107, oaklandcemetery.com

17. PIEDMONT PARK

Every city has its hallowed ground, and Piedmont Park is Atlanta’s. This popular Midtown spot is the site of numerous festivals, concerts and other special events throughout the year. Every day, it’s a top spot for joggers, swimmers, sun bathers, energetic pups and anyone in need of fresh air. 404-875-7275, piedmontpark.org

18. STONE MOUNTAIN PARK

Located just east of the city, this is the perfect spot to spend the day hiking—and the night enjoying a laser show on an 825-foot stone mountainside. Stone Mountain is known for its Civil War memorial carving of Jefferson Davis, Robert E. Lee and Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson, and also offers fishing, golf, plenty of hiking and numerous festivals throughout the year. 800-401-2407, stonemountainpark.com

SPOTS FOR SPORTS NUTS

19. COLLEGE FOOTBALL HALL OF FAME

The Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame moved from its original home in South Bend, Indiana, to downtown Atlanta in 2014. The museum offers the Fan Experience, which

Georgia Aquarium

adds tons of interactive multimedia features to the hall of fame experience—plus a giant Helmet Wall, with helmets from more than 760 college football teams. 404-880-4800, cfbhall.com

20. TRUIST PARK

From the months of April through October, Truist Park is the home of the Atlanta Braves, the city’s Major League Baseball team. In 2014, the Braves announced a move from Turner Field near downtown Atlanta to a new stadium in Cobb County, and Truist Park is the only place to go for big-league catches, hammered home runs and the best hot dogs in town. 404-522-7630, atlantabraves.com

MORE PLACES WORTH EXPLORING 5

Centennial Olympic Park

Located in downtown Atlanta, Centennial Olympic Park is a 22-acre greenspace that includes the Fountain of Rings Plaza and the Southern Company Amphitheater that hosts concerts often. 404-223-4000, gwcca.org/centennial-olympic-park

Interactive Neighborhood for Kids

Located in Gainesville, this unique attraction encourages hands-on learning as kids learn what it’s like to shop for groceries, go to the bank and more. 770-536-1900, inkfun.org

Legoland Discovery Center

Located at Phipps Plaza in Buckhead, this 35,000-square-foot

interactive playground has more than two million bricks and features nine attractions. 404-848-9252, atlanta.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Opening in 2017, Mercedes-Benz Stadium is the home for both the Atlanta Falcons and the Atlanta United pro football and soccer teams and offers tours nearly every day. 470-341-5000, mercedesbenzstadium.com

SkyView Atlanta

Located in downtown Atlanta, the 20-story SkyView Ferris wheel gives visitors spectacular skyline views, day and night. Fifteen-minute trips allow you to take four rotations. 678-949-9023, skyviewatlanta.com

Truist Park

2829 Cherokee St. | Kennesaw, GA 30144 | 770.427.2117 SouthernMuseum.org

With its longer days, warmer temperatures and flowers in bloom, spring is the perfect time of year to pack up the car and hit the road for an overdue vacation. And your new home offers plenty of options for a long weekend of sightseeing, soaking up the sun and exploring the outdoors. From one-tank trips just a couple of hours from Atlanta to exciting excursions into a few of our neighboring states, we’ve compiled some of our favorite springtime escapes.

Each spring, the city of Vidalia, two and a half hours southeast of Atlanta, bustles with family-friendly activity during a four-day festival celebrating Georgia’s official state vegetable. Called one of the “Five Don’t-Miss Festivals Across the U.S.” by MSNBC, the Vidalia Onion Festival (April 20-23) includes a children’s parade, an arts and crafts show, sidewalk sales, an air show featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, an onion-eating contest and, of course, a Vidalia onion recipe contest.

FLORIDA

GEORGIA

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, less than two hours northeast of Atlanta, is the enchanting town of Helen. This former logging town reinvented as a re-creation of a Bavarian village is most famous for its Oktoberfest gathering each fall, but Helen also celebrates spring in

grand style. Springfest (April 21 and 22) commemorates the season with German music, dancing, food and drinks on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. Spring is also a perfect time of year to take in the distinct charms of Savannah. Less than a four-hour drive southeast of Atlanta, Georgia’s oldest city—and one of its most beautiful—boasts trees draped with Spanish moss, attractive garden squares, historic homes and antebellum architecture. The picturesque Bonaventure Cemetery is a captivating landmark, as is lively River Street. Lined with renovated cotton warehouses, this dining and entertainment center offers sweeping views of the Savannah River and its port traffic.

About five hours south of Atlanta, the city of Gainesville (Florida, not Georgia) is the perfect spot for a spring getaway, with a wealth of cultural attractions and outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can stroll through down

PHOTO: (Below) Visit Gainesville

By Tony Jenkins

Savannah, Georgia

Blue Ridge Mountains

Cranes at Paynes Prairie

town Gainesville and enjoy live music at the Bo Diddley Plaza or take in a performance at the Hippodrome Theatre.

The Butterfly Rainforest at the Florida Museum of Natural History features hundreds of butterflies in a tropical landscape of plants and waterfalls, while the popular Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo is home to more than 75 species, from bald eagles to tree kangaroos. Nature lovers can enjoy canoeing on the Santa Fe River, hiking in gorgeous Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park or exploring The Devil’s Millhopper, a lush rainforest situated in a large sinkhole.

The main attraction in Jacksonville, less than five hours from Atlanta, is its sandy beaches, but the city offers much more. There’s fishing, kayaking and surfing, a bustling downtown, a thriving arts and culture scene, more than 1,200 holes of golf on 70 courses, professional sporting events; the list goes on and on, much

like the 22 miles of beaches. Tallahassee, just a four-anda-half hour drive away, offers a diverse mix of culture and activities for the entire family, including more than 600 miles of trails perfect for hikers, bikers and horseback riders. And on April 14 and 15, the state capital also becomes the jazz and art capital, as the Cool Breeze Art and Smooth Jazz Festival fills the Florida air with the sound of live music and the sights of artworks for sale.

ALABAMA

Just more than three hours from Atlanta, Huntsville offers countless hiking trails, beautiful mountain views and, of course, the

U.S. Space & Rocket Center, a must-see for space travel buffs and astronauts in the making. And just a short drive from Huntsville, you’ll find Cathedral Caverns State Park, which is just as out-of-thisworld, with 14 acres of underground caverns to explore.

It’s hard to argue with the idea of spending some of your spring looking out into the Gulf of Mexico. Gulf Shores, a little more than five hours southwest of Atlanta, is a popular travel destination for its white-sand beaches, deep-sea fishing and other activities. Gulf Shores is also home

Less than four hours from Atlanta, Huntsville offers countless hiking trails, beautiful mountain views and, of course, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, a must-see for space travel buffs and astronauts in the making.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

U.S. Space and Rocket Center

to the annual Hangout Music Festival, which this year takes place May 19-21 with performers including the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Lil Nas X and many more.

Gulf Shores is also known for its golf courses, and in fact golf is a popular draw throughout the state. One of Alabama’s top tourist attractions is the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, which consists of 26 courses, with 468 championship holes at 11 locations across the state.

SOUTH CAROLINA

The South Carolina region known as Upcountry, a little more than two hours from Atlanta in the northwest corner of the state, boasts more than 120 beautiful waterfalls, some of which (like Reedy River Falls and Wildcat Falls) are easily accessible, while

OUTSIDE ATLANTA

hiking trails that cut through it. If you love beer, Asheville is hops heaven, with more than 50 breweries to choose from and tours offered. The city also offers ghost, waterfall hiking and literary tours. For something out of the ordinary, visit the Asheville Pinball Museum, which pays tribute to pinball machines and arcade games.

If you want to enjoy Blue Ridge Mountains activities on a smaller scale or slower pace, try Hendersonville, which is 25 miles south of Asheville. Hendersonville’s pedestrian-friendly Main Street, which includes sidewalk dining and public art, is a great spot to stroll, shop, eat and drink.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Falls) are for serious hikers looking for more of a challenge.

There’s a reason that such luminaries as rocker John Mellencamp, NHL legend Mark Messier and Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank have homes on Hilton Head Island; it’s a great place to relax. But the calming powers of walking along the Atlantic Ocean are just one of the features of this island located just four hours southeast of Atlanta. There are also more than 350 tennis courts, 24 championship golf courses, fine dining choices and enough biking paths to keep you riding all day.

NORTH CAROLINA

Only a three-and-a-half hour drive from Atlanta, Asheville offers a plethora of activities to take advantage of its beautiful location in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Be sure to check out the Biltmore, a luxury hotel with majestic gardens. Completed in 1895 as the Vanderbilt family estate, it’s billed as America’s Largest Home. The Omni Grove Park Inn, which boasts a 40,000-square-foot underground spa, is also worth a visit.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love viewing the city’s mountains via the Blue Ridge Parkway, which also has several parking areas that serve as trailheads for

Asheville, North Carolina exploreasheville.com

Cathedral Caverns alapark.com/cathedral-cavernsstate-park

Gainesville, Florida visitgainesville.com

Gulf Shores, Alabama gulfshores.com

Hilton Head Island hiltonheadisland.org

Helen, Georgia helenga.org

Hendersonville, North Carolina visithendersonvillenc.org

Huntsville, Alabama huntsville.org

Jacksonville, Florida visitjacksonville.com

Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail rtjgolf.com

Savannah, Georgia savannah.com

Tallahassee, Florida visittallahassee.com

Upcountry, South Carolina upcountrysc.com

Vidalia Onion Festival vidaliaonionfestival.com

Wildcat Falls, South Carolina

Blue Ridge Mountains, taken from the Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

Visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

ELECTRICITY

Amicalola EMC 706-253-5200

Cobb EMC 770-429-2100

Georgia Power 888-891-0938

Sawnee EMC 770-887-2363

GAS

Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.

Cherokee County QUICK INFO

County cherokeega.com

Neighborhoods cantonga.gov

woodstockga.gov

cityofballground.com

hollyspringsga.us

cityofwaleska.com

Median household income: $75,477

Median age of residents: 38

Population: 235,896

Sales tax: 6%

Chamber of Commerce

Cherokee County 770-345-0400, cherokeechamber.com

Property Taxes

Per $1,000 of assessed value is:

Unincorporated Cherokee County, $21.46; Incorporated Cherokee County, $21.46.

Tax Commissioner: 678-493-6400

TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV

AT&T att.com

Cobb EMC cobbemc.com

Comcast (Xfinity) xfinity.com

Direct TV directv.com

Dish Network dish.com

ETC Communications etcnow.com

Spectrum spectrum.com

TDS Telecom tdstelecom.com

Windstream windstream.com

Located

Cherokee

The county seat,

called Etowah, was established in 1833 and renamed Canton in 1834. Today, the city is enjoying its greatest economic boom in its history since more than $60 million was invested in residential and commercial development in 1998. Despite developing its own industrial base, Cherokee County remains idyllic and serene. Farming, especially poultry processing, remains a leading industry.

to live, work and play in Cherokee County include the cities of Ball Ground, Holly Springs and Waleska.

Neighborhoods Canton

Mountains and along the banks of the Etowah River, Canton is a prime location for development.

Woodstock

Located 12 miles south of Canton, Woodstock is one of Georgia's top 10 fastest-growing cities and a community recently named one of the Top 50 Cities Places to Live in the U.S. by Money magazine.

Residents also enjoy easy access to 575 and 92, allowing short commutes to Cobb and Fulton counties.

WATER

Cherokee County Water Authority 770-479-1813

City of Ball Ground 770-735-2123

City of Canton 770-704-1500

City of Waleska 770-479-2912

City of Woodstock 770-592-6006

HOSPITALS

Northside Hospital-Cherokee 770-224-1000

Wellstar Kennestone Hospital

Canton and the neighboring community of Woodstock have seen tremendous growth as subdivisions crop up to accommodate newcomers. In fact, nearly 60 percent of the county’s population are commuters. According to Zillow.com, the median value of homes is $283,573. Homes for well over $1 million can be purchased in such neighborhoods as Bradshaw Farm, BridgeMill and Towne Lake Hills.

Canton was incorporated in 1833 and renamed in 1834 at the request of two founding fathers who had visions that the town might become a silk center similar to what existed in Canton, China. Canton did become famous for its “Canton Denim,” known worldwide for the high-quality denim produced by Canton Cotton Mills.

While affording convenience to big-city attractions, Woodstock still maintains its small-town appeal. Buildings dating back to 1879 characterize the downtown area, where antique and other specialty shops are located.

770-793-5000

Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway 92 traverse the county, affording residents easy access to Atlanta and the nearby attractions of Town Center Mall, Lake Allatoona and the North Georgia Mountains. Other great places

Today, Canton is attracting new industry and residents. As a result, the city is reinvesting in its downtown. As part of its Streetscapes program, downtown Canton will be restored to its historic look and features a newly designed theater on Main Street. Located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge

Various golf courses are located in Woodstock, including Arnold Palmer’s Eagle Watch, a course with wooded countryside views that is considered to be one of the top places to play in Atlanta. The 11,860-acre Lake Allatoona provides additional recreation. Woodstock is also convenient to more than 13 state parks. N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Website at newcomeratlanta.com

northwest of Atlanta, Cherokee County gets its name from the original inhabitants of the area, the

Indians.

then

Old Sixes Mill

Cobb County

Cobb County came into being in 1832 when the state redistributed land once part of the Cherokee Nation. Named after Thomas Willis Cobb, the county experienced a devastating setback during the Civil War when most of it was destroyed during the famous Battle of Kennesaw Mountain.

QUICK INFO

County cobbcountyga.gov

Neighborhoods austellga.org mariettaga.gov smyrnaga.gov kennesaw-ga.gov cityofpowdersprings.org smyrnacity.com

Median household income: $75,654

Median age of residents: 36.6

Today, Cobb County, located northwest of Fulton County, is one of the state's most thriving counties. With a diverse economic base that includes jobs in the service, retail, aerospace and technology sectors, Cobb County offers a quality of life unsurpassed in the Southeast. Nearly $900 million has been spent on transportation improvements in recent years, allowing residents easy access to Atlanta and the commercial districts of Vinings Overlook, Cumberland Parkway and the prestigious Platinum Triangle in the popular Galleria area.

Population: 755,754

Sales tax: 6%

Chamber of Commerce

Cobb County 770-980-2000, cobbchamber.org

Property Taxes

The property tax is $33.84 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-980-2000

Neighborhoods Kennesaw

One of Family Circle magazine’s Ten Best Towns for Families, Kennesaw takes pride in its smalltown atmosphere and boasts abundant parks and greenspace, exceptional recreational programs and top-notch schools, including Kennesaw State University. Kennesaw’s historic downtown features shopping, dining and attractions such as the Smithsonianaffiliated Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, the Smith-Gilbert Gardens and nearby Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.

Smyrna

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.

A variety of housing options exist in Cobb County, including luxury apartments and condos near

Cumberland Mall, secluded subdivisions in East Cobb and horse ranches in the northwest cor ner of the county. The small towns of Marietta, Vinings, Smyrna and Austell still retain their Southern charm amidst urban settings. According to the Census Bureau, the median value of homes in 2018 was $237,800.

Rapidly defining what’s new and progressive in quality of life and citizen services, Smyrna delivers an amazing sense of style and love of life. The Market Village district, home to fabulous restaurants, bars and upscale shops and services, is the final piece of a master plan for success. Call it “Main Street USA” or “Disneyland,” but don’t overlook its charm and ability to offer the best in fresh, trendy lifestyle options. N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Website at newcomeratlanta.com

Photo: Shutterstock.com

Truist Park

COUNTY INFORMATION EDUCATION

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

ELECTRICITY City of College Park 404-669-3759 City of East Point 404-270-7010

City of Fairburn

City of Palmetto

770-964-2244

770-463-3322

Georgia Power 888-891-0938

GAS

Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.

TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV

AT&T att.com

Comcast (Xfinity) xfinity.com

Direct TV directv.com

Dish Network dish.com

WATER

Fulton County 404-612-6830

HOSPITALS

Atlanta Medical Center 404-265-4000

Atlanta VA Medical Center 404-321-6111

Center for the

Visually Impaired 404-875-9011

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Hughes Spalding 404-785-9500

Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite 404-785-2273

Emory University Hospital Midtown 404-686-4411

Grady Memorial Hospital 404-616-1000

WellStar North Fulton Regional Hospital

Northside Hospital

770-751-2500

404-851-8000

Piedmont Hospital 404-605-5000

Shepherd Center 404-352-2020

Emory St. Joseph's Hospital 678-843-7001

Fulton County serves as the center of the metro Atlanta area. With 90 percent of the city of Atlanta, including the state’s capital building, located within its borders, it sits at the hub of the area’s financial, transportation, retail, communications and cultural services. A number of Fortune 500 companies, including the Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines and UPS, are headquartered here.

More than one million people live in Fulton County, drawn by its convenience to Interstates 75, 85 and 285 and Georgia State Route 400. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of homes in the county is $290,400.

Fulton is home to many of Atlanta’s signature neighborhoods, including its bustling downtown district. Older neighborhoods like Inman Park, Grant Park, Candler Park and Virginia-Highland offer affordable housing, pedestrianfriendly layouts and plentiful parks and recreational options. Midtown is the heart of Atlanta’s cultural scene, with the Woodruff Arts Center (home to the Alliance Theatre, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the High Museum of Art) and the historic Fox Theatre, as well as a host of art galleries. Midtown’s Piedmont Park, the city’s most popular greenspace, hosts many outdoor festivals and concerts.

Neighborhoods Buckhead

Buckhead is “where old money lives and new money parties,” according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With its mixture of mansions and uniquely styled homes, Buckhead is a favorite among architecture and history buffs. Convenient to Georgia 400, Interstate 85 and MARTA, it’s filled with high-rises, upscale restaurants, the Governor’s Man-

sion, the historic Swan House and the Atlanta History Center. Buckhead is also an entertainment and dining hotspot. With luxury hotels, shops, bars and more than 250 restau rants, the Buckhead area is a magnet for young pr als.The neighborhood also offers numerous antique stores, art galleries and mall shopping at both Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza.

Fulton County QUICK INFO

County co.fulton.ga.us

Neighborhoods alpharetta.ga.us buckhead.net

cityofmiltonga.us virginiahighland.com collegeparkga.com

eastpointcity.org

hapeville.org

johnscreekga.gov roswellgov.com

sandyspringsga.gov

Median household income: $65,037

Median age of residents: 35.5

Population: 1,050,114

Sales tax: 7.75%, Atlanta City: 8.9%

Chamber of Commerce

Greater North Fulton 770-993-8806, gnfcc.com

Metro Atlanta

404-880-9000, metroatlantachamber.com

South Fulton 770-964-1984, southfultonchamber.com

Property Taxes

is home to about 64,000 residents, drawn to its affordable housing, parks, shopping at North Point Mall and concerts at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre. The city's historic downtown boasts an appealing town square. Called Alpharetta City Center, it features locally owned shops and restaurants, and hosts events year round.

Johns Creek

Incorporated in 2006, this thriving community of 84,000 was ranked fourth among 50 Best U.S. Cities to Live In by USA Today. It boasts a diverse economic base, coupled with a peaceful environment: the city contains over 400 acres of parkland and nature reserves and contains five access points to the Chattahoochee River.

Milton

The property tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value is: $40.92 for the City of Atlanta; $29.18 for incorporated Fulton County; $40.76 for unincorporated Fulton County; $33.54 for Johns Creek; $33.91 for Sandy Springs. Tax Commissioner: 404-613-6100

Alpharetta

One of metro Atlanta’s most vibrant and affluent cities, Alpharetta

Also incorporated in 2006, Milton combines a pastoral setting with forward-thinking city planning that offers what's been called "The best quality of life in Georgia." N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com

Piedmont Park

Gwinnett County

EDUCATION

railroad aficionado.

Some of Duluth’s neighborhoods include Edgewater Estates, Sweet Bottom Plantation and Riverbrooke. Affluent estates with antebellum architecture can be found as well as apartment communities, older brick, ranch-style homes and subdivisions. Duluth still retains some of its original small-town businesses, along with chain businesses, many accessible by Ga. 400 and I-85.

Suwanee

Originally part of Georgia’s Native American territory, Gwinnett County was created by the State Legislature in 1818 and named after Button Gwinnett, one of Georgia's three signers of the Declaration of Independence and a former governor.

While the county was once largely rural with small towns, country stores, farms and forests, today it is home to about 600 international companies and 450 high-tech firms. With an average of 21 new professional and industrial companies relocating to the county each year, attracting almost 21,000 new jobs, Gwinnett County remains in the top 10 ranking for growth nationwide. The county supports many cultural events, r estaurants and shopping opportunities, including the Mall of Georgia in Buford.

Gwinnett County remains affordable for renters and firsttime home buyers, many of whom find homes in the communities of Doraville, Lawrenceville and Snellville. The median value of homes in 2018, according to the Census Bureau, was $200,400.

Neighborhoods

Duluth

Amidst the pristine setting

QUICK INFO

County gwinnettcounty.com

Neighborhoods cityofbuford.com duluthga.net cityoflilburn.com snellville.org suwanee.com

Median household income: $68,914

Median age of residents: 35.3

Population: 920,260

Sales tax: 6%

Chamber of Commerce Gwinnett County, 770-232-3000, gwinnettchamber.org

Property Taxes

Suwanee is named after the Shawnee Indians who settled here in the latter part of the 18th century. Following the official founding of the city in 1837, Suwanee became a railroad stop along the Southern Railroad route. It remained a small country town well into the ’70s when construction of I-85 and U.S. 23 brought easy access to the region.

UTILITIES & CONTACTS

The property tax in unincorporated Gwinnett County is $28.84 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-822-8800.

of Gwinnett County, Duluth has some of the most exclusive neighborhoods in metro Atlanta and is home to some of the best golf courses and private tennis clubs. There are numerous parks for recreation and participatory sports, including Bunten Road Park and Shorty Howell Park. North Point Mall, a major shopping center, is located near Duluth. The Southeastern Railway Museum, which preserves and operates old railroad equipment, is a must-see for any

Since then, Suwanee has experienced tremendous growth, from 2,412 residents in 1990 to more than 20,000 today. To help manage growth, the city has developed a comprehensive development plan that promotes pedestrianoriented development and mixed-use zoning. The city was designated a Tree City USA for 29 years for its commitment to preserving 27 percent of its land as greenspace.

Such foresight has allowed Suwanee to retain its old-fashioned charm while providing contemporary convenience. Only 35 miles from downtown Atlanta, Suwanee is close to big-city attractions, business districts and shopping. Many antique shops and historic structures, including several Victorian and regional farm-style homes, are located near downtown Suwanee. N

For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com

Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.

TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV

City Hall and the Town Green in downtown Duluth

Theater & Concerts

William Shatner and Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan, Atlanta Symphony Hall

The beloved actor best known as Captain James T. Kirk shares behind-the-scenes stories following a screening of “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan.” March 9, aso.org.

Duke Ellington’s Cat, Center for Puppetry Arts

Jazz great Duke Ellington is scheduled to play a suite in honor of the Queen of England, but the score has been stolen! Can his feisty feline find the missing music and get it to Duke in time? Through March 12, 404-873-3391, puppet.org.

Tesla vs. Edison, Center for Puppetry Arts

This engaging production explores the lives and works of Nikola Tesla and Thomas Alva Edison—two men who were often at odds with each other, yet whose inventions have shaped the world we live in today. Through March 12, 404-873-3391, puppet.org.

Don Quixote, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

The Atlanta Ballet brings the classic tale of Don Quixote, the Man of La Mancha, to life in this colorful production. March 17-19, atlantaballet.com.

Penguin in My Pocket, Center for Puppetry Arts

When a penguin scientist crash-lands in the jungle, she must work with an artistic monkey

to find her way home—encountering a sea monster along the way! March 15-April 2, 404-873-3391, puppet.org.

A Soldier’s Play, Fox Theatre

Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta presents this gripping thriller about one man’s investigation of the death of a Black sergeant on an Army base. Directed by Kenny Leon. March 28-April 2, atlanta.broadway.com.

Blippi, Atlanta Symphony Hall

The wildly popular children’s entertainer is joined by his friend Meekah as they discover what makes different cities unique and special on the Blippi: The Wonderful World Tour. April 7, aso.org.

The Price Is Right, Fox Theatre

“Come on down” to the Fox Theatre for an interactive stage production that allows special guests to play classic games made famous by the long-running game show. Please note that this is not a taping of the TV show. April 8, foxtheatre.org.

Moulin Rouge! The Musical!, Fox Theatre

Baz Luhrmann’s eye-popping film comes to life in this vibrant production courtesy of Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta. April 19-30, atlanta.broadway.com.

Janet Jackson, State Farm Arena

The GRAMMY Award-winning pop singer performs on her Together Again Tour, which also features special guest Ludacris. April 26 and 27, statefarmarena.com.

Taylor Swift, Mercedes-Benz Stadium

The pop superstar performs in support of her new album “Midnights.” April 28-30, mercedesbenzstadium.com.

Das Rheingold, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

Gods, dwarves, giants, nymphs and dragons scheme and dream of power in Richard Wagner’s epic masterpiece. Performed by the Atlanta Opera. April 29-May 7, atlantaopera.org.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert, Atlanta Symphony Hall

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performs John Williams’ musical score live during a screening of the blockbuster 2015 film. May 13-14, aso.org.

Bluey’s Big Play: The Stage Show, Fox Theatre

Bluey and Bingo pull out all the stops to keep Dad from taking a Sunday afternoon time-out in this brand-new theatrical adaptation of the hit children’s show. May 20 and 21, foxtheatre.org.

Stevie Nicks, State Farm Arena

The legendary singer and songwriter and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer makes a rare tour stop in Atlanta. May 22, statefarmarena.com.

Hairspray, Fox Theatre

Join Tracy Turnblad as she sets out to dance her way onto TV’s most popular show in this touring production of the Tony Awardwinning musical presented by Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta. May 30-June 4, atlanta.broadway.com.

Exhibits & Events

Duluth Farmers and Artisan Market, Duluth Town Green

Splash and Bubbles: Dive In, Lend a Fin!, Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Shop locally grown produce, baked goods and other homemade items like candles, soaps and

PHOTO: Joan Marcus

PHOTO: TM & © Henson. © Herschend Studios

A Soldier’s Play, Fox Theatre

pottery at this monthly event showcasing local farmers and vendors on the second and fourth Sunday of each month. March 12 & 26, April 9 & 23 and May 14 & 28, duluthga.net.

Imagination Ball, The Eastern

This adults-only charity ball benefits the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, inviting guests to rediscover the power of imagination, fantasy, storytelling and childhood. The event features a seated dinner and live auction. March 18, 404-527-5908, imaginationball.org.

Georgia Food + Wine Festival, Jim R. Miller Park

This four-day Marietta event features food and beverage tastings, cooking classes and a Fired-Up barbecue extravaganza. March 23-26, georgiafoodandwinefestival.com.

Taste of Marietta, Marietta Square

This free annual festival showcases more than 50 Cobb County restaurants, food trucks and caterers, along with live music, a food judging competition and plenty of fun and games for kids in the Kids Alley. April 30, tasteofmarietta.com.

Splash and Bubbles: Dive In, Lend a Fin!, Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Join Splash, Bubbles and the Reeftown Rangers to learn about marine biology and find out how even small actions can have big ripple effects that can help save our seas in this hands-on exhibit based on the popular PBS Kids series. Through April 30, 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

Fundamentally Food, Children’s Museum of Atlanta

Children up to 8 years old will love this handson exhibit. Select produce from the farm, climb on a John Deere tractor, milk Buttercup the milking cow, shop at a grocery and enjoy a pretend meal at the museum’s play diner. Ongoing, 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

Giants of the Mesozoic, Fernbank Museum of Natural History

This exhibition recreates life in the badlands of Patagonia, Argentina, where the largest dinosaurs in the world were unearthed. Ongoing, 404-929-6300, fernbankmuseum.org.

Wildwoods, Fernbank Museum of Natural History

Explore a variety of native plants, as well as interactive exhibits and special trailside experiences. Ongoing, 404-929-6300, fernbankmuseum.org.

THE DETAILS

LOCATION: 275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr. NW, Atlanta, GA 30313

HOURS: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily but closed on Wednesdays

COST: $13.95 to $19.95 per person per day; free for babies under 12 months and museum members

CONTACT INFO:

askme@childrensmuseumatlanta.org or 404-659-5437

WEBSITE: childrensmuseumatlanta.org

DEDICATED TO THE POWER OF PLAY

By Everett Catts

Since its inception in 1988, the Children’s Museum of Atlanta has always been dedicated to teaching kids through the power of play.

“First off, we are the only museum in the city targeted to children third grade and under,” says Karen Kelly, director of exhibits and education. “We’re a hands-on, minds-on museum. Everything here you can touch and you can learn from it. It’s based on the fact that children learn through play.”

Kelly points to the museum’s Climber, a two-story climbing structure, as an example, saying as kids crawl through it, “it connects the kids’ left and right brains.”

The museum began as one without walls, with its staff bringing programs and activities into local schools and recreation centers. Its permanent space opened in downtown Atlanta in 2003, but the museum’s mission to bring education to low-income children remains. Today it’s sending staff members to 18 sites, nearly as many as the 21 it was going into prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

But with a variety of hands-on experiences, educating through play also remains its mission. The museum has both permanent and temporary exhibits, teaching children about everything from agriculture to science to art to engineering.

Its two temporary exhibits this spring are based on children’s TV shows. Splash and Bubbles: Dive in, Lend a Fin!, on display through April 30, teaches children about marine biology and ocean science. Shaun the Sheep: Flock This Way, which runs May 13-Sept. 4, educates kids on playfully solving problems.