We are family

Family reunions find a warm welcome at resorts, parks and museums

Georgia strengthens the ties that bind

{ ABOVE: SIx FlAGS OVER GEORGIA, ATlANTA }

When relatives choose to spend time together, they’re making a commitment to connect. For the planners, their commitment begins long before the getaway commences.

The location needs to be chosen, accommodations booked, invitations sent, activities planned, name tags written and food purchased.

Luckily for reunion planners, Georgia is a place that welcomes families with open arms.

Catching up in Atlanta

Many families connect in Atlanta, spending time at the state capitol, the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola and inside CNN Studio tour. The High Museum of Art also is popular with families as is a side trip to Roswell for outdoor adventure.

Thrill seekers and mild souls alike will find something to like at Six Flags over Georgia. Hurricane Harbor, a seven-acre waterpark, opened in 2014. Staff help reunion planners organize the outing with catered picnics, group discounts and venues.

With so much to do, it helps to engage an expert. Atlanta-based Lamplighter tours has spent more than 25 years showing off the best of the city and beyond. Whether the family is interested in motorsports, a canal ride in Augusta, the Civil War, golf or beaches, Lamplighter’s experts can arrange a tour for the entire group.

Golden getaways

During the Gilded Age, titans of industry eyed the Georgia coast as their destination of choice for their families. Their opulent vacation spots now encompass the Jekyll island National Historic District. Guided trolley tours and museum exhibits give a peek into this sumptuous period.

Golden reunions also are had in Villa

the Rock Ranch, the Rock Rica. One of its most popular attractions, the pine Mountain Gold Museum, offers a chance to pan for gold and gems. Families can gather at the Villa Rica Civic Center & Sports Complex, a 6,000-square-foot facility perfect for large parties.

For families wishing to add a little luxury to their overnight stays, Resora, the Rock Ranch and Callaway Gardens all accommodate reunions in style.

Resora, a former plantation just outside Albany, has been transformed into an event venue. its cabins are appointed with luxurious touches, including chef-inspired kitchens.

Outdoor bonding

Campouts under the stars are commonplace at the Rock Ranch, located an hour south of the Atlanta airport. Picnics, u-pick produce, cooking classes, a zipline and meals bring people together at the ranch.

Callaway Gardens fosters connections in many ways. Covering 6,500 acres in pine Mountain — just outside Columbus — the resort offers adventures year-round. Along with the gardens, families can spend time hiking, enjoying water sports, watching butterflies or celebrating the holidays with Fantasy in Lights.