50 Things to do this Summer (2012)

50 things to do this summer a guide to activities and destinations

Highland Marina Resort

Historic Banning Mills

Summer 2012

A PUBLICATION OF THE NEWNAN TIMES-HERALD

MainStreet Newnan

50 Page 2

things to do this summer a guide to activities and destinations

Summer 2012

INDEX OF ADVER TISERS Chattahoochee Bend State Park

6

Center for Allergy and Asthma

5

Coweta Club

12

Coweta Power Equipment

15

Highland Marina Resort

16

Historic Banning Mills

9

MainStreet Newnan

7

Newnan Theatre Company

4

Newnan Utilities

11

Odyssey School

6

Starlite Family Fun Center

10

StoneBridge Early Learning

12

Sugar Magnolia

8

Summit Family YMCA

13

The Fred

13

University of West Georgia

3

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION call 770.683.1707 or email colleen@newnan.com 50 THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER is published by The Newnan Times-Herald, Inc. 16 Jefferson St., Newnan GA 30263 ALSO ONLINE AT: times-herald.com

50 things to do

Summer 2012

ANDERSONVILLE

Atlanta Dream Basketball

Andersonville National Historic Site

Maybe the third time will be the charm for the Atlanta Dream. Atlanta’s WNBA franchise has reached the league’s finals the past two seasons, but fell short in both efforts. All-WNBA standout Angel McCoughtry returns to lead the 2012 Dream squad after averaging 21.6 points per game a year ago. The Dream plays 17 homes games – all at Philips Arena in downtown Atlanta – during the regular season, including 10 between June and August.

For schedule / ticket information, call 877977-7729 or visit atlantadream.net

Three words – courage, hardship and sacrifice – portray the thousands of American prisoners of war dating from the Revolutionary War up to the present conflicts. The Andersonville National Historic Site preserves the site of Camp Sumter (Andersonville Confederate prison) where over 45,000 Union soldiers were confined during the Civil War and it also manages the Andersonville National Cemetery and the National Prisoner of War Museum, which opened in 1998 to honor all U.S. prisoners of war in all wars.

The Andersonville National Historic Site is located at 496 Cemetery Road in Andersonville, Ga., about 40 miles ESE of Columbus. The park and National Cemetery is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The National Prisoner of War Museum is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is free. Call 1-229-924-0343 or visit www.nps.gov/ande

ATHENS AthFest 2012 When you think of Athens, Ga., two things quickly come to mind – the University of Georgia Bulldogs and a remarkable music scene where the likes of R.E.M., the B-52s and Widespread Panic got their starts. AthFest, now in its 16th year, is an annual four-day festival and is scheduled for June 20-24 in Athens. Headlining bands this year include Reptar and Atlas Sound on Friday, June 22; The Glands on Saturday, June 23; and Yacht Rock Revue on Sunday, June 24. Aside from the music, there is plenty of art, kids’ activities, food and more.

AthFest is held in downtown Athens. Admission is free to music on the outdoor stages. Wristbands are $20 and allow unlimited access to participating venues. Parking is $5.00. Times vary each day. Call 706-548-1973 or visit www. athfest.com

ATLANTA Atlanta Braves Baseball Second-year manager Fredi Gonzales hopes to guide the Atlanta Braves back to the Major League Baseball playoffs after missing the postseason by one game last year. Potential Hall-of-Famer Chipper Jones has announced 2012 is his last year and hopes to team with veterans Brian McCann, Dan Uggla, Michael Bourn and Tim Hudson and bring another World Championship back to Turner Field. The Braves play 43 home games from June through August with featured teams such as the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Phillies, San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers invading Turner Field. For schedule / ticket information, call 404577-9100 or visit atlanta.braves.mlb.com

AtlantaFest

Make plans now for AtlantaFest, the Christian Music Festival, which is a 3-day celebration of worship, concerts and speakers, presented in part by Stone Mountain Park. It is scheduled for Thursday through Saturday, June 14-16. Artists slated for the festival include TobyMac, Jeremy Camp, Casting Crowns, Lecrae, Red, Disciple, Skit Guys, Building 429, Jamie Grace, Tedashii, Trip Lee, and Downhere as well as speakers such as UGA Coach Mark Richt, Scott Dawson, Jay Strack, Dave Edwards and more than 25 artists and speakers.

The AtlantaFest is held at Stone Mountain Park, 16 miles east of downtown Atlanta on Highway 78. For ticket and more information, call 1-800-783-8839 or visit atlantafest.com

Centennial Olympic Park Downtown Atlanta’s gathering place is Centennial Olympic Park, the lasting legacy to the 1996 Summer Olympic Games. This 21-acre park boasts a variety of free, fun-filled family entertainment throughout the year. This summer, Music @ Noon is the lunchtime getaway with live music from Noon to 1 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. Atlanta’s longest-running free concert series – Wednesday WindDown – again returns every Wednesday from 5:30 to 8 p.m. featuring jazz to contemporary music. Another favorite dots the schedule – Fourth Saturday Family Fun Day. Each fourth Saturday of the month, an afternoon of themed family fun begins at Noon with interactive, entertaining and educational activities for children.

Centennial Olympic Park is located at 220 International Blvd., in Atlanta. It is open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Admission to the park is free. Call 404-223-4412 or visit www.centennialpark.com

Fabulous Fox Theatre Just the name – ‘Fabulous Fox Theatre’ – says it all. The majestic venue is listed on the National Historic Register and is one of the most beloved landmarks in the City of Atlanta. More than 300 performances are booked each year at the Fox ranging from Broadway plays to rock to comedy to movies. In December 2009, Billboard Magazine ranked the Fox Theatre as “the No. 1 non-residency venue worldwide for the decade.”

Put a little West in your life.

At the University of West Georgia we’re passionate about creating experiences – for our students and for our community. No matter the season, we have something exciting going on. Check out all the things you can do at our Carrollton campus, just a short drive from Newnan: • Take in a show at the Townsend Center for the Performing Arts. Live plays. One-man shows. Acrobats. And plenty of music: country, swing, symphony, jazz, zydeco and more.

Professional entertainment with international flair.

• Cheer at a Wolves athletic event. Football at University Stadium. Basketball and volleyball in The Coliseum. A host of other sports like golf, baseball and soccer. Great family fun.

• Attend a special lecture. Business visionaries. Renowned scientists. Educators, community leaders, policy-makers. Lifelong learning for a wide range of interests.

• View the next exhibit at the Bobick Gallery. Student artists. Local professionals. Painting, sculpture, ceramics and more. A gem on the local art scene.

• Check out our student productions. Musicals. Stage plays. Concerts, presentations and performances of all kinds. A two-for-one win: fun that supports student creativity.

• Pick up tickets for our next special event. Charity functions. Seasonal activities. Big name artists and performers. All just a few miles from home.

Want to learn more? Bookmark events.westga.edu and check back often. Watch your local paper.

Or download our mobile app for events at your fingertips.

Next time you’re looking for something to do, think in a whole new direction. Go West.

gowestgeorgia.com

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50 things to do

Jersey Boys, Kathy Griffin and Norah Jones highlight the June schedule.

In July, it’s Ringo Starr and his All-Starr Band, the B-52s, and The Producers. And in August, the calendar features Peter Pan, The Addams Family and the Fresh Beat Band.

The Fox Theatre is located at 660 Peachtree Street NE in Atlanta. Call 404-881-2100 or visit www.foxtheatre.org. For tickets, call Ticketmaster at 1-800-745-3000 or visit ticketmaster.com

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Fernbank isn’t just another museum – it’s a journey to another time and place. A visit to the Museum brings a unique opportunity to explore cultural treasures, experience the thrill of a film in the IMAX® Theatre, enjoy science interactives and marvel at the largest dinosaurs ever discovered. And thanks to a stunning lineup of special exhibitions, special events for adults, families and children, and groundbreaking research projects – there’s always something new to discover!

The Fernbank Museum, located at 767 Clifton Road NE in Atlanta, is open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. For more information and admission prices, call 404929-6300 or visit www.fernbankmuseum.org

Georgia Aquarium The Georgia Aquarium is the world’s largest with more than eight million gallons of fresh and marine water and more aquatic life than found in any other aquarium. With five unique galleries housing amazing beluga whales, penguins, whale sharks and much more, you can take a path through more than 60 exhibits. The Aquarium tells a global water story with features modeled after the greatest zoos and aquariums in the world. Each majestic exhibit is designed to inspire, entertain and educate.

The Georgia Aquarium is located at 225 Baker St. NW in Atlanta.

Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. Summer hours may vary. For ticket information, call 404-581-4000 or visit www.georgiaaquarium.org

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Atlanta At LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Atlanta, you can reach out and touch the stars in the 4D cinema, learn top LEGO® building secrets from the Master Model Builder, see iconic landmarks in MINILAND®, make a celebration even more memorable in one of the special party rooms, and much, much more! It’s the ultimate place for all LEGO® fans - young and old. A typical visit takes 2-3 hours, but you can stay as long as you like.

LEGOLAND® is located in Phipps Plaza in Buckhead, 3500 Peachtree Road NE. Weekday hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are discounted if purchased online. Walk-up prices for all-day tickets are $20.52 (ages 13-older), $16.20 (ages 3-12) and free for ages 0-2. Call 404-848-9252 or visit atlanta.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/atlanta

Martin Luther King, Jr., Historic Site The Martin Luther King, Jr., National Historic Site includes a number of facilities which are operated in partnership with the National Park Service, Ebenezer Baptist Church and The King Center. Daily activities include Dr. King’s birth home tour, where he lived from birth to age 12, and Encounter History Presentations, a 30-minute tour with information about Ebenezer Baptist Church, the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, The King Center, Dr. King and Coretta Scott King’s tomb, and the historic Fire Station No. 6. It was in these surroundings of home, church and neighborhood that Dr. King experienced family and Christian love, segregation in the days of “Jim Crow” laws, diligence and tolerance.

The King Historic Site is located at 450 Auburn Avenue NE in Atlanta. The park opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 6 p.m. daily during the summer. Admission and parking are free. Call 404-331-5190 or visit www.nps.gov/malu

Summer 2012

Stone Mountain Park’s Lasershow Spectacular This not-to-be missed Atlanta tradition promises to wow your family with state-of the-art digital graphics and awe-inspiring effects. Experience multi-dimensional magic on one of the world’s largest outdoor screens - Stone Mountain. More than 25 million people for more than 27 years have witnessed the Lasershow Spectacular. The Laser Canopy creates a dazzling display of neon laser lights featuring characters, stories, graphics and fireworks choreographed to popular musical scores, transforming the park into a natural amphitheater. The newly transformed show is enhanced with Mountainvision, a digital projection technology that adds 3-D like effects without the glasses.

Stone Mountain Park is located 16 miles east of downtown Atlanta on Highway 78. The laser show begins nightly at 9:30 p.m. and lasts about 45 minutes. You may bring your own blankets and lawn chairs. Admission to the show is free with your $10 vehicle entrance fee to Stone Mountain Park. Call 770-498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com

Zoo Atlanta Looking for lions, tigers and pandas? Alligators, elephants and lizards?

What about ostriches, apes or owls? All of these amazing animals and more live at Zoo Atlanta, one of Georgia’s most beloved destinations.

Regular shows with the animals, a daily petting zoo, rides and animal feedings are just part of the many things to do. Zoo Atlanta was founded in 1889 and is one of the 10 oldest zoos in continuous operation in the U.S. Average annual attendance typically exceeds 700,000. The zoo maintains a collection of more than 1,000 animals, representing more than 200 species from around the world. Spanning nearly 40 acres of lush landscapes and inviting botanicals, the Zoo is a leader in building naturalistic habitats for wildlife.

Zoo Atlanta is located at 800 Cherokee Avenue SE, just southeast

NEWNAN’S COMMUNITYTHEATRE THEATRE NEWNAN’S COMMUNITY 24 Historic Downtown Downtown 24 1st 1st Avenue Avenue -- Historic

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FOR MORE INFORMATION please visit WWW.NEWNANTHEATRE.ORG FOR MORE INFORMATION please visit WWW.NEWNANTHEATRE.ORG

Summer 2012

50 things to do

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Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia

Enjoy Summer!

2012

Member of the Professional Staff at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

Providing the Highest Quality and Most Comprehensive Care for Patients of all ages with Allergies, Asthma and Related Illnesses

Eugene S. Hurwitz, M.D. John Vickery, M.D. Chris Child, FNP-C Board Certified Allergy & Asthma Specialists

37 Calumet Pkwy., Bldg. F, Suite 201

NEWNAN, GA

770.683.4050 19 Eastbrook Bend

PEACHTREE CITY, GA

770.487.2218

OTHER LOCATIONS: Bremen • Carrollton Emory Midtown Smyrna • Villa Rica

No Waiting For Appointments

www.caaga.com

TAKE CONTROL OF ALLERGY SYMPTOMS!

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50 things to do

of downtown Atlanta and I-20 and near Turner Field. Weekday hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., weekend hours are 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Admission is $15.99 for children (3-11), $20.99 for adults (12-over).

Children under 2 are admitted free. Call 404-624-WILD (9453) or visit www.zooatlanta.org

BLUE RIDGE Blue Ridge Scenic Railroad An amazing family adventure is the 26-mile, round-trip excursion on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. It all starts at the historic depot, built in 1905, in downtown Blue Ridge, Ga., as passengers can choose from vintage climate controlled rail cars or open air rail cars. After deparating the historic depot, the relaxing ride then stops for a layover in the quaint sister towns of McCaysville, Ga., and Copperhill, Tenn. Copperhill/McCaysville is one town with two names because it is split by the GA/TN State Line, where visitors have a two-hour layover; plenty of time to eat lunch, shop for unique crafts and antiques, snack on ice cream, or walk across the old bridge in town to view the river. Then, reboard the train for the one-hour return trip.

The Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Depot is located at 241 Depot Street in Blue Ridge. Ticket prices range from $33 for adults, $28 for seniors and $17 for children. For reservations, call 1-877-413-8724 or visit www.brscenic.com

CARROLLTON John Tanner State Park This west Georgia park is best known for its large sand swimming beach.

It is a recreational haven for water lovers looking for boating and fishing opportunities as well. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, min-

Summer 2012

iature golf, volleyball, pedal boats and horseshoes. A short nature trail and paved lake loop invite guests to enjoy wooded scenery. A small lodge located near the beach features six units, each with a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, living area and bedroom. Campers can settle in to a small campground.

The John Tanner State Park is located at 352 Tanners Beach Road, just six miles west of Carrollton. Park hours are from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

For park information, call 770-830-2222 or visit www.gastateparks.org/johntanner

COLUMBUS Columbus RiverWalk The RiverWalk is an outdoor 15-mile linear park that hugs the banks of the Chattahoochee River in downtown Columbus. By foot or on wheel, you’ll skirt the cityscape, examine historic monuments and markers, and take in the wild beauty of the rolling river and native wildlife. The RiverWalk spans the riverfront from the Lake Oliver City Marina south and now extends through the campus of TSYS and into the cotton mill town of Bibb City. Before you start your RiverWalk venture, stop by the Visitors Center at 900 Front Avenue. Everything you need to help prepare you for your adventure on the scenic RiverWalk is there including brochures, water, and various tour options. If you would like a guided glide tour of the RiverWalk or if you are looking at renting a bike, all of that information and more can be found at the Visitors Center.

Admission is free. For more information, call 1-800-999-1613 or visit http://visitcolumbusga.com

National Civil War Naval Museum - Port Columbus Located in historic Columbus, Ga., on the Chattahoochee Intra-Coastal Waterway, Port Columbus is the only museum in the world dedicated to

You won’t need a clock to tell you it’s quality time . . .

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Additional ns Class Sectio r opening fo 2012/2013

DYSSEY No matter what your family’s idea of quality time is, Georgia State Parks offer the chance to spend it together at Chattahoochee Bend State Park. We have everything you’re looking for in a family getaway. The time you spend with us is sure to be the time of your life, so give us a call today!

Public Charter School • No Tuition • Grades K-8 Excellent Academic and Co-Curricular Programs Strong Parental Commitment Athletic, Band and Choral Programs Supportive and Caring Environment

14 St. John Circle, Newnan, GA 30265 425 Bobwhite Way | Newnan, Georgia 30263 | 770.254.7271

GaStateParks.org • 1.800.864.7275

770-251-6111

www.odysseycharterschool.net admission@odysseycharterschool.net

Summer 2012

50 things to do

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telling the complete Naval story of the American Civil War and was a major Confederate port - 200 miles inland and for good reason. Columbus was the last great Confederate storehouse and site of the final significant land battle of the Civil War. From the ironclads to steam and sailing ships to the first successful submarines, Port Columbus has gone to great extent to raise, recover and preserve the military and technological advances of the American Civil War Navies. The museum features the largest surviving Confederate warship.

The Museum is located at 1002 Victory Drive in Columbus. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is $6.50 for adults, $5 for students and free for children six-and-under. Call 706-327-9798 or visit www.portcolumbus.org

CONYERS Georgia International Horse Park Fairs, festivals, equestrian and sporting events, concerts, car shows, rodeos, mountain bike races and more... the world-class, multi-use Georgia International Horse Park has it all. Located only 28 miles east of Atlanta in charming Conyers, this complex is open for a multitude of events year-round. The park’s sprawling 1,400 acres also boasts amenities such as miles of trails for cycling or horseback riding, the Big Haynes Nature Center, the acclaimed Cherokee Run Golf Course and a luxurious suites hotel. Of course, the Horse Park served as the equestrian venue for the largest sporting event in the world: The 1996 Centennial Olympic Games.

The Georgia International Horse Park is located at 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway in Conyers. For information and events, call 770860-4190 or visit www.georgiahorsepark.com

DAWSONVILLE

Summer 2012

– Travis Tritt (June 9), The 5th Dimension (June 30), the Kingston Trio (July 21), The Zombies (July 28) and the Grass Roots (August 18).

The Southern Ground Amphitheater is located at 301 LaFayette Avenue in Fayetteville, Ga. Tickets range – depending on the show – from $15 $35 for lawn seating and $25 - $46.93 for reserved. On concert days, the box office opens at 6 p.m., gates at 7 p.m. with the opening act starting at 8 p.m. Call 770-719-4173 or visit www.southerngroundamp.com

HELEN Cool River Tubing Just the thought of a 1 or 2 1/2 hour float down the Chattahoochee River cools down the temperatures during those hot, muggy summer days in Georgia. Floating down the river is a great way to reduce stress and enjoy the peace and serenity of the north Georgia mountains in beautiful Alpine Helen. Everything you’ll need for your tubing trip is provided – tubes, life jackets and straps. Get your tickets at the Cool River headquarters in Helen, then allow their staff to shuttle you to your chosen float put-in. The relaxing float brings you right back to the headquarters.

Cool River Tubing is located at 590 Edelweiss Strasse in Helen, Ga. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., daily (weather permitting) through Labor Day. Call 1-800-896-4595 or visit www.coolrivertubing.com

HIAWASSEE Georgia Mountain Fair The 2012 Georgia Mountain Fair is scheduled for July 20 – 29 at Hiawassee’s historic Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds. Thousands of visitors from across the region enjoy first-class musical performances, an upgraded juried arts & crafts show, fun carnival rides, unique attractions and a glimpse into North Georgia’s rich history and culture. The daily music

Amicalola Falls State Park One of the state’s most popular state parks resides in Northeast Georgia’s Dawson County and it’s primarily because of Amicalola Falls. This gorgeous waterfall is 729 feet in height, the tallest such waterfall in the southeast. An approach trail of 8.5 miles leads from the state park to Springer Mountain, but numerous other trails are also available for much shorter journeys. A traditional hotel stay can be found at the lodge atop the mountain, but rustic cottages and RV/Tent campsites are also available for overnighters.

The Amicalola Falls State Park is located at 418 Amicalola Falls State Park Road in Dawsonville, Ga., about 35 miles due north of Cumming. The park is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

A parking fee of $5.00 is required. Call 1-706-265-4703 or visit www.georgiastateparks.org/AmicalolaFalls

For the Ultimate

GRILL OUT...

Kangaroo Conservation Center “America’s Aussie Adventure” can be found in this scenic, 87-acre North Georgia Mountain setting known as The Kangaroo Conservation Center. The Center houses over 300 kangaroos and nine species, the largest collection outside of Australia and also has rare Australasian birds and lizards. Come enjoy the exciting “Wild Australia Show” plus journey on hiking trails and walking paths thru natural habitats.

The Center is located at 222 Bailey-Waters Road in Dawsonville, about an hour north of Atlanta. For information, call 706-265-6100 or visit www.kangaroocenter.com

FAYETTEVILLE Southern Ground Amphitheater Looking for an assortment of country, rock, folk and soul music from legendary artists? Then look no further than the state-of-the-art Southern Ground Amphitheater (formerly the Villages Amphitheater) in Fayetteville. Five outstanding music acts are featured in their summer lineup

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770-683-3916

22 East Court Square, Newnan, GA

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50 things to do

scene consists of fabulous musicians such as Lee Greenwood, Marty Stuart, Janie Fricke, Jim Ed Brown, Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers and Crystal Gayle.

The Georgia Mountain Fair is located at 1311 Music Hall Road in Hiawassee, Ga. For ticket information, call 706-896-4191 or visit georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

JACKSON High Falls State Park In the early 1800s, this site was a prosperous industrial town with several stores, a grist mill, cotton gin, blacksmith shop, shoe factory and hotel. High Falls later became a ghost town in the late 1800s when a major railroad bypassed it. Today, park visitors can enjoy the scenic waterfall on the Towaliga River and hike to the remaining grist mill foundation.

The state park, which is 1,050 acres, has a 650-acre lake, 103 campsites (tent, trailer, RV), 6 yurts, 5 picnic shelters, playground, miniature golf course and swimming pool. This park is also conveniently located just 1.8 miles east of I-75 between Jackson and Barnesville.

The park’s address is 76 High Falls Park Drive, Jackson, GA. Park hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. For more information, call 478993-3053 or visit georgiastateparks.org/highfalls

LaGRANGE Highland Marina Resort If you are looking for an ideal place to take the family on vacation or a weekend getaway not far from Newnan, then Highland Marina Resort might be your destination. It is located on beautiful West Point Lake where guests can enjoy over 27,000 acres of boating, swimming and fishing fun. Highland Marina Resort itself has 200 acres to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities. Aside from the watersports, soaking up the sun on a sandy beach, hiking, playing beach volleyball or horseshoes are other activities you and your family can take part in. And for lodging, you have the choice of cabins or bringing your RV or camper to the campsite.

If fishing is your game, get ready for the best largemouth, crappie, hybrid bass & striper fishing in the country! Anglers from all over the world flock to this lake where six-pound bass are common and the lake record for largemouth bass is 14.2 pounds.

Highland Marina is located at 1000 Seminole Road in LaGrange, Ga. Call 706-882-3437 or visit www.highlandmarina.com

Summer 2012

the-art museum houses over 3,000 artifacts. From the old style ticket booths to the brick columns in the rotunda and special lighting, the museum invites visitors to experience the history of sports in Georgia with more than 14,000 square feet of high-energy exhibit space and a Hall of Fame corridor that honors over 300 inductees, including Ty Cobb, Jackie Robinson, Bobby Jones, Evander Holyfield and Nancy Lopez.

The Museum is located at 301 Cherry Street in Macon. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults (17-and-over), $6 for seniors and $3.50 for children (16-and-under). Call 478-752-1585 or visit www.gshf.org

MANSFIELD Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center The 6,400-acre Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center, managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, offers a variety of activities and programs. This beautiful area is centrally located in the state in a beautiful wooded setting near Mansfield, Ga., about 25 miles southeast of Covington. The list of things to do is lengthy... fishing, hunting, hiking, biking, self-guided driving tours, shooting range, archery range, bird watching, boating, horseback riding, picnicking, primitive camping and summer camps.

The Wildlife Center is located at 543 Elliott Trail in Mansfield. The Visitor Center hours are 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.

For information, call 770-784-3059 or visit georgiawildlife. com and click on quick link “Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center.”

NEWNAN Centre for Performing & Visual Arts This modern 48,000 sq. ft. structure is known as the “pearl of the community” and is nestled in a serene valley off Coweta County’s Lower

LOCUST GROVE Noah’s Ark Animal Rehab Center Walk the nature trails, visit the animal habitats and experience the power and effectiveness of love at Noah’s Ark, a rehabilitation center for animals and a group home for children. This 250-acre facility is home to lions, tigers and bears, as well as horses, llamas, peacocks and – all total – over 1,300 exotic or domestic animals including 100 different species.

Come and picnic while viewing the animals. And this year, an Arts and Crafts Fair will be held on site the third Saturday of each month – June 16, July 21 and August 18.

Noah’s Ark is located at 712 L.G. Griffin Road in Locust Grove, Ga. The animal habitats are open from Noon to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. The picnic areas are open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., also Tuesday through Saturday. Admission is free (donations accepted). Call 770-957-0888 or visit www.noahs-ark.org

MACON Georgia Sports Hall of Fame The Georgia Sports Hall of Fame and Museum in Macon, Ga., is the country’s largest state sports museum. The 43,000 square feet state-of-

55 Thomas Grace Annex Sharpsburg·Ga·30277 770-252-9500

www.StarliteFamilyFunCenters.com

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50 things to do

Fayetteville Road. It houses a state-of-the-art 1,000-seat theater, elegant lobby, diverse art gallery, lecture halls and star-quality dressing rooms.

An Elementary and Middle School Art Camp has three dates scheduled for this summer – June 18-22; July 9-13; and July 16-20. It is Monday thru Friday from 9-11:30 a.m. with groups for Grades K-4 and 5-8.

The Centre for Performing & Visual Arts is located at 1523 Lower Fayetteville Road in Newnan. For more information, call 770-2542787 or visit www.thecentreonline.net

Chattahoochee Bend State Park Georgia’s newest state park showcases a spectacular tract of wilderness in northwest Coweta County. Located in a graceful bend of the Chattahoochee River, the park is a haven for paddlers, campers and anglers.

Chattahoochee Bend is one of Georgia’s largest state parks, covering 2,910 acreas and protecting five miles of river frontage. A boat ramp provides easy access to the water, while more than six miles of wooded trails are open for hiking and nature photography. An observation platform provides nice views of the river and forest. Although most of the park has been left in its natural state, campers have several options (RVs, campers, tents or Adirondack-style shelters) for staying overnight within park boundaries. Covered picnic shelters may be rented for birthday parties, reunions and other gatherings.

The Park is located at 425 Bobwhite Way, just north of the Powers Crossroads area. Park hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. For more information, call 770-254-7271 or visit www.gastateparks.org/ chattahoocheebend

Coweta Club The Coweta Club is situated on 180 picturesque acres in North Coweta County and is a true golfing, dining and special event destination.

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The Club features 5 sets of golf tees, playing to a strong 7,056 yards “from the tips” but also offers multiple levels of challenge, including a friendly layout of less than 5,000 yards from the forward tees. A spacious practice green and all weather golf driving range are located close to the waterfalls. The Coweta Club is also home to the Coweta Grill in the club’s warm and friendly 15,000 sq. ft clubhouse. Coweta Grill presents the most memorable of dining experiences amongst Georgia tradition. Enjoy cocktails and starters while overlooking the golf course as the sun sets, then stay for dinner and experience the cuisine of Chef Lance Jeffers, Jr. The Club is located at 300 Arbor Springs Parkway in Newnan. For more information, call 770-683-4727 or visit cowetaclub.com

Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks When one thinks of Hometown USA celebrating Independence Day, then Historic Newnan should come quickly to mind. A day of festivities is capped off by a patriotic parade and exhilarating fireworks show, which all begins at 6 p.m. MainStreet Newnan sponsors the annual parade which marches from downtown onto LaGrange Street and concludes at Newnan High’s Drake Stadium. At the stadium, children can play on inflatable slides and bounce houses, get their face painted in festive, patriotic colors or watch clowns and artists make balloon animals. Live music is provided by local musicians and bands. And to highlight the day, a spectacular 30-minute fireworks show takes place in front of thousands at the stadium and many others who watch from various vantage points around the city. The fireworks show is sponsored by the Newnan Rotary Club with funding from both the city and county along with local merchants.

The parade and fireworks shows, including parking, are free. Call 770-253-8283 or visit mainstreetnewnan.com

Newnan Utilities has helped Coweta County grow and prosper for over 100 years. We’re proud to sponsor numerous events throughout the year that enrich and strengthen this vibrant community. We hope you’ll visit Newnan Utilities’ Carl Miller Park and enjoy this beautiful natural setting with outdoor activities for all ages.

70 Sewell Road | Newnan, GA 30263 | 770-683-5516 | www.NewnanUtilities.org

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MainStreet Newnan Market Days If you like shopping in an outdoor setting, then MainStreet Newnan Market Days is the place for you. With the lovely downtown Square as the backdrop, shoppers can choose from handmade, homemade or homegrown products of vendors from Coweta County and surrounding areas.

Market Days take place on the first Saturday of every month in downtown Newnan from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Admission is free. Call 770-2538283 or visit www.mainstreetnewnan.com

Newnan Theatre Company Newnan Theatre Company has been providing live entertainment in downtown Newnan for over 30 years. With a full season of 10 shows, NTC is a busy and active theatre. Additionally, it offers youth programming, an improvisational comedy group (NITWITS), interactive murder mysteries, special events, and summer and holiday theatre camps for children. The 2012-13 season runs from August to May and includes popular plays such as Fiddler on the Roof (Aug. 30 - Sept. 9), A Christmas Carol (Dec. 6-16), The Producers (March 14-24) and Driving Miss Daisy (April 11-21). The KidsCamp takes place in 1/2 day or full day sessions from early June through July as campers participate in designing and building sets, writing skits, creating characters and putting on a show.

The Newnan Theatre Company is located at 24 1st Avenue in Newnan. For more information, call 770-683-6282 or visit www.newnantheatre.org

Newnan Utilities’ Carl Miller Park Tucked away just south of downtown Historic Newnan, Carl Miller Park is a beautiful, family-friendly, 14-acre park which offers recreational activities for all ages. The park, owned by Newnan Utilities, contains

Summer 2012

a gigantic 32,000 sq. ft. Kids’ Castle Playground with swings, assorted bridges, tunnels, wooden climbing areas, forts and playhouses for children to play on. Also included in the park are picnic tables for those family outdoor get-togethers, a walking / jogging trail which is 6/10 of a mile, and plenty of room to toss around a football or baseball or just place a blanket on the ground and read your favorite book. Four pavilions are also located in the park for groups of 50 to 150 people. Both the picnic tables and pavilions are on a first-come, first-served basis, though the pavilions may be reserved by Newnan Utilities customers only.

Carl Miller Park is located at 74 Sewell Road in Newnan. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. (April to October). Admission is free.

Call 770-683-5516 or visit www.newnanutilities.org

Powers’ Festival Labor Day Weekend around Coweta County means one thing – it’s time for the annual Powers’ Festival in west Coweta County. This year, the arts and crafts festival will be celebrating its 42nd year on the 100-acre grounds now known as Powers Pavilion. New event host Xcessive Sound was named to manage the event and the Festival is scheduled for three days – Sept. 1-3. Over 150 artists from across the country have exhibited and sold their creative juried arts and crafts at past years’ festivals. And entertainment has always been a constant with country, gospel, folk and contemporary music throughout the event as well as clogging.

The Powers’ Festival is located at 4766 West Highway 34, some 12 miles west of Newnan. For more information, call 770-253-2011 or visit powerspavilion.com

Summit YMCA Camps Fun for campers and a peace of mind for parents... that’s the Day Camp series offered by the Summit Family YMCA & Fayette Outdoor YMCA

Come Enjoy

RVE E S E R PACE S FOR NOWGUST! AU

243 Summerlin Blvd.

Newnan, GA 30265 770-253-8104

Enjoy cocktails and “starters” while the sun sets.

Stay for dinner and experience the exceptional cuisine at

On the

COWETA CLUB.

Experienced childcare professionals committed to providing quality care to the children in our community.

• Infant • Toddler • Pre-School • Private Pre-K • GA Pre-K • Before & After School Program

www.stonebridge-elc.com

THURSDAY, FRIDAY OR SATURDAY

300 Arbor Springs Pkwy., Newnan, GA 30265 (770)683-4727 • www.cowetaclub.com Please visit our website or call for more info & directions.

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50 things to do

this summer. Ten weekly sessions (May 29 – Aug. 3) make up the series with a variety of camping options for ages 5-15. Camp hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. with some extended hours. Each week, camp themes change from Climbing Camp to Leadership Camp to Cooking Camp to Tennis and Basketball Camp and so on. For camp information, call 770-2545923 and financial assistance is available.

The Summit YMCA is located at 1765 East Highway 34 in Newnan.

Call 770-254-9622 or visit www.ymcadaycamping.com (and click Newnan)

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The Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater Don’t Miss Out on the Fun! Presented By LEXUS SOUTH ATLANTA

We’re Having A Horsey Affair Newnan has long been known as the “City of Homes”, now the “Painted Horses of Newnan” have come to town. As a project of the Newnan Coweta Historical Society to benefit the Society’s Children’s Museum project, 25 horse statues have been placed in the Downtown Newnan area. The colorful ‘Horsey Affair’ statues are symbolic of the important role horses played in the development of Newnan and Coweta County. Finding these horses can be fun and can be an adventurous scavenger hunt for children and adults alike. The goal is to complete the “Round-up” by locating all 25 horses. In the process you will gain a deeper appreciation of the natural and historic surroundings that Newnan has to offer along with the outstanding artistic decorations on each horse.

For more information, call 770-251-0207 or visit www.newnancowetahistoricalsociety.com

Purchase your Tickets while they last!

Peabo bryson and

roberta Flack

June 23

PALMETTO Cochran Mill Nature Center Grab the kids, a water bottle, put on some comfortable shoes and spend the day at the Cochran Mill Nature Center exploring nature on this 50-

richard Marx solo tour with

20 StringS

July 14 for YoUTh developmenT for healThY living for Social reSponSibiliTY

See whaT The bUzz iS aboUT Y campS faYeTTe oUTdoor Ymca SUmmiT familY Ymca

Y SUmmer camp fUn for ages 5-15 Traditional • Swim/Tennis • climbing • Teen www.ymcadaycamping.com (and click Fayette)

billy ocean

august 11

PLUS OUR SPOTLIGHT SHOW and CONCERTS! JUNE 9: The Golden Dragon Acrobats Show JULY 3: “Pop Goes the Fourth” featuring The Fayette Pops Symphony Orchestra JULY 7: The Swingin’ Medallions JULY 21: The World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra

G G

Tickets available at www.ticketalternative.com or the Fred Box Office. For more information visit us on twitter, Facebook, www.amphitheater.org or call The Fred at 770.631.0630

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acre heavily-wooded site with a fish and turtle pond. The center is home to a large collection of non-releasable reptiles and birds of prey. Whether hiking, visiting our animals, participating in a field trip, celebrating with a birthday party or relaxing by a pond, Cochran Mill Nature Center has something for you.

The Center is located at 6300 Cochran Mill Road in Palmetto. It is open Monday thru Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $3.00 for Adults (12 and over), $2.00 for children and under 2 years is free. Call 770-306-0914 or visit www.cochranmillnaturecenter.org

PEACHTREE CITY Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater One of Metro Atlanta’s best venues for outdoor concerts is none other than the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater, affectionally known as “The Fred”. This cozy 2,500-seat outdoor arena has been serving as host to Summer Concert Series of world-renown musicians and bands since 1994. Musical acts scheduled for this summer include George Benson (June 1), Peabo Bryson and Roberta Flack (June 23), Fayette Pops Symphony Orchestra (July 3), Swingin’ Medallions (July 7), Richard Marx with 20 Strings (July 14), The Glenn Miller Orchestra (July 21) and Billy Ocean (August 11).

The Fred is located at 201 McIntosh Trail in Peachtree City. Depending on the show, tickets range from $15- $45 for lawn seating and $20 - $65 for reserved. Gates open at 7 p.m. with the opening act starting at 8 p.m.

Call 770-631-0630 or visit www.amphitheater.org

PINE MOUNTAIN Callaway Gardens Callaway Gardens is an award-winning, 13,000-acre gardens, resort and preserve nestled in Pine Mountain. In addition to four types of accommodations, 10 restaurants and plenty of shopping, guests at this familyfriendly getaway enjoy lots to see and do. The Virginia Hand Callaway Discovery Center, Birds of Prey shows, Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, John A. Sibley Horticultural Center, Mr. Cason’s Vegetable Garden, Callaway Brothers Azalea Bowl, Overlook Azalea Garden and miles of nature trails showcase the beauty of nature. The 10-mile Discovery Bicycle Trail combines sightseeing with an outdoor excursion that puts you up-close to Southern flora and wildlife. In 2006, the beautiful Lodge and Spa at Callaway Gardens opened and features 150 rooms with luxurious features and balconies to the outdoors.

Callaway Gardens is located at the intersection of Hwys. 18 and 354 in Pine Mountain. For information, call 1-800-225-5292 or visit www.callawaygardens.com

F.D. Roosevelt State Park At 9,049 acres, Georgia’s largest state park is a hiker’s and backpacker’s haven. More than 40 miles of trails, including the popular 23-mile Pine Mountain Trail, wind through hardwood and pines, over creeks and past small waterfalls. Many visitors are surprised to find rolling mountains 80 miles southeast of Atlanta. Several park amenities were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, including cottages and the Liberty Bell Swimming Pool fed by cool springs. A wooded campground sits near the edge of a small fishing lake, and privately operated stables offer guided horseback rides. In 1921, President Franklin D. Roosevelt came to this part of Georgia to swim in naturally warm springs that offered relief from polio. Today, nearby Roosevelt’s Little White House Historic Site invites visitors to see his modest home, a museum and the pools that first drew him here.

The F.D. Roosevelt State Park is located at 2970 Hwy. 190 between Pine Mountain and Warm Springs. Park hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information, call 706-663-4858 or visit www.gastateparks.org/fdroosevelt

Summer 2012

PLAINS Jimmy Carter National Historic Site Few U.S. Presidents have had such close ties with the communities they were born and raised as Jimmy Carter and Plains, Ga. The National Historic Site Park have preserved key sites and structures associated with our 39th President during his life span. Within the park is Plains High School where Jimmy and his wife, Rosalynn, attended and graduated. It also includes the Train Depot which served as Carter’s Presidential Campaign Headquarters and the Boyhood Farm where he was raised.

The park is located at 300 North Bond Street in Plains and open daily.

Admission and parking is free. The Plains HS Visitor Center & Museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Train Depot is open from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Jimmy Carter Boyhood Farm is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Call 229-824-4104 or visit www.nps.gov/jica

SAVANNAH River Street Plaza / City Market Bordering the thriving Savannah River port, Historic River Street in Savannah imparts old-world charm. The nine-block brick concourse is filled with old cotton warehouses. Cobblestone sidewalks are the setting for shopping along Savannah’s most famous street where ships glide up the Savannah River and people watching is a spectator sport. River Street Plaza boasts more than 75 boutiques, galleries, artist’s studios, restaurants and pubs. And just four blocks away in the heart of the Savannah Historic District, the City Market awaits. It was renovated to capture the authentic atmosphere and character of the city’s old open marketplace and now has restaurants, open-air cafes, jazz clubs, theme shops and stores offering crafts, accessories and gifts.

The River Street Plaza and City Markets are located in downtown Savannah. For more information, call 912-944-0455 or visit savannahvisit.com

SENOIA Historic Downtown Senoia Exciting times are taking place in this small city – Senoia – located in the southeastern corner of Coweta County. New shopping destinations and restaurants have made for a successful revitalization of the historic downtown. In 1989, much of the residential area of Senoia was placed on the National Register of Historic Places which has more than 100 homes in the district. The historic downtown area on Main Street now offers restaurants, boutiques, antiques, and bed and breakfasts all within a short walking distance. In June, Southern Living is scheduled to open its second Idea House, a renovation of a 4,000 sq. ft. farm house at 57 Morgan Street which was originally built in the early 1800s. Senoia has also been the setting for several movies – Pet Sematary II, Fried Green Tomatoes, The War, and Andersonville among others – and has been a constant backdrop for the highly-popular cable TV series, ‘The Walking Dead’.

Historic Senoia is located at the intersections of Hwys. 74/85 and 16.

Call 770-599-3679 or visit www.senoia.com

SHARPSBURG Starlite Family Fun Center Starlite Family Fun Center plans to open its newest Skating, Laser Tag, Playground and Arcade facility in Sharpsburg in July. The new 24,000-square-foot family entertainment center located on Andrew Bailey Road, just off Highway 34, will be all-indoor, smoke-free, and offers seating for hundreds of people.The facility will have private rooms available for birthday parties, corporate meetings and other group events.

The Center will contain attractions like roller skating, a three-story play-

Summer 2012

50 things to do

ground, laser tag and nearly 50 video and redemption games. It’s the perfect venue for birthday parties, school PTA nights, daycare camp trips, education field trips and private parties.

Starlite Family Fun Center is located at 55 Thomas Grace Annex in Sharpsburg. For information, call 770-252-9500 or visit www.starlitefamilyfuncenters.com

THOMASTON Flint River Canoe, Kayak or Rafting Trips The peaceful and easy-flowing Flint River provides the perfect setting for canoe, kayak, or rafting trips. The Flint River Outdoor Center hosts 1/2day, 1-day and 2-day trips ranging from 5 to 20 miles in length. Camping is also an option, from primitive to RVs. The Outdoor Center is located 8 miles west of Thomaston on Hwy. 36.

Hours vary during the week. Cost of trips range from $45 to $300. Call 706-647-2633 or visit www.flintriveroutdoorcenter.com

WARNER ROBINS

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WHITESBURG Historic Banning Mills From the moment you get out of your car, you will know that you have found a unique place – Historic Banning Mills. It rests among 1,000 beautifully wooded acres overlooking the scenic Snake Creek Gorge and perfectly meshes the warm, romantic getaway feel with great, outdoor adventures and activities. Those include swimming in our Olympic-size pool, tennis and basketball, sand volleyball, horseshoes, nature trails, softball field, miniature golf, catch and release fishing lake, lake kayaks and paddle boats. Banning Mills also boasts one very unique adventure.

It hosts not only the best zip line tour in Georgia, but the largest, continuous zip line Eco-Canopy tour in the world with almost 40,000 lineal feet of zip lines and sky bridges (7 1/2 miles). Visitors can choose from an assortment of accommodations – cottages, cabins, jacuzzi rooms and Bed and Breakfast – to go along with the wonderful food and spa packages.

Historic Banning Mills is located at 205 Horseshoe Dam Road in Whitesburg, Ga. Call 770-834-9149 or visit www.historicbanningmills.com

Museum of Aviation

McIntosh Reserve Park

The Museum of Aviation is one of the largest aviation museums in the United States and is the second largest museum in the U.S. Air Force. It is situated on a 51-acre site in Warner Robins, Ga., with a collection of over 90 aircraft including several that visitors can sit in the cockpits. Notable aircraft on display are the modern-era B-1B bomber, the SR-71 Blackbird, the U-2 Dragon Lady, and F-15 Eagle. Informative and interesting exhibits tell the story of aviation events from World War II to present.

The Museum of Aviation is located at Ga. Hwy. 247 and Russell Parkway in Warner Robins. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission is free. Call 478-926-6870 or visit www.museumofaviation.org

The Reserve Park is a 527-acre facility operated by the Carroll County Parks and Recreation Department. The park is named for Chief William McIntosh Jr. of the Lower Creeks and contains land that was once his primary residence. It is packed with history, trails, a splash water park, pavilions, picnic areas and sweeping frontage on the Chattahoochee River.

Visitors can camp, hike, ride horses and picnic.

McIntosh Reserve Park is located just west of Whitesburg off Highway 5. Park hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Visitors can reserve pavilions by calling 770-830-5879 or visit www.carrollcountyga.com/pages/mcintosh_reserve_park

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50 things to do

Summer 2012

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