We stayed two nights in the Grand Yurt. The yurt was perfect. Central AC, mini fridge, and super comfy bed. The provided meals were delicious. The yurts are a short walk to the Overlook Cafe. There is a slight walk down to the Grand Yurt. The concierge service is a nice touch. The Open Air Safari was very educational. Make sure to bring a drink with you. The Wild Side Safari was exceptional. You get up close and personal with a lot of the animals. The Rhinos like to rub against the jeep. Bottled water was provided. The Zip Line was a lot of fun. Again, I suggest you bring water with you. All of the staff were very informative as well as helpful and fun.

The Force is alive in every hoofbeat and roar at The Wilds. We embarked on the Wildside Safari, and it surpassed every expectation. Rather than being confined to paved paths, we rode off-road in a custom truck with padded seats and a canopy — comfort and adventure in harmony. The open-air safari is lovely, but restricted to roads; the Wildside version lets you move closer to the animals, even into hidden corners of their habitat. (Be sure to bring binoculars as backup!) A moment I will never forget: we visited the giraffe barn and hand-fed a giraffe. With chill in the air, they’d been brought inside — an exclusive experience only possible on Wildside. To look eye to eye with that gentle giant and extend your hand is to touch a living Force. Our guide channeled true Jedi wisdom, weaving facts, conservation tales, and ways we can help protect these creatures and their world. After the safari, we browsed the gift shop and dined at the café, gazing out over the vast meadows — a scene so tranquil it could quiet the busiest mind. The Wilds also offers ziplining, horseback riding, and lodging options (yurts, cabins, camping). In fact, when you stay overnight, you may even get a tour‐discount. 📸 Jedi Camera Tips: Wide-angle lens captures sweeping vistas, savanna skies, and dramatic herd scenes. Zoom or telephoto lens (100–500mm or similar) gets you intimate shots of rhinos, giraffes, and especially those up-close barn moments. Don’t forget to shoot in “burst” or continuous mode — animals move with sudden grace.

We had a great time and awesome experience! Our tour guide was amazing, we couldn't have asked for better! (Got lucky there! 🙃) The animals were active, we had a cool brisk morning, everything but the giraffes were out and about. Glad we brought binoculars but still had all the animals close enough we didnt "NEED" them by any means.

It was a great experience, the tour guide was very helpful, love animals with a passion. We get to feed the animals. The facility was very clean well maintained, a great place for family to hang out, educated your kids about wildlife, nice scenery to get some fresh air or read a book. I will definitely return again in the spring.

Visiting The Wilds was a wonderful experience. Seeing these endangered species in a natural setting is an experience I will cherish. The animals we saw were not the only thing that made our visit special, the enthusiasm displayed by all the employees we interacted with was outstanding! You will not regret visiting The Wilds.

Exceeded our expectations. We stayed in a king sized yurt and did the Wildside tour. Worth every single penny. We got up close to the animals and learned so much new information from Logan, our tour guide. We got to feed a giraffe also! Lois was the best concierge staff for Nomad Ridge and we shared great conversations with other guests around the fire. Dinner and breakfast were included with our stay.

I was invited by friends to see the Wilds safari. We rode in an open bus. They also have closed bus tours. They quit allowing private car tours when they got rhinos. They don't have elephants or giraffes, but they have a number of endangered species. The lady bus driver/tour guide was knowledgeable. All in all, the tour was interesting and the bus stopped long enough to see the animals and be able to take pictures at a number of locations.

I recently took the paranormal tour at the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, and it was an unforgettable experience! The tour was incredibly informative, diving into the asylum’s haunting history with fascinating details about its past patients and eerie events. Our guide was fantastic—engaging, knowledgeable, and great at balancing spooky stories with historical facts, making the atmosphere both thrilling and respectful. The tour itself was a blast, blending creepy vibes with just the right amount of fun, as we explored the asylum’s shadowy halls and learned about its paranormal activity. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this tour is a must-do for its unique mix of history and chills. Highly recommend!

Great experience. Took my 15YO daughter on a day trip and she loved it. We took the 90 daytime paranormal tour. It covers all 4 floors and lots of information. Our guide (Kaylee) was wonderful. She new the historical side of the building along with paranormal facts. It's highly recommended anyone go see it. The only cautionary thing to be said it's cold in the winter, we went in the end of October on a 50° day and it was pretty chill in the building and I can only imagine it being hot in the summer. It's not climate controlled do dress accordingly and hydrate if you will be going in the summer.

My son and I visited on 11/2/25. We did the 4 floor tour with the medical center. Our guide (who I forgot her name but will add a pic to give her credit) was very informative and knowledgeable. I asked a lot of questions and she answered them all. Some of the stories were very frightening and some heartbreaking. It’s sad to think about what a lot of people went thru here. But it is nice to be able to visit and learn the history of this place. I’ve been wanting to visit for years and finally got the chance to. I was not disappointed! And this place is massive too! You really have no idea until you get inside. We loved it so much that we added the criminally insane tour after. We plan on coming back and touring some parts we missed. It’s very cold in the buildings so dress accordingly. And the price of these tours are extremely fair considering that all the money goes into the upkeep and restoration of this facility. Thank you for an amazing adventure! We’ll be back for sure!

My husband and I went on the 4th floor tour and were very impressed! Our tour guide, John, was excellent! He spoke loudly and clearly, was very knowledgeable, and took plenty of time to answer all of our questions. The tour covered a good portion of the facility, and we had ample time to look around and take photos. Overall, it was a great experience and highly recommended! Please dress warmly if you visit during the cooler months. The tours are on the hour so we didn't have to wait long. We went on a Saturday and had 17 people in our tour.

I took a paranormal tour at the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum and it was an unforgettable experience! Our guide, Kaylee, was fantastic — knowledgeable, friendly, and really brought the history and stories to life. Even on the day tour we experienced some activity, which made it even more thrilling. The atmosphere of the building is incredibly creepy in the best way possible — exactly what I was hoping for from such a historic and haunted location. Whether you’re into history, the paranormal, or just want a spine-tingling adventure, this place delivers. Highly recommend taking a tour here!

Went on 3 tours. Nick, John and Kayley were extremely kind, knowledgeable about their tours and answered questions with ease. The building was clean, both bathrooms were clean and they welcomed both of our service dogs in with no problems. This location is animal friendly anyways which makes it much easier. The history is worth the money in itself. All staff were extremely friendly and helpful! I give it all 5 stars!!

We did the historical tour (Ashley was a phenomenal guide) and it was fascinating. The architecture, the stories, and the history packed into those walls are incredible. While everything was great, the cherry on top was meeting Pickle the opossum in the gift shop. He completely stole my heart. 💜

Wonderful ride through the gorge. Well worth the 45 minutes that I cludes a few stops to grap pictures. Scan the QR code to listen to the audio file of history as you take the ride through beauty and history. The rangers at the welcome center was awesome!

We came for bridge day and it was spectacular! They close the bridge and catapult adventurous spirits straight into the New River below. Over 300 base jumpers from all over the world put on their packs and parachute down. It’s a sight to see! Lots of great vendors, food and events at during that weekend. We attended the taste of bridge day the evening before at the adventures on the gorge and it was awesome!

One of the most iconic views in West Virginia. Seeing the bridge in person is completely different from photos, it stretches across the gorge like it’s floating, and the scale doesn’t fully hit you until you’re standing at the overlook looking out across miles of mountains. The bridge itself is one of the longest single-arch steel bridges in the world and also one of the highest in the U.S. It sits almost 900 feet above the river. The engineering alone is impressive, but the landscape around it is what really makes it special. The mountains roll in layers, and in the fall the colors are stunning reds, oranges, golds, and deep greens all stacked into the valley. There are several great viewing spots, but the Canyon Rim Visitor Center overlook and Long Point Overlook give the best angles. Long Point especially feels unreal, you’re right across from the bridge, eye-level with it. If you visit in October during Bridge Day, people BASE jump and rappel directly off the bridge, it turns into a full festival. Whether you’re hiking, just passing through, or stopping for photos, the New River Gorge Bridge is a must-see. Beautiful, massive, peaceful, and unforgettable.

Amazing place to visit. If you love history and nature at the same time, one of the best place to see in USA 🇺🇸❤️. 🏞️📍SUMMER 2024 The completion of the New River Gorge Bridge on October 22, 1977 solved a travel challenge. The bridge turned a 40-minute drive into less than a minute. It removed the need to navigate down narrow mountain roads across an ancient river. When it comes to road construction, mountains do pose a challenge. At New River Gorge, the challenge transformed into a work of structural art. The New River Gorge Bridge is the longest steel span in the western hemisphere. It is also the third highest bridge in the United States. The New River Gorge Bridge is one of the most photographed places in West Virginia. In 2006, the U.S. Mint chose the bridge to represent West Virginia on the state commemorative quarter. In 2013, the National Park Service listed the New River Gorge Bridge in the National Register of Historic Places. This listing signifies the importance of the bridge as a historic resource.

Beautiful fall colors and bridge view was outstanding! We were there on a Thursday before Bridge day on Saturday. Board walk was easy accessible from Visitors Center. Steps are 175 if you decide to walk all the way to the bottom. We only went about half way and did fine with an amazing view anyway. You can also drive around to the bottom

Went mid October 2025. This was a nice stop, a full service welcome center with bathrooms. It was very clean. However, it was also very crowded at this location, even after the welcome center closed. The bathrooms are locked inside the welcome center, making it impossible to go after 5pm. It is a short walk to the view of the bridge then some steps down to see a better view. Maybe a 5-10 minute stop total. This place is partly dog friendly. You can bring your dog to see the bridge. But for bridge day dogs are not welcome. Which is wild and quite frankly very sad considering it is quite literally an outdoor event. That made us disappointed and we did not go to bride day because of that. I would go back to see the view if I was in the area. No hiking or anything else exciting around there. But stunning views it was my second time here.

An iconic piece of architecture and featured on the West Virginia version of the state series quarters, this is the third tallest bridge in the US. While you can't really appreciate its height from the 4-lane highway that crosses it due to the high concrete barriers, seeing it from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center or from down below it is pretty impressive. Worth your time to visit, as the area is beautiful, especially during Fall like it was when we were there over the last week.

I enjoyed being able to explore tha capitol building. Seeing where the Supreme Court meets. I was able to observe the chambers of the Congress today. The people at the information desk were very helpful to point out places I could see in the building. This is a free activity Accessible mens and women's restrooms. Van accessible pay by app in middle of the complex

Awesome architecture, great grounds, we went through security and were able to see the different chambers inside the building. Very cool.

What an impressive building - the 23 carat gold leafed done is perfect in the sunlight. And the view of the river in front sets it off well. Visit the Archives/Museum ( their gift shop has terrific articles and food made in WV)

The Gold Dome is iconic! I spotted it from miles away when driving in, and seeing it up close was very cool. Even in cloudy weather, it shone very brightly, as gold does. Seeing it up close was what really did it justice, like Jim could tell you (WV pun). Very much a stop and visit, cheers.

Parking and then finding a way into the capitol was not fun. Many entrances were closed to construction or security when we visited. Finally inside, we join a tour group already started. I've seen many incredible capitols (Mississippi for example) and WV just rubbed me the wrong way. It's the 5th(?) capitol built in WV and very, very "high-end" with imported crystal chandeliers from the Czech republic and millions of dollars worth of marble. For all that it feels like an empty grand ballroom, more functional than lovely. A very expensive monument for a part-time legislature.

I visited on a Saturday, so parking was easy and there weren't a lot of people around. The building is very nice, but the rotunda was off-limits due to some construction.

Beautiful building and grounds. Make sure your camera battery is full and your memory card is empty, a lot of great photos to take here. Don't stop at the outside, spend a few minutes inside as well and tour the Governor's Residence if able.

A nice place to take a break from driving, but if you aren't interested in buying art pieces, it might not be for you. There were plenty of nice things to look at and some local food items (think jams and jellies). There were a few t-shirts and souvenir items, and a place to get some snacks and sit. If you're looking for local hand-crafted pieces, this is the place.

The facility is beautiful with wonderful products made in West Virginia. They also have one of the tourist swings you can take photos at. I took pictures of some stuff I liked. I no where near captured everything.

This has been a tourist attraction in wv off of I-77 for as long as I can remember. I’ve stopped here many times over the years and love to look at all the beautiful artistic creations from the people of my awesome state. Today I stopped here while I’m on a mission to find all the “almost heaven” swings with my husband. The building and grounds are beautiful and unique.

Wife and I have been here on a few occasions. A must see destination for local artistry of West Virginia, Virginia. Also, they allow campers and they have water on site only for RV freshwater holding tanks. A nice quiet place to stop for the day or evening and tour to see all of the artist work.

While visiting Beckley WVA my wife and I stopped by the Tamarack Marketplace to see what it was all about. This was our first time at the Marketplace and I haven't seen anything like this out west where we live so, it was a new experience for us. The marketplace was very impressive inside and out with so many beautiful things and an array of items including food, wine, glassware, pottery, quality woodworks, quilts, jewelry, restaurants and coffee. There is something here for everyone no matter the occasion and taste you'll find it at the Marketplace. It is a great place to visit. The service, the employees and the food was great.

Loved the different varieties of local art and craftsmanship. The atmosphere was nice really easy to walk around and want everything they had to offer. We only got coffee but it was fresh and good too.

Really great place to stop by if you are passing through. All items are created by local artisans. You can create your own glass blown ornaments or atch the process being done. I was really impresed by this chainsaw made completoit of wood...even the chain!

We were staying nearby so of course we had to visit! We just love his show and enjoyed seeing all the memorable at the museum. We even managed to snap our pics with the statue out front. Worth a visit if you are fans of the show.

My kids took me here for my birthday and it was great! We did the trolley tour so we could all be together and our guide was AMAZING!! The museum was great, we also walked along the town and it was fun. It was really just a super fun day!

A fun stop. Spent about an hour. Learned a lot I didn't know about the legend that is Andy Griffith. Ticket price was a little steep considering the size of the attraction. Wouldn't return, but glad we went on our way through Mt. Airy.

The museum was full of artifacts from the Andy Griffith show and many of the movies he was in. We thoroughly enjoyed the museum and the town. I highly recommend visiting for at least a day. The people of Mt Airy were very friendly and welcoming.

4 stars really. Has some cool Andy stuff not just from the show either, movies and all. I purposely didn't take pictures of some of the neatest things. Of course that's my opinion. Kinda small but entry is only $10 & crammed full of stuff. Loved the clothes etc .

Wow! What an interesting place. As of this review I don't know much about Andy or his show. But after this I hope to see some episodes.

This is a great museum packed full of memorabilia and displays regarding the life surrounding Andy Griffith and cast members of the Andy Griffith show. It is very enlightening and entertaining.

This is my go to place to hike because it is literally in my backyard. Trails are maintained and marked very well. There are several trails with different levels of difficulty ranging from easy too hard, so there is something for all skill levels. I love seeing people out there with their pets and young ones. It does my heart good to see young people getting away from TVs and video games.

We made a fall trip with bunch of friends to this gem of a place. Views and rock formations were amazing. We did a few short trails. The one called Pilot knob trail is a must, it is 0.8 mile and takes just a little to go around the top. Drive from Charlotte was easy. We didn’t have to use shuttle as there were many parking spots on top of mountain but they do have shuttles from the bottom parking lot if top one is full. State park folks has maintained this park to the top notch. Some parts were closed for rock climbers while in other part we saw many climbers.

We hiked the Grindstone and the Pilot Knob Trails. Both trails are well maintained and marked. While Grindstone is rated strenuous, I would rate it moderately strenuous. Overall it's mostly moderate due to the trail surface itself being well maintained and use of switchbacks to ease the climb. One section above the 1.5 mile marker is more difficult as it's not switchbacked with a steeper pitch up the mountain and a bit rocky. The views from Little Pinnacle Overlook and Pilot Knob Trail are outstanding. The top is a bit like Mount Mitchell since you can also drive to the top. Pick your time to do the hike carefully to avoid the crowds at the top!

I have always loved Pilot Mountain State Park! When I was little, my family would go camping here every year. I'm glad it is still thriving and loved that they have added a shuttle for more people to be able to enjoy the Knob. It was certainly busy but there are many different trails to choose from. If you bring a dog, they are not allowed on the shuttle. We took the Grindstone trail from the visitors center up to the knob (3.5 miles one way). There were definitely some strenuous sections but also some flattish sections that provided a bit of a break. Bathrooms at the top were clean and there were working water fountains outside the bathroom!

Arrived early for a star party with the Forsyth astronomy club at the summit parking lot. It became cloudy at night but I did get some sunset pictures. Great visibility. On a clear day, with binoculars, you can see the condos on top of Sugar Mountain, which is 79 miles away. Winston Salem and Greensboro skylines are easy. You can see the Charlotte skyline (80 miles away) also. If you hike the Little Pinnacle trail, you will see Hanging Rock/Moore's Wall and Sauratown mountains. The visitor center is tremendous and very informative. Learn about the history of the Saura Indians, animals, flora, fauna and geology of this region.

What a very cool park. We were looking to hike up but found a road all the way to the top and do a nice hike around a few locations. What a great view.

Majestic views. Better than I expected. The drive up to the top was beautiful with the fall leaves all around us. Then at the top there are several lookouts to enjoy the top of Pilot Mountain, trees and valley from above.

Great historical tour. Get there early and tour the whole town.

It's like a step thru time. Beautiful old town.

It is a very fun and beautiful old town to visit that immerse you in history. You get to experience how things were done a few hundred years ago. The staff was amazing at every building you walked into. They give you so much information about that time period as well as the history of the people that lived there. A must see if you love history. They also have fun little shops like a bakery, coffee shop and a lounge of sorts with live music. Fun fun fun!

So good to learn about history in person. The mixed emotions roll through me,Seeing the beautiful buildings, town and folks making so many important things by hand. But also the sadness and unbelievable truth about smart Americans believing they could own people! Horrible part of or past we should face not hide or downplay.

Old Salem has a nice and cool visitors center to start and end your tour. MESDA has a lovely way to see how households might have looked in the earlier days of WS history. There is a lit of walking on uneven surfaces. The professional docents are kind and informative. Some of the volunteer docents clearly do not like kids and should be encouraged to remember that they have paid tickets too.

It’s always a fun experience to walk around Old Salem. Not sure if it was off-season this time, but there were very few people around. Last time I was here for fall, it was so crowded and so many shops were open. It was still nice to walk around the streets and take some pictures. Some of the museums needed tickets for entry but we didn’t have it. It feels like you’re back in time walking the stone roads and seeing the old architecture.

What a beautiful historical area! Great place to just get out and enjoy the weather <3

This winery is absolutely beautiful! So many cozy spots to sit, both indoors and outdoors. They have a restaurant on-site, and while the food was decent (I’d get my dish again), the mimosa was absolutely delicious. A perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery! We truly enjoyed the fireplace as the weather was a little cool that day.

What a beautiful place! The grounds are immaculate, and the architecture is stunning. Special thanks to Devin, Savannah, and Anna L., who were so kind and helpful. They were all knowledgeable and friendly, and made our trip that much better. This has quickly become our favorite vineyards. We are definitely coming back.

Lori was wonderful! Exceptional wine knowledge mixed with charm and great pairing recommendations. The wine was delicious, the charcuterie box was a nice addition, water refills timely and a pleasant atmosphere. I've been doing wine tastings for awhile, this was my first local one in NC! We'll be back. Only downside restaurant was closed and packed. We'll make reservations in advance next time.

Childress Vineyards is such a beautiful, wonderful place to visit! I proposed to my beautiful now fiance labor day weekend. The staff was very helpful with scheduling and planning the perfect day and keeping the secret proposal on the low till the right moment. Since it was also her birthday weekend I signed up for tastings, the bistro, and the tour. All is highly recommended, Mr. Win is a knowledgeable tour guide, who really let you know how special it is what they do there. I personally would recommend this location to anyone looking for a nice date day with your loved ones. Or if you have a special moment like proposing at a beautiful location, the scenery is Devine. Thanks Childress for the lifelong memory!

Winn was a fantastic tour guide! Very knowledgeable. The vineyard is beautiful. We took family from out of town and thought this woukd be a great day trip. Bistro has very good food, portions are big, price not bad. Definitely recommend!

We visited for wine tasting. Our hostess, Erin was absolutely amazing and as smart as Einstein! We learned so much from her about wine and pairing. She was kind and knowledgeable. Also the wine was really good with quite a variety to choose from. The scenery was picturesque. Be prepared to take pics. We’ll definitely be visiting Childress again.

I had such a lovely experience at Childress Vineyards! The staff was friendly, the wine was delicious, and the setting was absolutely beautiful. It’s the perfect place to unwind, sip, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon. I’m already looking forward to my next visit

This is the 2nd time we we’ve visited Tweetsie the first time was during Christmas and it was so much fun! However, I think I prefer coming on a non-holiday. The experience was great but half of the park/ rides weren’t open during the off-season since it was cold / snowy. My 3.5 year old daughter is about 34 inches tall and was able to ride every ride except for the three big ones! 10/10 recommend, we had so much fun!!

Our 4 year old son is, as most little boys, very interested in trains right now. So, when we decided to have a nice autumn weekend trip in the Blue Ridge mountains, we obviously had to come visit. Tweetsie Railroad is a great, smaller-time amusement park with your typical locomotive and wild west themes. We definitely enjoyed all the rides, exploring the shop, seeing the shows, and of course, riding the train. Highly recommend for anyone with steam locomotive loving children (and adults!)

It was absolutely fantastic! I had a great time here, the rides are amazing, the food is great, the historical ET&WNC 12 and Yukon Queen 190 are 2 fantastic locomotives, the ride around the mountains has great scenery, the cowboy show is also great and well scripted, the gift shop has a lot of nice items, feeding the animals is fun, you can also pan for gold. I would definitely recommend this place if you like steam locomotives or if you just like amusement parks.

So much fun for all ages! The Gohst Train was great, the rides fun, and the haunted house! Our group had ages from 5 to 45. We all had a blast. Loved the shopes and the food was good too!

I been coming to Tweetsie since I was a child. My family loves the mountains and Tweetsie. Now my children and grand babies are getting the experience I had as a child. We love it here! ❤️ Great place to take your family and make lots of memories. This was our first time riding the ghost train and we LOVE it! The park was decorated along with the train. The train was our favorite. They had trick-or-treat for the kids different types of shoes throughout the park. We rode the rides in the dark. It was so much fun. Our next adventure will be Christmas at Tweetsie. We can’t wait.

Fantastic experience! We enjoyed the Ghost Train and did the Halloween experience. So much fun. We definitely will be back. The haunted house and freaky forest were the right amount of scare for our 9&11 year olds and so fun. Plenty of parking, organized so well, lots to see and do, minimal wait times for rides, so fun. The staff was 10/10 and so friendly and seemed to enjoy their jobs having fun with everyone!

Tweetsie doesn’t disappoint. If you have kids from the ages of 4-10 it’s a great family experience. I prefer the way it was in the 1980s and 1990s with gunfire (blanks) and cowboy and Indian (Native Americans), but it is still a great family fun destination.

We visited Mt.Mitchell in October during peak leaf season. Unfortunately, the higher elevation of Mt.Mitchell was past it's peak. But it was still totally worth the drive and the walk. We were up above the clouds on a beautiful fall morning. We got wonderful pictures and a nice little workout. We would definitely do it again. The drive getting there is spectacular.

What a beautiful view — 6,523 ft up! The drive to Mount Mitchell State Park is absolutely scenic with plenty of viewpoints along the way. The mountain roads are a bit narrow, so it’s not ideal for new drivers, but the journey is totally worth it. We visited during the fall season, and the view from the top was breathtaking — it’s one of those places where you just want to sit quietly and take in the beauty around you. 🍂🏞️

We were lucky that part of the parkway and road up to Mt Mitchell recently opened. Terrific twisty turny ride up the mountain was fun. The ranger we met was a friendly young lady full of information and knowledge of the area. The coffee shop even opened up for the first time in a a while. Fyi, if you're over 70 you do need to walk UPHILL to the summit. Its doable, just take it easy. Great park. You need to see it.

It's worth checking out, especially in October. You'll need to use this address in Google Maps: 867VQP8M+HW, otherwise, it'll just drop you on the road instead of the visitor center or a hike. The museum could use some updates, but this spot itself is really cool and has a lot of potential for improvement. It's a breezy and relaxing place to hang out with the family.

Wonderful day driving up to Mount Mitchell, nature at its best. The leaves were spectacular! The scenery surrounding the blue ridge parkway will take your breath.

Love it up here was glad to bring my friend Rama here when she and her husband came up from Florida they are from Syria originally we had a wonderful day. I also grew up around here spend many days galaxing growing up to make money for school clothes so mt Mitchell is home this is my home town my heritage all I know I wouldn’t be able to venture far from these mtns I love them so much they are the most beautiful in the world in my book a lot of history around this area you just got to talk to the locals who live on or around the mtn we can take you to places that’s not pointed out on the map you will never want to leave .

Beautiful drive up, great area. Easy hike. Lots of rest spots if needed. Clean bathrooms. BEAUTIFUL VIEWS

Smaller zoo which makes it great for toddlers! We were able to walk through in less than 2 hours. We purchased our tickets ahead of time, walked right in, and had no problems! They allow you to bring in outside food and drink as well which is always helpful with kids. The biggest attraction is the giraffes. We were able to feed them right at 10am when the exhibit opened. Would definitely recommend if you have kids in the area!

It's a small downtown zoo, so you have to have perspective. You can walk the entire thing while taking your time at each enclosure in 90 minutes. So if you are expecting the NC zoo size, then it's quite different. The variety of animals is quite good and on a calm and pleasant day you got to see everyone active. Distance to every animal is fairly close so getting pictures or seeing their movement is really easy. The entire park was clean, well laid out, and simple to navigate. Pricing was typical for concessions and souvenirs, and gate price was lower than your really big zoos which was nice to see. I was very impressed with what you were able to experience while being wedged into a near downtown area. I will come back.

Greenville zoo is a fun place for a family outing! If you can, I suggest you buy tickets online as it saves you $2 per ticket and all you have to do when you come to the gate is give the confirmation number and you are all set! I went on a Thursday and it wasn't that busy at all! I went with a friend and our young kids and they loved it! Especially the Orangutans and the Monkeys. We only had 2.5 hours to spend there including having our packed lunch which took a half hour of that time. We would have easily spent 3 hours in the zoo part and probably another hour at the park outside the zoo.

This is a small zoo. It's beautifully maintained. The animal habitats are well-designed and constructed. The exotic animals, birds, reptiles, and tortoises we saw looked in peak condition. The Barnyard exhibit is empty. It is going to be rebuilt. There was no litter or graffiti. It was our first visit. We definitely plan to visit again.

Such a fun time! Was busy but not over crowded. Went at 11 AM and left around 1 PM. Got to visit multiple areas more than once. It took us about 45 minutes to get through the whole zoo. Short sweet and cute for a quick spur of the moment, need something to do on a Saturday.

Fun day at the zoo with the kids and grands. Small zoo and some exhibits were closed. But still a cute zoo to visit. Very hot the day we went. They had misting stations around zoo, which helped cool things off.

Great spot for a family outing! We went on a Sunday afternoon and it wasn’t too busy, which made it easy to enjoy. It’s the perfect size for a 2-hour visit—you can see everything without feeling rushed. Our 3-year-old especially loved feeding Miles the giraffe, which was definitely a highlight. A fun, laid-back experience for families with young kids.

This was a very smart move the city made in creating this public environment for all to enjoy. They're lucky that they have this natural waterfall feature in their town. it's a great for the locals and a awesome place to stop as you travel. There's a parking garage nearby the charge $3 an hour we stayed for about 3 hours it was plenty of time to relax walk around grab something to eat and head on to our next adventure. The kids like going down to the water and walk on the cross the rocks. It was a very beautiful, and romantic we seen a couple get engaged there. Looking forward to our next visit there.

Amazed to see the waterfall inside the park & inside the city :) it was charming beautiful & clean. Entry is free. Fascinating to that park & surrounding areas were reclaimed & redeveloped - I can imagine it would have been such taunting task. Reedy riverside walk is awesome. Bridge adds to the beauty.

This park was so beautiful!! And it was within walking distance of our hotel (Embassy Suites). It was so peaceful here. We walked down the creek for about a mile. It was nice to see people enjoying such a beautiful green space together. There were walkers, joggers, and bikers all on the trail and people fishing in the creek. This is definitely a must visit if in the Greenville area.

It’s our first trip to Greenville and this downtown area is so impressive it makes you want to sell everything back home and move here!! So many dining options, then a great path to take an evening stroll, watch the waterfalls and the ducks. We loved it!

It’s truly a beautiful park with so much to see and well-maintained trails. You can even get into the water, and there are plenty of spots to relax or enjoy a picnic. If you’re visiting Greenville, I definitely recommend stopping by here. We parked a bit farther away, but parking was free for two hours.

What an outstanding place located right in the heart of downtown Greenville, South Carolina. The river played a major role in the development of the city from its settlement days forward. The park and the immediate area pay homage to that. A magnificent curved bridge spans the river high above, allowing terrific views of the falls and the rocks that form the bed of the river. There was not much water flow the day we were there, October 18th, but my understanding is that when there is a lot of rain it is an incredible sight to see. There are a lot of activities, restaurants, points of interest, and things to see within walking distance of Falls Park, so find a parking spot and take it all in!

Wow! This place is Beautiful! I could spend the whole day there! We are visiting and my cousin took us there yesterday and we thoroughly enjoyed our time! She said on Saturday they close down the street and put up a market. We are absolutely going to go back for that!🙂

This campsite is very nice! The bathrooms were clean and spacious, which we really appreciated. There was some construction happening on the other side, and it looks like a new bathroom facility is coming soon, which is great to see. The trails were beautiful, and all the overlooks had amazing views — perfect for nature lovers. My two fur babies had the best time exploring and enjoying the outdoors! Overall, a relaxing and enjoyable stay. We’re looking forward to coming back!

An amazing state park, with great waterfalls, views, and hiking areas. I lucked out and got to visit on a perfect fall morning with high water flow earlier this month. Great loop trail. If you go down to Hurricane Falls, your legs will be burning by the time you complete the stairs back up to the rim, but it’s 1000% worth it. The suspension bridge is another iconic point in this park. A few notes - after overlook 1, I didn’t find the view at Inspiration Point to be better; it’s not that far further down the trail, but it’s also not necessary. And then the parking area has a gate that isn’t opened until close to opening hours for the visitor center. I showed up early and was surprised to find a locked gate.

Tallulah falls is a bit underwhelming compared to other places for example, Linville Falls in North Carolina. The exhaustion of the steps def was not worth the view at the end. Parking wasn’t free. Overall the trails were maintained, a great amount of diverse people on the trail. Very family friendly. Bridge was nice. If you’re under an hour way I’d recommend but if not, I’d put more time to the drive and go somewhere nicer. I’m from the mtns of North Carolina and NC’s mtns are free and definitely worth the drive and views. If you’re reading this now, it isn’t fully “fall” colored yet just slightly.

Absolutely breathtaking views! This is a must see, photos don’t do it justice. I would recommend good hiking shoes and walking sticks if you plan to go up to the higher look outs. The suspension bridge is awesome although the trek down and back up is definitely a workout. One of the best State Parks I’ve been to! Get there early on the weekends as it fills up and there will be a line to get in.

Tallulah Gorge is absolutely gorgeous, and the hike itself really isn’t difficult if you’re a pretty active person. I kept hearing how challenging it was supposed to be, but it felt super manageable and not intense at all. The trails are well-maintained, the views are amazing, and it’s an easy hike to enjoy without feeling worn out. That said, if you’re more of a beginner or not used to hiking, some parts might feel a bit tougher—but overall it’s totally doable. It’s the perfect spot for soaking in scenery without a crazy workout.

We had passed the signs so many times and never stopped...until yesterday (11/11/2025)! What an incredible experience...from the front gate person to the info desk to the gift shop experience indoors all the way to the outdoor experience! The walk down to the bottom of the gorge to see Hurricane Falls was strenuous for me (I'm a plump person and former smoker...yay for quitting) and it definitely had my heart rate going 90-to-nothing! I would definitely visit again...but after I go and shed quite a few pounds... 🤷‍♀️😂

Very cool place to visit, only $5 to park and enjoy. There is some hiking required to see it all, but there are very nice trails and suspension bridge. Also a cool museum and a gift shop. I highly recommend!!

Nice place for a half a day trip. $8 entrance and shuttle fee per person. You can opt for a shuttle or climb the hill to reach the view point. It is 0.6 miles and tough. The welcome center and view point is great. It is good to visit during peak fall.

You are able to drive to the parking lot and either hike to the top or take a shuttle to the top. The shuttle costs $8 for people 16+ free for 15- There's a senior discount also but don't know what that fee is. The views are amazing.

Beautiful fall afternoon to visit Brasstown Bald. The views are stunning. The walk up to the lookout from the visitor center is very steep, so the shuttle was the way to go. Definitely worth the trip.

The journey to this beautiful spot includes an 11-mile drive along a winding, curved road. After paying the $5 per-person entry fee at the parking area, visitors have two options to reach the summit: take a complimentary shuttle or embark on a steep, 15-20 minute hike.

Brasstown Bald is absolutely worth the trip. The drive up is scenic, and the views from the top are even better-wide, sweeping, and incredibly peaceful. It's the highest point in Georgia, and you really feel it when you're standing at the summit. There's a shuttle if you don't want to hike, but the trail is short and paved, and the walk up is part of the experience. The visitor center is well-kept, and it's a great spot for photos, quiet time, or just taking in the view. Definitely a memorable stop.

POV : Drive two hours north of Atlanta to Brass Town Bald, the highest point in Georgia. Take in 360 degree views of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and even the Atlanta skyline …. Have a picnic on a Porsche 911… Enjoy life

Excellent place to visit. Great views of the surrounding area. Great hiking trails. A very well kept Park. A must see place.

If you’re looking to escape the city and breathe truly fresh air, this is the perfect spot. Nature lovers and anyone who wants to admire beautiful waterfalls must visit this place. A peaceful and refreshing experience!

Beautiful waterfalls! Note that the only way to view the falls is a .4 VERY steep hike up the mountain. The path is paved and there are a few places to rest along the way. But if you aren't in shape, it is not an easy climb. It can be done but take advantage of those places to rest! The view is beautiful at the top!

Paved trail, but up hill. Easy climb and beautiful falls. I thought the walk was beautiful until we got to the spectacular falls. The water cascading over the rocks beside the trail is gorgeous. The falls were amazing. Plenty of water due to the recent rains, but the water had settled enough to be clear and not muddy. What a great day.

Such a beautiful walk, and pretty easy too! $5 entry fee per person. Gift shop at the entrance. There's a few steep inclines but the whole thing is paved. Be careful and wear grippy shoes though if it has recently rained, as it can be a bit slippery on the inclines. Lots of interesting plant life too along the way.

Admission is $5 per person. The trail is well-paved and easy with only slight inclines, taking about 30 minutes round trip. There’s a nice view at the top, along with a small gift shop and clean restrooms. Parking is plentiful.

Anna Ruby Falls is a truly charming place. Admission is only $5 per person and well worth it. The trail to the falls is short, paved, and accessible, with a few steeper sections. The twin waterfalls cascading side by side create a breathtaking view, perfect for photos and enjoying nature. The area is well maintained, clean, and organized, with a cozy little gift shop and even a water fountain to refill your bottle. A complete and very enjoyable experience.

Beautiful! Easy walk to the falls. Benches to sit down if you need to rest

Absolutely loved Mercier Orchards! It’s a beautiful and wonderful family friendly Orchard. The store was stocked with so many things and it included their bakery! The baked goods and apple cider were amazing! I also loved the option to pick your own apples! Such a neat experience!

Mercier Orchards is a beautiful place. It is apple festival time of year in October so it was extremely busy and crowded, but it didn't stop me from getting their apple cider donuts, apple butter, and apple taffy. It was all worth it! Those donuts are delicious with some apple butter on top. It's a must stop to enjoy the scenery!

My husband and I visited Mericer Orchard for the first time and it is a must do in the area! We explored the shop which is very neat with lots to offer. We then got some goodies from the bakery including some of their hand pies, muffin, and apple fritter. All of these were delicious and if you visit you absolutely need to check out the bakery. We then went on a tractor tour and our tour guide was super kind and knowledgeable. You can get some really neat views from this tour. We ended our visit with some wine and cider tasting. If you enjoy hard cider, this is another thing you shouldn't miss! They offer and sell many delicious ciders. We will be back when in the area again.

Very crowded orchard! The parking situation was kind of a mess. We paid $30 for 2 of us to go apple picking which I didn’t think was bad. We went to an orchard last year in Elijay and it was way more expensive so we didn’t end up going apple picking. I will say the orchard was pretty heavily picked through but we still left with so many apples! The experience was fun and we enjoyed some apples as we walked through the trees. We stopped in the store and got a donut and a fried pie before hand. Total chaos in the store. I feel like they need a better set up for getting people through the store. The line for the bakery was so long and was kind of frustrating when we couldn’t pay there. My husband enjoyed his fried pie and my donut was pretty good but I felt lacked the apple cider flavor. The apple cider itself was really good! My husband got a sparkling cider too which was really good! Overall I would come back to this orchard.

Beautiful orchards & fun experience picking apples. The store is huge with lots of variety, but we went during (apparently) peak season and it was PACKED. Would have loved to have been able to walk around the store and shop but the crowd was intense. Lines moved decently fast but wrapped into multiple rooms. Definitely a beautiful spot and would love to visit again in the spring!

Mercier Orchards in Blue Ridge, Georgia is one of the most scenic places to visit in North Georgia. The hayride through the orchard and the apple picking experience are truly memorable and perfect for families. They grow so many different varieties of apples, and it’s always fun to try something new each season. One of the best parts is their country store—everything is fresh and delicious. My absolute favorite treat is their fried pies, especially the coconut pie, which is worth the two-hour drive on its own. If you’re looking for a family-friendly day trip or authentic apple orchard experience in Blue Ridge, Mercier’s is the place to go!

I had an amazing visit to Mercier Orchards! The fruit-picking experience was so much fun, and the views are absolutely beautiful. The bakery treats, especially the fresh donuts, were delicious. Plenty of activities for kids and adults alike.

Loved this adventure today in car 114! It was beautiful scenery. Our tour guide was cool, he properly introduced himself, but of course I can’t recall his name (I’m sorry.) I was able to sit next to some good peeps and ‘Hawk Eye Betty’ was even quick enough to spot us a deer! I will say they properly say to arrive 45min early to pick up your ticket and it was spot on! Even thought the line was long, it didn’t take long to get the ticket from the prepaid ticket window. I deducted a star due to web link to see parking was “not found.” Thankfully I found a lot to park in nearby, but the info is not marked well. They caution you to be careful because some parking is limited to 3 hrs, so I could not tell if I was fixing to waste $10 to park. I was fortunate enough to have a couple walk up that used the lot yesterday and was able to confirm it was all day parking. I have tried to save the parking info, so maybe I can request that the web link be fixed to show you parking options and to put a sign on/near the parking kiosk that it is day parking, but I am going to include info in pics. The lot I used which was great is right by tracks and stores: Blue Ridge Bird Seed Company and M. Main Farmhouse market. The train ride is worth it in the open car! It was cold today and it was very tolerable with appropriate attire.

We and others were a bit disappointed to learn that the train does not go up the mountain or through any valleys. In fact, for the majority of the ride, one side of the train has nothing to look at because there is a berm right up to the rail. The other side has a view of a small river the majority of the ride. It is a very pretty view, but a lot of it is more about seeing nice homes along the river than seeing fall foliage. Also, for what it's worth, the train only goes 10 mph. It's a 26-mile round trip ride on flat ground. No hills. We rode the Premier car, and it was comfortable. The attendant was nice. The town surrounding the train station is very charming. A strip full of restaurants and shops. I will be back to experience all of that. All in all, the train experience was a little underwhelming for me.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Our trip on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway was absolutely incredible! We booked Coach Car C for the 2-hour ride, and it was such a perfect choice. Sitting in the open cart added a whole new level to the experience—the crisp fall air, the colorful leaves, and the peaceful sounds of the train made it unforgettable. The views along the route were stunning, and stopping at the Georgia/Tennessee border was such a neat highlight! It’s the perfect outing for anyone wanting to soak in some fall beauty and small-town charm. Highly recommend! 🚂🍁

I visited the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway with my service dog Toothless. He has never experienced a train, so it was a training day for him. Lots of new sounds (many of them scary), steep stairs to board (handicap lift available), so many new smells, and crowed with lots of new people! He did a fantastic job learning and listening. The staff from check in to helping me find my lost key fob was fantastic! Jeff was our guide for the Express Ride and had some good "dad jokes" and a fish story!. The weather was crisp and the fall colors on full display! Such an amazing experience and history of this rail line! We will definitely be back!

We opted for the 2 hr open coach tour...short & a relaxing afternoon ride. Bit early for foliage, prefer the ride out this time of year, not much to see on return. Note you change seats on return so you experience both sides. Narrator Chip did a wonderful job. Arrive early for good seats as train is popular.

My Husband and I got to mark an experience off of our bucket list! We went on the 4 hour ride on Halloween 🎃 day! All the workers were dressed up. The leaves and scenery was so beautiful. The only downside was that Cooper Hill Tenn and MaCaysville Ga were extremely crowded and the map we received was hard to navigate!

I thought the ride was going to be too cold in the open car, but the train didn’t go fast and the weather was perfect. Our car guide, Jeff, was super informative and even funny at times😃. He was full of knowledge in both history and local stories. I also loved that passengers changed sides on the return trip so everyone could experience all of the views.

Carolyn was our tour guide and she was fantastic! The tour was very fun and educational. At the end of the tour, we got to pan for gold. The staff were very helpful and informative. We were able to take home the gold we found in small vials. We also did a gem bucket. The staff frequently checked on us to make sure we were doing well and they answered our questions about the rocks we found. All of the staff were just so friendly and helpful.

Very cool and educational tour. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and added some humor into the tour. My advice would be if you’re cold natured bring a long sleeve shirt or jacket to wear on the tour- it’s chilly. Also would wear close-toed shoes, it’s wet and rocky. Just about everyone had mud on the backs of their pants legs from walking down the narrow stairs, so wear some pants and shoes you wouldn’t mind getting dirty. Overall would highly recommend!

This was easily one of our favorite experiences on our trip to Dahlonega! It was so cool and educational for our entire family. Our tour guide was great both informative and funny and we really enjoyed every part of the tour. Then we did some gem mining after and I highly recommend adding that as part of your experience especially if you have little ones. They get to keep their gems and my boys are already planning to put them in a cool cabinet when we get home! Everyone was super nice and they have a TON of cool stuff in the gift shop.

This was our first time checking out a gold mine, and we had such a great time! The tour was really informative, and our guide was awesome—he made the whole experience super enjoyable. We also got to try gold panning, and we even got to keep a little bit of the gold we found. Overall, a super cool experience and totally worth the visit!

This tour has a very interesting history, it also highlights the unfortunate exposure of past workers to hazardous working conditions. It is not ideal for individuals with mobility issues due to the presence of stairs and steep pathways that can become extremely slippery. It is essential to wear non skid shoes and hats for protection, as water drips from the ceiling. Notably, other cave tours ( other states )provide helmets for added safety.

Our guide, Chandler, was excellent. He did an especially great job with my son. He kept his attention and shared a lot of great information. We got there right when they opened at 10 am. The first tour didn’t leave until 10:30, but they let us do our (included) gold panning before the tour so between that and the gift shop the wait went quickly. The staff at the panning section was extremely helpful in both explaining how to do it and just generally assisting. My son ended up with no gold in his pan but they made sure he still went home with a fleck or two (my husband wasn’t so lucky though lol) Our tour was between 45-50 mins. We also bought the smallest gem bucket ($30) and both of my kids split it. The women at the counter tried to upsell me to the $50 bucket for both kids but the $30 was plenty. They each got a bag of gems and were happy with what they got. I’d recommend allocating about two hours here. This will definitely be a core memory for my kids. Definitely recommend.

Visited during a school field trip, the tour didn’t seem long enough but when they turned the lights out and when they showed us an old mining tool, it was awesome! The students panned for gold and perused the gift shop.

This place is truly a refreshing escape into nature. The moment you arrive, the sound of rushing water and the crisp, fresh air instantly create a calming atmosphere. The waterfall is absolutely beautiful as it cascades down the rocks, surrounded by lush greenery and seasonal colors that make the entire view feel alive. Standing near it, you can’t help but pause and soak in the serenity it brings.The trail leading up to the falls is well maintained, marked clearly, and lined with tall trees that offer both shade and stunning views. The gentle breeze, mixed with the earthy scent of the forest, makes the hike enjoyable and relaxing. Even in the fall, the play of golden and red leaves adds a magical touch, making every step of the journey worthwhile. What I love most is how peaceful and energizing this place feels. It’s the perfect spot to disconnect from the busyness of everyday life and simply be present in nature. Whether you’re hiking, taking photos, or just sitting quietly to listen to the water, every visit leaves you refreshed and renewed. This is one of those places you’ll want to return to again and again. 🌿💧🍂🍁😇

Amicalola Falls is absolutely breathtaking! The views are stunning from every angle — whether you’re looking up from the base of the falls or hiking to the top. The sound of the rushing water and the mountain air make it such a peaceful escape. We enjoyed exploring the trails, and the steps to the top are definitely a workout but completely worth it for the view! The park is clean, well-maintained, and perfect for all ages. There are plenty of picnic areas, beautiful overlooks, and friendly staff throughout the park. If you’re planning a visit, take your time to enjoy the scenery — it’s truly one of Georgia’s most beautiful spots. Great for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or just a little time in nature to refresh your soul.

Amicalola Falls is an absolute must see! The waterfall is stunning, and the trails offer amazing views and fresh mountain air. The visitor center and gift shop were great especially the mini wildlife display! A huge thanks to Carla, who was so knowledgeable and friendly while helping us plan our route to the falls. The stairs up and down were a fun adventure with breathtaking views. This park is truly a peaceful, beautiful Georgia jewel. Can’t wait to return!

I had not been here since I was a child it’s become a beautiful state park! It was on the way back from a trip so I had to stop and catch a little hike to see the waterfall and I’m glad I did! The guest service in the lodge is outstanding too. Great place to grab some food to refuel afterward.

Absolutely love Amicalola Falls!!! My boyfriend and I come here several times a year. It's peaceful, beautiful, and just a wonderful experience. If you have never been I strongly recommend coming here! It's not too far to the base of the falls. If you're afraid of heights and don't want to climb the stairs, you can drive to the top, don't worry! However you experience it, it's worth the drive to witness this magnificent scenery!

My wife and I had a wonderful experience at this park today. It was $5 to get in and it had a ranger station which was pretty impressive. They had information centers plus they had the souvenir section which was very well stocked. The rangers were very knowledgeable and friendly. There was a ATM on site and purified water stations by the toilets. They also had three Park stamps instead of one hours of collect patches in the wife collects postcards and magnets as well. Drive across the street from the ranger station up that road and come to your first parking space on the right. Then go down the walkway, not the stairs and about .3 mi you'll come across the middle of the falls. Then you get back in your car and go up to the top. Behind the ranger station is access to the Appalachian trail which is kind of neat. I would have liked to have hiked that but I'm too old for that now. The restrooms were very clean and we had a wonderful time.

Stunning views from the top...one of the best spots to see the fall colors! $5 entry fee to the park with a visitor center and there’s a boardwalk leading to the falls with steps you can climb to the top. You can also drive up (limited parking available).

Visiting the State Botanical Garden of Georgia during Christmas was honestly such a peaceful and magical experience. The lights throughout the garden added this soft, warm glow that made everything feel a little extra special—like a quiet winter wonderland tucked into Athens. It wasn’t overly crowded, which made it easy to stroll through the paths, take in all the decorated trees and glowing displays, and just enjoy the calm. If you love holiday vibes but want something more serene than chaotic, this place is such a sweet spot. Plus, the lights reflecting off the plants and walkways made for some really pretty photos without even trying. A cozy, festive little escape that felt equal parts relaxing and joyful.

This past weekend I was visiting my alma mater, The University of Georgia. I got my master's there in 1999 and haven't really been back since. My first daughter was little when we were there and we take her for hikes in the Botanical Garden. Back then there was one little garden and the conservatory was brand new. Today the gardens have grown! Not only have the plants nature's, but there's now many different gardens. I'm not much of a gardener so I won't pretend, but I can say they're all beautiful. The conservatory is the same, but it's got a partner building that houses the most amazing and beautiful porcelain collection. Again, I'm not much into dishes or figurines, but to imagine that one person collected all of this stirs the imagination. It sounds boring, but trust me it's a must see. I went to relieve the holes we took with my daughter, and I found a wonderful fairy land of plants and new experiences. If you get to Athens GA for any reason, the State Botanical Garden is good couple of hours experience, more of your into plants!

It’s free 😀 but it would be worth visiting even if it wasn’t! Pick a beautiful day and head out for a relaxing time surrounded by beautiful plants. There are also a lot of fun facts on the signs I found really intriguing, and I’m no plant nerd. So many different types of plants and environments, with the hill of wildflowers especially amazing! Also go visit the porcelain museum—I thought it sounded lame but it is also really neat!

Beautiful gardens with plenty of parking. No entry fee, but donations accepted. There's a gift shop. What they really need is a cafe or at least a snack bar. We enjoyed our visit.

Couldn't possibly do this place justice with words. Go! Bring a picnic. Bring everyone you know. This was a revelation in what a community can provide for it's residents and visitors. I have paid large sums to have less fun and relaxation. The children's garden and flying squirrels nest are not to be missed. Perfectly manicured and curated ornamental gardens on a sprawling, truly gorgeous property.

This place is absolutely awesome! The children's area is amazing, and my 3-year-old enjoys playing there. Entrance is free, but donations are encouraged. I also took my elderly mother there, and they provided a scooter for her to enjoy (check the website for details on availability). Overall, an amazing place, and I recommend everyone visit.

It is really nice. If you like plants or just nice scenic trails to walk on, you will like this place. There are also a couple of play areas for kids that look pretty awesome too. The pocelain museum onsite is worth a visit too - it is pretty amazing, and no it is not porcelain toilets. Honestly I think this place should charge admission. The outdoor areas are on par with the Atlanta Botanical gardens in my opinion, and Atlanta Botanical is a bit pricey on the admission. I have attached a picture of the map for those who would like to see the layout. Its a pretty big place. I spent about 3 hours there.

Plan to spend at least 3 hours here and wear comfortable shoes. Beautiful scenery and wide variety of well cared for plants. My visit was in late September, but there were still a lot of blooms around. I'll have to come back for the daffodils next year in the spring!

My visit to Gibbs Gardens was an absolutely refreshing and memorable experience. Surrounded by beautiful seasonal flowers, vibrant fall colors, and peaceful landscapes, the garden felt like stepping into a living painting. Every corner offered something unique, from colorful roses and hydrangeas to water lilies floating serenely on ponds. The changing fall leaves rich shades of red, orange, and gold added an extra layer of charm and perfectly framed the floral displays.The design and layout of the gardens made the experience even more enjoyable. Clear signboards and maps were thoughtfully placed throughout the property, making navigation simple and stress-free. I could easily find each themed garden, whether it was the Japanese garden with its stone lanterns and statues or the wide flower fields bursting with color. This attention to detail ensured that I could focus fully on the beauty around me without worrying about directions.The staff at Gibbs Gardens were another highlight of my visit. They were consistently friendly, approachable, and helpful whether offering guidance on trails or simply greeting visitors with a warm smile. Their presence made the entire visit feel welcoming and well-organized, showing that guest experience is clearly a top priority here.I was also impressed by the balance between natural beauty and careful landscaping. The wooded areas, with tall trees and filtered sunlight, offered rustic charm, while the manicured flower beds and artistic sculptures added elegance. Together, they created an atmosphere that was peaceful yet energizing, making it easy to spend hours just wandering, relaxing, and taking photographs.Cleanliness and maintenance were excellent as well. The walking paths were tidy, rest areas were spotless, and benches were thoughtfully placed for comfort and photo opportunities. Every detail seemed designed with visitors in mind, which made the day even more enjoyable.Overall, Gibbs Gardens is not just a place to see flowers it’s a sanctuary for the soul. It offers peace, joy, and inspiration in every season. Whether you are looking for a quiet escape, a spot for photography, or simply a way to reconnect with nature, Gibbs Gardens delivers an unforgettable experience. With its helpful staff, clear organization, and breathtaking scenery, it truly deserves its reputation as one of the most beautiful gardens to visit. 🌺🌸🌹🌼🌻😍

Breathtaking Fall Colors and a Perfect Family Outing! This was my second visit to Gibbs Gardens, and it was just as magical as the first! I took my in-laws to show them the beautiful fall colors, especially in the majestic Japanese Garden — it was absolutely stunning. 🍁 They also loved exploring the Wildflower Garden, which was full of vibrant colors and peaceful views. The gardens are so well-maintained, and every corner feels serene and picturesque. It’s a perfect spot to enjoy nature and spend a relaxing day with family. Highly recommend visiting during the fall season!

Absolutely beautiful! Such a peaceful and well-kept garden — everything is so nicely maintained and full of life. A perfect place to relax, take a walk, and enjoy nature’s beauty. Highly recommend visiting!

I went last week for the 1st time! I went out for the 2nd time this week. We've all got a yearly membership. The Manor house is beautiful. The Japanese garden was amazing. We will be going back next week. Just a peaceful gorgeous walk to take with friends and family.

What a spectacular way to spend an afternoon. This was my wife and my first time visiting. Mr Gibbs love letter to his passion is nothing short of amazing. I look forward to visiting many more times! DONT FORGET YOUR CAMERA!

This was our first visit to Gibbs Garden. The grounds are in great shape and the employees are so friendly and helpful. Christine was a rockstar, giving us so much helpful info! The butterflies were loving the wild flowers and I can't say enough about the Japanese Garden! We became annual members the same day, well done Gibbs Garden!!!

We didn't stay overnight, we just visited the water park. Park was clean and well maintained. Staff (early twenties age group) were nice, helpful and seemed to enjoy their jobs. Buy your ticket at the gate if you are eligible for a military discount, price will still be right at $100 for two people, but worth the savings.

we stayed in the campground and it was wonderful. it was during the off season so the water park wasn't open. Our site was very nice and clean. The wifi worked wonderful. We would recommend this place for camping to anyone. We drove up to Helen for Octoberfest.

Amilya was amazing. Always made sure we were taken care of all week. Great bartender. Awesome service with the Margaritaville golf cart stopping at our campsite. And great server. Definitely made our experience worth while

We recently visited Margaritaville lol, and it was a fun and relaxing experience from start to finish! The combination of lakeside views, beach vibes, and family-friendly activities made it a memorable outing. The water park was a highlight—clean, well-maintained, and full of attractions for all ages. The slides were thrilling, the wave pool was a blast, and the lazy river was the perfect place to unwind. We also appreciated the variety of food and drink options throughout the park. The frozen margaritas lived up to the name, and the beachside grill offered solid options for both kids and adults. One of the best parts was the laid-back, island-style atmosphere. Music was playing, the staff was friendly, and everything felt very well organized. Renting a cabana by the lake made our day even more enjoyable and gave us a comfortable spot to cool off and relax. Parking and entry were smooth, though it's worth arriving early on weekends to avoid crowds. The prices were reasonable for a full-day experience, especially considering the range of amenities. Margaritaville is a great summer destination whether you’re visiting with family, a group of friends, or just looking for a mini getaway without leaving Georgia. We’ll definitely be back!

Fun slides. Not very long lines. Food was meh. I didn't have any cocktails, but there were bees buzzing around the bar anyway. Kids had a great time, so that's what counts. Parents might be a bit disappointed with the food and drink, though.

Just beware of the waterpark especially if your family has dietary restrictions. We called in advance to ensure we can bring in safe food for our family with allergies and they said no problem. At the gate our cooler with lunch was denied entry altogether. Very frustrating miscommunication. They’ll also make you pour out waters for children, and adults, despite it being 100 degrees.

Listen if you live close and I’m gonna come more than a few times during the summer by the season pass. If you just go with a daily pass, you’re gonna pay an arm and a leg. This place is a lot of fun once you get in but for my family of four for one day we spent $350-$400 for about six hours. Honestly, if they just made the prices reasonable, you’d probably have a lot more people coming.

I super love this venue !! We have seen multiple shows here, HALSEY, GOD IS A WEAPON, and their first concert ever back in 2009 to name a few and it’s gotten even better over the years! Great acoustics for an outdoor venue, great drinks, and friendly staff!! Except for ONE staff member that stood out for all the wrong reason. The staff member stationed at section 101, older lady, who took her job way too damn seriously. Who thought she was the gateway to protecting innocence. The last defense from protecting the artist and the precious venue. Whose job she thought was to be rude to anyone who talked to her 🫡🫡🫡🫡 My wife l, me, my friend, anyone she saw. You take away from the experience BY YOURSELF. That’s not an easy feat.

Second time @ this venue. Staff is friendly and helpful. Facilities are clean. Try to pay close attention to the bag policy specifics, but if you don't, it's ok, there is a coat check type station at each entrance. If you're a drinker, I'd go heavy on the pregame, drinks start at almost $20. Definitely will return

Great place for a concert! We have seen several shows here and they all rocked. We just saw Collective Soul here and it was great. The acoustics here are awesome even though its outdoors. Our seats were just okay considering we had a tree view. I also dont like the fact that the place is cashless. Still though this is a cool venue

First visit to Ameris and was very pleased. Very organized. Easy to navigate. Merch, bathrooms, food and drink were all visible and close to the seating area. The box office staff were friendly and helpful.

Venue was awesome! Lawn seating with chair rental for $1. Box seats. Private seating. Regular seats are under the pavilion. Big fans keep air moving. Seats upgrades were available moving us from 104 to the orchestra, dead center stage! Sound was amazing. 2 large screens. Food lines were short and moved quick. $11 refillable sodas. $2 hotdogs. Bring in your own cups with ice and they have filtered water stations. Restrooms were easily accessible and clean!! Staff was knowledgeable and friendly.

We attended the Rod Stewart concert here, our first time visiting this venue. We were very impressed. We elected to sit in the grassy area and it was perfect. A light breeze kept the summer heat from being unbearable. The line to get in was long, but it moved quickly. There were lots of vendors to buy food, drink, souvenirs, etc. Vendors came around offering drinks during the concert. Several people came up to the Will Call window looking for tickets and upgrades. The event was sold out, so I recommend getting your tickets in advance. I hope we get a chance to come back here again soon.

The best venue for a large rock concert in the greater ATL area. The show was amazing! Security was absolutely wonderful. They gave us water when we needed it. They were excellent with pulling crowd surfers over the barricade without injuries. The security was also very fair with distributing items the band threw that missed the crowd. That speaks volumes that they care about keeping the patrons happy and wanting to come back. Thanks for a great show!

Wonderful experience. You may want to see the sunrise and sunset here. Amazing place for self and family visitors. Highly recommended.

Went on Saturday morning 7/5/25 felt so good out there with a nice breeze and low humidity that morning. It was a good hike, with it being my very first hike at Stone Mountain. I normally go to KENNESAW Mountain but that day I decided to go to Stone Mountain to hike over there for the first time and I will definitely be coming back more often I enjoyed it. I was expecting myself to make it to the top within 45 minutes to an hour, but nope I got there sooner. I got there to the top in 30 minutes and 24 seconds from the walk up trail parking lot With 4 stops along the way to catch my breath lasting at least 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Pros: - Parking is relatively cheap inside the park; $20 a car per day, or $40 a car for a whole year. Access is also technically free if you can find parking within the town of Stone Mountain and then just walk into the park. - The natural landscape is pretty beautiful and peaceful (aside from a rather hideous carving on one side of the mountain's face), especially on a sunny day with blue sky. You might even get a close look at some interesting wildlife, like deer, owls, and hawks. - The hike up the mountain poses a good challenge for hikers, runners, or just anyone looking to get in a workout. Took us about 40 minutes from parking lot to peak moving at a steady pace with a couple rest stops. I would rate the difficulty somewhere between 6/10 to 8/10. It is filled with smooth rocky steps that can be a bit slippery and there are sections that get REALLY steep. - At the peak, offers some spectacular views of the surrounding park and lake. On a clear day, you can also see the Metro Atlanta skyline from Downtown to Buckhead to Sandy Springs. I also appreciated the wind and breeze at the peak since this was in the middle of summer. Cons: - A lot of areas on the hiking trail don't have much tree cover, and the mountain feels like one giant smooth slab of concrete, which means on a hot sunny day, the heat can be pretty brutal. Plan and pack accordingly! - I found the Welcome Center at the top to be a little disappointing. Refreshments seemed expensive. At least they had bathrooms and AC.

Amazing experience. We have been there twice, in winter for Christmas and in summer for the 4th of July. I strongly recommend this place. A lot of activities most of them for kids but not only. The nature is amazing and there is also a camping site by the lake. Magical ambiance at night with the Christmas decorations and it is even if it snows. The 4th of July show with drones and fireworks is also amazing. I would go again for a weekend retreat.

Climbed it for a sunrise mountaintop experience, very much worth it. Brought my 3 year old daughter and she was able to walk up most of it only needing help in the very steep parts. Legs were burning but the air was clear and the sunrise was beautiful. Would recommend.

One of the most beautiful places I visited in Atlanta so far. The view is amazing, wonderful sunset, and clean track. You can enter for free by the pedestrians entrance, but I believe you should pay a fee to go by car until the park lot.

Wanted to hike while visiting one of my close childhood friends and we ended up settling for this place the day before I had to head back home. For parking it was $20 so just keep that and mind and it was also $20 for the sky ride if you would like to experience that as well. We had a really good time and are glad we went when we did because we got to watch the sunset which made this hike 10000% better. You can see the whole sky and trees from all different parts of this mountain so makes it cool for a couple different stops. For sure should at least check this place out once if you haven’t been there before..

If you’re looking for a quick escape from the city without driving too far, Stone Mountain Park is a must-do. The walk-up trail is about 2 miles round trip and gives you a surprisingly good workout; it starts easy, then turns into a steep granite climb that will get your heart racing. It’s short enough for beginners but rewarding enough for regular hikers. The views from the summit are spectacular, on a clear day you can see downtown Atlanta, Kennesaw, and even the Appalachian foothills. The exposed granite top has a strange, lunar feel that makes the climb feel otherworldly. If you don’t want to hike both ways, the Summit Skyride cable car is a fun option. It’s a glass-enclosed gondola that glides over the mountain and offers panoramic views. Many hikers take the cable car down after trekking up - it saves your knees and lets you soak in the scenery without effort. Just note that the Skyride ticket is separate from the $20 park entry fee, and lines can get long on weekends. The only downsides: the trail can get crowded, especially late mornings, and the granite gets slippery when wet. Bring plenty of water, good shoes with grip, and go early to catch sunrise or late evening for cooler weather. Overall, Stone Mountain is one of Atlanta’s best quick treks, a mix of natural beauty, light adventure, and a cable car view that feels straight out of a travel ad. Whether you hike, ride, or do both, it’s absolutely worth it. ⭐ Rating: 4.6 / 5 📍 Best Time: Early morning or sunset 🎫 Tips: Bring water, sunblock, and take the Skyride down for the best combo of effort and ease.

Oh, it's a great place. we took a year's subscription, justified it from the first visit. recently was our 4th visit. there were not many people and it's an amazing place. fun holidays, lots of locations. be sure to go to the cinema on the territory. recommend!

Day trip to Stone Mountain Park. Good experience exploring the sights of Atlanta, one of it being this amazing and natural attraction. Walked around the park, took the cable car up to the “summit” and soaked in the views at the top of the stone. The views at the top were fantastic and the whole experience was fruitful. The attraction can be a bit far from downtown Atlanta, you can expect a USD 30-35 Lyft ride one way from downtown if you plan to visit this attraction. A 5* trip, and will recommend to experience once if your travels passes by Atlanta.

Hi everyone! My family and I visited this very interesting park. It was nice to climb up that mountain. If you have the chance, be sure to go up and look from above! You can see everything around you, the forest is very beautiful, and the panorama looks beautiful. I think climbing the mountain is good for your health. If the walking is difficult, there's an escalator! There's a large parking lot and plenty of entertainment. The kids really enjoyed it, and so did the adults. If possible, we'll come back here again and climb it again. There are also toilets (clean). There are trash bins along the way. There are places to eat and stay. Everything is great!

We had beautiful weather. All we need was camp and hike. We did not go on the mountain. There are a number of hiking trails and we loved the campground. It was nice to see the changing of the trees as well

Beautiful! I love driving through and site seeing. The lake was beautiful with the fall foliage along the banks. I saw rvs and park visitors enjoying their outdoor experiences as I drove through in the daytime and evenings.

The Best Fall Festival Ever! Stone Mountain Park truly outdid themselves with the Pumpkin Festival! We went as a family and were completely blown away by the "Play by Day, Glow by Night" experience. Everything was fantastic: the glowing jack-o'-lanterns, the parade, and the sheer amount of family fun. It's magical, well-organized, and worth every penny. Highly, highly recommend this for anyone looking for the perfect fall outing! Go make those memories!

This is a great indoor place to take the kids for creativity and imagination. It's easy to spend 2-3 hours. Worth the price. Lots of sitting areas for parents to sit back and let the kids explore within sight. The cafe offers a good variety of kid friendly choices at a decent price. If you have a diehard Lego lover, I recommend adding on a Master builder class. Free parking deck

This place can’t be a bigger bust. The people are nice so we’ll say that. upon going in there’s a ride that has guns where you shoot things. Only two of the three guns work and half the screens are off. There’s a rocket building station the scans your rocket and then the joysticks and things don’t operate, and one of them is out of order. There’s a 40 cinema thing. That’s also a bust with a couple of broken chairs. Also online it says if you book online to get a discount and when you go through it, it makes you pay full price. There are a lot of Legos. If I had anybody tell me to take my $40 per ticket and do absolutely anything else in life with my $40. I would’ve been happier.

It was fun. We went when it was dead, so very little crowds, which was a plus We got the activity pack and the lego build additions. The build was a low cost item, which is fine, but I think it was more expensive than the msrp. The activity was just a bunch of cheap cut outs on a lanyard that there was no attempt by the establishment to factor into the visit. Literal wasted money. All in all, its worth the money, especially if your little one(s) love lego, but do not get the activity pack.

This is definitely worth every penny of entrance! It was very reasonable to enter, plus! If you book a day in advance, you get a discount! This place was filled with Legos, directions, and a 4D Lego movie with real effects! Also, kids are encouraged to be creative with making cars and rockets and being interactive with them using technology! The cafe was ok, but don't depend on them for food...not worth the cost...Also, it is NOT a building by itself, but it's inside of Phipps Plaza Mall, 3rd floor! Loved the experience! My daughter had a fabulous time!!

We took advantage of the offer for homeschooling families and surprised our son for his birthday (also in September). We also downloaded the activity packet so our son could use it as a science assignment. We went during the week and arrived early afternoon. The space was clean, there wasn't a huge crowd, and everyone appeared to be enjoying themselves. Kudos to the staff who were polite and professional and provided an awesome experience. We recommended Lego Discovery Center-Atlanta (10/10) to all our friends and family once we returned home!

the boys had a blast but I was im underwhelmed lol! the best part was the 4D theater, the water spray and wind, lightning effects was so cool! The virtual experience was down so that was a bummer. I would take the boys back again! Only when its on sale tho. I dont think its worth the full price. oh and the photo booth, was super special LOVED THAT 😍 🥰

I didn’t even realize Lego Land had rebranded to Lego Discovery Center until we got there, but either way, it was a brickin’ good time! We visited the Atlanta location, and from the moment we walked in, the fun kicked off. They offered a military discount, which is always appreciated, and the staff was friendly and welcoming. We even got to attend a building class taught by the Master Lego Builder Noah, who was not only super talented but also hilarious. He made the class so engaging, and my baby ended up building a pigeon out of Legos, and it was definitely a highlight! Now let me just say, Wow to the Lego setup and display of Atlanta because it was AMAZING. The amount of detail they put into recreating the city was mind-blowing! You could spend a long time just admiring all the tiny moving parts and iconic landmarks made completely out of bricks. It was honestly one of the coolest parts of the visit and a great photo spot, too. One thing that would’ve made the visit even better? If families could keep the mini Lego person they create at the entrance. My kid got pretty attached, only to find out we had to return it at the exit. Still, this place is an absolute win. Me, my parents, and my baby had a blast and we’ll definitely be back! I've included some pictures. 😍 7-19-25

Shakey Knees 2025 My boyfriend and I had an amazing time on Saturday 9/20/25 at Piedmont Park for Shakey Knees. We went to see Tv on the Radio. They were absolutely fabulous. We also enjoyed seeing Johnny Marr, Cage the Elephant, and of course My Chemical Romance. We got the GA+ tickets, and the ammenties were great. It was nice to stretch out and have enough room to relax. The AC bathrooms were top notch, and we loved the Comp drink options. We got food at Get Baked, Mosh Burger and the Pizza joint. I absolutely loved the veggie burger that Mosh makes. This was my second Shakey Knees festival, and my boyfriend's first time in the ATL. Such incredible memories! Can't wait to see the line-up for next year's festival. Thank you Shakey Knees!

Huge lovely green space for cycling, picnics, walks or jogging.. Concert space restrooms. Electric scooter & bikes. Easy start for the Beltline walk. Nice street art & graffiti. Atlanta biggest & most popular park. Free entry best to walk Marta or use rideshare.

Visited for One Music Fest and it was absolutely amazing! Plenty vendors, lots of restrooms,and great acts! Had a very great time and I look forward to next year's line up!

Lots of green space and pedestrian trails close to residential neighborhoods and urban amenities. Free and home to many community events. Botanical garden is a paid entry but only a portion of the area inside the park.

I spent a sunny afternoon exploring Piedmont Park in Midtown Atlanta, and it deserves five stars. The park is vast and beautifully maintained—perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or just lounging on the grass with a skyline view that never gets old. Whether you're coming for a stroll, playing fetch with your pup in the off-leash dog park, or enjoying a picnic by Lake Clara Meer, there's something for everyone. What makes the park extra special are its amenities: an ADA-accessible pool with lap lanes, current-channel for floating, scenic fountains, and concessions—great for cooling off on warm days. Families will love the playgrounds, especially the artistic Noguchi Playscapes with modern sculptures and slides that double as public art. Piedmont Park is the city’s event stage for festivals like Dogwood Festival, Atlanta Pride, Music Midtown, and more—bringing energy and culture each season. But even without an event, the park radiates calm—great shady spots, restrooms, and enough paths and benches so you can easily settle in for a peaceful break. The Conservancy behind the park has big plans too: expect new walking and bike trails, better restrooms, expanded tree canopy, and creative paths weaving through the treetops—making an already amazing park even better in the years ahead. All around, Piedmont Park feels like the heart of Atlanta—green, welcoming, and full of life.

Piedmont Park is a fantastic place, just beautiful. Great place to take pictures, so many views. All angles of nature, architecture, and people. There was so many people there sitting or exercising or events you cannot see the whole park in one visit. With all that said it's still a basic park too, with a basketball area, a playground, soccer field, etc. As an out of towner, we enjoyed it and felt safe. We were able to find street parking on 12th Street for free but I get the sense we were lucky.

So beautiful and calm. There were people playing music and its so awesome to see that we are truly our own person and to see all the different types of people in the park. Going here always works to clear my head after a stressful week :】