Southern hospitality is the cornerstone of a getaway to Henry County, located a quick 30 minutes south of Atlanta, and attractive as a wintertime destination. Garner inspiration through relaxing activities as well as adventure and prepare to take home a bounty of memories.
Stay warm during the winter months with a stop at Drip-Thru Coffee. With locations in both Stockbridge and College Park, this is a fun place to grab a warm drink infused with delicious flavors or a classic coffee paired with a Holey Sweet Donuts treat, sold onsite as well.
Holidays seem to bring out the “cook” in everyone and Olive in a Bottle is the perfect shop to help drive your culinary skills over the top with gourmet oils and vinegars. A specialty store in Locust Grove, Olive in a Bottle offers Ultra-Premium extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegars from across the globe. Sample the products and wander through their fun Georgia Grown products selection for unique gift ideas.
While in town, burn off energy while making memories at family favorites including Starlite Family Fun Center of McDonough, Urban Air Adventure Park of McDonough and Sky Zone of McDonough. Heart-pumping entertainment, rain or shine, these three options offer it all from laser tag, roller skating, to an arcade and more, including a full concession with kid-friendly foods.
Holiday celebrations are typically filled with gratitude so it makes lovely sense to incorporate a visit to the Heritage Park Veterans Museum in McDonough into your getaway, especially if you have military friends or family. There is a volunteer staff of veterans giving free guided tours or you can opt for a self-guided tour of the museum. Their personalized accounts of war experiences are moving and a complement to studies of general war history. The sobering effect of stories told through mementos and war time relics resonates deeply with most folks.
Of course you’ll want to do some holiday shopping and one place you shouldn’t miss is BarnBeautiful in Stockbridge, the northernmost city in Henry County. BarnBeautiful is located in historic downtown Stockbridge and known for harvesting weathered wood, turning it into treasured home furnishings and décor. You’ll also see (and can purchase) the work of local artists displayed throughout the store. So many one-of-a-kind items will help you quickly check off many people on your gift-giving list. Stop by Magnolia Pink, Henry County’s first community of local artists owned and operated by the makers within, and shop handcrafted products, decor, jewelry and apparel. And, at Hampton’s Holy Cow Leather, find locally made artisanal leather goods, metal jewelry and fine wood furnishings.
If your visit is late November through mid-December, Southern Belle Farm offers pre-cut Fraser Fir Christmas trees, fresh greenery, handmade wreaths, holiday decorations and, on the weekends, Santa visits, hayrides, Christmas carols, cookies and cider. There’s no better way to get in the holiday spirit than with a visit to Southern Belle Farm.
Beginning on Thanksgiving Day, Yule Forest transitions into a beautiful cut-your-own Christmas tree farm with splendid options such as Leyland cypress, Virginia pines and Blue Ice Christmas trees. There are also pre-cut trees available along with pre-flocked trees. You can grab a gorgeous fresh-cut wreath and/or garland as well. Yule Forest is just the jumpstart to the holidays that families need.
Wind down your holiday getaway with a pampering trip to The HoneyComb Cottage in Locust Grove or The HoneyComb Cottage Too in Hampton. Treat yourself to a spa day with a deep tissue massage, facial or another specialty service. You deserve it!
No matter if you are stopping for a night or two, or a long weekend, plan to include Henry County as a holiday or winter destination with lots of space for safe, socially responsible travel. For more information, area accommodations and restaurants, please visit VisitHenryCountyGeorgia.com.
