In the northern reaches of Cherokee County, the city of Ball Ground traces its history to the Native American tribes who once lived here. Even its name finds its roots in the Cherokee game of stick ball; legend has it they won the land from the Creeks in one victorious match. The town itself was built around the railroad, which brought commerce to the area in 1882. Today, a modest yet charming and ever-developing downtown district still stretches along the tracks, offering plenty to explore this season.
Gibbs Gardens
Spring comes to life vibrantly at this 376-acre property on the outskirts of town as blooms burst forth in a kaleidoscope of colors. View daffodils, cherry blossoms, tulips, roses and rhododendrons on immaculately maintained grounds. Plan to spend 3 – 4 hours strolling through Mother Nature’s splendor and grab lunch at the on-site Arbor House Café. Check the website for special events and a bloom calendar before you go. gibbsgardens.com
The Burger Bus
Snag a coveted seat aboard this bonafide 1948 Atlanta transit bus that has been restored into a unique dining destination, where Black angus beef is ground in-house daily for the juiciest burgers imaginable. Try the Fried Green Jacket with fried green tomatoes, pimento cheese and wasabi ranch, or the Dad’s on Death Row with cheddar cheese, fried egg, fried grit cake, bacon and maple syrup-soaked bun. facebook.com/BGBurgerBus
Frankfurt Dönor & Meats
Touted as an “old school neighborhood butcher shop,” this German eatery offers up a wide range of gourmet sausages in flavors like bratwurst, maple breakfast, pineapple habanero and mushroom swiss. Buy them raw to grill at home, or enjoy one already smoked at the town’s nearby picnic area. Or opt for an authentic dönor sandwich, which is said to change your life!
Rock Solid Brewing
Enjoy a rotating menu of lagers, ales, IPAs, sours and seltzers at this hometown brewery. There’s an array of games to play as you sip, and pizza comes piping hot from Dominic’s Food Truck across the street. Rock Solid also regularly hosts live music, trivia nights, a cornhole league, and more. Mark your calendar for an inaugural Beer Olympic Games on March 9 and BBQ & Brews on April 6. (Full schedule available on Facebook.) rocksolidbrewingco.com
Dot’s
This sophisticated shop boasts a carefully curated collection of wines from around the world. Grab a bottle to go or have a seat to enjoy a glass in the shop. Wine selections on tap change regularly, and Thirsty Thursdays feature tastings with four flights for $15 each week. You’ll also find craft beer, frozen sangrias and wine-based cocktails. dotswineandcraft.com
Harper & Honey
Elevate your style at this Southern charm-filled boutique, where you’ll find a selection of seasonal attire from casual to classy, plus kid’s and men’s items, accessories and unique gifts. Take it a step further by booking a hair appointment with one of Harper & Honey talented and friendly stylists. shopharperandhoney.com
Southern Oak Provisions
This interior design market features artfully arranged home goods including furniture, art, lamps, textiles, gifts and more. Full-service designers are also available for everything from consultations to complete home design projects. southernoakprovisions.com
Barrel House Coffee
Follow the rich scent of roasting beans to this cozy coffeehouse, where beans are aged in old bourbon barrels to create a truly unique cup of Joe. Choose from your favorite espresso drinks, pour overs and teas alongside affogatos, fizzy lemonade and locally made pastries. barrellhousecoffeeco.com
