Callaway Gardens (Pine Mountain) | Columbus City

Callaway Resort & Gardens, located in Pine Mountain, Georgia, is a renowned 2,500-acre nature preserve and resort that blends stunning natural beauty with extensive recreational amenities and cultural attractions. It is situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking outdoor adventure, relaxation, and seasonal events throughout the year. Established in 1952 by Cason and Virginia Callaway, the resort was originally developed as a botanical garden to showcase the native plants of the region and promote conservation and education.

Gardens and Natural Features

At the heart of Callaway Gardens are its beautifully landscaped gardens and natural habitats that offer visitors a wide variety of botanical wonders and wildlife viewing opportunities:

Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center: This is one of the largest tropical butterfly conservatories in North America, featuring a controlled environment that supports over 1,000 butterflies from more than 50 species. The center allows visitors to observe butterflies at all stages of their life cycle—from caterpillar to chrysalis to adult. The facility also offers interactive educational exhibits on butterfly biology and conservation.

Callaway Brothers Azalea Bowl: A 40-acre hillside garden famous for its vibrant displays of over 3,000 hybrid azaleas. The Azalea Bowl is particularly spectacular during the spring bloom when a sweeping palette of pinks, reds, and whites transform the landscape. The garden’s design accentuates the natural rolling hills, creating an immersive floral experience.

Discovery Center: Serving as the main entry point for many visitors, the Discovery Center provides information about the gardens, detailed maps, and interactive exhibits. From here, guests can begin exploring the various trails and attractions throughout the resort.

Additional Gardens and Trails: Callaway Gardens also boasts numerous walking paths and themed gardens, including the Rhododendron Trail, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Trail, and the tranquil Nature Garden, which showcase the diversity of native plants and wildflowers that change with the seasons.

Outdoor Recreation and Activities

Callaway Gardens offers a broad range of outdoor activities suitable for families, adventure seekers, and nature enthusiasts:

Biking and Hiking Trails: The resort has a network of more than 15 miles of paved and natural trails. The Discovery Bike Trail, spanning 10 miles, is a favorite for cyclists, winding through forests, around lakes, and past scenic overlooks. Several hiking trails provide options ranging from easy walks to more challenging terrain through hardwood forests and rocky outcrops.

Treetop Adventure: This aerial ropes course features multiple levels of zip lines, balance bridges, rope ladders, and climbing elements. It caters to all skill levels, including a Sapling Course for children and more advanced Discovery and Lake Courses for adults and thrill-seekers.

Fishing and Boating: Robin Lake, a 1,000-acre lake within the resort, offers excellent fishing for bass, bream, and catfish. Visitors can rent jon boats, kayaks, and paddleboats, or participate in guided fishing trips. The lake also features scenic picnic areas and boat docks.

Golf: Callaway Gardens includes championship golf courses, such as the Mountain View and Lake View courses, designed to blend naturally into the rolling terrain and forested surroundings, attracting golfers of all levels.

Accommodations and Dining

Callaway Resort & Gardens provides comfortable lodging options and dining experiences that complement its outdoor offerings:

The Lodge & Spa: This upscale accommodation has 149 rooms and suites featuring modern amenities and beautiful views of the gardens or lakes. The spa, Spa Prunifolia, offers a wide variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies inspired by the natural surroundings.

The Mountain Creek Inn: Another lodging option, this hotel is located near the golf courses and includes family-friendly amenities and dining choices.

Dining Options: The resort features multiple restaurants and cafes, offering diverse menus that range from casual to fine dining. Popular spots include the Gardens Restaurant, which provides Southern-inspired cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, and the Sandestin Bar and Grill for lakeside dining.

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Callaway Gardens hosts several highly regarded events throughout the year that attract visitors from across the region:

Spring Flower Fest: From March through May, the gardens burst into color as azaleas, tulips, dogwoods, and other spring flowers bloom. The festival includes guided tours, photography workshops, and family activities.

Fantasy In Lights: A nationally acclaimed holiday lights display held from November to December, featuring over 8 million lights arranged in elaborate themed displays. The event includes light shows, horse-drawn carriage rides, and festive entertainment, making it one of the Southeast’s most popular holiday attractions.

Pumpkins at Callaway: This fall harvest festival offers activities such as a corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayrides, and seasonal decorations that create a festive atmosphere for families and visitors of all ages.

Wildlife and Conservation

Callaway Gardens is also dedicated to conservation and environmental education. Its habitats support a variety of wildlife including deer, wild turkeys, songbirds, and butterflies. The resort participates in programs to protect native plants and wildlife, promote sustainable practices, and educate visitors about environmental stewardship.

Nearby Attractions

Wild Animal Safari: Located near Callaway Gardens, this drive-through animal park allows guests to see exotic and native animals in large, naturalistic habitats, enhancing the overall nature experience in the area.

Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park: Georgia’s largest state park is nearby, offering additional hiking trails, camping, and picnic areas within a scenic forest setting.

Pine Mountain Trail: A 23-mile hiking trail system passing through Pine Mountain and Callaway Gardens, featuring diverse terrain, scenic vistas, and historical sites.

Summary

Callaway Resort & Gardens is a premier destination in Georgia combining lush botanical gardens, extensive outdoor recreation, luxurious accommodations, and vibrant seasonal events. It appeals to a broad audience—from nature lovers and families to adventure seekers and those looking for peaceful relaxation. Its rich blend of horticultural beauty, educational programs, and recreational amenities makes it a year-round destination offering memorable experiences set against the backdrop of the scenic Appalachian foothills.