Callaway Gardens: A Southeastern Gem Just an Hour from Auburn

If you're looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle, look no further than Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia. Just an hour's drive away from Auburn, this 2,500-acre paradise has been a beloved family destination since the 1950s, and after finally experiencing it firsthand over Labor Day Weekend, I can see why. I felt like I was living out a real life scene from Dirty Dancing with the pine-speckled landscape and endless amount of family friendly activities.

For those who grew up visiting Callaway Gardens, the 2024 version might look a little bit different. Callaway Gardens, along with their parent company: Herschend Enterprises, announced some exciting renovations to the property along with additional exciting events & activities in 2022. They have since invested in updates and adding onto Robin Beach (adding a pavilion, bathrooms, and playground) so “families could come together and stay together”. They also added the Azalea Market to the Lodge, which offers Starbucks coffee, light bites and gelato.

We had a room overlooking the treetops, providing us with a serene and peaceful retreat from the moment we arrived. If you can ask for a room with a beach view, it’s STUNNING. I think I’ll ask for one of those the next time we visit. One highlight of our weekend was the "Hot Air Balloon Show and Glow" event. If you've never seen a hot air balloon glow against the night sky, trust me—it is impressive! Addy was even offered a chance to stand inside one of the baskets like a little tiny pilot (balloon not attached, of course). In addition to the Labor Day “Show and Glow” event, they had live music and tethered balloon rides!

Callaway Gardens is truly a destination for all ages. I struck up conversations with a few folks who had been visiting for years, others who loved to visit with their grandchildren and young families who were looking for something fun to do together. One of my personal favorites was the Butterfly Center, where I felt like a Disney Princess as butterflies fluttered around me (is this how Cinderella felt?!). Addy was curious about the butterflies but held on pretty tight to mom and dad. For those who love the outdoors, the walking and biking trails offer a perfect way to explore the lush surroundings, and the Birds of Prey show at the Discovery Center is also a great attraction.

For a moment of quiet reflection, the Memorial Chapel is the ideal spot to sit still and take in the peaceful atmosphere. It’s nestled underneath the trees with a few of the lake! And, it borders the azalea bowl trail, which goes WILD with color in the spring. FUN FACT: Did you know that Callaway was home to the world’s LARGEST azalea garden?

Golf enthusiasts will find not one, but two courses to choose from (the Mountain Course and the Lake View course). George was pumped to play a round on the Mountain Course (which has hosted a tour in years past), but we’d probably recommend the Lake View course if you’re interested in the views. And if relaxation is what you’re after, the spa is lovely. I treated myself to a Callaway Signature Massage (ask for Dee!), and it was the perfect way to unwind.

Callaway Gardens is not just a summer destination—there’s plenty to look forward to in the fall as well. The upcoming "Pumpkins at Callaway" event promises to be a festive autumnal experience (with a sunflower shaped corn maze), and of course, the famous "Fantasy in Lights" during the Christmas season is a tradition you won’t want to miss (Callaway will host TWO bike rides through the lights this year! And, they also host a 10K run through the lights). If you’d like a 10% discount on your event tickets, click the button below! This will get you a 10% discount on General Admission, Pumpkins at Callaway (all days), and Fantasy In Lights (Value & Prime Nights only)

Tap for 10% off tickets

Whether you’re in Auburn, Atlanta, or anywhere in the Southeast, Callaway Gardens is the perfect weekend getaway. It’s a place where nature, relaxation, and fun come together, making it the perfect spot for a memorable retreat.

Tips for Visiting Callaway Gardens

Google will get you to Callaway, but I wouldn’t count on Google getting you around the grounds. Thankfully, there are plenty of signs to help you out and you get a map of the property during check in.
Download the Callaway Gardens app! I had a hard time keeping all of the activities straight in my head, so the app was super helpful. It also has a map of the property, so you can see what trails are currently in bloom.
There is a pool for Lodge guests to enjoy, if you’d prefer to relax poolside vs beachside. They provide fluffy towels and there is a bar. I ordered a pina colada and it was delicious.
The Callaway Burger at Cason’s Tap Room was a must-try. Along with a signature Callaway brew, the Cason Craft.
If you’re staying at the Lodge, definitely check a map before you head out on foot to your destination. The Butterfly Center is four miles from the hotel. I would recommend driving!

What We Packed