27 minute read
Georgia’s History Inns & Hotels
Georgia’s Historic Inns& Hotels
By Tony Jenkins Learning about Georgia’s history can be a relaxing and even romantic adventure. There are many hotels and inns throughout Georgia where history, luxury and Southern charm intersect. Encompassing both grandeur and quaint, elegant charm, here are just a few of Georgia’s historic hospitality venues.
The 1842 Inn
THE 1842 INN
A quaint bed and breakfast in Macon, the 1842 Inn was a home built by the city's former mayor, John Gresham, in, well, you can guess the year. There are 19 guest rooms found within the main, Greek Revival-style antebellum house and the adjoining Victorian cottage, as well as four hospitality parlors. Antique paintings, oriental carpets, heart pine flooring and 12foot ceilings accentuate each room, and many include fireplaces and whirlpools. To bolster the relaxing and romantic vibe, there’s a 17-columned wrap-around veranda where you can sip on iced tea (or other beverages) while overlooking the courtyard. 1842inn.com
THE FITZPATRICK HOTEL
After a fire decimated much of Washington, Georgia’s public square in 1895, brothers J.H. and T.M. Fitzpatrick returned to the city, between Athens and Augusta, and began construction on what would become The Fitzpatrick Hotel. After opening in 1898, the historic hotel went through several ownership and name changes and was eventually closed in 1952. More than 50 years later, after the hotel was added to the National Register of Historic Places, The Fitzpatrick was restored and reopened. By using old photos and original memorabilia and purchasing period antiques, the new owners retained the hotel’s original Victorian grandeur and charm, while including modern-day conveniences like HDTVs and WiFi access. thefitzpatrickhotel.com
Barnsley Resort
BARNSLEY RESORT
Located on about 3,000 acres in Adairsville, Barnsley Resort offers luxury accommodations in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills. Completed in 1848, it was built first as a manor by Godfrey Barnsley in honor of his wife Julia, who unfortunately died before it was finished. According to the hotel’s website, the home and its gardens were inspired by landscape designer Andrew Jackson Downing, a promoter of Italianate and gothic revival architecture. Starting in 1942, the property changed ownership twice before being sold in 1988 to a Bavarian prince, who revived and expanded the historic gardens, which three years later were opened to the public as a museum and garden. In 1999 Barnsley Resort opened, and today it includes guest cottages, a golf course and a spa and offers outdoor activities including horseback riding, sporting clays and hiking. In 2018 it opened a traditional inn building to give guests another lodging option. barnsleyresort.com
THE GEORGIAN TERRACE
Opening for business in 1911, The Georgian Terrace is located in Midtown directly across from another Atlanta landmark, the Fox Theatre. The elegant hotel has hosted an impressive guest list over the years, including Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Warren Harding, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Walt Disney and Charles Lindbergh. In 1939, the Terrace hosted the premiere gala for the movie “Gone With The Wind,” and stars like Clark Gable and Vivian Leigh were right at home amid the turreted corners, floor-to-ceiling windows, gorgeous chandeliers and wraparound verandas. In the 1970s, the hotel played host to musical acts such as Bruce Springsteen, Kiss and Billy Joel in its Electric Ballroom. After avoiding demolition in the 1980s by being listed on the National Register of Historic
The 1842 Inn
THE GASTONIAN
What's better than one mansion? Two adjacent Regency-Italianate mansions have been turned into a four-diamond award-winning bed and breakfast in a charming residential area of Savannah. The two mansions that now make up The Gastonian were built in 1868 and exemplify the Southern charm one would expect from a history-laden city like Savannah. From the grand décor and period antiques to the fireplaces and tranquil gardens, The Gastonian was recognized by Conde Nast Traveler magazine as one of the finest places to stay in the world. It’s a great location, too: The Gastonian is in the Savannah historic district within walking distance of Forsyth Park, Colonial Park Cemetery and several of the city squares. gastonian.com
PHOTO: J&D Images
Jekyll Island Club Hotel
Places, there was a brief stint as an apartment building. In the early 1990s, The Georgian Terrace reopened as a luxury hotel. Now billed as “Where Atlanta’s Thriving Culture Begins,” the Southern charm remains, but is complemented by modern features, including award-wining fine dining at the Livingston Restaurant & Bar. thegeorgianterrace.com
JEKYLL ISLAND CLUB HOTEL
People like J.P. Morgan, William Rockefeller, Joseph Pulitzer and William K. Vanderbilt played roles in the history of the Jekyll Island Club Hotel, which was founded in 1886 as a private club that included members from some of the world's wealthiest families. Designated a historic landmark in 1978 and reopened as a resort hotel in 1985, it is now one of the top resorts in Georgia. In addition to a history tour, the hotel includes six restaurants, a pub, a swimming pool and a nearby private beach club, among other amenities. The location, on one of the state's four coastal barrier islands, provides a lush and unspoiled backdrop for the elegance and Victorian charm you'll find at every turn. Even if you don't stay the night, it's worth a visit for the architecture alone. jekyllclub.com
THE PIEDMONT HOTEL
When it opened in 1876, The Piedmont Hotel in Gainesville was a three-story, 36-room, U-shaped structure owned and operated by Confederate Gen. James Longstreet. Throughout the years, Longstreet hosted several high-profile guests, including Gens. Joseph Johnston and Daniel Sickles, writer Joel Chandler Harris and President Woodrow Wilson, whose daughter, Jessie, was born on the ground floor of the hotel. Today, it’s the only floor of the hotel that remains, after a last-minute decision saved it from being demolished with the rest of the hotel in 1918. However, it has been renovated and is headquarters of The Longstreet Society, open Tuesday through Saturday. Visitors can learn about the hotel’s history, including visits by a past president and the ghost that occupies the remaining structure. longstreetsociety.org
THE MARSHALL HOUSE
Opening in Savannah 1851, The Marshall House is one of the city’s oldest hotels, exuding Southern charm and history. According to its website, the hotel was founded by businesswoman Mary Marshall, who saw the need for accommodations and housing during the railroad boom of the 1840s and ’50s, when Savannah doubled in size. The hotel, which has also served as an apartment building over the years, was at one time the home to the aforementioned Harris. The Marshall House was closed in 1957, with the second through fifth floors abandoned but the first one kept open for shops until 1998. A year later, it was carefully restored as a hotel. Today it has 65 rooms and three suites and features the building’s original floors and doors and has tall ceilings and unusual architecture. Since reopening as a hotel, The Marshall House has earned a bevy of awards. Believed to be haunted, it was named the No. 2 Best Haunted Hotel by USA Today in 2021. marshallhouse.com
GETTING STARTED
GETTING STARTED HERE TO THERE
MARTA
Mass Transit
One way to avoid long commutes is to take advantage of the city’s local transit system, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). Offering both train and bus service, MARTA is a convenient way to travel to downtown or the airport. The fee for traveling one way is $2.50 including transfers, and payment is even easier now with the Breeze limited-use and extendeduse cards. Weekly and monthly passes can be obtained at discounted rates. For fares, schedule and route information call 404848-5000 or visit itsmarta.com. MARTA Rail Service
Vehicle Emission Inspection
Vehicles that are 24 model years old and later (except the three years prior to the current year) must be checked yearly for emission standard compliance. Visit a statedesignated inspection station for the service. Call 800-449-2471 or visit cleanairforce.com.
Driving Tips
The Georgia DOT provides daily updates of road work, road closings and traffic delays, which are helpful when commuting. Updates can be obtained by calling (toll free) 877694-2511, by dialing 511 or by visiting dot.ga.gov.
FOR STUDENTS WHO NEED AN ACADEMIC BOOST
THIS SUMMER!
AFTERNOON RECREATION ACTIVITIES TUTORING IN READING, MATH AND WRITING SKILLS
Session 1: Starting in June Session 2: Starting in July Held on the campus of e Bedford School in Fairburn
5665 Milam Road Fairburn, GA 30213 770-774-8001 • thebedfordschool.org
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Cherokee County Schools Board of Education 770-479-1871 cherokee.k12.ga.us
Elementary Schools Middle Schools 23 7
High Schools Centers
6 4 Per-pupil expenditures $9,149 School & bus information 770-720-2112
Avg. SAT Scores
Cherokee Co. Georgia National 1115 1048 1039
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.
UTILITIES &
CONTACTS
ELECTRICITY
Amicalola EMC 706-253-5200
Cobb EMC Georgia Power Sawnee EMC 770-429-2100 888-891-0938 770-887-2363
GAS Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.
TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV
AT&T att.com
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
Comcast (Xfinity) Direct TV
xfinity.com directv.com Dish Network dish.com ETC Communications etcnow.com Spectrum spectrum.com TDS Telecom tdstelecom.com Windstream windstream.com
WATER
Cherokee County Water Authority 770-479-1813 City of Ball Ground 770-735-2123 City of Canton 770-704-1500 City of Waleska 770-479-2912 City of Woodstock 770-592-6006
HOSPITALS
Northside Hospital-Cherokee 770-224-1000 Wellstar Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000
Cherokee County
QUICK INFO
County cherokeega.com Neighborhoods cantonga.gov woodstockga.gov cityofballground.com hollyspringsga.us cityofwaleska.com Median household income: $75,477 Median age of residents: 38 Population: 235,896 Sales tax: 6%
Old Sixes Mill
Located northwest of Atlanta, Cherokee County gets its name from the original inhabitants of the area, the Cherokee Indians. The county seat, then called Etowah, was established in 1833 and renamed Canton in 1834. Today, the city is enjoying its greatest economic boom in its history since more than $60 million was invested in residential and commercial development in 1998. Despite developing its own industrial base, Cherokee County remains idyllic and serene. Farming, especially poultry processing, remains a leading industry.
Canton and the neighboring community of Woodstock have seen tremendous growth as subdivisions crop up to accommodate newcomers. In fact, nearly 60 percent of the county’s population are commuters. According to Zillow.com, the median value of homes is $283,573. Homes for well over $1 million can be purchased in such neighborhoods as Bradshaw Farm, BridgeMill and Towne Lake Hills.
Interstate 575 and Ga. Highway 92 traverse the county, affording residents easy access to Atlanta and the nearby attractions of Town Center Mall, Lake Allatoona and the North Georgia Mountains. Other great places to live, work and play in Cherokee County include the cities of Ball Ground, Holly Springs and Waleska.
Chamber of Commerce Cherokee County 770-345-0400, cherokeechamber.com Property Taxes Per $1,000 of assessed value is: Unincorporated Cherokee County, $21.46; Incorporated Cherokee County, $21.46. Tax Commissioner: 678-493-6400
Neighborhoods Canton
Canton was incorporated in 1833 and renamed in 1834 at the request of two founding fathers who had visions that the town might become a silk center similar to what existed in Canton, China. Canton did become famous for its “Canton Denim,” known worldwide for the high-quality denim produced by Canton Cotton Mills.
Today, Canton is attracting new industry and residents. As a result, the city is reinvesting in its downtown. As part of its Streetscapes program, downtown Canton will be restored to its historic look and features a newly designed theater on Main Street. Located at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and along the banks of the Etowah River, Canton is a prime location for development.
Woodstock
Located 12 miles south of Canton, Woodstock is one of Georgia's top 10 fastest-growing cities and a community recently named one of the Top 50 Cities Places to Live in the U.S. by Money magazine.
Residents also enjoy easy access to 575 and 92, allowing short commutes to Cobb and Fulton counties.
While affording convenience to big-city attractions, Woodstock still maintains its small-town appeal. Buildings dating back to 1879 characterize the downtown area, where antique and other specialty shops are located.
Various golf courses are located in Woodstock, including Arnold Palmer’s Eagle Watch, a course with wooded countryside views that is considered to be one of the top places to play in Atlanta. The 11,860-acre Lake Allatoona provides additional recreation. Woodstock is also convenient to more than 13 state parks. N
Truist Park
Photo: Shutterstock.com
Cobb County
Cobb County came into being in 1832 when the state redistributed land once part of the Cherokee Nation. Named after Thomas Willis Cobb, the county experienced a devastating setback during the Civil War when most of it was destroyed during the famous Battle of Kennesaw Mountain.
Today, Cobb County, located northwest of Fulton County, is one of the state's most thriving counties. With a diverse economic base that includes jobs in the service, retail, aerospace and technology sectors, Cobb County offers a quality of life unsurpassed in the Southeast. Nearly $900 million has been spent on transportation improvements in recent years, allowing residents easy access to Atlanta and the commercial districts of Vinings Overlook, Cumberland Parkway and the prestigious Platinum Triangle in the popular Galleria area.
A variety of housing options exist in Cobb County, including luxury apartments and condos near
QUICK INFO
County cobbcountyga.gov
Neighborhoods austellga.org mariettaga.gov smyrnaga.gov kennesaw-ga.gov cityofpowdersprings.org smyrnacity.com
Median household income: $75,654
Median age of residents: 36.6
Population: 755,754
Sales tax: 6%
Chamber of Commerce
Cobb County 770-980-2000, cobbchamber.org
Property Taxes
The property tax is $33.84 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-980-2000 Cumberland Mall, secluded subdivisions in East Cobb and horse ranches in the northwest corner of the county. The small towns of Marietta, Vinings, Smyrna and Austell still retain their Southern charm amidst urban settings. According to the Census Bureau, the median value of homes in 2018 was $237,800.
Neighborhoods Kennesaw
One of Family Circle magazine’s Ten Best Towns for Families, Kennesaw takes pride in its smalltown atmosphere and boasts abundant parks and greenspace, exceptional recreational programs and top-notch schools, including Kennesaw State University. Kennesaw’s historic downtown features shopping, dining and attractions such as the Smithsonianaffiliated Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, the Smith-Gilbert Gardens and nearby Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park.
Smyrna
Rapidly defining what’s new and progressive in quality of life and citizen services, Smyrna delivers an amazing sense of style and love of life. The Market Village district, home to fabulous restaurants, bars and upscale shops and services, is the final piece of a master plan for success. Call it “Main Street USA” or “Disneyland,” but don’t overlook its charm and ability to offer the best in fresh, trendy lifestyle options. N
For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our Website at
newcomeratlanta.com
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Cobb County Schools Board of Education 770-426-3300 cobbk12.org
Elementary Schools 67
Middle Schools 25
High Schools Magnet Charter
17 6 1 Per-pupil expenditures $8,833 School and bus information 678-594-8000
Marietta City Schools Board of Education 770-422-3500 marietta-city-org
Elementary Schools 8
Middle Schools 1
High Schools Sixth-Grade Magnet
1 Per-pupil expenditures $10,542 School and bus information 770-429-3110
Avg. SAT Scores
Cobb Co. Marietta City Georgia National 1114 1056 1048 1039
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county. UTILITIES & CONTACTS
ELECTRICITY
Acworth Power 770-917-8903
Cobb EMC
770-429-2100 Georgia Power 888-891-0938 GreyStone Power Corp. 770-942-6576 Marietta Power 770-794-5150
GAS Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com. TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV
AT&T att.com
Cobb EMC cobbemc.com
Comcast (Xfinity) Direct TV xfinity.com directv.com
Dish Network Spectrum
dish.com spectrum.com
WATER Austell Water 770-944-4300 Cobb County Water System 770-419-6200 Marietta Water 770-794-5150 Powder Springs Water 770-943-8000 Smyrna Water 678-631-5338
HOSPITALS WellStar Cobb Hospital 470-732-4000 WellStar Kennestone Hospital 770-793-5000 WellStar Windy Hill Hospital 770-644-1000
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Fulton County Schools Board of Education 470-254-3600 fultonschools.org
Elementary Schools 59
Middle Schools 19
High Schools Charter
18 10 Centers 4 Per-pupil expenditures $10,609 School & Bus Information North 470-254-2970 South 470-254-6060 Atlanta Public Schools Board of Education 404-802-3500 atlantapublicschools.us Elementary Schools 49 Middle Schools 12 High Schools 14 Charter 18 Alternative 4 Per-pupil expenditures $11,263 School & bus information 404-802-5500
Avg. SAT Scores
Fulton Co. Atlanta Public Schools Georgia National 1086 944 1048 1039
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county.
UTILITIES &
CONTACTS
ELECTRICITY
City of College Park 404-669-3759 City of East Point 404-270-7010 City of Fairburn 770-964-2244 City of Palmetto 770-463-3322 Georgia Power 888-891-0938
GAS Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.
TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV
AT&T att.com
Comcast (Xfinity) Direct TV xfinity.com directv.com
Dish Network dish.com
Fulton County
WATER
404-612-6830
HOSPITALS
Atlanta Medical Center 404-265-4000 Atlanta VA Medical Center 404-321-6111 Center for the Visually Impaired 404-875-9011 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Hughes Spalding 404-785-9500 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite 404-785-2273 Emory University Hospital Midtown 404-686-4411 Grady Memorial Hospital 404-616-1000 WellStar North Fulton Regional Hospital 770-751-2500 Northside Hospital 404-851-8000 Piedmont Hospital 404-605-5000 Shepherd Center 404-352-2020 Emory St. Joseph's Hospital 678-843-7001
Fulton County
Fulton County serves as the center of the metro Atlanta area. With 90 percent of the city of Atlanta, including the state’s capital building, located within its borders, it sits at the hub of the area’s financial, transportation, retail, communications and cultural services. A number of Fortune 500 companies, including the Coca-Cola Company, Delta Air Lines and UPS, are headquartered here.
More than one million people live in Fulton County, drawn by its convenience to Interstates 75, 85 and 285 and Georgia State Route 400. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median value of homes in the county is $290,400.
Fulton is home to many of Atlanta’s signature neighborhoods, including its bustling downtown QUICK INFO district. Older neighborhoods like Inman Park, Grant Park, Candler Park and Virginia-Highland offer affordable housing, pedestrianfriendly layouts and plentiful parks and recreational options. Midtown is the heart of Atlanta’s cultural scene, with the Woodruff Arts Center (home to the Alliance Theatre, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the High Museum of Art) and the historic Fox Theatre, as well as a host of art galleries. Midtown’s Piedmont Park, the city’s most popular greenspace, hosts many outdoor festivals and concerts. Neighborhoods Buckhead
sion, the historic Swan House and the Atlanta History Center. Buckhead is also an entertainment and dining hotspot.
With luxury hotels, shops, bars and more than 250 restaurants, the Buckhead area is a magnet for young professionals.The neighborhood also offers numerous antique stores, art galleries and mall shopping at both Lenox
Square and Phipps
Plaza. County co.fulton.ga.us Neighborhoods alpharetta.ga.us buckhead.net cityofmiltonga.us virginiahighland.com collegeparkga.com eastpointcity.org hapeville.org johnscreekga.gov roswellgov.com sandyspringsga.gov Median household income: $65,037 Median age of residents: 35.5 Population: 1,050,114 Sales tax: 7.75%, Atlanta City: 8.9% Chamber of Commerce Greater North Fulton 770-993-8806, gnfcc.com Metro Atlanta 404-880-9000, metroatlantachamber.com South Fulton 770-964-1984, southfultonchamber.com
Piedmont Park
Johns Creek
Incorporated in 2006, this thriving community of 84,000 was ranked fourth among 50 Best U.S. Cities to Live In by USA Today. It boasts a diverse economic base, coupled with a peaceful environment: the city contains over 400 acres of parkland and nature reserves and contains five access points to the Chattahoochee River.
Buckhead is “where old money lives and new money parties,” according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. With its mixture of mansions and uniquely styled homes, Buckhead is a favorite among architecture and history buffs. Convenient to Georgia 400, Interstate 85 and MARTA, it’s filled with high-rises, upscale restaurants, the Governor’s ManProperty Taxes The property tax rate per $1,000 of assessed value is: $40.92 for the City of Atlanta; $29.18 for incorporated Fulton County; $40.76 for unincorporated Fulton County; $33.54 for Johns Creek; $33.91 for Sandy Springs. Tax Commissioner: 404-613-6100
Alpharetta
One of metro Atlanta’s most vibrant and affluent cities, Alpharetta is home to about 64,000 residents, drawn to its affordable housing, parks, shopping at North Point Mall and concerts at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre. The city's historic downtown boasts an appealing town square. Called Alpharetta City Center, it features locally owned shops and restaurants, and hosts events year round.
Milton
Also incorporated in 2006, Milton combines a pastoral setting with forward-thinking city planning that offers what's been called "The best quality of life in Georgia." N
For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our website at
newcomeratlanta.com
Gwinnett County
City Hall and the Town Green in downtown Duluth
Suwanee
Originally part of Georgia’s Native American territory, Gwinnett County was created by the State Legislature in 1818 and named after Button Gwinnett, one of Georgia's three signers of the Declaration of Independence and a former governor. QUICK INFO
While the county was once largely rural with small towns, country stores, farms and forests, today it is home to about 600 international companies and 450 high-tech firms. With an average of 21 new professional and industrial companies relocating to the county each year, attracting almost 21,000 new jobs, Gwinnett County remains in the top 10 ranking for growth nationwide. The county supports many cultural events, restaurants and shopping opportunities, including the Mall of Georgia in Buford.
Gwinnett County remains affordable for renters and firsttime home buyers, many of whom find homes in the communities of Doraville, Lawrenceville and Snellville. The median value of homes in 2018, according to the Census Bureau, was $200,400. Neighborhoods Duluth For more counties and neighborhood information, visit our website at
Amidst the pristine setting newcomeratlanta.com
of Gwinnett County, Duluth has some of the most exclusive neighborhoods in metro Atlanta and is home to some of the best golf courses and private tennis clubs. There are numerous parks for recreation and participatory sports, including Bunten Road Park and Shorty Howell Park. North Point Mall, a major shopping center, is located near Duluth. The Southeastern Railway Museum, which preserves and operates old railroad equipment, is a must-see for any railroad aficionado.
Some of Duluth’s neighborhoods include Edgewater Estates, Sweet Bottom Plantation and Riverbrooke. Affluent estates with antebellum architecture can be found as well as apartment communities, older brick, ranch-style homes and subdivisions. Duluth still retains some of its original small-town businesses, along with chain businesses, many accessible by Ga. 400 and I-85.
County gwinnettcounty.com Neighborhoods cityofbuford.com duluthga.net cityoflilburn.com snellville.org suwanee.com Median household income: $68,914 Median age of residents: 35.3 Population: 920,260 Sales tax: 6% Chamber of Commerce Gwinnett County, 770-232-3000, gwinnettchamber.org Property Taxes The property tax in unincorporated Gwinnett County is $28.84 per $1,000 of assessed value. Tax Commissioner: 770-822-8800.
Suwanee is named after the Shawnee Indians who settled here in the latter part of the 18th century. Following the official founding of the city in 1837, Suwanee became a railroad stop along the Southern Railroad route. It remained a small country town well into the ’70s when construction of I-85 and U.S. 23 brought easy access to the region. Since then, Suwanee has experienced tremendous growth, from 2,412 residents in 1990 to more than 20,000 today. To help manage growth, the city has developed a comprehensive development plan that promotes pedestrianoriented development and mixed-use zoning. The city was designated a Tree City USA for 29 years for its commitment to preserving 27 percent of its land as greenspace.
Such foresight has allowed Suwanee to retain its old-fashioned charm while providing contemporary convenience. Only 35 miles from downtown Atlanta, Suwanee is close to big-city attractions, business districts and shopping. Many antique shops and historic structures, including several Victorian and regional farm-style homes, are located near downtown Suwanee. N
PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Gwinnett County Schools Board of Education 678-301-6000 gwinnett.k12.ga.us
Elementary Schools 80
Middle Schools 29
High Schools Per-pupil expenditures
25 $8,926
City Schools of Buford Board of Education 770-945-5035 bufordcityschools.org
Elementary Schools Middle Schools High Schools Per-pupil expenditures 2 1 1 $9,397
Avg. SAT Scores
Gwinnett Co. City of Buford Georgia National 1094 1122 1048 1039
PRIVATE SCHOOLS Visit our website at newcomeratlanta.com for a list of private schools in this county. UTILITIES & CONTACTS
ELECTRICITY City of Buford 678-889-4600 City of Lawrenceville 770-963-9834 City of Norcross 770-448-2122 Georgia Power 888-891-0938 Jackson EMC 800-462-3691 Sawnee EMC 770-887-2363 Walton EMC 770-267-2505
GAS Georgia’s natural gas market is deregulated. For a list of providers for this county, visit newcomeratlanta.com.
TELEPHONE/INTERNET/TV
AT&T att.com
Comcast (Xfinity) Direct TV xfinity.com directv.com
Dish Network dish.com
Buford
WATER
678-889-4600 Dacula 770-963-7451 Gwinnett City Water 678-376-6800 Lawrenceville 770-963-2414 Norcross 770-448-2122
Spectrum Comcast
CABLE TV
888-438-2427 800-266-2278
HOSPITALS
Eastside Medical Center 770-979-0200 Northside Hospital Gwinnett 678-312-1000 Gwinnett Women’s Pavilion 678-312-4790 Summit Ridge Center for Behavorial Health 678-442-5800
Ring in 2023 with the Atlanta-based, awardwinning folk-rock duo, performing live in concert alongside the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.
Dec. 30-31, aso.org.
Hadestown, Fox Theatre
Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta presents touring production of this award-winning musical that spins a fresh take on the myths of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone. Jan. 10-15, atlanta.broadway.com.
Christmas Canteen 2022, Aurora Theatre
PHOTO: Casey Gardner Ford
Theater & Concerts
Gwinnett Ballet’s 41st annual The Nutcracker, Gas South Theater
The Gwinnett Ballet Theatre celebrates 40-plus years of staging this enduring classic with entrancing choreography, stunning sets and colorful costumes. Dec. 3-18, gassouthdistrict.com.
Anastasia, Fox Theatre
Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta presents this dazzling stage musical of a young woman striking out to unravel the mystery of her past.
Dec. 6-11, atlanta.broadway.com.
This long-running production by the Atlanta Ballet is a beloved Atlanta tradition, with an innovative production featuring spectacular sets, bold costumes and striking video projections. Dec. 9-26, atlantaballet.com.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Gas South Arena
The arena-rock band performs music from its landmark album “Christmas Eve and Other Stories” and other songs from throughout its 26-year career. Two shows at 2 and 7 p.m. Dec.
11, gassouthdistrict.com.
Christmas With the ASO, Atlanta Symphony Hall
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Chorus performs a program of Christmas carols, hymns, and other holiday favorites. Dec. 15-18, aso.org.
Celtic Woman: A Christmas Symphony, Atlanta Symphony Hall
The popular all-female Irish group performs a holiday-themed concert with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Dec. 17, aso.org.
A Christmas Carol, Gas South Theater
Storybook Theater performs a moving version of the timeless holiday classic. Dec. 20-21,
gassouthdistrict.com.
Christmas Canteen 2022, Aurora Theatre
The long-running holiday variety show returns with an evening of festive music, comedy sketches and show-stopping dance numbers. Through Dec. 23, auroratheatre.com.
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet, Fox Theatre
This acclaimed holiday tradition returns for its 30th anniversary tour with larger-than-life puppets, dazzling costumes and breathtaking acrobatics performed by an international cast, featuring starts of Ukraine ballet. Two performances at 3 and 7 p.m. Dec. 23, foxtheatre.org.
PHOTO: Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
PAW Patrol: Adventure Play, Children’s Museum of Atlanta Yesterday: A Tribute to the Beatles, Gas South Theater
The internationally renowned tribute act performs. Jan. 20, gassouthdistrict.com.
Don Giovanni, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
The Atlanta Opera presents a film-noir version of the classic opera. This opera contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children.
Jan. 21-29, atlantaopera.org.
Jim Gaffigan, Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
The actor and stand-up comedian performs on his Dark Pale Tour. Feb. 2-5, cobbenergycentre.com.
Carrie Underwood, State Farm Arena
Eight-time Grammy Award-winning country music superstar and former “American Idol” winner Underwood performs on her Denim & Rhinestones Tour. Feb. 7, statefarmarena.com.
John Mellencamp: Live and In Person, Fox Theatre
The award-winning singer and songwriter known for such hits as “Jack and Diane,” “Pink Houses,” “Small Town” and “Hurts So Good” performs. Feb. 10, foxtheatre.org.
Dancing With the Stars Live 2023, Fox Theatre
America’s favorite televised dance competition hits the road once again with a lineup of “Dancing With the Stars” pros and special guest stars. Feb. 11, foxtheatre.org.
TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, Fox Theatre
This inspiring musical charts the rise of the award-winning, boundary-smashing performer who has won 12 Grammy Awards and sold more concert tickets than any other solo artist ever. Presented by Regions Bank Broadway in Atlanta. Feb. 21-26, atlanta.broadway.com.
Deck the Hall, Downtown Duluth
Kick off the holiday season with live entertainment, a real snow playground, photo ops with Santa, children’s crafts, light installations and a traditional tree lighting, Dec. 3, duluthga.net.
Duluth Farmers and Artisan Market, Duluth Town Green
Shop locally grown produce, baked goods and other homemade items like candles, soaps and pottery at this monthly event showcasing local farmers and vendors on the second Sunday of each month from 2-6 p.m. Dec. 11, duluthga.net.
Celebrate the holidays by making festive red and green crafts! Dec. 19-23, 770-536-1900, inkfun.org.
Sun, Earth, Universe, Fernbank Museum of Natural History
Created by the National Informal STEM Educational Network in collaboration with NASA, this exhibit explores our closest stars, our planets and the universe, and how they interact. Children can design, build and test their own model spacecraft to complete a space mission.
Through Jan. 1, 404-929-6300, fernbankmuseum.org.
This immersive, hands-on exhibit lets kids assist the heroic search-and-rescue pups as they learn how to use their different skills to problem-solve and overcome challenges. Through Jan.
8, 404-659-5437, childrensmuseumatlanta.org.
Rodin in the United States: Confronting the Modern, High Museum of Art
This exhibit showcases more than 70 sculptures and drawings, from well-known compositions like “The Thinker” and “The Kiss” to lesser-known works. Through Jan. 15,
404-733-5000, high.org.
Bring your children to create a beautiful snowflake crafts to take home. Jan. 23-29,
770-536-1900, inkfun.org.
Make your valentine a one-of-a-kind gift with fun materials all week long! Feb. 13-19,
770-536-1900, inkfun.org.
A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE WITH VISUAL APPEAL
By Everett Catts
THE DETAILS
LOCATION: 11 Buford Village Way, Suite 147, Buford, GA 30518 HOURS: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday CONTACT INFO: shoppiggyjos@gmail.com or 706-983-2871 WEBSITE: piggyjos.com W hen Mandy Volpe decided to open Piggy Jo’s, a children’s clothing and gift shop in Buford, she envisioned a place to bring the city together.
“In my opinion, it’s become a community gem,” she says. “It’s curated wonder. It’s not going to be everything clothing-wise you see in every department store. We hand-select everything. … The reason is I want your children to be unique.”
Piggy Jo’s, which opened in December 2021, is a mashup of Volpe and her husband and co-owner Conner’s grandparents’ names: Pap Paw Piggy and Grandma Jo. When you pull up to the store’s entrance and, especially when you step inside, you’re hit with an explosion of mostly pink to accentuate the “piggy” theme. The store sells clothes for newborns through preteens (sizes 7-14), plus toys, books and gifts.
But not everything in the store has pink or other bright colors. Piggy Jo’s sells Rylee + Cru children’s clothes that tend to come in more neutral tones. Other popular items are children’s clothes by The Beaufort Bonnet; Indestructibles, a line of books for babies that are chew-, rip- and drool-proof; and stuffed animals by Jellycat.
At least once a quarter, Piggy Jo’s hosts community events such as story time and charity fundraisers. Volpe and her husband’s three children, Parker, 7, Fallon, 5, and Savannah, 2, even are involved in the everyday activities of the store.
So, if you’re looking for something you can’t find anywhere else, Piggy Jo’s is the place to go.
