Callaway Gardens
A sprawling resort in Pine Mountain, GA, offering beautiful gardens, golf, dining, and seasonal light displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light displays
Callaway Gardens
Best Time
Magical light displays
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling resort in Pine Mountain, GA, offering beautiful gardens, golf, dining, and seasonal light displays.
"The grounds are beautiful and there's a lot of greenery, offering a peaceful escape. "
Book Event Tickets Early
Popular events like Pumpkins at Callaway and Fantasy in Lights sell out; book online in advance.
Consider a Membership
If you plan multiple visits, a yearly membership can offer discounts on events and admission.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Pumpkins at Callaway
Gardens
Experience a whimsical Halloween escapade with giant pumpkins by day and glowing gardens by night.
Fantasy in Lights
Gardens
A dazzling seven-mile drive-through holiday light display with 10 million twinkling lights.
Butterfly Garden
Gardens
Wander through a serene aviary filled with hundreds of colorful butterflies.
The Chapel
Gardens
A picturesque chapel with stunning stained glass and a tranquil pond overlook.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Fall Fun
Beyond the Gardens: Activities & Costs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Event Tickets Early
Popular events like Pumpkins at Callaway and Fantasy in Lights sell out; book online in advance.
Consider a Membership
If you plan multiple visits, a yearly membership can offer discounts on events and admission.
Daytime vs. Nighttime
Visit during the day for gardens and activities, then stay for the enchanting light displays at night.
Pack for Comfort
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive grounds and trails.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Event Tickets Early
Popular events like Pumpkins at Callaway and Fantasy in Lights sell out; book online in advance.
Consider a Membership
If you plan multiple visits, a yearly membership can offer discounts on events and admission.
Daytime vs. Nighttime
Visit during the day for gardens and activities, then stay for the enchanting light displays at night.
Pack for Comfort
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the extensive grounds and trails.
Food & Drink Costs
Be prepared for resort pricing; consider packing snacks or planning meals strategically. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Callaway Gardens is praised for its beautiful grounds and enchanting seasonal events like 'Pumpkins at Callaway' and 'Fantasy in Lights.' Visitors enjoy the natural beauty and range of activities. However, some find the resort overpriced, with issues in room quality and high costs for food and attractions.
"🎃We had a wonderful weekend stay at Callaway Resort & Gardens while attending Pumpkins at Callaway. The resort was beautiful, spotless, and perfectly decorated for Halloween — festive without being overdone. Our room was comfortable and relaxing, and room service was impressively fast with food that was absolutely delicious.
On our last day, there was an unexpected fire evacuation, but the staff handled everything calmly and efficiently. Everyone was guided out safely, and the situation was managed in a very organized and professional manner.
Despite the scare, we left with only positive impressions and can’t wait to come back for their Christmas event. If it’s anything like Halloween, it’s sure to be magical!"
Lana Phillips
"Subject: Feedback on Our Recent Stay
Dear Callaway Gardens Management,
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to share some feedback regarding our recent stay at your beautiful resort.
Positive Highlights:
- The atmosphere was lovely, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and family bonding.
- We were pleasantly surprised by the variety of activities available beyond the beach, making it an excellent destination for a weekend getaway.
Areas for Improvement:
- Lighting: We noticed that more lighting is needed, especially at night, to enhance safety and visibility.
- Cabin Cleanliness: Unfortunately, our cabin had some cleanliness issues, including the presence of roaches and a dead bug in the bed. Additionally, the furniture appeared dirty and may benefit from a thorough cleaning or replacement with more durable materials like leather.
- Bathroom Maintenance: The tub had a very slow drain, which was inconvenient during our stay.
- Bedding Quality: The pillows were quite cheap and did not provide the comfort we expected.
also you need to use the bedbug protection for all your beds the zip up protector
We appreciate your attention to these matters, as it will help enhance the experience for future guests. Thank you for your time, and we look forward to seeing improvements on our next visit!
Best regards,
VG"
SSG Kody gray
"We stayed in the Lodge. Our room was nice. It had a small balcony that overlooked the trees which made it very private. There is so much to do at CG. All the staff was so nice. They truly defined southern hospitality. The nearby town of Pine Mountain was nice to walk around and shop. Also had some good options for food. We drove over to Warm Springs and toured the Little White House which made for a nice day trip. We would love to make a return visit some day."
Brad Weatherly
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Callaway Gardens is located in Pine Mountain, Georgia, about a 1.5-hour drive southwest of Atlanta. Take I-85 South towards Montgomery, then exit onto US-27 South. Follow signs for Callaway Gardens.
Public transportation options to Callaway Gardens are very limited. It is best accessed by car.
The resort spans 2,500 acres, so driving between areas is recommended. Within the gardens, walking and biking are popular ways to explore.
Information on EV charging stations is not widely available, so it's advisable to check with the resort directly if this is a concern.
The GPS coordinates for Callaway Gardens are approximately 32.8175° N, 84.9400° W.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary by season and event. For 'Pumpkins at Callaway,' expect adult tickets to be around $25-$30 and child tickets $20-$25. Fantasy in Lights has separate pricing. Check their website for current rates.
Tickets can often be purchased at the gate, but it's highly recommended to buy them online in advance, especially for popular events, to guarantee entry and potentially save time.
Discounts may be available for members, military personnel, or through special promotions. Memberships can offer discounted event tickets.
Operating hours vary by season and event. The gardens are generally open daily, but specific attractions and event times (like 'Pumpkins at Callaway' and 'Fantasy in Lights') have set hours. Always check the official website.
Parking is typically included with admission to the gardens. However, for specific events or if you are not entering the main gardens, parking fees may apply.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the 'Pumpkins at Callaway' during fall, the 'Fantasy in Lights' holiday display, the serene Butterfly Garden, and the picturesque Chapel.
Yes, Callaway Gardens offers activities like an inflatable obstacle course, biking trails, and during special events, themed activities suitable for families.
You can enjoy biking on 10 miles of paths, hiking, boating on Robin Lake, visiting the beach, and exploring the vast, beautifully maintained gardens.
Many visitors find Callaway Gardens beautiful and peaceful, with options like the spa and scenic walks making it suitable for couples.
Wi-Fi service can be slow and unreliable, which some guests see as an opportunity to unplug, while others find it inconvenient.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Callaway Gardens offers several dining venues, including restaurants at the Lodge & Spa, a buffet, and a tap room. Room service is also available.
Dining at Callaway Gardens can be pricey, with resort pricing for meals and beverages. Some visitors found the buffet tasty but limited for the cost. +1
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to check the resort's policy on outside food and beverages, especially if you plan to picnic in designated areas.
Dining options may vary, but most resort restaurants offer a range of choices. It's best to check menus in advance or inquire with the restaurant staff.
Reviews are mixed, with some enjoying the buffet and tap room, while others suggest the market pizza was better than room service.
📸 📸 Photography
The Butterfly Garden, the Chapel with its pond view, the vibrant seasonal displays (like pumpkins in fall or lights in winter), and the expansive gardens themselves are highly photogenic.
Absolutely! The 'Pumpkins at Callaway' event offers a festive backdrop with colorful pumpkins and elaborate decorations, perfect for autumn shots.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds for capturing the gardens' beauty. Golden hour in the late afternoon is also ideal. For light displays, nighttime is obviously best.
Drone usage is typically restricted at most resorts and natural attractions for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check Callaway Gardens' specific drone policy before your visit.
The 'Fantasy in Lights' display is a spectacular nighttime photo opportunity, with millions of lights creating a magical winter wonderland.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The resort also boasts an inflatable obstacle course and ample space for kids to run and explore. Consider visiting during off-peak times or weekdays if possible to avoid the largest crowds. While many activities are included with admission, be mindful of the additional costs for some attractions and dining options, which can add up for a family outing.
couples
While the resort aims for a tranquil atmosphere, some guests have noted that the rooms can be noisy due to thin walls, which might detract from a perfectly romantic getaway.
Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Spectacles: Fall & Winter Magic
+2As winter approaches, the resort unveils its renowned Fantasy in Lights. This spectacular drive-through event boasts over 10 million twinkling lights, creating a breathtaking seven-mile journey through a winter wonderland. From dazzling trees to oversized ornaments, it's a cherished holiday tradition for many in the Southeast. Some visitors even enjoy a 'Fantasy in Lights Bike Night' for a more active way to experience the illuminations.
+2These events draw significant crowds, so booking tickets well in advance is crucial, especially for weekend visits. While the visual spectacle is undeniable, be prepared for higher prices and larger gatherings during these peak times.
Exploring the Grounds: Gardens, Trails & Water
For those who enjoy an active experience, 10 miles of paved bike paths wind through the property, offering a scenic way to discover different areas. Renting bikes is a popular option for a leisurely exploration.
While the grounds are extensive and beautiful, some visitors note that navigating between different attractions might require driving. The sheer size means comfortable footwear is a must for anyone planning to do a lot of walking or biking.
Accommodation & Dining: A Resort Experience
+1 However, some guests have reported issues with thin walls and maintenance problems in the rooms, leading to a less-than-ideal stay for the price. The resort features multiple dining venues, from a buffet to restaurants within the Lodge & Spa. While the food is generally described as tasty, reviews indicate that dining can be quite expensive, with resort pricing for meals and beverages.
For those seeking relaxation, the spa offers massages and treatments, though the quality of services like pedicures has received mixed reviews.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit