Callaway Resort & Gardens - Pine Mountain, Georgia

Karry F

We had gone to Callaway Gardens for Fantasy in Lights. By staying at the resort, we were able to get a package that included our Callaway Lodge stay, Fantasy in Lights tickets, and a day pass for the gardens. ||The good: Fantasy in Lights is a good time. They have a tram option to view the lights which I think is better than the drive through option so that you can enjoy the view instead of driving through on the very dark roads worrying about where you are going. They also have a indoor village of shops, food, and children's activities that is fun and wonderful. After the tram and visiting the indoor village, there is still more to see outside as there is a walk-through lighted area too. They had food trucks outdoors for dinner/snack options. I recommend staying at the lodge for convenience. We didn't have to drive home afterward or to another distant hotel. After seeing the lights, we spent some time in the bar where they had live music. Music was so-so but we enjoyed the drinks and appetizer we had. There wasn't much available seating but we somehow managed to snag a table after a few minutes.||The meh: The accommodations at the lodge were average, not quite as upscale as the price suggests, but considering the price included our Fantasy in Lights tickets, I guess it was ok. The staff at the lodge weren't exactly very friendly or helpful. When checking out, there was someone on the phone that completely ignored us rather than at least letting us know she would be with us shortly. We finally just left the key and headed out. I had had a question for her that I never was able to ask. ||The bad: The condition of the gardens during the day is not great and looks very run down, not because it was late fall but the building and grounds weren't very well taken care of. There are abandoned buildings with overgrown/unkept grass. For being a gardens, it made it look old and cheapened the areas that remain nice. We were also disappointed in the restaurant for breakfast. We were told the previous night that we could order from the menu for breakfast, as I don't care for buffets. When we got there in the morning, we were told differently, that the only option was the buffet. ||Overall, I would say Fantasy in Lights is worth the trip. I'm not sure if I can highly recommend the gardens. It needs some work. I had been previously and have seen a deterioration from its previous appearance. The place just needs a little love and care to return to its previous state. I hope they are able to bring it back to what it once was.

Diana High

We stayed 2 nights at the cottages and two nights at the lodge. The grounds and location were great. We enjoyed the trails, Pumpkin festival, butterfly garden, safari and FDR White House.
The food was average and overpriced. The cottage had a lot of live cockroaches. The WiFi was not great. The employees were very unattentive, dismissive and overall just not helpful.

Kristina R

We stayed in a cottage and it was wonderful. Plenty of room for our family. Full-size kitchen, screened patio, grill. Two full baths. Very spacious and clean. I read reviews before booking and they had some complaints about needing updates but I thought it was perfect. It was just a weekend stay but I can't wait to return and stay longer.

Bobby Wood

## Callaway Gardens: A Botanical Oasis

Callaway Gardens is a true gem nestled in the heart of Georgia. This expansive retreat offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and luxurious accommodations.

Nature's Masterpiece: The gardens themselves are an absolute showstopper. With vibrant blooms, serene lakes, and lush greenery, it's a photographer's paradise. The changing seasons bring forth different spectacles, making it a captivating destination year-round.

Beyond the Gardens: Callaway Gardens is more than just flora and fauna. There's something for everyone, including thrilling zipline adventures, challenging golf courses, and relaxing spa treatments. The resort also offers a variety of dining options to satisfy every palate.

A Family-Friendly Escape: Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, Callaway Gardens has it all. Kids will be enchanted by the butterfly center and the variety of outdoor activities.

A Note on Crowds: While the gardens are undeniably beautiful, be prepared for crowds, especially during peak seasons. It's advisable to plan your visit accordingly.

Overall, Callaway Gardens is a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape. It's a place where you can reconnect with the natural world and create lasting memories.

Jill and Ray All Day

I had an amazing day on Sunday we went to every exhibit and attraction

The birds of prey was cool and interesting
But the Butterfly Conservation was my favorite we literally spent an hour on there admiring all the beautiful butterflies and flowers/plants

We also attend the Pumpkin Festival it was a lot of fun, great acts and activities for all. The pumpkin trail was cool

The hardest part was following the paper map once inside, a lot of one way roads you can get turned around a bit if your not good at map reading

The bathroom were very clean 10/10
Services 10/10
Attractions 10/10

Michelle Herrera

The butterfly center and the Bird of prey were awesome. The workers for these two attractions were so informative and very friendly. I also enjoyed the chapel.
The name was deceptive. I was expecting “gardens”. The workers in the hotel were very friendly, all saying “hi” and answering all questions.
The room was very clean.
I was unimpressed with the food and service at the Country Kitchen on 27. Our waitress was good and the food was okay but how can you go wrong with pancakes. BUT my mouth dropped and I could not stop looking when I saw the treatment of the people who sat next to us. I don’t usually write reviews but I could not pass this up. Then you have Cason and Piedmont as two restaurants in the hotel, but same menu and same prices, very expensive. Turkey BLT, made with turkey lunch meat. Whatever.

Kara Sowinski

Visited for the Pumpkins at Callaway. We had a blast! They had glow in the dark mini golf, local artisans, spooky book readings for kids, corn mazes and food trucks. Our son loved the lights, bubbles and music. Looking forward to coming back next year.

David Green

I was very disappointed in our visit to Callaway Gardens this week. We haven't been there in 10 years and it has really gone down hill. I remember taking my parents here several times in the 1970s and 1980s and marveling at how beautiful the grounds were. Now the place is not being maintained well at all. The parking lot at the Discovery Center is not well maintained. The birds of prey show only lasted about 20 minutes. The zip lining is only open on weekends. The whole place almost feels like it's abandoned. No Southern Victory Garden or horticultural Center anymore. When I came home, I got on the internet and found that Callaway Gardens has had to sell thousands of acres of land and has had financial hardships for more than 20 years. People have stopped coming here. The current management is not doing a very good job at all. Even the chapel had a foul odor about it. The only reason I gave this place 2 stars is the front desk clerk whom I believe his name was Roger, was very helpful and the cabin we stayed in was very nice. But it's around $300 per night. It is with great sadness that I can't recommend this place ?