The Spread:
Callaway Gardens is both a resort and a preserve encompassing 14,000 acres in the southernmost foothills of the Appalachians, an hour southwest of Atlanta. Day-trippers come to stroll the famed gardens, but staying over in one of the 784 rooms, spread between cottages, villas, and an inn, is the best way to enjoy this green oasis. Come summer, 65-acre Robin Lake and its expansive manmade white-sand beach are the hub of resort activities. And, since Callaway Gardens has been providing vacations for nearly half a century, the hotel's considerable experience shows in every program and event.

Why Families Love It:
The Flying High Circus troupe from Florida State University (FSU) performs June to August and its talented stars double as counselors in Callaway's Summer Family Adventure Program, part of a lodging/activity package. Activities, which adults and kids enjoy together and apart, include hiking, biking, fishing, boating, golf, crafts, water-skiing, wakeboarding, and even learning circus skills. At the lake, Iceberg Island is a floating playground with a trampoline, slides, and a four-sided "iceberg" for climbing.

Child-specific programs run for ages three to 18, divided into different groups. Rates depend on the number of nights you stay. At day's end, families gather around a campfire and, of course, enjoy entertaining circus shows.

Parents can play golf on two championship courses plus the nine-hole course is good for beginners, both children and adults. Callaway was named one of the most family-friendly golf destinations by U.S. Kids Golf, and Callaway's director of golf was named a Top 50 Kids' Instructor. Callaway is also known for its fly-fishing, ten-mile Discovery Bike Trail, and for workshops and educational programs (including guided hikes and painting flora with watercolors).

Special Events & Activities:
The daily Birds of Prey show at the Discovery Amphitheater is a must-see. Eagles, hawks, owls, and peregrine falcons give visitors a rare view into the world of raptors. Callaway has events every major holiday, with July 4th a perennial family favorite.