One of the best parts of publishing a magazine is exploring exciting locales and pretending it is work! My husband and I recently enjoyed a getaway to LaGrange, Georgia, to enhance our mental health and wellness. It was exactly what we needed—a perfect blend of charm, relaxation and discovery. From the moment we arrived, the town welcomed us with open arms, offering a balance of history, music and mouthwatering food.
The stunning Hills and Dales Estate was one of our favorite stops. Walking through the impeccably maintained gardens, we were struck by the beauty and serenity surrounding the historic home. The vibrant flowers, towering trees and intricate landscaping created a sense of timeless elegance. We were left In awe of the women who created and maintained the gardens across three lifetimes - Sarah Coleman Ferrell, Ida Cason Callaway and Alice Hand Callaway. Exploring the estate together, we couldn’t help but imagine the lives of those who had walked these same paths generations before and ponder how stunning they must be in the spring.
Another highlight was our evening at Nutwood Winery, where we enjoyed an incredible dinner paired with their delicious wines—the winery’s rustic yet refined ambiance set the stage for an unforgettable meal. With live music playing in the background and the vineyard glowing in the soft evening light, it was one of those rare moments that felt exciting and deeply peaceful.
Of course, no trip is complete without indulging in dessert, and the lemon sugar cookie ice cream from Rock Salt Milk Bar became my new favorite treat. The creamy lemon base, perfectly balanced by the sweet crunch of sugar cookie bits, was pure bliss in a cone. My husband, who’s usually less enthusiastic about sweets than I am, couldn’t resist stealing a few bites, and we may or may not have paid them a second visit on our way out of town.
We were introduced to Pure Life House of Music, a southern-chic listening room that radiates timeless creativity. The Barry Waldrep Band headlined the evening, and they executed their Allman Brothers tribute with a lot of soul and impressive musicianship that had us and the rest of the audience spellbound.
Our mornings were just as memorable, especially the breakfast at Gus’s Grill. The omelet I ordered was fluffy, packed with fresh ingredients and perfectly seasoned. The friendly service and diner-style charm made it feel like the heart of LaGrange. Cafe Brulee makes a mean Chai Tea Latte and serves up a delectable offering of pastries and sweet treats.
LaGrange offered us more than just a weekend getaway—it gave us moments to savor together, from the tranquil beauty of Hills and Dales to the lively melodies of Pure Life. And that lemon sugar cookie ice cream cone? I’m already dreaming about our next trip back for another taste.