Georgia's capital city, Atlanta, is brimming with sights to see and things to do for the holiday season. Lennox Square and Phipps Plaza offer world-class shopping in an all-decked-out mode, including the giant Macy's Christmas Tree. Centennial Olympic Park, site of the 1996 Summer Olympics, offers the state's only outdoor ice skating rink. If you prefer to stay on solid ground, take a romantic stroll through the park as it is ablaze in lights. The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra performs an array of holiday-themed concerts from jazz to gospel. Visit the World of Coca Cola and peruse the history of the Coca Cola Santa. Downtown hotels team up with area attractions to offer package deals for any budget.
Savannah, located on the Georgia coast, presents its Holly Days for Christmas visitors. The Gingerbread Village, sponsored by the Harbor Foundation, is a collection of culinary delights created by local chefs, students and community groups. Nearby Tybee Island offers Lights On For Tybee, in addition to a Christmas parade and the Tybee Island Polar Bear Plunge. An authentic 19th century Savannah holiday season is recreated at the historic Davenport House, including evening candelight tours. Enjoy a holiday meal at The Lady and Son, famed restaurant owned by Food Network's Paula Deen.
Lake Lanier Islands Resort, located in Buford, lights up the holidays with its annual Magical Nights of Lights extravaganza. The spectacle is more than 6 miles long and boasts over one million lights. At the end of the tour, visit the Holiday Village which features a marshmallow-roasting bonfire, pony rides, holiday shopping and photos with Santa.
If you prefer Christmas in the mountains, north Georgia is dotted with quaint mountain towns, each offering its own unique brand of holiday celebration. Stone Mountain Park, just 15 miles outside Atlanta, decorates with over two million lights. Events include a nightly parade, live performances, and the Polar Express 4D movie experience.
Consider a visit to Always Christmas in Hiawassee, Georgia, not far from the Tennessee border. Always Christmas is open year-round, Monday through Saturday, offering holiday shoppers large selections of ornaments, wreaths and Christmas collectibles. The store offers shipping services, so no need to worry about transporting your purchases. Or take a day trip to Canton, north of Atlanta, to the home of Santa and Mrs. Claus. The house is in a unique setting tucked away near Sequoyah Park. It is filled with Santa likenesses, model railroad trains and collectible villages. Hot apple cider is served to visitors and you are welcome to take pictures.
