Photograph courtesy of the High Museum of Art
From internationally renowned museums, orchestras, and dance and theater companies to inviting community centers and folk-life performances, visitors will discover an astonishing array of ways to experience Georgia’s vibrant arts scene and rich cultural heritage.
Atlanta Metro
1. Museum of Design Atlanta (MODA)
The Southeast’s only design museum features interactive exhibits, a monthly lecture series and education programs to illustrate how design influences our world. This year, MODA presents SCORE Sports + Art & Design (Feb. 2–April 27), demonstrating how art, design and technology impact athletic performance through equipment, uniforms, training and more. 1315 Peachtree St., Atlanta, 404-979-6455
2. Center for Puppetry Arts
The country’s largest organization devoted solely to puppetry arts, the center has earned international recognition for its outstanding performances, museum and education programs. Upcoming performances include 1001 Nights: A Love Story About Loving Stories and Charlotte’s Web, as well as the New Directions Series Performances for Adults and Teens featuring Great Expectations. 1404 Spring St. NW, Atlanta, 404-873-3391
3. Atlanta Contemporary Art Center (ACAC)
Devoted to the creation and advancement of contemporary art, the recently renovated ACAC presents a solo exhibition with Simone Leigh, whose sculptural installations are influenced by African rituals and popular culture, as well as a group show, Coloring, in which artists use color to examine optical and physical sensations. 535 Means St., Atlanta, 404-688-1970
4. Atlanta Shakespeare Company
Based at the New American Shakespeare Tavern, the company’s performances feature hand-made period costumes and live music and sound effects. Perfect for date night, upcoming productions include The Taming of the Shrew, Romeo and Juliet and Much Ado About Nothing. Enjoy authentic pub food with a selection of Irish ales. 499 Peachtree St. NE, Atlanta, 404-874-5299
5. Michael C. Carlos Museum
This Emory University museum is known for its permanent collection of Egyptian, Classical, African and Asian art. Current exhibitions include photography from Rome’s famous Fratelli Alinari Photography Firm (through Feb. 2) as well as Romare Bearden: A Black Odyssey (through March 9), which artistically links classical mythology with African American culture. 571 S. Kilgo Cir., Atlanta, 404-727-4282
6. Atlanta Performs
Atlanta Performs represents dozens of Atlanta-area theater and dance companies, like the esteemed Alliance Theatre and Theatrical Outfit. The organization is a prime resource for upcoming productions and operates AtlanTIX, a discount ticketing service for last-minute and day-of shows online and at its Underground Atlanta Visitors Center booth. 65 Upper Alabama St. SW Atlanta, 404-588-9890 ext. 106
7. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
The multiple Grammy Award–winning ASO performs more than 200 concerts a year. This season, don’t miss Fire Angels, a world premiere in March inspired by the events of 9/11; Verdi’s Aida in June; and a guest appearance from acclaimed violinist Joshua Bell. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta, 404-733-4900
8. Atlanta Ballet
Founded in 1926, this premier dance company’s repertoire spans from beloved classics to modern originals. Timeless favorites such as the annual Nutcracker performances delight audiences every year, while modern and innovative new programs and world premieres push the boundaries of the craft. Atlanta Ballet is the resident company of the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. 2800 Cobb Galleria Pkwy., Atlanta, 404-892-3303
9. ART Station
A nonprofit arts center founded in 1986, ART Station houses its own professional equity theater company, five art galleries, a children’s gallery, a gift shop, and classroom and production space. Dramatic performances, gallery exhibits, seasonal classes and camps, and an annual storytelling festival nurture talent and ignite artistic creativity. 5384 Manor Dr., Stone Mountain, 770-469-1105
10. Museum of Contemporary Art of Georgia (MOCA GA)
MOCA GA exhibits and archives significant works by Georgia artists. Located in the TULA Arts Center, MOCA GA is home to a permanent collection of more than 800 pieces. In February and March, see SCORE: Artist in Overtime, which captures the experience of being an athlete. 75 Bennett St., Ste. A-2, Atlanta, 404-367-8700
11. High Museum of Art
The Southeast’s most prestigious art museum boasts a permanent collection including European paintings; photography; and African, decorative and folk art. This year’s exhibitions include art inspired by the Louvre’s Tuileries Garden, as well as Go West!, featuring artwork created for Buffalo Bill Cody and his Wild West show, sculptures by Frederic Remington and other frontier paintings and artifacts. 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta, 404-733-4400
12. Fox Theatre
You haven’t been to the theater in Atlanta unless you’ve been to “the fabulous Fox.” Just as noteworthy as all the Broadway musicals it hosts are its stunning Moorish architecture and the twinkling stars in the evening sky of its painted ceiling. Don’t miss the summer movie series each year. 660 Peachtree St., Atlanta, 404-881-2100
The Coast
13. Telfair Museums
The Telfair Museums, comprised of three distinct sites, offers a diverse range of art. These include classic artwork at the Telfair Academy, the South’s oldest public museum, which opened its doors in 1886; period furnishings in lavish 19th-century Owens-Thomas House museum; and contemporary holdings at the sleek Jepson Center. 124 Abercorn St., Savannah, 912-790-8800
14. Woodbine Opry
Got a hankering for old-time, knee-slapping tunes, where performers of all ages sing, dance and play the fiddle or banjo? Toe-tap over to the Woodbine Opry. Every Friday brings bluegrass, gospel and country musicians to the stage, while Saturday nights are devoted solely to country music. Second Ave. and Camden Ave., Woodbine
15. Geechee Kunda
Devoted to preserving the heritage of the Geechee culture, this living museum situated on a former rice and indigo plantation houses African art, textiles, paintings, tools and craftwork used by the Gullah-Geechee from the 1700s to the 1900s. Year-round activities include classes, lectures and performances. 622 Ways Temple Rd., Riceboro, 912-884-4440
16. Savannah Theatre
The oldest American theater still in operation reopened its doors in 2002. Once a movie house, the venue now features a live band and a cast of singers and dancers who present Broadway-style productions and two-hour musical shows as well as an annual Christmas production. 222 Bull St., Savannah, 912-233-7764
17. Savannah Music Festival
Georgia’s largest music festival boasts an extensive, cross-genre lineup that has garnered international acclaim, and this year’s celebration of the 25th season promises music fans of all types an unforgettable experience. Performances will take place throughout the city’s Historic District from March 20 to April 5. Multiple locations in Savannah, 912-525-5050
18. SCAD Museum of Art
Savannah College of Art and Design’s contemporary art and design museum enriches the education of the school’s students and faculty and attracts visitors from around the world. Housed in a Greek Revival–style former railway headquarters, the museum consists of multiple galleries, a conservation lab, a 250-seat theater and outdoor exhibition spaces. 601 Turner Blvd., Savannah, 912-525-7191
19. Chesser Island Homestead
In the late 1800s, W.T. Chesser and his family settled on a small island just east of the Okefenokee Swamp. The family grew cash crops and tapped turpentine. Explore the primitive homestead and support buildings, including a smokehouse, syrup shed and chicken coop. Seven miles southwest of Folkston, along GA Hwys. 121/23, 912-496-7836
20. Salzburger Museum and Church
In 1734, Protestant colonists fled what is now Austria to build a “religious utopia on the Georgia frontier.” The Salzburgers and their descendants played an important role in the cultural history of the state, and the museum preserves and celebrates that heritage. The adjacent Jerusalem Evangelical Lutheran Church is the oldest church in Georgia. 2980 Ebenezer Rd., Rincon, 912-754-7001
21. Congregation Mickve Israel
In 1733, just five months after the founding of the colony of Georgia, a group of pioneering Jews landed in Savannah and established this congregation, the third oldest in America. Mickve Israel still houses the Torah they brought, the oldest in the country. Tour the sanctuary, museum and Judaica shop. 20 E. Gordon St., Savannah, 912-233-1547
Illustration by Louise L. Hooper
22. Goodyear Cottage, Jekyll Island Arts Association
This gorgeous 1906 home located in Jekyll Island’s Historic District showcases a variety of work by local and visiting artists, including paintings, photography, sculpture, pottery, textiles and ceramics. Annual events include a three-day arts festival in March, a chamber music weekend in the summer, children’s programs and art classes. 321 W. Riverview Dr., Jekyll Island Historic District, 912-635-3920
23. Gogo Jewelry
Cumberland Island’s flora, fauna and sea life serve as the inspiration for famed jewelry designer Gogo Ferguson’s amazing creations. A descendant of a Carnegie steel baron, Ferguson lives and designs on the island and uses everything from ancient seashells to rattlesnake vertebrae in her simple yet exquisite pieces cast in silver, gold and other metals. Gogo’s Place, Cumberland Island; 217 Redfern Village, St. Simons Island, 912-634-8875
Classic South
24. Augusta’s Artists Row
Downtown Augusta’s Broad Street boasts historic buildings and lofts and is an enclave for artists and art enthusiasts. Browse the galleries, coffeehouses and bookstores to find one-of-a-kind pieces, and stay later for live music and festivities at the once-a-month “First Friday” art walks. Broad St. and nearby side streets, downtown Augusta
25. Morris Museum of Art
Located on Augusta’s scenic Riverwalk, the Morris is the first museum devoted solely to art of the American South, from paintings and photography to sculpture and works on paper. Each year also brings eight to ten special exhibitions. The Morris is home to the Center for the Study of Southern Art. 1 10th St., Augusta, 706-724-7501
26. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art
The contemporary art exhibited in this gallery serves as a counterpoint to the structure in which it is housed—a stunning, Federal-style mansion dating back to 1818. The visual arts school offers classes in a variety of media, and the institute hosts an annual Spring Artists Market and Festival with hands-on activities and artist demonstrations. 506 Telfair St., Augusta, 706-722-5495
27. Sacred Heart Cultural Center
Once a Catholic church, this historic site is now a hub for cultural exhibits, concerts and festivals. Local and regional artists display their work; authors give lectures; and annual events such as holiday concerts, a silent movie night and the Garden Festival draw patrons to this versatile venue and event space. 1301 Greene St., Augusta, 706-826-4700
Photograph courtesy of Cirque de la Symphonie
28. Symphony Orchestra of Augusta
This outstanding orchestra serves two states and 17 counties in Georgia and South Carolina. Don’t miss Cirque de la Symphonie, combining music and acrobatics for a stimulating experience on March 6, and Pops: Under the Stars, an annual free, outdoor concert on May 10. Various performance venues depending on event, call for information, 706-826-4705
29. Genuine Georgia
Selling only Georgia-made art, Genuine Georgia brings customers and admirers face-to-face with artists and their work. At this downtown Greensboro shop, artists weave, paint, carve and pot in the storefront windows and discuss techniques with customers. 102 S. Main St., Greensboro, 706-453-1440
30. Emanuel Arts Center
Emanuel County’s cultural association hosts a range of fine arts events, from gallery exhibitions and art strolls to a music jam and theatrical performances. Don’t miss the Arts Emanuel International Festival each fall, featuring music, food, dancing and an artists market celebrating diverse media and cultures. 303 N. Green St., Swainsboro, 478-237-2592
31. Columbia County Ballet
Founded as a dance school in 1985 by a couple of Atlanta Ballet alums, the company presents three major performances each year, including The Nutcracker and The Roar of Love, based on C.S. Lewis’s The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Dancers from small children to adults train and perform with the company. 639 Fury’s Ferry Rd., Martinez, 706-860-1852
32. Lincoln Artisans Gallery
Located in the heart of downtown Lincolnton, this gallery and retail space focuses on local and regional artists and craftspeople. Visitors will find paintings, pottery, woodwork, blown glass, photography, works on paper, and other creations. The gallery hosts an annual Youth Art Month (YAM) each March, showcasing art by young people. 111 Main St., Lincolnton, 706-359-6789
33. Mac on Main
Thomson’s downtown cooperative hosts 20 artists, whose works include sculpture, woodwork, paintings, jewelry, pottery and stained glass. Quarterly events, Sip and Dips (enjoy wine while learning to paint) and Friday evening receptions featuring new art allow patrons to enjoy and test their artistic skills in an inspiring setting. 107 Main St., Thomson, 706-699-0307
34. Museum of Cultural Heritage
Housed in a historic depot and now the site of the Warren County Chamber of Commerce, this museum preserves its region’s history with permanent displays and special exhibits. 46 S. Norwood St., Warrenton, 706-465-9604
Historic Heartland
35. Andalusia
Iconic Southern author Flannery O’Connor lived the last 13 years of her life on this 544-acre estate and farm, where she completed both of her novels and two short-story collections. The property includes the farmhouse, a pea fowl aviary, a cow barn and a milk-processing shed and provides great insight into the agrarian culture from that time. West side of US Hwy. 441, four miles northwest of Milledgeville, 478-454-4029
36. Georgia Museum of Art
An academic museum located on the University of Georgia campus, GMOA is also the state’s official museum. American paintings figure prominently in the permanent collection, including works by Georgia O’Keefe and Winslow Homer. The museum boasts impressive Italian Renaissance paintings, Southern decorative art and Asian art. 90 Carlton St., Athens, 706-542-4662
37. Ware-Lyndon House/Lyndon House Arts Center
This restored Greek Revival home is now a visual arts complex for the community, with gallery and event space, a children’s wing, class studios, and a research library. More than 100 Athens-area artists are represented with pottery, paintings, woodwork, glasswork, jewelry and knitting. Admission is free to this treasure on the National Register of Historic Places. 293 Hoyt St., Athens, 706-613-3623
38. Canopy Studio
Experience the art of flying dance trapeze at this unique aerial arts center. Build strength and confidence through classes, workshops or private lessons taught by members of the repertory company, or just sit back and watch the 17 studio artists take to the air in one of their two major annual performances. 160 Tracy St., Athens, 706-549-8501
39. Fired Works
From April 26 through May 4, 70 artists will showcase more than 6,000 pieces of their pottery at the largest pottery exhibit and sale in the state. Presented by the Macon Arts Alliance, the festival celebrates the rich heritage of pottery-making along the banks of the Ocmulgee River. Historic Round Building, Central City Park, Macon, 478-743-6940
40. Cox Capitol Theatre
This movie house and live entertainment venue dates back to 1916, and its refurbishment in the early 21st century speaks to Macon’s larger downtown revitalization. From animated family movies like The Lion King to live musical acts like 80s throwback band Great White, the theater caters to patrons of all ages and tastes. 382 Second St., Macon, 478-257-6391
41. Steffen Thomas Museum of Art
German-born artist Steffen Thomas was celebrated for sculpting busts and statues of dignitaries, such as George Washington Carver. The museum was created in 1997 by Thomas’s widow to celebrate his work. The museum displays his Expressionist pieces and regularly hosts exhibitions for local artists. 4200 Bethany Rd., Buckhead, 706-342-7557
42. Tubman African American Museum
Boasting the Southeast’s largest collection of African American artifacts, the Tubman Museum is dedicated to the culture, history and creative expression of this important heritage. The permanent collections include an impressive showcase of folk art, a black inventors gallery and artifacts relating specifically to Macon and Middle Georgia. Between four and six special exhibitions are featured each year. 340 Walnut St., Macon, 478-743-8544
Photograph courtesy of the Madison Morgan Cultural Center
43. Madison-Morgan Cultural Center
In this restored Romanesque Revival brick building that housed Georgia’s first “graded” school, a community arts center was born in 1976. Galleries provide a space for visual arts, and an intimate theater that was once the school auditorium has hosted the Alvin Ailey Dance Company, Royal Shakespeare Company and the Vienna Boys Choir. 434 S. Main St., Madison, 706-342-4743
44. Happy Valley Pottery
In 1970, Kathy and Jerry Chappelle bought a small farm and created Happy Valley with the goal of helping establish an arts community in Oconee County. Visiting artists, on-site pottery-making demonstrations, and even glassblowing are offered at this “incubator for artists.” 1210 Carson Graves Rd., Watkinsville, 706-769-5922
45. Monroe Art Guild
Housed in a renovated and converted 1913 post office, the Monroe Art Guild is part gallery and part studio. Original artwork from regional artists and rotating exhibits are displayed in one of several gallery rooms and in the sculpture garden. 205 S. Broad St., Monroe, 770-207-8937
Magnolia Midlands
Photograph by Daphne Walker
46. Tales from the Altamaha
The late Col. Thomas Ross Sharpe, a noted citizen of southeast Georgia’s Tattnall and Toombs counties, once penned a column entitled “Tales from the Altamaha” for the local paper. Today, his stories serve as the inspiration for these popular folk life plays performed each spring around the same time as the Vidalia Onion Festival. US Hwy. 1, Lyons, 912-526-6445
47. Hawkinsville Opera House
A restored historic building, this venue features musical theater and children’s productions as well as musical performances of all genres, including classical, rock, country, bluegrass, R&B and gospel. Annual events include a patriotic concert, and rotating shows include folklore comedy and tribute concerts. 42 S. Lumpkin, Hawkinsville, 478-783-1884
48. Southern Soy Candle
These locally made, hand-poured, scented soy candles feature only skin-safe products. Adding to their Southern flair, the “Georgia Line” candles are made in 16-ounce Mason jars. St. Mathews Church Rd., Metter, 912-685-6100
49. The Performing Arts Center at GSU
Enjoy performing arts, music and dance at this Georgia Southern University center. This season’s shows include the Moscow Festival Ballet’s Cinderella (Feb. 21); Liza & Judy: Together Again!, a tribute show to Liza Minnelli and Judy Garland (March 6); and Hot on Broadway (April 11), which brings together a cast of performers from favorite Broadway musicals. 847 Plant Dr., Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, 912-478-7199
50. Averitt Center for the Arts & Emma Kelly Theater
The center’s main gallery hosts rotating art exhibits, while the theater presents a performance season, including musical acts such as the Spelman College Glee Club (Feb. 7) and bluesman Guy Davis (March 1). Stage plays this year will include Heartbreaks and Hallelujahs (Feb. 13–15) and The Music Man (April 10–13). 33 E. Main St., Statesboro, 912-212-2787
51. Magnolia Music and Medicine Show
Billed as “family entertainment coupled with nostalgia for a time past,” the outfit’s house band and cast are joined several times a year by musicians representing a range of genres from country, rockabilly and honky-tonk to swing, gospel and folk. Magnolia Theatre, Eastman, 478-374-4723
52. Archaeology of Camp Lawton
When Georgia Southern University students and faculty began excavating the nearby Jenkins County site of Camp Lawton, a Civil War POW camp, they discovered fascinating artifacts. Now on display in a permanent exhibit at the Georgia Southern Museum, these artifacts include part of a stockade wall, coins, medallions, ammunition remnants and more. 2142 Southern Dr., Rosenwald Building, Statesboro, 912-478-5444
53. The Soda Shop Gallery
Once a soda shop and popular teen hangout in the 1940s and 50s, this space now houses a gallery for local artists to display and sell their work. 113 N. Main St., Sylvania, 912-564-7200
54. Giana Eden Pottery
With more than three decades of pottery experience from Japan to New York to Oregon, Eden now resides in Jesup, where she displays and sells her work. Eden uses traditional Japanese throwing techniques, and her works reflect the country’s craft aesthetic of the interdependence of beauty, utility and a touch of whimsy. All pieces are functional and made with lead-free glaze. 417 S. Hickory St., Jesup, 912-427-6081
55. The Glennville–Tattnall Museum
Giving visitors a peek into the history of Glennville, the museum features an old school room, old-timey kitchen, turpentine still, Indian artifacts and a mural of the original township hand-painted by a local artist. 211 S. Tillman St., Glennville, 912-654-3756
56. The Shoppes at Fourth & Cherry
This downtown Ocilla shop just celebrated its 10th anniversary and offers locally made products such as muscadine juices, jellies and preserves from nearby Paulk Vineyards, as well as cornmeal and grits from C.A.S.E. Farm (Center for Agricultural Study and Excellence), a local high school program. Lunch is served Monday through Friday and features favorite homemade specials like pimento cheese sandwiches and seasonal desserts. 205 E. Fourth St., Ocilla, 229-468-4426
Historic High Country
57. Paradise Garden
The late Howard Finster’s acclaimed folk art property consists of a maze of buildings, sculptures and displays that include more than 47,000 painted works and art made from found objects and recycled materials. During his life, Finster’s work received international attention, and Paradise Garden is a must-see destination. 200 N. Lewis St., Summerville, 706-808-0800
58. Martha Berry Museum Art Collection
Oak Hill, the Greek Revival home of Berry College founder Martha Berry, houses the museum and affords visitors a glimpse into the history of the college, as well as Berry’s personal art collection. Particularly impressive are the Italian Renaissance paintings donated by Berry’s sister, who married an Italian prince in 1902. 24 Veterans Memorial Hwy., Rome, 706-368-6789
Photography courtesy of the Booth Western Art Museum
59. Booth Western Art Museum
An affiliate of the Smithsonian, the Booth houses the largest collection of contemporary Western art east of the Mississippi. Permanent exhibitions include Faces of the West and Heading West, which displays a stagecoach and covered wagon. The Art of Bernard Williams (May 15–Oct. 5) tells the story of African Americans in the West. 501 N. Museum Dr., Cartersville, 770-387-1300
60. Downtown Blue Ridge
With multiple galleries and an art association center featuring resident artist studios, this charming mountain town has become a popular getaway for art enthusiasts. Twice a year, the town hosts the Arts in the Park festival, featuring more than 185 fine arts, crafts and food booths. This year’s festival dates are May 24–25 and Oct. 11–12. 420 W. Main St., Blue Ridge, 706-632-2144
61. Creative Arts Guild
The guild cultivates fine arts in the community by hosting classes, performances and exhibitions. See dance and theater groups perform in various local theater spaces throughout the year. Head to the gallery and sculpture garden to see regional exhibitions. 520 W. Waugh St., Dalton, 706-278-0168
62. 1902 Stock Exchange and Public Opera House
A restored mercantile listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 1902 Stock Exchange now houses individual gallery shops and Maggie May’s Tea Room. Upstairs, the Public Square Opera House hosts shows and dinner theater throughout the year, many highlighting Adairsville’s heritage. 124 Public Sq., Adairsville, 770-733-1902
63. Harris Arts Center and Roland Hayes Museum
In addition to various arts and cultural events throughout the year, the center offers a gallery with rotating exhibitions, a community chorus venue and a theater. The Roland Hayes Museum honors its native son, who was the first African American classical singer to achieve international status on the concert and operatic stages. 212 S. Wall St., Calhoun, 706-629-2599
64. Carrollton Cultural Arts Center
Downtown Carrollton’s cultural hub offers yearly events such as concerts, theater performances, art classes and juried shows, including Mecca Fest, a crafts festival each October. Its active community theater showcases performers of all ages. 118 S. White St., Carrollton, 770-832-1161
65. Rock City Gardens
An iconic tourist stop, Rock City has become non-negotiable on “must-see” lists. The natural rock formations atop Lookout Mountain embody nature’s inadvertant art. Look for the famous red “See Rock City” barns, and don’t leave without purchasing a birdhouse or holiday ornament replica of these famous structures. 1400 Patten Rd., Lookout Mountain, 706-820-2531
66. Funk Heritage Center
Visitors to this center will find Native American art and artifacts that tell the story of the Indian culture in the southeastern U.S. See the award-winning film The Southeastern Indians and view intricately designed dioramas depicting 12,000 years of history in the Hall of the Ancients. 7300 Reinhardt Cir., Waleska, 770-720-5970
67. Milltown Music Hall
West Georgia’s largest concert and entertainment venue opened in early 2012 and hosts multiple genres. On tap for 2014 are Rhonda Vincent and Gene Watson, and Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers. Plans are underway to open the Harold Shedd Music Mill Gallery, to honor the life of the country music industry executive and producer who discovered and promoted clients such as Toby Keith, Shania Twain and Reba McEntire. 1031 Alabama Ave., Bremen, 770-537-6455
Northeast Mountains
Photograph by Lee Carpenter
68. Foxfire Museum & Heritage Center
Experience the proud, self-sufficient, pioneer lifestyle of the Southern Appalachian mountain people at this unique homeplace and cultural center. More than 20 of the log cabins are authentic structures dating as far back as 180 years. See the tools, trades and crafts of the period, and take the self-guided walking tour. 200 Foxfire Ln., Mountain City, 706-746-5828
69. Land of Spirit
Local storytelling comes to life through this all-volunteer arts organization that has produced folk life plays for six years. Volunteers gather stories from local citizens, which are transcribed, sent to a playwright and made available for public readings and input. Performances feature local actors. Lavonia Cultural Center, 12005 Augusta Rd., Lavonia, 706-356-1855
70. Byron Herbert Reece Farm & Heritage Center
The legacy of the Georgia mountain poet, novelist and farmer is honored and preserved at the Reece homeplace and farm. The restored grounds include a barn, smokehouse, farm exhibits, pedestrian bridge across Wolf Creek and Reece’s writing studio located along Poetry Trail. 8552 Gainesville Hwy., Blairsville, 706-745-2034
71. The Cumming Playhouse
Situated in a 1920s-era schoolhouse listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the community theater hosts a variety of productions, with highlights this year including Tarzan (June 8–22) and Gypsy: The Musical (Oct. 17–Nov. 9). 101 School St., Cumming, 770-781-9178
72. The Holly Theatre
Downtown Dahlonega, site of a number of art galleries, is also home to this historic movie house that produces live theater and concerts. The intimate theater’s claim to fame is that no seat is more than 20 feet from the action. 69 W. Main St., Dahlonega, 706-864-3759
73. Sautee-Nacoochee Center & Folk Pottery Museum of Northeast Georgia
This region of the state is known for its pottery tradition, and the museum showcases the art form with an annual pottery show and sale as well as demonstrations and other events. The center also houses three art galleries, hosts a performing arts series and offers workshops. 283 GA Hwy. 255 N, Sautee, 706-878-3300
74. Savannah River Playhouse
This regional theater troupe will produce three musicals and three dinner theater murder mysteries this year as well as a special production of writer/director Kay Legg’s play The Stone Carvers, about four immigrant granite workers who ended up in nearby Elberton, the granite capital of the world. 86 S. Forest Ave., Hartwell, 706-376-7397
75. Habersham Community Theater
Built in 1937 as a movie theater, HCT now contributes to the local arts community with plays, musicals, dinner theater, art exhibits and children’s productions. This year, the theater will feature The Dixie Swim Club, 12 Angry Men and The King and I, among other productions. 1370 Washington St., Clarkesville, 706-839-1315
76. Shields-Ethridge Heritage Farm
Remember learning about Eli Whitney and the cotton gin in grade school? See an actual example of the machine, along with blacksmith and carpentry shops, a gristmill, a milking barn and other examples of a bygone era of farm life at this outdoor agricultural museum. 2355 Ethridge Rd., Jefferson, 706-367-2949
77. Mark of the Potter
For more than four decades, potters have been creating functional stoneware at this shop located in a former gristmill. You can watch the potters at the wheel, see the inner working of the historic mill and feed the fish at the on-site pond. All pottery is food-safe, using only lead-free glazes and clays. 9982 Hwy. 197 N, Clarkesville, 706-947-3440
78. Quinlan Visual Arts Center
Gallery exhibitions, workshops, children’s art education programs and an annual fine art auction are part of the offerings at Quinlan. Confirmed exhibitors for this year are award-winning local artist Jay Kemp (April 17–June 7), who creates amazingly realistic nature and wildlife paintings, and noted Atlanta-based painter Carol Christie (June 12–Aug. 16). 514 Green St., Gainesville, 770-536-2575
Plantation Trace
79. Swamp Gravy
Georgia’s official folklife play is steeped in Southern tradition. Swamp Gravy presents musical theater based on stories from locals about life and death, family and community, with a mixture of comedy, drama and song. Don’t miss Swamp Gravy: Brothers and Sisters, playing March 7–29, and May Haw, Colquitt’s own comedy and variety show, April 18–26. Cotton Hall Theater, 166 E. Main St., Colquitt, tickets: 800-514-3849
80. Pebble Hill Plantation
The grand plantation is rich in art and history. The Main House gallery displays one of the top private sporting art collections in the country, original Audubon lithographs and rotating exhibits. Explore the grounds to see picturesque stables, gardens and even a pump house. 1251 US Hwy 319 S, Thomasville, 229-226-2344
81. Terrell County Historic Courthouse
The tallest courthouse in the state, this 1892 Victorian building is also one of the oldest. Indigenous materials were used in its construction—Georgia clay for the bricks, Georgia granite for the arches and native pine for the structure and floors. The original clock still chimes in the tower every half hour. 205 Lee St. SE, Dawson, 229-995-2011
Mural: "We've Got a Story to Tell" Painted by Chrissie Orr, Photograph by Jerry Miller
82. Millennium Mural Project
To encourage the arts in the community, the town of Colquitt commissioned a variety of painted murals inspired by true stories from people in the area and created by artists from all over the country. Eleven murals are spread across downtown, the last one completed in 2005 with the help of local schoolchildren. Colquitt, 229-758-5450
83. Milltown Murals
Lakeland honors its roots with painted murals on more than two dozen buildings, depicting homes and businesses as they were in 1925 in Milltown, when the community was renamed in honor of the cypress tree–laden Banks Lake. The installations of life-size figures of local citizens from the era bring the charming murals to life. Lakeland, 229-482-9755
84. Albany Civil Rights Movement Museum and Institute
Adjacent to the Old Mt. Zion Church, site of one of the first mass meetings of the Albany movement, the 12,000-plus-square-foot museum pays homage to this community’s civil rights struggle through photographs, documents, artifacts and exhibits. Don’t miss the Freedom Singers, who engage visitors with oral histories and freedom songs on the second Saturday of each month. 326 Whitney Ave., Albany, 229-432-1696
85. Albany Museum of Art
With more than 20 exhibitions annually, Albany’s museum displays American and European art from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as a large collection of traditional African art. Concerts, painting classes for adults and summer camps for children are among activities offered. 311 Meadowlark Dr., Albany, 229-439-8400
86. Peach State Summer Theatre
This professional summer stock musical theater, the official musical theater of Georgia, is produced by Valdosta State University as an extension of the school’s theater program. Recent performances include favorites such as The Sound of Music and A Little Night Music. The troupe also offers occasional “pay what you can” shows. Valdosta State University Fine Arts Building, 204 W. Brookwood Dr., Valdosta, 229-259-7770
87. Thomasville Center for the Arts
Housed in a restored historic school, the center focuses on visual, performing, literary and applied arts. Quarterly art exhibits display the work of emerging and established artists. The center also puts on the Plantation Wildlife Arts Festival, an annual event in the fall that hearkens to the town’s history as a plantation community and showcases sporting and wildlife artists and their work. 600 E. Washington St., Thomasville, 229-226-0588
88. Albany Symphony Orchestra
Highlights this year include Classically Jazzed Quartet with Ken Trimmins (Feb. 15), which traces the roots of jazz; The Orchestra Sings family concert (March 14), which includes an interactive “orchestra instrument petting zoo”; and the 50th anniversary gala concert, Evening of Italian Opera (April 12), with overtures, arias and ensembles performed by choirs from universities around the region. Performances at Darton State College theater or at Albany Municipal Auditorium, Albany, 229-430-8933
89. Georgia Museum of Agriculture & Historic Village
This living-history center features more than 35 restored and preserved structures and includes an art gallery and a country store. Experience working farmsteads; ride a steam-engine train; visit the blacksmith shop, print shop and waterwheel gristmill; and enjoy the interpreters as they demonstrate life in the South between 1870 and 1910. 1392 Whiddon Mill Rd., Tifton, 229-391-5205
Presidential Pathways
90. LaGrange Art Museum
A Victorian-style 1890s jailhouse now houses contemporary art by emerging and established artists at this respected regional museum. Twentieth-century American Southern art is the focus of the permanent collection, while visiting exhibitions extend a broader reach. Art classes, fundraisers and an annual “Mess Fest,” allowing children to get creative, are offered. 112 Lafayette Pkwy., LaGrange, 706-882-3267
91. The Columbus Museum
Regional history and American art are highlighted in this museum’s permanent collection. Galleries showcase American Impressionism, women’s fashion through the years, Colonial art, post-war painting and contemporary realism. Explore the interactive children’s gallery, or relax and reflect in the Bradley Olmsted Garden. 1251 Wynnton Rd., Columbus, 706-748-2562
92. Springer Opera House
More than 140 years old, this is the official state theatre of Georgia. This year’s Mainstage series highlights include: A Raisin in the Sun (Jan. 23–Feb. 1), Les Misérables (Feb. 27–March 15) and The Odd Couple (May 1–17). The Children’s Theatre series will feature James and the Giant Peach (March 19–30). 103 10th St., Columbus, 706-327-3688
93. LaGrange Symphony Orchestra
The LaGrange Symphony Orchestra (LSO) kindles a love for classical music with inspired seasons that feature celebrated musicians such as LaGrange native son David Malis, an internationally renowned baritone. LSO also frequently collaborates with musicians from the LaGrange Youth Orchestra and LaGrange College. Performances at Callaway Auditorium at LaGrange College, LaGrange, 706-882-0662
94. Columbus Walking Tour
Admire the city’s architecture—from the Italianate 700 Broadway house to the Art Moderne bus station turned restaurant, Country’s Barbeque—on this self-guided walking tour. Other historic highlights include residences of Dr. John Stith Pemberton, who developed the original formula for Coca-Cola. Columbus Visitors Center, 900 Front Ave., Columbus, 706-322-1613
95. Pasaquan
Created by the late Eddie Owens Martin, a self-taught, visionary folk artist who called himself “St. EOM,” Pasaquan is a seven-acre site with six buildings painted in bright colors and bold patterns and incorporating human figures and nature imagery. More than 2,000 paintings, sculptures, drawings and other pieces reside at the site, now part of the Marion County Historical Society. 238 Eddie Martin Rd., Buena Vista, 229-649-9444
96. Artbeat Columbus
This celebration of the arts from March 13–28 will offer more than 40 art exhibits, musical performances, workshops, films and creative discussions, all taking place in downtown Columbus. A sculpture walk is also part of the event, with permanent and temporary sculptures along the route. Many events are free to the public. Various locations, downtown Columbus
Photograph courtesy of GDECD
97. SAM Shortline
Climb aboard the Southwest Georgia Excursion Train for a scenic countryside tour through four towns: Cordele, Americus, Leslie and Plains. The air-conditioned, 1949 vintage cars carry passengers through each town, where they may briefly stop or get off until the return trip or the next day for extended sightseeing. 105 E. 19th Ave., Cordele, 229-276-0755
98. Explorations in Antiquity Center
This unique museum explores life in biblical times through archaeological replicas from Israel and the Middle East. Visitors can see reproductions of period tombs, sit in an authentic goat hair tent and even share a Passover meal. Visit the recently added gallery featuring more than 300 biblical–era items on loan from the Israel Antiquities Authority. 130 Gordon Commercial Dr., LaGrange, 706-885-0363
99. Habitat for Humanity Global Village & Discovery Center
See life-size examples of Habitat houses from countries around the world, and learn about construction technologies to build sustainable and energy-efficient housing for those fighting poverty. 721 W. Church St., Americus, 229-410-9737
100. Rylander Theatre
The historic, art deco theater was built for vaudeville in 1921. Shuttered for 40 years, it reopened in 1999 following a painstaking restoration. Today, the Rylander offers live performances, screens movies and hosts special events year-round. In March, catch A Raisin in the Sun. 310 W. Lamar St., Americus, 229-931-0001
