SUMMER AT MARGARITAVILLE AT LANIER ISLANDS 2025

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/11/25

RV there yet? John and I recently headed up to Lake Lanier Islands to experience summer at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands for a fun weekend staying in a spacious luxurious RV, a day at the Fins Up Water Park, a sunset margarita cruise, and brunch. It was the perfect summer weekend!

Livin’ the RV Life

Did you know Camp Margaritaville RV Resort at Lanier Islands rents RVs? We’ve always been interested in possibly living the RV life so this was a good way for us to try it out! And what did we find out? We think it is nicer and has more amenities than a hotel room!


When you unlock the door, you are greeted with a large circular desk/table area that is a great place to eat, work, and gather. Then, in front of you is the large, full, plush couch for watching TV, relaxing, or doubling as a bed! And it is next to it is the full fridge with freezer! On the other side of the RV is the full kitchen with tons of cabinet space, full stove and oven, lots of counter space, and sink. I can see why people could live in these.

Down the hall, walk up a few stairs to the full bathroom with sink and vanity, cabinet space, and even a full shower.
Behind the pocket door is the bedroom with comfy queen bed and closet system and drawers for clothing and your suitcase!
It literally has it all!

Plus, with any 2-night stay gets you access to Fins up Waterpark. There is a tram you can take to the park or ample parking if you choose to drive. On top of that, need a margarita? There is a margarita cart that comes around or you can call to get a frosty bevy!

A Day at Fins up Water Park with itinerary

Grab our full day Margaritaville at Lanier Islands Fins Up Water Park itinerary!

  • Start out with a lush cabana and a morning at the wave pool. This was my favorite spot and I could have spend the entire day there. The cabanas come with tables, chairs, a sofa, and fan, and two loungers. We also could order from a QR code and get food, drinks, and more! And the wave pool was chill and had loungers where you could sit and the water.

  • Hit the beach. Just steps through a tunnel from our cabana and we ended up on the beach on the lake! They have places to lounge, a tiki bar, and a few restraints like Mexican and pizza.
  • Get in line and get out on the lake with aquatic adventure! A fun, floating adventure coarse in the lake! You can also rent water toys to hit the lake as well.

  • Don’t miss the Fin Dunker Bucket! You can feel the water blowing into your face even from afar!
  • Take a break at Landshark Landing for a late lunch of spicy and creamy mahi mahi tacos, delicious lemon pepper wings, a booze in the blender like their perfect margarita, or a cool Landshark Lager!
  • Beat the heat in Parakeet Springs! A fun splash pad next to the beach! I enjoyed the cool water as much as the kids, and you need to wait 30 minutes after eating before you get to the main event…the waterslides!
  • Enjoy any of the 13 water slides! They have ones the drop to ones that feel like a raging river, my favorite. The other slides includes racing waters, splash down, typhoon, twister serpentine storm, dreamsicle dive, and more. The one that looked and heard like the scariest was the Apocalypso with a large drop to start and Fins up falls to end.
  • End your day at the park with a drink at the tiki bar either over at Landshark Landing or at the beach.

Margarita Cruise at Sunset

Would it be a weekend at Margaritaville without a sunset cruise with bottomless margaritas? We ended our day at Fins Up Water Park with an easy, breezy Margarita Cruise that went out of Harbor Landing. We sipped on bottomless margaritas on the rocks. We enjoyed a delicious buffet with jalapeno poppers, meatballs, pulled pork, burger slides, chips, cookies and more. As the night wears on, the sun will set beautifully over the lake and dancing will break out on the upstairs deck! It was the highlights of our day.

They do these cruises every Saturday from 6-9pm. And, they also have a brunch cruise every Sunday with buffet at Landshark Landing, then board the board with bottomless mimosas and Bloddy Mary’s from 11:30-1:30pm!

AFFPS ANNOUNCES FALL & HOLIDAY ARTS FESTIVAL LINEUP ACROSS METRO ATLANTA

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 8/4/25

Art, Festivals & Weekend Plans: AFFPS Drops Fall + Holiday Lineup

The city’s most walkable parks and vibrant neighborhoods set the stage for this year’s AFFPS fall and holiday arts festivals, featuring hundreds of artists, local bites, and festive vibes from August through November.

Countdown to Fall at the Piedmont Park Arts Festival – August 16-17

Recognized as one of the best outdoor festivals in Atlanta, the Piedmont Park Arts Festival returns to the heart of Midtown on Saturday, August 16, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, August 17, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Presented by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces and held in picturesque Piedmont Park, the festival will feature approximately 200 artists including painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metalworkers, glass blowers, jewelers, and crafters. Festival enthusiasts are also invited to enjoy Feelgood in the Park, a two-day inclusive house and disco dance party presented by Captains of Revelry, featuring DJs from across the city. Additional offerings include a children’s play area and a variety of festival food and drinks for all tastes. Free to attend, the event is open to all ages and leashed dogs are welcome. For more information on the Piedmont Park Arts Festival (1071 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta, GA 30309), visit piedmontparkartsfestival.com or www.affps.com. Stay connected on Instagram at @affps_festivals and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PiedmontArtFest.

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Celebrate Creativity at Sandy Springs Fall Arts Festival – September 13-14

Sandy Springs Fall Arts Festival  returns on Saturday, September 13 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, September 14, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Featuring more than 125 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metal craft persons, glass blowers, jewelers and more, the festival will transform the beautiful tree-lined streets of Sandy Springs into an expansive outdoor art gallery. Festival goers will have the opportunity to view artist demonstrations, participate in hands-on art activities, and enjoy a live DJ. The award-winning, two-day festival will also have a children’s area and a variety of food trucks for all tastes. The festival is free to attend, open to all ages, and dogs are welcome.  For more information about Sandy Springs Arts Festival (6100 Lake Forrest Dr. NE, Sandy Springs, GA 30328), please visit  www.affps.com.  Stay connected on Instagram at @affps_festivals and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/affps.

L

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Sip, Shop and Stroll at the Buckhead Arts Festival – September 20-21

Held in the heart of Buckhead, the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces will once again present the Buckhead Arts Festival on Saturday, September 20 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, September 21, 2025 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The two-day outdoor arts festival will feature approximately 100 painters, photographers, sculptors, metalworkers, glass artists, jewelers, and more. Festival goers can celebrate the arrival of fall while shopping, strolling, and enjoying artist demonstrations and a live DJ. The festival will also offer a variety of food and beverage options from vendors and merchants in Buckhead Village. Free to attend, the Buckhead Arts Festival (3035 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, GA 30305) is open to all ages, and leashed dogs are welcome. For more information, visit buckheadartsfestival.com or www.affps.com. Stay connected on Instagram at @affps_festivals and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/affps. 

L

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Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival Returns September 27–28

The Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces invites Atlantans to celebrate creativity along the BeltLine with the return of the Old Fourth Ward Arts Festival on Saturday, September 27, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Set in Historic Fourth Ward Park, just steps from Ponce City Market and the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail, this two-day, community-driven festival reflects the artistic spirit of one of the city’s most walkable and vibrant neighborhoods. Guests can explore a curated selection of work from 100+ local and regional artists, including painting, photography, ceramics, glass, jewelry, woodwork, and handcrafted goods. The festival also features live art demonstrations, food and drinks from local vendors, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Free to attend, the event is open to all ages, and leashed dogs are welcome. For more information, visit www.oldfourthwardparkartsfestival.com or www.affps.com. Stay connected on Instagram at @affps_festivals and on Facebook at facebook.com/OldFourthWardParkArtsFestival.

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Live Artfully at the Fall Festival on Ponce – October 11-12 

Presented by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces, the Fall Festival on Ponce will be held on Saturday, October 11, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in historic Olmsted Linear Park.  The two-day festival will feature 125 displays of local and regional fine art and crafts and folk art.  While taking in the beautiful fall foliage and charming park, festival goers are invited to enjoy local food trucks, beverages, a children’s play area, a live DJ spinning feel-good tunes, and much more.  Fall Festival on Ponce (Olmsted Linear Park, 1451 Ponce de Leon Avenue, N.E., Atlanta, GA 30307) is free to attend, open to all ages, and leashed dogs are welcome.  For more information about the festival, please visit  www.festivalonponce.com or www.affps.com. Stay connected on Instagram at @affps_festivals and on  Facebook at  www.facebook.com/festivalonponce.  

L

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Kickstart Holiday Shopping at Chastain Park Fall Arts Festival – November 1-2

The Chastain Park Fall Arts Festival will return to the beautiful Chastain Park in Buckhead on Saturday, November 1, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, November 2, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Produced by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces, this award-winning, two-day festival will feature more than 155 artists, including painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metal craft artisans, glass blowers, and jewelers. Event goers are invited to enjoy a children’s area, view artist demonstrations, participate in hands-on activities, and explore a variety of offerings from food trucks and vendors while enjoying music from a live DJ. Chastain Park Fall Arts Festival (Chastain Park, 4469 Stella Dr., Atlanta, GA 30327) is free to attend, open to all ages, and dogs are welcome. For more information, please visit www.chastainparkartsfestival.com and www.affps.com. Stay connected on Instagram at @affps_festivals and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ChastainArtFest.

L

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Celebrate Thanksgiving Weekend at Piedmont Holiday Gift Market – November 29-30 

Get into the holiday spirit at the third annual Piedmont Holiday Gift Market. Presented by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces, this festive two-day event will take place in Piedmont Park, right in the heart of Midtown, over Thanksgiving weekend. On Saturday, November 29, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, November 30, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., festivals goers are invited to sip on hot cocoa, listen to holiday music, and stroll through the park while exploring unique gift items from more than 100 artists, including painters, photographers, sculptors, glass blowers, leather and metalworkers, jewelers, and crafters. The Piedmont Holiday Gift Market (1071 Piedmont Ave., Atlanta, GA 30309) is free to attend and open to all ages, with dogs welcome too. For more information, visit www.affps.com. Stay connected on Instagram at @affps_festivals and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/affps.

SUMMER AT CALLAWAY 2025

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 7/28/25

From Friday night Hawaiian luau to a beach day at Robin Lake Beach to exploring the gardens in a golf cart to self-care at the spa. This is your ultimate Summer at Callaway weekend itinerary.

Friday Night Hawaiian Luau

Say aloha to summer at Callaway by attending the new Friday Night Luau! They have a delicious Polynesian buffet that includes a smoky, rich and meaty whole hog that’s so tender, a tuna poke and all the fixings from lettuce to dressings and more. Plus, grilled mahi with mangos and peppers to go over the pineapple Hawaiian fried rice! Don’t miss the creamy hearty macaroni and potato salad and I mixed it with the pineapple coleslaw for best bite! On top of that their Huli Huli chicken is so tender and flavorful, load up on coconut shrimp, and pile on the Polynesian style veggies. For dessert enjoy one of their sweet and tangy pineapple upside down cakes, silky creamy coconut pudding, or a piece of cake!

To drink, you’ll get a welcome Mai-tai that’s sweet and fruity and topped with dark Myers rum for an extra kick and then go back for one of their sweet smoking volcano cocktails with boba!

Fill up and then enjoy Malhealani’s Polynesian entertainment! It includes exploring different dances from all of Polynesian islands from New Zealand to Samoa to Hawaii. As well as the Hula is performed and you’re asked to join in and learn it, and Blue Hawaiian is performed (Elvis classic). My favorite part, though, is the fire dance with one and two firesticks. The two fire sticks was the perfect finale.

Wake up to relaxation on the spa

When the only thing on your agenda is relaxation, you’re at the Spa at Callaway. This is a must do during your Summer at Callaway list because you deserve a little relaxation among all the noise this summer. Right?

For my session, I booked the new salt room! I’ve been hearing how it works miracles (when done regularly) for skin and hair and who doesn’t need glowing skin? It was super relaxing. The room had salt on the ground and in the air for maximum exposure. They gave me a weighted hot eye mask and hot neck warmer, and blanket and I literally lost myself to sleep. It really was the best start to the day!

In the women’s lounge with a treatment, you can enjoy the quiet room, which was gorgeously tranquil with glowing candles and soft music. They have a sauna and steam room to enjoy, hot tea, and snacks, as well for a full morning of pampering.

Spend the late morning and early afternoon golf carting around the gardens

The golf carting adventure we had was the best adventure you can have this summer at Callaway! We picked up our golf cart when we arrived and didn’t stop using it all weekend! It’s so much fun with the open air, go at your pace, and all the friendly golf cart waves from other golf carts! Here is your most see itinerary.

  • Find new trails all along the gardens like the Azalea or the Azalea bowl and get a good walk in.
  • Near the overlook we found Callaway Outdoors next to the golf course AND in the lake next to it is where you can find a beautiful fishing spot or take out a canoe onto the lake! Can you find it? It is hidden!
  • The drive between the overlook and azalea bowl is relaxing and beautiful. Once at the Azalea bow, walk to the bridge and waterfall!
  • We’ve been to the Discovery Center many times, you can get educated on birds and see a birds of prey show, but this time the Treetop Adventure was open for us to watch people amongst the trees and then zip line! If you’re brave enough, you could do the treetop yourself.
  • One of my favorite, most relaxing spots is the chapel. Stained glass and wood intertwine! And on Saturday and Sunday 1-3 they have a drop by organ concert!
  • End up at the Butterfly Center to find all the exotic (and local) butterflies! It is like being on a topical island! And they have turtles, tours, and education if you want to learn!

If you don’t get to it all in one day, you can go back before checking on the next morning!

Spend the afternoon until Dinner at Robin Lake Beach

Only a few steps from the lodge, Robin Lake Beach is the perfect way to wind down for the afternoon. Here is the Robin Lake Beach day essentials:

  • First things first, you need shade for those hot days, so they make it easy to rent a pair of chairs and an umbrella, a group of chairs and umbrellas. Or you could just go all out and spring for one of their posh cabanas! They’re so nice, they have a TV! And even a fan!!
  • Beat the heat in the water!
  • Through Labor Day, enjoy Aqua Island: An inflatable island with mountains to monkey bars out in the lake!
  • Paddle board or pedal boat for a great way to see the lake.
  • With admission or overnight guests, there is a free mini-golf course for you to score a hole in one!
  • Feeling hungry? Grab a bite from the pavilion, they have the best waffle fries!!
  • And you’ll need a bevy to go with those fries! They have a full bar, water, and more at the new Lake View bar overlooking Robin Lake Beach!
  • Fun until the sun goes down. (or 7pm). If you go to the left side of the lake, you can watch the sunset over the trees!

SUNDAYS GO TO THE DOGS WITH VESPER’S NEW PAWS ON THE PATIO SERIES – AND ROLLS INTO FALL

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/26/25

Updated 9/25/25

THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER AREN’T OVER AT VESPER, AS PAWS ON THE PATIO ROLLS INTO FALL

A Sunday Ritual with Pup-tails, Cocktails, and Canine Companions 

Every Sunday on the Patio from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The dog days of summer may be over, but at Vesper, they’re just coming into their own.  Following a season of sun-soaked patios and wagging tails, the Glenwood Park cocktail lounge’s Paws on the Patio series is carrying the momentum into fall, inviting Atlantans and their furry friends to raise a glass (and a paw) to the longer nights and cooler days ahead.

Each Sunday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Vesper’s sun-dappled patio just steps from the Atlanta BeltLine becomes a chic retreat for pups and their humans alike. Tails will wag for thoughtful touches designed for four-legged friends, including frozen fruity pup-tails, house-made dog treats, and plenty of pet-approved surprises. Humans can indulge in shareable bites that tease the taste buds, from newer temptations like chips with queso and guac, melty chicken and birria sandwiches, and savory avocado toast, to longtime favorites like crispy corn fritters and tuna tataki.  Each bite pairs perfectly with Vesper’s signature 60s-inspired craft cocktails, delicious spins on classics, and zero-proof options, turning Sunday evenings into the yappiest of hours where the leash leads straight to the bar. 

Vesper is located at 924 Garrett Street, Suite D, Atlanta, GA 30316. Open seven nights a week, including Sundays from 5 p.m. to midnight. For more information, visit

A New Sunday Ritual with Pup-tails, Cocktails, and Canine Companions 

Every Sunday on the Patio from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Summer nights in Atlanta just got a little more paw-some. Starting this Sunday, Vesper, the beloved Glenwood Park cocktail bar tucked along the BeltLine, is inviting Atlantans to unwind with their pups at Paws on the Patio, a new weekly series built for dog lovers and their four-legged companions.

Happening every Sunday from 5 to 8 p.m., the event takes place on Vesper’s bustling sidewalk patio boasting plenty of umbrella-clad bistro tables, offering a welcome escape from the summer heat. Expect chilled pup-tails in rotating fruity flavors, house-made dog treats, giveaways, and thoughtful extras like water bowls and frozen surprises—all served with Vesper’s signature blend of elevated hospitality and relaxed charm. While the pups enjoy their own VIP treatment, guests can sip on Vesper’s classic and 60s-inspired craft cocktails, zero-proof options, and new menu of sharable bites, all in a setting known for its lush interiors, plush lounge seating, and quietly magnetic vibe. 

Vesper is located at 924 Garrett St. Suite D, Atlanta, GA 30316. Open seven nights a week, including Sundays from 5 p.m. to midnight. For more information, visit vesperatl.com or follow along at @vesperatl.

GRAND HYATT ATLANTA BUCKHEAD

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/23/25

You’ll find inner peace at this newly renovated Buckhead hotel, The Grand Hyatt Atlanta Buckhead! Recently, John and I stayed the weekend at the Grand Hyatt Atlanta in Buckhead and were stunned by its beautiful renovation! Everything about it was calming and opulent from the beautiful rooms to the sweeping bar, to the lush Zen Garden and pool.

The lobby greets you with a grand chandelier and posh art deco seating! The lobby has marble floors, flashes of colorful artwork, and artwork creating movement. Inside The Fabled bar in front of you, the bar soars to the ceiling and the marble top seems to go on forever. On the opposite side of the bar are storytelling artwork and columns reminiscent of Italy or Greece with seating that overlooks the Zen Garden and waterfall!

Speaking of the Zen Garden, take a stroll! Go up to floor three and out the double doors to take a walk through their Zen Garden. Lush plants, Japanese accents, sitting areas and it all overlooks a waterfall that you can see from the lobby and bar. The Zen Garden leads to the pool where you can relax by it and even order a bevy. To access the waterfall, head to down to the lower level during Cassis breakfast hours. You can even sit outside by it with your breakfast.

After that, retreat to your room. John and I got treated to a suite where you walk into a living room all dressed up with a cozy, comfy couch and chairs, and a small wet bar. Loved the art deco like 20s lighting, as well. In the bedroom, the large king comfy bed is accented by a gray scale garden and tree scene which was calming and a small siting area. The bathroom is a stunner with marble floor, vanity and shower! It was like a spa!

The Fabled Bar

John and I enjoyed a meal here while we visited! Here we found out more about myths (cocktails named after myths) on their amazing drink menu and epic journeys like their locally sourced scratch food. All enjoyed in the relaxed, beautiful ambiance of the bar.

To start we opted for the creamy, slightly smoky deviled eggs that also had a good tang and a pop of salty fish roe on top. To go with that came the Tuna Tataki. It is crunchy, sesame encrusted seared tuna with a bright seaweed salad and a delicious soy glaze! For dinner, I had to try the Zen Garden bowl because it sounded so good. I added well-seasoned and cooked salmon to the top of this favorite dish. The bowl is bright lemon vinaigrette, sweet potatoes, cool cauliflower rice, spicy arugula, and crunchy pepitas. To wash it all down, got the Oracle’s martini. This is a vodka martini with floral elderflower, sweet and tart pear, and bright lemon.

Told you! You can find inner peace here at every turn.

EXPLORE GWINNETT LAUNCHES SEOUL OF THE SOUTH PASS

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 6/2/25

Free Mobile Passport Offers Self-Guided Korean Food Tour Through Gwinnett County, Home to the Largest Korean Population in the Southern U.S.

Explore Gwinnett, the destination marketing organization for Gwinnett County, Ga, has launched its new Seoul of the South™ Pass. Serving as a gateway to an immersive dining experience, this free mobile pass features a thoughtfully curated list of authentic restaurants, coffee shops, bakeries and spas across the county. Users who sign up online will have the opportunity to check in at participating locations to earn points, which can be redeemed for Seoul of the South-themed prizes.

“We’re thrilled to bring the Seoul of the South™ experience to more people through this digital pass,” said Lisa Anders, chief operating officer of Explore Gwinnett. “Gwinnett County boasts the largest Korean population in the South, and this pass offers an engaging, self-guided way for both visitors and locals to explore the cultural richness and authentic experiences that define our community.”

Seoul of the South™ Korean Food Tour is an annual program offered by Explore Gwinnett that invites both locals and visitors to join Sarah Park on a guided Korean dining experience across the county. The tour began 10 years ago and has consistently sold out, inspiring the Explore Gwinnett team to create the Seoul of the South™Pass. This digital pass extends Sarah Park’s expert insights, allowing users to explore Gwinnett’s renowned Korean dining scene at their own pace.

Powered by the technology company, Bandwango, the free digital passport features 32 Korean-owned destinations throughout Gwinnett County. Once registered, users can check in at participating locations using their mobile device to earn points, which can be redeemed for the following prizes:

·       4 points: Seoul of the South™ sticker pack and entry into a quarterly drawing for a $50 SpaLand gift card (Winners will be contacted via email and must respond within 72 hours to claim the gift card.)

·       8 points: Reusable Seoul of the South™ chopsticks and straw

·       12 points: Toiletry bag filled with K-beauty essentials

·       16 points: Seoul of the South™ T-shirt (Sizing is limited and subject to availability. Wait times may apply.)

·       20 points: Kimchi-making kit

Participants have 365 days from their first check-in to earn and redeem points, after which the pass will reset. Prizes may be picked up Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Explore Gwinnett office, located at 6500 Sugarloaf Parkway, Suite 200, Duluth, GA 30097. For pickups outside regular hours, email kami@exploregwinnett.org to make arrangements.

Those who wish to participate can sign up at https://www.exploregwinnett.org/food-drink/seoul-of-the-south-pass/ by providing their name, email address and mobile phone number. A link is then sent to their phone, which opens the passport and prompts users to add the icon to their home screen for easy access at any time.

For details on Explore Gwinnett, visit ExploreGwinnett.org. Stay up-to-date on the latest news by following @ExploreGwinnett on Instagram or ExploreGwinnett on Facebook.  

DEAD PIONEERS AT STATE FARM ARENA ON MAY 1, OPENING FOR PEAL JAM

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/23/25

On May 1, 2025, Denver’s Dead Pioneers brought their punk energy to Atlanta’s State Farm Arena, opening for Pearl Jam in a night that blended rebellion with rock legacy. Picked by Pearl Jam bassist Ament, the indigenous-fronted band, led by Gregg Deal, delivered a performance that was thought-provoking. Though the early crowd was small, those in attendance were treated to a performance that was a discovery. Dead Pioneers’ set was a reminder of punk’s power to inspire, and their selection by Ament underscored their rising status in music. 

Taking the stage around 7:30 PM, Dead Pioneers —featuring Shane Zweygardt on drums, Lee Tesche on bass, and guitarists Josh Rivera and Abe Brennan—launched into a raw and real set. Their performance drew mostly from their sophomore album, PO$T AMERICAN that was released April 11, 2025. As well as their 2023 self-titled debut, offering a blend of punk’s raw edge with social commentary. 

For the highlights, the band played “PO$T AMERICAN,” the title track of their new album, setting the tone with its driving rhythm and Deal’s large vocals. Tracks like “My Spirit Animal Ate Your Spirit Animal” and “Working Class Warfare” embraces the band’s disruptive spirit, while “Tired” from their debut album showcased their ability to balance melody and aggression. Leading us to “Rage,” an anthem that left everyone prepped for Pearl Jam. All of this while, Deal, took the time to weave in his political spoken poetry with themes of indigenous resistance and inequality.  

In conclusion, Dead Pioneers’ appearance at State Farm Arena was more than an opening act—it reflected Pearl Jam’s social advocacy. Their raw politically charged performance introduced Atlanta to a band unafraid to challenge the status quo. This is one to watch. 

Sources: 

Colorado Springs Independent, Setlist checked from Setlist.fm, Dead Pioneer’s band members and background pulled from deadpioneers.band , YouTube 

BUCK CREEK BOUTIQUE BED AND BREAKFAST IN HELENA, AL

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 5/21/25

Get 15% off your stay with PROMO CODE: ADVENTURES15

Luxury meets southern living at Buck Creek BNB in Helena, AL! John and I spent the weekend in the stunning Buck Creek boutique bed & breakfast this is only 20 minutes south of Birmingham and 2.5 hours from Atlanta. And we think this one is going to charm you! Its southern flare meets modern opulence but has an outdoorsy twist. Epic waterfall views from the balcony, gorgeous decor, spacious bedrooms, lavish kitchen and baths, and it is all within steps of historic downtown Helena!

The property is two-story new build has all the amenities from large outdoor yard filled with game and a putting green. A spa hot tub for unwinding. Tables and swings for lounging with views of the creek. A large Firepit and outdoor entertaining space. All with views of the creek!

As for our unit, I entered the front door, and my jaw dropped. I followed down a long hall to find a stunning, opulent kitchen with a peninsula with seating for four, large farmhouse sink, and gorgeous grey cabinetry. It opens into the living space with a large couch and two lavish chairs. That opens to the second-floor patio that overlooks the large yard below and a view of Buck Creek and its waterfall. We sat out with champagne for hours chatting and taking in the view. Up the stairs back inside is the cutest children’s loft with first mural, bunkbeds, and play area.

The two bedrooms are off the main hallway. A charming second bedroom off the primary is spacious and clean. It has a bathroom adjacent with stunning black floor tiling. As for the primary, it is in a league of its own. Large king bed flanked by pendant lighting and a can’t miss accent wall with a ton of textures, wood, and color. To the left is the main bathroom with two sink vanity and a walk-in shower.

The town is literal steps from our unit; downtown Helena is quintessential southern charm. Quaint downtown dotted with local restaurants and a brewery, shopping, and more! We really liked the Brewery in the heart of old town, downtown Helena, Oversoul Brewing. Good beer and friendly staff with live music for the win.

BENT TREE LODGE & CAIRN VIEW WINERY

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/21/25

Relax amongst the vines at the beautiful Bent Tree Lodge. John and I took a weekend getaway recently to Bent Tree Lodge & Vineyard only about 90 minutes from downtown Atlanta and just down the road from downtown Jasper! Retreat to a cozy bed & breakfast nestled in the North Georgia Mountains that offers a hot breakfast and a day exploring wine.

The main house/lodge boasts a beautiful living space with towering fireplace, lounge area, and tables for the morning’s complimentary hot breakfast. The morning we were there they had a blueberry French toast bake with compote blueberries, a sweet cream cheese icing, and paired with fruit and sausage. I got to see one of the rooms, The Garden room, that has a swing bed outside to take in the winery views!

Behind the lodge is the Cairn View Winery, where we stayed above the tasting room in the Gibbs Suite. A large room where you open to an opulent bathroom with two vanities, a large walk-in shower, and the best dual soaker tub for relaxing. But, the centerpiece of the room is the large comfy king bed, floral accent pillow, gorgeous green accent wall and decor! It screams garden. Plus, you can walk out the door and right into the founders and members den to watch the winery action below. The den is decked out in cow patterns, dark leather, and is plush and inviting. Don’t forget the snacks! All snacks, cookies, water and soda in the room are complimentary to overnight guests.

Cairn View Winery

This north Georgia winery experience is all about wine for happy trails! THE premier boutique winery, you’ll enjoyed a unique tasting experience with a relaxed, spacious tasting room filled with wines made by cairn in Washington state, but this year, they will have their first crop grown right there in their vineyard! Outside, they have a beautiful wrap around porch with seating, outdoor fire pits and live music on select days!

You can opt for a wine tasting to find your favorite like the ones that John and I did. Our first tasting was The Bucking Broncos includes crisp Sauvignon Blanc paired with aged cheddar, floral Mountain Laurel Rose (second favorite), tasty Weeping Willow White, and my favorite the Springer Mountain blend with pepper jack cheese. Our second tasting was CVW Reserve Tasting includes Burnt Mountain Red reserve, 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022 Malbec, and Panther Creek Red blend. All paired with aged cheese and chocolate. We had our wine tasting on our exclusive VIP tour, exploring the vineyard, the barrel room, and behind the scenes with a one-on-one tasting with the tasting room manager in their VIP room.

Beyond the tours and tasting, they also have wine by the glass and an array of snacks, like their amazing charcuterie board! It includes Pepper jelly, an array of cheese, olives, a mix of meats, crackers, and grapes. As for activities, they have live music, sip and paints, wine and cheese, and food truck Fridays to name a few of them.

It is the perfect little getaway near the mountains!

ELEMENT BY WESTIN CARTERSVILLE

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 4/12/25

It’s all about comfort at the Element by Westin new Cartersville, Ga location! John and I recently headed just 30 minutes north of Atlanta to check out the new Element hotel located in Emerson, Ga next to the Lake Point Sports Complex and only minutes from Downtown Cartersville.

When you walk into the bright lobby, you’re reminded of home, large plush couches and chairs with three distinct spaces to spread out. Think comfort from calming colors, warm and cozy fabrics to name a few. They also have a snack wall and provisions, some bikes if you would like to use them, an outdoor pool for the warm months, and a fitness room.

Upstairs, relax and unwind in a crisp and clean room. You’re greeted with a white, comfortable bathroom with glowing vanity and mirror, wood elements, and a nice large shower. In the main space, the large king bed is the focal point with wood accents, warm lights and a calling teal blue accent wall. You also have a small reading area and a wood paneled wardrobe and wet bar combo!

On the 5th floor is their restaurant and bar, Skyline bistro. They have a great view of the playing fields from their patio, and the sunset on sunny days. They have a full menu, but we were blown away by their cocktail presentation. Their spicy margarita is tangy and spicy with the rim flavor of your choice but smoked and presented in a dome! Then, couldn’t get over the Umpire smoked old fashioned served in a chest, opened to reveal smoke, and handed to you.