Tag Archive for: events in atlanta

MIMMS MUSEUM OF TECHNOLOGY AND ART DEBUTS LANDMARK APPLE EXHIBIT APRIL 1, MARKING 50 YEARS OF INNOVATION

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/27/26

Largest Public Display of Apple Artifacts to Open in Roswell, GA

Following Exclusive Preview with Early Apple Employees

Largest Public Display of Apple Artifacts to Open in Roswell, GA

Following Exclusive Preview with Early Apple Employees

 In celebration of Apple’s 50th anniversary, Mimms Museum of Technology and Art (Mimms Museum) will debut iNSPIRE: 50 Years of Innovation from Apple on Wednesday, April 1. This first-of-its-kind exhibition will showcase more than 2,000 artifacts across 20,000 square feet, making it the largest public display of Apple products in the world.

Ahead of the public opening, the museum hosted an exclusive preview weekend featuring five of Apple’s earliest employees, offering an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the origins of one of the most influential companies in modern history.

The preview included a Legacy Dinner, where early Apple employees, Chris Espinosa, Daniel Kottke, George Crow, Randy Wigginton and Taylor Pohlman, joined museum leadership for an intimate first look at the exhibition. Guests revisited the early days of Apple, sharing personal stories while viewing original artifacts such as handwritten manuals, Apple II computers and rare prototypes. The evening concluded with a panel discussion exploring their experiences and the foundation of Apple’s innovations.

“Apple has fundamentally shaped how we experience technology in our daily lives,” says Lonnie Mimms, founder and CEO of Mimms Museum. “Sharing this exhibition with some of the original minds behind these innovations, and seeing their reactions to the artifacts on display, was an incredibly meaningful way to introduce this new permanent exhibition.”

On Saturday, March 21, Mimms Museum also hosted its annual fundraiser, BYTE26, welcoming a sold-out crowd for an exclusive preview of the exhibit ahead of its official opening. The event and contributions for iNSPIRE together raised more than $250,000 to support the new exhibition and the museum’s educational programming.

Opening April 1, iNSPIRE: 50 Years of Innovation from Apple will offer visitors a unique look into one of the most influential brands in modern history, highlighting early computers, rare prototypes, original documentation and immersive installations inspired by Apple’s most iconic products and campaigns, creating a multigenerational experience that explores the evolution of technology and its impact on society.

“Our hope is this exhibit will inspire future innovators to think creatively, pursue their passions and imagine what’s possible,” said Rena Youngblood, executive director of Mimms Museum.

To learn more about the Mimms Museum, visit MimmsMuseum.org. For museum updates and events, follow the museum on FacebookInstagram and LinkedIn .

BITE MORE EXPANDS IN METRO ATLANTA WITH GRAND OPENING OF NEW DULUTH LOCATION ON FRIDAY, APRIL 3

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/27/26

Halal American Italian Concept Brings Bold Flavors, Free Burgers + Live Entertainment To Gwinnett County
 

Bite More, a fast-growing, modern fast-casual concept redefining halal dining, will officially celebrate the Grand Opening of its Duluth location on Friday, April 3, with a ribbon cutting, live DJ, and exclusive food freebies for the community.
 
Located at 2148 Duluth Highway, Suite 117, Duluth, GA 30097, the new restaurant will host a ribbon cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. featuring remarks from Founder & CEO Prince Patel and local officials. Doors will officially open for the Grand Opening celebration at 6 p.m., with festivities continuing through 10 p.m.
 
To mark the occasion, the first 50 guests in line at 6 p.m. will receive a free Oklahoma Onion Smash Burger, one of the brand’s best-selling menu items. Additional guests will receive a coupon for a complimentary Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich with purchase, redeemable later. The celebration will also include a live DJ and surprise moments throughout the evening. The Grand Opening weekend continues on Saturday and Sunday, with guests receiving the same Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich offer with purchase.
 
Bite More is quickly gaining attention for its bold, scratch-made American Italian menu, featuring everything from stacked smash burgers and indulgent pastas to wings, tenders, and specialty lemonades. Standout menu items include the Cajun Alfredo Pasta, Oklahoma Onion Smash Burger, Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, and Mac Attack selections. The concept is also distinguished as one of the first halal American Italian restaurant concepts in the market, offering a unique, inclusive dining experience.
 
“Opening in Duluth is a huge milestone for us,” said Prince Patel, Founder & CEO of Bite More. “Gwinnett County has an incredible food culture and a community that truly embraces new flavors. We built Bite More around the idea of ‘Eat. Explore. Evolve.’ and we’re excited to bring that experience to this area in a big way.”
 
Patel, who immigrated to North America in 2016 and has half a decade of experience in the restaurant industry, previously founded and scaled a successful pizza chain, followed by a Mexican franchise concept before selling that business and launching Bite More. His vision is to grow Bite More into a multinational brand, with a focus on innovation, collaboration and consistently evolving menus.
 
The Duluth location marks the brand’s continued expansion in metro Atlanta, following its initial debut in Buckhead in 2024. Bite More plans to expand its metro Atlanta footprint and franchise throughout the Southeast as well as continuing to introduce monthly menu updates, keeping offerings fresh and aligned with customer demand. Bite More Duluth will be open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with plans to expand into late-night hours in the future. The restaurant is currently hiring; interested applicants can apply online. Franchising opportunities are also available; visit www.bitemore.us/franchise to learn more. For more information, visit www.bitemore.us or follow along on Instagram at @bitemoreatl.

JAMES BEARD AWARD-WINNING CHEF AND AUTHOR VIRGINIA WILLIS JOINS 3RD ANNUAL CAPE FEAR WINE & FOOD EXPERIENCE – NC

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/25/26

Benefiting GLOW Academy and Spark Academy

The 3rd Annual Cape Fear Wine & Food Experience returns April 15–18, 2026,

featuring special guest, acclaimed James Beard Award-winning chef and cookbook author Virginia Willis. The multi-day epicurean celebration serves as a key annual fundraiser for Beacon Education, supporting the Girls Leadership Academy of Wilmington (GLOW Academy) and Spark Academy.

Chef Willis, a classically trained French chef and Georgia native based in Atlanta, is known nationally for her expertise in Southern cuisine. She is an author of multiple cookbooks, including the James Beard Award Winning Lighten Up, Y’all, and has appeared on national television programs including, Food Network, Martha Stewart Living, and CBS This Morning. Her work celebrates the intersection of refined technique and Southern culinary traditions, earning her recognition as one of the South’s most respected culinary voices.

The Cape Fear Wine & Food Experience kicks off on Wednesday, April 15, with intimate community dinners hosted at local residences and select Wilmington restaurants. Willis will headline a multi-course Celebrity Chef Dinner on Friday, April 17, showcasing her signature modern Southern cuisine. The weekend culminates on Saturday, April 18, with the Grand Tasting and Grand Auction at GLOW Academy, where standout local restaurants and renowned wineries from around the world will offer curated tasting experiences for guests and Chef Willis will be autographing her cookbooks and providing samples of her Southern culinary creations.

The Cape Fear Wine & Food Experience is Beacon Education’s signature, multi-day epicurean fundraiser

benefiting GLOW Academy and Spark Academy. Now in its third year, the event brings together renowned

chefs, celebrated winemakers, and community supporters to celebrate the power of education. Sponsorship opportunities and individual tickets for Community Dinners and the Grand Tasting and Grand Auction are available. Event details and ticket information can be found at https://capefearwineandfood.com

EXPERIENCE A SPECIAL LEGO HUMMINGBIRD BUILD EVENT AT THE AVENUE WEST COBB’S BARNES & NOBLE LOCATION

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/22/26

Throughout the event, guests will have the chance to build their own LEGO Hummingbird to take home, making it a perfect activity for young builders and LEGO enthusiasts alike. Spots are limited, so interested attendees are encouraged to call Barnes & Noble at 770-424-0511 to reserve their spot ahead of the event.

WHEN:

Friday, March 27, 2026

6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

WHERE:

The Avenue West Cobb  — Barnes & Noble

3625 Dallas Hwy 

Marietta, GA 30064

APPLE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SHOWCASE AT MIMMS MUSEUM

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/22/26

On April 1, 2026, Mimms Museum will debut iNSPIRE: Fifty Years of Innovation from Apple, one of the largest collections of Apple products ever publicly displayed. Spanning more than 20,000 square feet, the exhibit features over 2,000 rare artifacts, early prototypes, iconic devices and archival materials tracing Apple’s evolution from a garage startup to a global design and technology leader. 

In addition to hands-on displays of early computers and devices, the exhibition includes immersive installations inspired by Apple’s most memorable creative campaigns, along with storytelling that highlights the designers, engineers and visionaries behind the brand. Rare collector’s items, unique documents and behind-the-scenes stories of Apple’s groundbreaking products will also be on display. 

iNSPIRE: Fifty Years of Innovation from Apple is a first-of-its-kind exhibition and a timely way to commemorate the 50th anniversary of one of the most culturally impactful brands in the world

MARKET IN THE PARK DEBUTS IN GRANT PARK EARTH DAY WEEKEND 

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/22/26

A New Monthly Gathering Presented by the Grant Park Conservancy Brings Food, Music, Makers and Community to Atlantas Oldest Park

Kicking Off Sunday, April 19 | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

The Grant Park Conservancy is launching Market in the Park, a new monthly gathering designed to bring neighbors, food, music, and local makers together in Grant Park, Atlanta’s oldest public park. Debuting on Sunday, April 19 and continuing May 17 and June 14 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., the new series will transform the Boulevard Green at Grant Park Gateway into a lively community hub filled with chef-driven bites, local vendors, music, and programming, with free admission for all ages, inviting people from across the city to spend the day in the park.

Produced by the Conservancy as part of its ongoing work to activate and enhance Grant Park, Market in the Park creates a fresh reason to gather in the heart of the park. Building on the same thoughtful curation that has made the Conservancy’s Summer Shade Festival a beloved neighborhood tradition, each market will feature a mix of prepared foods from local chefs, seasonal produce from regional growers, artisan and vintage vendors, live music, free yoga, workshops, and family-friendly programming throughout the day.

The series also arrives as several Conservancy-led improvements continue to take shape across the park. Just steps from the market lawn, the historic Milledge Fountain area is being transformed into the Milledge Fountain Outdoor Classroom and Theatre, a new space designed for performances, educational programming, and community gatherings. Along with ongoing improvements at the Boulevard Green and Gateway entrance, these projects reflect the Conservancy’s broader effort to make Grant Park an even more welcoming place to gather, learn, and connect.

“Grant Park has always been a place where Atlanta comes together,” said Michelle Blackmon, Executive Director of the Grant Park Conservancy. “Through our community survey and ongoing conversations with neighbors, we heard a clear desire for more opportunities to gather in the park and support local vendors. Market in the Park is our way of bringing that idea to life while continuing the Conservancy’s work to invest in spaces that help the park serve the community for years to come.”

The inaugural Earth Day edition is already shaping up with a lively mix of participants. Big Softie will make its first-ever appearance at a neighborhood market, while Sweet Auburn Barbecue and Tio Lucho’s Hermanita will bring chef-driven bites to the lawn. Zoo Atlanta will host educational programming for families, The Little Gym of Grant Park will offer free gymnastics activities for kids, and CHaRM (Center for Hard to Recycle Materials) will share ways residents can recycle responsibly and reduce waste at home. More vendors and programming will be revealed in the coming weeks, with a growing mix of artisans, farmers, plant vendors, vintage sellers, and community organizations joining the market throughout the season.

The Grant Park Conservancy’s new Market in the Park is designed around a simple idea: goods and gatherings for all. Parking is available at the Grant Park Gateway parking facility at 759 Boulevard SE, Atlanta, GA 30315. For additional information, including vendor and programming lineups, visit www.gpconservancy.org. Stay connected via Instagram at @grantpark.atlanta. 

HORIZON THEATRE PRESENTS DOG MOM

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/19/26

Horizon Theatre Presents Southeastern Premiere of Heartwarming Comedy

DOG MOM, March 20–April 19, 2026

A tender comedy about second chances and an unlikely bond between a reluctant dog mom and the adorable stray who chooses her

Horizon Theatre Company continues its 2025-2026 season with the Southeastern premiere of tail-wagging comedy DOG MOM by Tate Elizabeth Hanyok, running March 20–April 19 (press opening March 27). Unexpected love, healing, and the strange magic of second chances are at the heart of this winner of the B-Street Theatre New Comedies Festival. Newly divorced, Liz is determined to rebuild her life on her own terms in a small Brooklyn apartment. The last thing she needs is a dog. But when she reluctantly fosters an adorable and determined-to-love-her stray, what begins as a temporary arrangement slowly becomes something much deeper  and chaotic.

As human actors embody both people, friends, and canines, this tender, funny, and quietly profound comedy unfolds through park meet-ups, hallway run-ins, and canine misadventures that slowly crack open Liz’s guarded heart. As she navigates questions about identity, motherhood, and societal expectations, Liz begins to discover through Dog’s unwavering affection what it means to love unconditionally — to be chosen and to choose back. With warmth and humor, DOG MOM celebrates the transformative power of companionship and the courage it takes to open your heart again.

DOG MOM was born from a desire to create shared laughter and connection during a moment of profound social fragmentation,” explains playwright Tate Hanyok. “In increasingly fraught times, the play looks toward one of the few remaining points of near-universal affection — our relationships with our pets — as a way to restore community and mutual recognition. The bond between people and their pets offers a rare common language, and comedy became the vehicle through which that language could invite audiences into collective release, empathy, and belonging.” The play is receiving a national Rolling World Premiere this year with productions in eight different cities around the country.

Tate Elizabeth Hanyok is a writer for theater, TV and film, and an acclaimed actor who also appeared as Dog in the first production at B Street Theatre in Sacramento last fall, where she is an ensemble member. She was named one of the Moviemaker Top 25 Writers to Watch, and her work includes writer and producer of SEX APPEAL for Hulu, director of FRIENDS UNTIL THE END, premiering May 2026, and producer/actor/star of her adapted-for-TV play, LOVE AND BASEBALL on HBO Max.

Director, longtime Horizon artistic associate Heidi McKerley (Best Director Suzi Award for Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812) returns to direct this play that is close to her heart as a devoted dog mom herself. “DOG MOM captures the surprising ways companionship can change us. It’s funny and heartfelt, but it also asks meaningful questions about how we care for each other.”

The cast includes three Horizon veterans — Enoch King, Marcie Millard and Megan Hayes — who each have more than two decades of Horizon performances, including worked together in Horizon’s long-running outrageous holiday comedy The Santaland Diaries. Playing the leading role of the unexpected dog mom Liz is Marcie Millard (Suzi Award for Horizon’s The Cake) accompanied by Megan Hayes (Horizon’s The Perfect PrayerWaffle Palace ChristmasSex with Strangers) as the lovable golden retriever mix who won’t take “no” for an answer. Enoch King (Suzi Award for Horizon’s The Light, Waffle Palace) plays the “nuts” next-door neighbor husky Reuben whose mom, Nell, played by Horizon newcomer Arizsia Staton, barrels into Liz’s new life, determined to be her new best friend. Playing a panoply of other characters in Liz’s journey is Louis Kyper (Horizon’s Support Group for Men).

The fanciful world of the play inside and outside Liz’s Brooklyn apartment is created by Horizon Suzi Award-winning resident scenic and lighting designers, Moriah and Isabel Curley-Clay and Mary Parker, respectively. Amanda Edgerton West (Horizon’s Once) costumes the dog and human characters, Paul Glaze designs the soundscape, and Annabel Sapp fills out the stage with the many props.

Tickets start at $40* on Wednesdays and Thursdays and $45* for Friday nights, Saturday nights and weekend matinees. Prices increase with demand, so patrons are encouraged to order early for the best prices and availability. Group pricing is available for parties 10 or more. Groups of 10-24 receive $5 off the general admission ticket price. Groups of 25 or more receive $7 off the general admission ticket price.  Best deals are for subscribers – 25-50% off. Students under 25 can get $20* tickets with valid student ID. 7.5% sales tax/fee is added to all ticket orders. Single ticket seating is general admission, with a reserved seating section for season subscribers. There is limited accessible seating for patrons needing accommodations, and it must be reserved by phone. For tickets and more information, visit horizontheatre.com or call the box office at 404.584.7450.

For full actor and creative team bios, visit horizontheatre.com/plays/dog-mom/

CREATIVE TEAM

Producer                                                                          Lisa Adler

Playwright                                                                        Tate Elizabeth Hanyok

Director                                                                            Heidi McKerley

Assistant Director                                                             Amy Cain

Scenic Designers                                                             Isabel & Moriah Curley-Clay

Lighting Designer                                                             Mary Parker

Costume Designer                                                            Amanda Edgerton West

Sound Designer                                                               Paul Glaze          

Prop Designer                                                                  Annabell Sapp

Stage Manager                                                                Lexi McKay*

Assistant Stage Manager                                                Tara Patterson

CAST

Liz                                                                                   Marcie Millard

Dog                                                                                  Megan Hayes

Reuben/The Ex/Others                                                     Enoch King*

Nell/Others                                                                       Arizsia Staton*

Swing/Multiple Roles                                                        Louis Kyper

*Members Actor’s Equity Association

SPRING THE ENZO WAY 2026

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/19/26

Shuck Yeah Wednesdays Return to ENZO this Spring

Spring arrives at ENZO Steakhouse & Bar with oysters on ice, spritzes in hand and patio evenings that feel straight from the Italian coast. The beloved Shuck Yeah series returns to the Town at Trilith staple on Wednesday, April 1 at 6 p.m., kicking off a season of relaxed midweek gatherings built around fresh seafood, flowing bubbles and the simple pleasure of gathering together for an evening al fresco. Opening night sets the tone with a menu that leans into seaside indulgence. Raw, grilled and broiled oysters take center stage alongside chilled shrimp cocktail, Mules Frites and a Fritto Misto Po’boy. Crisp spritzes and artisanal sparkling wines keep glasses full and conversation flowing as guests settle in for an easygoing evening. Following the opening celebration, Shuck Yeah continues on ENZO’s expansive patio every Wednesday at 6 p.m. through the first week of June. ENZO Steakhouse & Bar is located at 300 Trilith Pkwy, Suite 230, Fayetteville, GA 30214. For more information or to make reservations, please visit enzo-itl.com. Stay connected on Instagram and Facebook at @enzoitl. 

Hop Over to ENZO for an Easter Bunny Brunch & Dinner

This Easter Sunday, April 5, ENZO Steakhouse & Bar invites families and friends to celebrate with its most anticipated brunch service of the year, complete with seasonal specials, Italian fare and a special visit from the Easter Bunny. The holiday festivities begin with an Easter brunch from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring specialty dishes, beloved brunch favorites and bright spring cocktails designed for an elevated outing for the entire family. The Easter Bunny will be making the rounds, posing for photos and creating lasting memories throughout the day. The celebration continues into the evening with dinner service beginning at 4 p.m., showcasing ENZO signatures and exclusive holiday inspired specials for those celebrating the day around the table. ENZO Steakhouse & Bar is located at 300 Trilith Pkwy, Suite 230, Fayetteville, GA 30214. Reservations are available at enzo-itl.com and a credit card is required to secure reservations. For more information, please visit enzo-itl.com. Stay connected on Instagram and Facebook at @enzoitl. 

Celebrate Spring with Brunch is in Bloom at ENZO

A Saturday at ENZO calls for good music, a full table and no rush to be anywhere else. Brunch Is in Bloom returns on Saturday, April 18, bringing a lively mid-day gathering centered around live jazz, seasonal dishes and the easy rhythm of a long brunch with great company. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can settle in for brunch specials from Executive Chef Andrea Montobbio paired perfectly with mimosa flights and a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar. Live jazz fills the dining room and patio, setting the tone for an afternoon that feels more like a celebration than a typical weekend reservation. Tickets are $75 per person plus tax and gratuity and include brunch and two drink tickets. For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit enzo-itl.com. ENZO Steakhouse & Bar is located at 300 Trilith Pkwy, Suite 230, Fayetteville, GA 30214. Stay connected on Instagram and Facebook at @enzoitl. 

FLIGHT CLUB ROLLS OUT SPRING HAPPENINGS 2026

Posted by Liz and John Attaway, 3/19/26

Swing By Flight Club Atlanta for a 404 Day Toast

Atlanta’s unofficial holiday calls for a proper toast, and Flight Club Atlanta is keeping the celebration going on this 404 Day with a local pour made for the occasion. Tucked into West Midtown, the lively social darts destination is the perfect stop between 404 Day festivities happening around the city on Saturday, April 4. Guests who stop by and join Flight Club’s guest list can sip on a Bullseye Brew for just $4.04 all day long, a special beer crafted in partnership with Atlanta favorite Monday Night Brewing. Crisp, refreshing and easy to raise between rounds, the special sip pairs perfectly with a few friendly throws at the oche. With high tech social darts, delicious bites and a high energy atmosphere built for groups, Flight Club offers a fun place to regroup with friends, keep the competition friendly and toast the city that made 404 famous. Whether it is the first stop of the night or a quick recharge between celebrations, Flight Club makes it easy to keep the Atlanta pride flowing. Flight Club Atlanta is located at Star Metals at 1055 Howell Mill Rd., Suite 140, Atlanta, GA 30318. Stay connected on Instagram at @flightclubdartsusa and on Facebook at @flightclubdarts.

Spring Break Takes Aim at Flight Club Atlanta

Darts are flying and spring plans are taking aim at Flight Club Atlanta. The West Midtown hotspot is dialing up the spring break spirit with high-tech social darts, craft cocktails, and a menu designed for the moments between rounds. Whether it’s first-timers stepping up to the oche or seasoned players ready to show off their aim, the lively eatertainment destination keeps the competition friendly and the energy high. Between throws, guests can reach for a lineup of playful bites that fit naturally into the flow of the game—think baked flatbreads, spicy buffalo chicken sliders, mini tacos, and other crowd favorites that are easy to grab while the next player lines up their shot. Handcrafted cocktails, zero proof offerings and celebratory pours keep the momentum going as scores rack up and friendly rivalries unfold. Flight Club Atlanta is located at Star Metals at 1055 Howell Mill Rd., Suite 140, Atlanta, GA 30318. Stay connected on Instagram at @flightclubdartsusa and on Facebook at @flightclubdarts.

Flight Club Atlanta Keeps Weekday Spirits High With New Happy Hour

The workday whistle blows and the games begin at Flight Club Atlanta. The West Midtown hotspot is turning weeknights into a reason to celebrate with a new happy hour lineup and its high-energy Flight Fridays- because the best way to shake off the day might just involve a dart in hand and a cocktail within reach. Running all day Monday and Tuesday through Friday from 4 to 6 p.m., happy hour keeps the good times on target with $2 off all draft beer, liquor and wine by the glass, plus specialty cocktails starting at $8. Nearly all of the drafts pour from local Georgia breweries, making it easy to keep things close to home while catching up with friends or co-workers between rounds. One standout sip is the Jungle Bird, the tropical classic first created at the Aviary Bar at the Kuala Lumpur Hilton, now landing at Flight Club for $8 during happy hour—proof that a little tiki flair pairs nicely with a few well-aimed throws. When Friday at 7 p.m. rolls around, the volume turns up as Flight Fridays bring live DJs, curated cocktails and a lively bullseye challenge where the sharpest shot of the night takes home a $100 bar tab. Whether guests are stepping up to the oche for the first time or coming in ready to defend their title, the night delivers a mix of friendly competition, music and cocktails that makes easing into the weekend feel like a win. Flight Club Atlanta is located at Star Metals at 1055 Howell Mill Rd., Suite 140, Atlanta, GA 30318. Stay connected on Instagram at @flightclubdartsusa and on Facebook at @flightclubdarts.

THE ULTIMATE 2-DAY GUIDE TO ST. MARYS, GA

Posted by Liz and John, 3/15/26

Recently John and I went on a short getaway St. Marys, GA, the farthest south you can go on the Ga Coast and fell in love with the small South Ga town. We’ve put together the ultimate 2-day guide to St. Marys that you can just grab and go!

Day 1: Cumberland Island Excursion.

Before heading to Cumberland Island, stop by the St. Marys Visitor’s Center to get more information about all the essential activities downtown, more about Cumberland Island, and shop for St. Marys local goods. Armed with information, you’re ready to go!

Cumberland Island Visitor’s Center photos:

Before we ever set foot in St. Marys, we knew we had to experience Cumberland Island. My aunt used to talk about Cumberland Island, as a local birder and artist, she was found of its natural beauty and I can see why. We boarded the ferry on a brisk February morning and floated into a world left untouched and natural, yet vibrant and adventurous. We spent half the day on the best guided tour with Ben from Molly Old South Tours.

Cumberland Island Itinerary

Here is our suggested itinerary for the 11:45 am Ferry to the island and the 4:45 pm Ferry back.
1. Get to the Ferry at 11:15 am no later to check in at the Cumberland Island Visitors Center in St. Marys. Ferry leaves at 11:45am. Save a few extra minutes to peruse the gift shop!
2. Book a tour with Molly Old South and meet your guide at the dock. You will hear more about the Spanish, indigenous people and history prior to the Carnegies ownership.
3. Walk to the Dungeness ruins. The guide will fill you in on all of the gossip and stories from the late Lucy Carnegie who lived in the home. It caught fire in 1959 and is what you see today.
4. The tabby house is the original structure on the island, originating 1800.
5. Backside of the house, lawn, fountain, and overlooking the water and marsh area.
6. The casino built by Lucy for her unruly sons. It has a pool and many other activities to keep them busy.
7. The stables where they kept the horses
8. The cutest little cemetery tucked away in one of the prettiest spots on the property. We saw a dolphin swimming in the marsh.
9. Other buildings on the grounds from the dormitory to the old kitchen.
10. Go to the beach via the marsh boardwalk. It is my favorite walk a spot of the whole South Island besides the beach!
11. Check out the old boat house on the marsh near the ruins.
12. Enjoy the wild horses!! Don’t ride them tho!
13. On the way back to the ferry stop by the icehouse museum!

We didn’t know there is a van tour of the whole island! We will do that one next time!

Once you get back from Cumberland Island, take some time to check into the hotel we recommend, The Goodbread House!

The Goodbread House

The Goodbread House, a historic St. Marys Bed & Breakfast is a charming step back in time! A historic 1870s charmer that is a nod to the south when picket fences and Parlour were the norm. Not only that, but it marries that southern hospitality and community with famous couple themed rooms! We stayed in the Gable & Lombardi suite, but they had everything from Guinevere & Lancelot to Rhett & Scarlett! It was so unique in the best way, it is a must stay! Thanks to Mardja for her hospitality, you’ll love her!

When you walk up you immediately know you’re in for a treat as you walk through the southern white picket fence there is an eclectic variety of yard artwork from a pirate to a carriage and the porch is meant for warm nights and wine with longing areas on both sides. The upstairs porch has a swing and rocking chairs, we loved it was right outside our room.

Inside you go through the screen door into a whole different world of wood accents, oriental rugs, antique furniture and double doors into a gorgeous old school parlour and fireplace. They have an original five piece parlour set and lounging for evening wine. That’s right, complimentary wine in the evenings to relax! Behind it is the dining room, with tables for the morning complimentary breakfast. AND the breakfast is just as good as the hospitality at the house! The pancakes were scrumptious and the casserole warm and rich!

Upstairs, our suite was the Gable & Lombardi. The large long bed and settee are centerpiece surrounded by antiques and gorgeous hardwood floors. The original fireplace is a stunner and has a twin on the other side in the bathroom. The bathroom feels as large as the bed room with antique vanity, ladies vanity, and dual tub and shower.

A little bit about their history. Built in 1870, and finally the house was bought as an overflow to the Riverview Inn down the street. It was renovated in the early 1980s to keep its 1870 architecture!

Firefly Cantina

After check-in and evening wine with the Goodbread House, head out for dinner. Get down to the Firefly Cantina, a casual taco and Mexican joint with a large patio and full bar. We filled up on margaritas, burritos, tacos, and chips and queso.

To drink I enjoyed the Jalapeño pineapple margarita is sweet and spicy with a tasty tajin rim. For starters we tried the Elote, a crunchy corn, charred with a spicy aioli and creamy cheese. John opted for the crunchy chips and creamy queso dip.

For our dinner we shared a trio of tacos and the Cali burrito. My favorite was the Cali burrito! It is loaded with tender carne asada with hearty French fries, creamy avocado and cheese, charred tomato salsa and street corn salad, tangy pico, and lettuce. Must try! The tacos were also delicious. We got three the first is sweet south is sweet sriracha fried chicken with a spicy jalapeño vinaigrette and tomato. The second is the Bronco is tender steak with bold and spicy Guajillo sauce and trimmings. Finally, the Firecracker is blackened grouper with a spicy jalapeño and honey citrus slaw.

Day 2: Exploring Downtown St. Marys, GA

Here are the essential activities for your day in Downtown St. Marys, GA! You can pick and choose your adventure and order, but these are the must-do activities we recommend.

🪦 Oak Grove Cemetery. It is a beautiful historic cemetery just a few moments out of downtown with old and new tombstones to explore, as well as several revolutionary war veterans are buried there! Take the morning to just take in everything Oak Grove Cemetery has to offer. It is so fun to explore!

⛲️ St. Marys Waterfront Park. This reminds me of New Orleans! Right on the water, enjoy the beautiful fountain centerpiece. Stroll the piers. Take a relaxing break on one of the swings or benches and take in the coastal vibes. For the kiddos, there is a large play area!

🛥️ St. Marys Submarine Museum. This is one of my favorite spots on downtown! They have a full bridge with chairs, periscope and phones – an immersive spot to feel “in a submarine.” Some of the cool artifacts include a gas mask, a book of Disney artists that designed submarine insignias, a chair from the cast of “The Hunt for Red October” movie, and a scavenger hunt!

🥪Break for lunch at Cafe at Cottle & Gunn, a cute antique shop with a cozy lunch and sweets cafe tucked in the back! I was impressed with their goods and loved they had a whole section of dollhouse furniture!

We got several items from the cafe including quiche, cinnamon roll, and more. Starting with the sausage and cheddar quiche; it is sharp cheddar and savory sausage is a flaky crust. For my lunch I got the tuna salad sandwich is rich, creamy and good with LTO on crunchy toasted wheat bread. It came with a side and I’m glad I got the Amish potato salad. It is creamy, rich egg, hearty potatoes, a good mix of mayo and mustard. To end our meal, we went for the creamy and gooey “cinnamony” cinnamon roll. It is a must try item.

⛪️ First Bank Catholic Church. I stumbled on this my first day! It is the cutest little historic church that only holds mass one day a month. They have a beautiful garden with a Virgin Mary concrete statue.

⛪️ First Presbyterian. I was told this historic church’s ceiling was a bowed ship hull, fitting St. Marys and Cumberland were stripped of their Oak during the war of 1812 to make ships. The grounds and churches are both beautiful as well.

🐎 Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum. Before you go to Cumberland Island, learn everything about the history of the island here! This free museum has everything from the tribes that originally lived on the island to the first African church to Lucy Carnegie and the War of 1812.

🍸It’s dinner time at Captain Seagle’s! A local, casual seafood spot with craft cocktails and the cutest speakeasy bar. I really enjoyed the staff at the saloon out back, as well. That is a great drink spot.

I started the dining experience with gin and vermouth martini with lemon is just perfect, boozy, smooth, lemon. And the staff (all of them) recommended the Fried Green tomatoes. I’m so glad they did, they are everything! They are crunchy and tart, perfectly cooked, delicious spicy and creamy herbed ranch. Some of the best I’ve had in a while! For dinner, John got the teriyaki chicken wings are tender and large, meaty, well-seasoned, great savory and sweet sauce. I got the Redfish blackened. It is tender and flaky, mild fish with a spiced blackened rub and served with crunchy and rich fried squash.