Hiking on Panola Mountain

Panola Mountain

Exploring Henry County with Kids

Henry County sits just south of Atlanta and holds a world of fun, adventure and excitement for families. Here’s how to make a weekend of family fun in McDonough, Stockbridge, Hampton and Locust Grove.

Top Stops with Kids

Tree Climbing with Field Trips with Sue in Panola Mountain State Park

Tree Climbing with Field Trips with Sue in Panola Mountain State Park

Panola Mountain State Park. Take a hike on the never-before-quarried granite outcrop, or try your hand at archery. (So fun!!) Tackle boating, fishing, biking or hiking, too. A must-try Georgia adventure is the monthly tree climbing class. It’s a great family experience you’ll remember for years.

Southern Belle Farm. This 330-acre farm beckons families. Pick strawberries or peaches, try their delectable homemade ice cream or take in a pig race. Snort snort. This time of year, kids will love picking a pumpkin, running through the corn maze or picking out a Christmas tree.

Heritage Veterans Park Museum. Explore hundreds of military artifacts from WWI to the present. The best part, though? The stories of those artifacts shared by the volunteers of this museum! Don’t miss the chance to tour the museum with a docent; I promise it will touch your heart.

Atlanta Motor Speedway. On Friday and Saturday, kids 17 and under can sit in the grandstands free with a paying adult. Additionally, there are other family packages like discounted seats for the Sprint Cup and more. This Christmas, families can ride through the arena to see Christmas lights, ending with a festive drive-in holiday movie.

The Original Shane’s Rib Shack. You probably know Shane’s from one of their 70+ stores across the state (and beyond!) but did you know the original was in McDonough? Come see the “shack” for yourself, enjoy the fenced-in playground out back and don’t skip the peach cobbler!

Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary. See exotic animals like cougars, parrots, monkeys and more at this not-for-profit sanctuary. Many animals here are rehabilitated and sent back to the wild, when they can be. Others are here to stay like the famous BLT – the bear, lion and tiger – that live together as best friends.

Where to Stay

Holiday Inn & Suites. With so much to do in Henry County, staying the weekend is a must! Holiday Inn Hotel and Suites in Stockbridge provides easy access to attractions, comfy beds and spacious suites. You won’t want to miss dinner at the hotel’s Burger Theory restaurant, with craft brews and house-made burgers.

Henry County Fun: There’s an App for That

If you’re looking to add a little fun to your family adventure, download the Henry County Treasure App. The interactive phone app let the kids “check in” at each destination. Answering questions about your visit adds coins to your treasure chest for entry into a twice-yearly grand prize. You could win a ride in a real Cobra helicopter, a VIP Race Weekend package and more!

Head to 365AtlantaFamily.com for more Georgia family travel adventures.

Published: October 2015
Written by: Sue Rodman
Scroll To Top