It’s finally summer in Locust Grove! The weather is heating up, kids are free from those dreaded classrooms for a few months and it’s time to take advantage and live life to the fullest. In addition to the traditional family vacation which may involve road tripping to the nearest beach, or even jumping on an airplane to a distant paradise, there are many advantages to staying close to home this summer season. The slower pace may offer valued time to recharge after a busy school year; the added savings brought on by not traveling is also a bonus.

Located in Henry County with the population at 6,954, Locust Grove is considered a quaint, southern town. With a rich history surrounding the locomotive industry, Locust Grove has much to do not just in the summertime, but also year-round. Considered a safe town, you’re bound to find something fun to do with the many local restaurants and entertainment centers.

The Atlanta suburb of Locust Grove is a great area to check out this summer, so make a day of it! With easy access from interstate 75, you’ll eventually find your way to this little town nestled in Henry County. From visiting the popular Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary to checking out the many shops and restaurants on Main Street, the old town charm is ever present in Locust Grove, and the city is waiting for you to come visit! Here is a listing of some fun and exciting things going on this summer and year round in Locust Grove:

Dining & Shopping

• French Market & Tavern. Located in historic downtown Locust Grove, visitors can sample timeless comfort foods and dishes with New Orleans flair in a charming atmosphere. After a delicious meal, visit the on-site shop that is home to many eclectic items for the home and more. This restaurant is also home to hosting many events, including weddings. It even has a suite specifically designed for brides to spend time getting ready for their big day.
• Crumbles. Owned by award-winning baker, Nicole Silva, this bakery and studio was opened in 2018. Nicole, having competed in many TV baking competitions, is self-taught when it comes to baking and specializes in cupcakes. The everyday cupcake flavors that are available are red velvet, peanut butter cup, funfetti, cookie dough, strawberries & cream and many more.
• The Lovin’ Oven Pizzeria. Enjoy a slice or a whole pie while watching the trains pass by. Each New York style pizza is made-to-order so you can guarantee your food will always arrive fresh. You can customize your own pizza or order a specialty made pizza. They also offer other food items like a buffalo chicken melt, Philly cheesesteak, homemade lasagna and Greek salad.
• Peach Pit Bar + Grill.  This bar and grill features a full-service bar with 24 taps, a game room for both adults and children and casual seating. Some popular dishes served here are the cowboy brisket sandwich, ‘Middle Georgia Hot’ mozzarella sticks, peach dog, brunch burger and peach cobbler for dessert.
• Tanger Outlets. An outlet mall that provides brand name apparel to south of Atlanta. Some notable shops located here are Brooks Brothers, Coach, J. Crew, Kate Spade New York, Levi’s, Tommy Hilfiger and Vera Bradley.
• Olive in a Bottle. A family owned business that caters to selling olive oils and balsamic vinegars from around the world. Some olive oil flavors that can be found here are butter, basil, Persian lime and blood orange. Some balsamic vinegar flavors they sell are pomegranate quince, honey ginger, aged strawberry and serrano honey. They also offer cooking classes to add new life to old dishes.

Entertainment & Recreation

• Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary. A 250-acre home for abused, neglected and unwanted animals, Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary does not charge admission for visiting; however, donations are appreciated. There are many behind the scenes things for you to enjoy. Watch the big cats, like tigers and lions, get fed and meet the “BLT” crew, which is just the friendly lions, tigers and bears that call this place home. Noah’s Ark is located at 712 LG Griffin Road in Locust Grove.
• Cubihatcha Outdoor Center. Designated in 1999 as a wetland enhancement and protection corridor to help safeguard and maintain the local wildlife habitat. Almost 1,000 acres of land are included in the center, featuring bottomland, hardwood and forested wetlands and uplands. There are two main trails that can be utilized by the public. The Red & Blue Trails, which are two miles long and travel around the outdoor center and the Loop Trail, which runs along the Towaliga River. This trail is eight miles long and extends up to the Towaliga Dam.
• Heron Bay Golf & Country Club. Located on the outskirts of Locust Grove. This 18-hole golf course has been serving the community since 2004. If you’re looking for a full day of relaxation and fun, be sure to stop in the beautiful clubhouse after your round for delicious food and great drinks.
  

Historic Attractions

• Nash Farm Battlefield. This 204-acre historic location is the Civil War site of Kilpatrick’s Raid on August 20 and various other military battles in September of 1864. It is the only battlefield south of Kennesaw Mountain that remains meticulously preserved so that visitors can step back in time to the final days of the Atlanta Campaign. The Battlefield is located at 100 Babbs Mill Rd. in Hampton.
• Veterans Wall of Honor & Heritage Park Veterans Museum. This museum is dedicated to past, present and future military veterans. Check out uniforms, artifacts and other military memorabilia, and then seethe Wall of Honor, a National monument honoring all veterans, living and deceased. The Museum is located at 101 Lake Down Rd. in McDonough.
• Train Watching Platform. A platform where you’re able to watch the 40-plus trains that pass through Locust Grove each day.

There are many fun attractions and delicious restaurants to enjoy in Locust Grove, Georgia. To learn more about this charming city, visit here.