Tucked in the foothills of North Georgia, Ball Ground is one of those small towns that’s often overlooked. As a mom of three, I’m always searching for destinations that blend outdoor adventure, local flavor and a touch of history, and Ball Ground delivers.
If you’re planning a Ball Ground, GA family getaway, expect more than you’d think—gardens that feel straight out of Japan, a burger spot inside a bus and a downtown where you’ll end up lingering longer than planned. It’s a North Georgia city that keeps surprising.
It’s the kind of place where the pace slows down in the best way. I love that families are welcome and there’s not a sense of rushing. Everything is close enough to explore without overplanning, making it an easy win for families who want a low-stress day trip or a relaxed weekend away. Little moments will be the highlight of your trip to Ball Ground.
Highlights:
- My firsthand picks for the best things to do in Ball Ground with kids
- Where we ate, what was actually worth it and what surprised me most
- Simple tips to help you plan a relaxed, easy North Georgia getaway
Editor’s Note: The writer was hosted.
Explore Gibbs Gardens in Ball Ground, GA
This is one of the most breathtaking displays of color you’ll find anywhere in the Southeast. And tucked into the rolling hills of North Georgia, Gibbs Gardens feels like a world all its own. There’s an element of surprise around every corner.
Spanning more than 200 acres, Gibbs Gardens is a carefully curated landscape of themed spaces that shift with the seasons. Sweeping daffodil fields in early spring give way to vibrant summer blooms, a serene Japanese Garden and one of the largest collections of waterlilies in the country. The winding paths invite you to slow down, wander and take it all in, whether you’re crossing arched bridges, pausing under cherry blossoms or simply soaking in the quiet beauty.
I watched as visitors moved from garden to garden, cameras in hand, stopping often just to admire the view a little longer. Dogs are not allowed at Gibbs Gardens, but bring the kids. No two visits are the same, with blooms constantly changing.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Arrive early in the day for cooler temps and fewer crowds, especially in peak bloom season.
Stroll Through Downtown Ball Ground
Ball Ground offers a charming downtown that’s easy to explore but hard to forget. But it’s the simplicity of it all that draws you in. I park the car and walk around downtown.
A stroll through downtown Ball Ground is less about checking off stops and more about noticing the details. Historic brick buildings line the streets, housing boutique shops, antiques and local cafés that invite you to linger a little longer. There’s a friendliness here that feels genuine, the kind where shop owners greet you as a regular and conversations come easily.
I found myself slowing down to admire the character of the town, with its numerous murals. They make the perfect photo backdrop. From classic Coca-Cola logos to murals that honor the area’s Native American heritage, the street art beckons visitors to explore.
Are you ready to explore off the beaten path? Let us inspire you!
Best Parks in Ball Ground for Families
In Ball Ground, the parks aren’t tucked away; they’re woven right into everyday life. But it’s the easy access to nature that quietly becomes the highlight.
- Ball Ground City Park: Shaded by trees and set near the railroad tracks. A great spot for relaxing, plus it hosts outdoor movies and summer concerts.
- Calvin Farmer Park: A larger 15-acre space with a playground, walking trails, open fields and a duck pond that kids love.
- Valley District Linear Park: A mostly flat, scenic path that’s perfect for biking, strollers and easy family walks.
4. Eat at the Ball Ground Burger Bus
This is one of those places that catches your eye before you even realize you’re hungry. Parked downtown, Ball Ground Burger Bus is hard to miss. It’s a converted vintage bus turned into a restaurant that feels as fun as it sounds. It’s my top choice for family dining in a Ball Ground family getaway!
Inside, the space leans fully into its charm. Seating is built right into the bus, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Burgers are fresh, flavorful and piled high with toppings that go beyond the usual. I chose a burger topped with fried green tomato and pimento cheese, served with sweet potato tots. It’s an unbelievably great choice.
My kids thought eating inside a bus was the best part, sliding into the seats and peeking out the windows while we waited for our food. It felt a little chaotic in the best way, like a fun break from a typical sit-down meal. Parents will love the family-friendly atmosphere and kids will think it’s cool to eat in a bus.
Visit Rock Solid Brewing Co. (Family-Friendly Brewery)
Rock Solid Brewing Co. is the kind of place you stop in for one drink and end up staying longer than planned. Just outside downtown, Rock Solid has an easy, laid-back feel that fits right into Ball Ground. But it’s the atmosphere that keeps people coming back.
Inside, the taproom is open and welcoming, with space for families, friends and even dogs to settle in. It’s genuinely family-friendly, the kind of place where kids can hang out while adults enjoy a rotating list of craft beers, from light and crisp to darker, more seasonal pours.
I noticed how simple and relaxed it is, and how it feels less like a stop and more like part of the community.
Plan Your Visit Around Ball Ground Festivals
Festivals in Ball Ground aren’t big productions. Rather, they feel more like an extension of the town itself. Throughout the year, the streets fill with live music, food vendors and families gathering for everything from seasonal celebrations to community traditions.
- BBQ & Brews Festival: A local favorite with craft beer, food vendors and live music
- Downtown Ball Ground Car Show: Classic cars line the streets for a laid-back, family-friendly day
- Ball Ground Garden Club Plant Sale & Festival: A springtime event centered around plants, gardening and local artisan vendors
- Ball Ground Christmas Parade: A festive holiday tradition that draws thousands and supports Toys for Tots
They’re homegrown events that only add to Ball Ground’s small-town charm. The festivals bring the downtown area to life and bring in crowds that aren’t usually present.
Where to Get Ice Cream in Ball Ground
For dessert, stop by Scooped on Main. They’re known for hand-scooped ice cream, but they also serve a plethora of other desserts. I recommend stopping in for a scoop of ice cream with the kids, but taking home a few treats for later. Dipped pretzels, chocolates and Rice Kripsie treats are a few other favorites.
Play a Round at Hawks Ridge Golf Club
It’s the kind of place that feels set apart before you even reach the first tee. Just outside of Ball Ground, Hawks Ridge Golf Club is where the landscape quietly takes center stage. But it’s the course itself that keeps people talking.
Winding through tall pines and rolling elevation, the layout feels both challenging and intentional, designed to follow the natural contours of the land. The championship course, designed by Bob Cupp, spans 550 acres.
Each hole offers something a little different, with sweeping views and a rhythm that rewards patience as much as precision.
Wine Tasting at Feather’s Edge Winery
Feathers Edge Vineyards feels tucked into the trees, where the setting is just as much a part of the experience as the wine. The laid-back atmosphere invites guests to sit and sip, but it’s also family-friendly if you stop in with the kids.
The tasting room blends seamlessly with an art gallery, giving the space a creative, slightly unexpected feel. Locally sourced wines are the focus, with tasting flights, glasses and bottles available. Pick simple pairings, like cheese plates, to settle in and stay awhile.
Live music drifts through on weekends, and people gather under the trees with a glass in hand, lingering a little longer than they planned. It’s relaxed, welcoming and easy to enjoy.
Afternoon Tea at The Grande in Ball Ground
For ladies who want to add some magic to their afternoons, make afternoon tea reservations at The Grande. This is the kind of experience you don’t expect to find in a small North Georgia town. Just outside downtown, The Grande offers an afternoon tea that feels more like an occasion than a simple outing.
Tea service is relaxed and thoughtfully paced, with tiered trays, curated selections and a setting that encourages you to slow down and stay awhile. It feels elevated without being overly formal. It’s the perfect celebratory destination for little princesses or gentlemen.
Looking for more family-friendly mountain destinations in the Southeast? Start here .
FAQs About a Ball Ground, GA Family Getaway
Is Ball Ground, GA good for families?
Yes, Ball Ground is a great destination for families, especially those looking for a slower-paced getaway. With parks, easy walkability, outdoor attractions like Gibbs Gardens and casual dining spots, it’s well-suited for kids and parents alike.
What are the best things to do in Ball Ground with kids?
Top family-friendly activities include exploring Gibbs Gardens, visiting local parks like Calvin Farmer Park, biking the Valley District Linear Park and enjoying fun dining experiences like the Ball Ground Burger Bus.
How long should you spend in Ball Ground, GA?
Most families can explore Ball Ground in a day or a weekend. A day trip covers the highlights, while a weekend allows time to enjoy gardens, parks, dining and a festival if one is happening.
Are there free things to do in Ball Ground?
Yes, several activities are free, including walking around downtown, visiting local parks, exploring murals and attending community events or festivals throughout the year.
When is the best time to visit Ball Ground, GA?
Spring and fall are ideal, with blooming gardens in spring and comfortable weather for outdoor exploring. Festival weekends also add extra energy and activities for families.
Leave a Reply