Mission Escape (Cartersville, GA)
While visiting one of the kiddos we stopped and did an Escape Room. We chose Mission Escape in Cartersville, Georgia. It was a fun adventure. We did the Copan Ruins escape room in a Mayan Temple in Honduras.
We had a blast! Our team solved the mystery and escaped. Woohoo! I was only startled once in our adventures.
We found out that if you go visit Mission Escape on your birthday you also get a special surprise! If you are looking for something fun to do in Cartersville, check it out.
Robert Redden Footbridge, Harvest Moon Cafe & Courtyard Rome Riverwalk (Rome, GA)
We were recently visited one of our kids and hung out in Rome, Georgia. One of the footbridges in the town has a huge lighted American flag. It is the former Central of Georgia Railway swing bridge called the Robert Redden Footbridge. The bridge crosses the Oostanaula River and can be seen from various spots near downtown Rome. It is where the Oostanaula River and the Etowah River come together to form the Coosa River. The bridge once rotated on its central pier to allow steamboats to pass. At the end of one of the streets near the river you see a Steamboat as a reminder of the history.
While in Rome, Georgia we ate at Harvest Moon Cafe in downtown. Harvest Moon Cafe is a cute family restaurant with a nice menu and great atmosphere. The food was delicious! They use locally sourced food, including beef from livestock from Berry College. If you are looking to host a party in the area Harvest Moon Cafe has a room you could rent out with food, drinks and games like cornhole, darts and more.
Rome has a cute walkable downtown with various shops and restaurants. There are plenty of walking and biking trails even near the river in downtown. We have been to Rome a handful of times now and have always enjoyed visiting various places downtown during our stays.
While we were in the area we stayed at the Courtyard Marriott Rome Riverwalk. It has a brightly lit parking garage, a walking bridge over the river to the downtown, across the street from the athletic field, and pretty views of the river and the Robert Redden Footbridge.
If you are in the area or near Rome, Georgia you should check it out!
North Georgia Zoo & Farm (Cleveland, GA)
North Georgia Zoo & Farm is a great place to visit with your family, especially if your kids enjoy animals.
That turtle and zebra have familiar faces…. Thankful that the girls still occasionally “humor” me with the cheesy pictures!
Baby goats!
This porcupine has a fantastic breakfast, look at all those fruits & veggies!
The beaver is munching on his veggies too!
Beautiful animal!
Are you sure you don’t have another treat for me!?
Albino Kangaroo napping in the shade!
Singing dog, so wanted to hear it actually sing!!!
Brina loving all the animals!
Jake and Karlie waiting for the Animal Show to start
Soft….of course the girls wanted at least one when they found out that they sale them at this location
Fascinating to watch it run awhile!
A lot softer than we expected.
Sleepy Hollow with Cedar Creek Cabins (Sautee Nacoochee, GA)
Spending some time away over Spring Break. Playing “Spot It”!
Look twin bears in our cabin!
Karlie hanging out in the loft.
Easter baskets for the girls.
Ready for another great day in the cabin!
Rib Country BBQ (Helen, GA)
On a recent family trip to Helen, Georgia we stopped at Rib Country BBQ for dinner. Their BBQ smelled delicious as we were exploring downtown Helen. The girls ate a kids Rib Basket and Jake & I had a shredded Pork BBQ. The meals were very filling and delicious barbecue.
The restaurant had a choice of indoor or outside seating. Since it was a warm evening we chose to eat outside on the deck. A band was playing during our dinner which was nice. The kids loved watching all the tubers coming down the river past the restaurant. We set on a table overlooking the river.
The kids had so much fun eating dinner and watching the tubers go down the river that they asked if we could go tubing as well. We didn’t realized they were already tubing with the water still being chilly. Most of the people going down the river were fully dressed except for their feet which most have flipflops or crocs on which made me feel better about not getting fully soaked. Plus the tubes had the bottoms in so you didn’t have to have your backside in the water the whole way which should keep us warmer.
Overall: We recommend the food, atmosphere, service, and entertainment at Rib Country BBQ. If you enjoy ribs or BBQ this is a great place to eat. The price was reasonable too.
Muller’s Famous Fried Cheese Cafe (Helen, GA)
When my husband and I were visiting Helen, Georgia we decided to try out this small family owned authentic German or Czech food cafe. We decided to try it because some of our family heritage is Czech. Since it had a lot of dairy products on the menu Jake and I went together on our last day in the area. They are known for their “fried cheese” sandwiches. We have a child who cannot have dairy so figured if we wanted to eat at this restaurant it was a good day to do it.
We had the fried cheese sandwich as an appetizer. Even as an appetizer it was pretty rich and we ended up bringing the majority of it home. If you like cheese sticks you may enjoy this treat. It was a little much for us, but tasty. Jake had a Pork Schnitzel and I had a Chicken Schnitzel. We split a bowl of Homemade Goulash Soup with Beef.
Overall: We enjoyed the service and the quietness of the cafe. The meal was richer than what we were used to eating so we could not eat much, but the food was good. We typically do not eat a lot of fried food and brought some home to eat as leftovers. If you like rich and cheesy food than you may enjoy this restaurant. They are only open a limited amount of hours some days and closed others, check their hours prior to going.*
*We would not recommend this place if you have any member of your party with a dairy allergy as they would have limited menu options.
Inside of the fried cheese and ham sandwich
Homemade Goulash soup and Chicken Schnitzel
Oasis Cedar Creek Cabin (Cleveland, GA)
Beautiful with the wood, large windows, and open floor plan!
My husband and I recently had a weekend away in Cleveland, Georgia while the girls were on a school field trip to Charleston, SC. The Oasis Cabin we stayed in was beautiful! It was in a great location with the peacefulness of the woods and mountains while conveniently located near Helen, Georgia if you wanted to go out to dinner or exploring. We ate at the Cowboys & Angels restaurant while in Helen which was very good. It was a much needed weekend away together.
The cabin was perfect and furnished with a lot of fun extras. It had simple yet beautiful decorations, not the typical “bears, fish, and other cabin decor”. The bath robes were very comfortable and we enjoyed playing several rounds of pool together. We played board games, ate out on the deck, and relaxed together. We could occasionally hear the construction workers who were building a couple of the surrounding cabins, but nothing too distracting.
There were some cleaning issues that we had with the cabin, but after emailing Cedar Creek Cabins with the information we originally felt like it was worth visiting Cedar Creek Cabins again to see if the experience is better. Now we are not sure if we will visit any of their cabins in the future.
We are still very thankful for a special weekend together. We went home refreshed and relaxed! Just wish the people taking care of the cabins followed through with their promises and that the cabins were cleaned better.
View from the pool table – looking towards the kitchen and bedroom areasPROS:
- Gorgeous cabin with a spacious floor plan, huge windows and a lot of nice features
- Pool Table & Board Games
- Fairly Private Back Deck
- Charcoal Grill
- Coffee Machine was really nice + they left a few coffee K-Cups to use as well as a re-usable one if you brought your own ground coffee
- Washer & Dryer
- Blender – wasn’t aware of this one prior to arriving, but we love smoothies
- Plenty of Storage for Food & Snacks in the cupboards
- Comfortable King Size Bed
- Super Soft Bath Robes
- Automatic Recliners in the Couch
- Fireplace
- Jacuzzi Bathtub the huge tub that was really comfortable, does take awhile to fill up though!
- Large Walk-in Dual Shower
- Hot Tub on Deck nice, but needed more chlorine had a mildew growing in it by the second night so we did not get into it again after that night
- 2 TV’s – one over the fireplace and the other by the bed & jacuzzi tub
- Nest Thermometer was easy to use
- Landscaping looked freshly done and really nice (new mulch)
- Nice Loveseat Wicker Furniture on the Deck could sit or lay down on it. We played games on the deck, ate snacks, and relaxed
- Small Community Playground – it was small and a little faded, but was a nice touch for any families coming to visit with small kids.
- Nice neighborhood – We felt safe enough to walk through the neighborhood and found several other families doing the same as well.
Super soft bathrobes!CONS:
- Check the Dishes prior to using! We found a lot of dirty dishes that had been put away, possibly from the previous renters, but most of them should have been noticed by the cleaning staff. For example – Several of the knives in the knife rack on the counter were very dirty with chunks of food on them. Multiple items (plates and cups) in the cupboards had food chunks on them and the bowls had liquid in them. If you opened the silverware drawer it was obvious by just looking that the silverware was not cleaned prior to being put back into the drawer. After pulling out several dirty items we ended up washing everything before using it. Thankfully we brought extra dishwasher soap and a bunch of disposable items because we ended up running all the silverware and a bunch of dishes through the dishwasher prior to leaving. If you are going to require guests to wash the dishes prior to checking out then the housekeeping staff really should do a quality inspection of the dishes when cleaning the cabin to make sure that they are actually clean prior to the next guests arrival. Honestly, it was gross and would have been an easy thing to correct while housekeeping was already in the cabin cleaning. We realize that it was most likely the previous guests that put dirty utensils, pots & pans, and serving items back in the cupboard, however, it was pretty obvious just by glancing that the dishes were put away dirty especially when opening the silverware drawer or pulling a plate out of the cupboard or a bowl with standing water in it. No one wants to wash dirty dishes from the previous guests in a cabin while on their vacation.
- Top rack of the dishwasher was missing the right end cap causing the rack to come off the roller or get stuck in place. Wasn’t a big deal other than it made using the top rack of the dishwasher more difficult to use.
- Bring extra toilet paper! We had 2 partial rolls of toilet paper that was supposed to last for 4 days for 2 people (the one on the roller was almost gone and the one on the back of the toilet was already half used). We ended up getting more toilet paper to get us through the weekend.
- Fireplace thongs would be very helpful when maintaining the fire. Not a huge problem just would make it more convenient for the guests staying in the cabin.
- Basic Cooking Supplies especially if you plan to cook. Maybe we cook more than the average guests or have stayed in cabins with a lot of “extras”. There was no cooking spray, aluminum foil, plastic wrap, or pyrex dish or pie plate to cook in. One jelly roll pan and a set of pots & pans was it for baking.
- Ability to be a Gated Community, however, the gate was never locked (even though we were given a gate code) and we were in and out multiple times every day
- Rough Road with a lot of large pot holes the last half mile or so to the entry of the entrance. This is probably more of a county maintenance issue, but visitors need to be aware of the road condition as it is one you’ll want to the cabins so take it slow to avoid potholes.
- Some construction noise. This cabin community was obviously still being built. Several cabins next to us were still being built, overall the noise from construction was minimal (mostly hammers, saws, and normal construction noises). We could hear one of the workers radios playing if we were outside, there were several port-a-potties near our cabin, and they did work on both Saturday and Sunday so there was construction activity even on the weekend.
- No Cabin Signage. Had to call them to figure out which cabin it was because there were no signs and we drove around the entire complex twice. They told us where it was located and said that the construction workers had knocked over the sign and one was on order.
- Need updated directions. Followed the directions exactly, but it appears that they have added more cabins and roads since writing the instructions because they did not lead to the correct cabin.
- High Speed Internet – while they did have internet it did drop a few times or was really slow. It may have been from all the construction around us because we noticed it most on Friday of our stay.
- Landline Phone – while it was nice having the phone in the cabin we got multiple phones call from people trying to solicit money and/or services. After a day we ended up unplugging the phone because the only time it rang was when someone was trying to advertise their services and we had our cell phones that worked decently while at the cabin.
Overall we had a refreshing and relaxing time together. The cabin itself was gorgeous and other than the kitchen the rest of the cabin was fairly clean. The housekeeping not checking the dishes and the property managers failure to follow through with their promises were our biggest disappointments, really all else was minor and expected with a new community.
We contacted the property managers and they were apologetic regarding the dirty items in the cabin. They also offered to give us a discount on our next stay in any of their cabins. We let them know that we were staying at another one of their cabins again in April with our kids. Gave them the dates, the cabin we were staying in and everything, but never heard back from them again regarding the discount.
We held off posting the review because we wanted to give them a second chance prior to posting it. We feel like they dropped the ball in a few ways and not convinced that it would be a company we would use again which is sad because they are within a reasonable driving distance from home making it a convenient weekend place to visit. Plus the cabins could really be a wonderful relaxing and enjoyable place to stay especially if you don’t have to clean up the previous guests messes!
PLEASE for the sake of your future guests make sure that the cabins are cleaned better no one wants to pull out dishes with the last guests food on them AND don’t offer to fix issues or offer a discount on future stays if you do not intend to honor that promise.
View from the kitchen & dining area bedroom, jacuzzi tub, and shower
Relaxing on the deck lounge. Comfortable and relaxing!
Decorations were simple and elegant. Not the typical “cabin” decor which was really nice!
Loved hanging out with my man for the weekend!
Relaxing on the couch in front of the toasty fire!Cowboys & Angels Restaurant (Helen, GA)
Jake and I went away for a weekend while the girls were on a Student Council Leadership Conference. We stayed in Cleveland, Georgia not far from Helen. After Jake was done with work we headed into Helen to grab a bite to eat. We had looked at a few restaurant reviews prior to going so we had an idea of some of the places we may want to check out.
Once in Helen we parked on the edge of town and took a stroll through the quaint little shopping area. We passed several of the restaurants that we were considering. We finally settled on Cowboys & Angels Restaurant When we first arrived there were only a couple tables inside (but they were reserved) and several tables available outside. We considered staying because it was probably going to get cooler as it got darker. The hostess and staff reassured us that they had outdoor heaters. They found us a table in an area that would be a little warmer and a little quieter. A musician from Nasheville, TN was singing on the outdoor patio, but wasn’t too loud.
The weather was a little bit cooler, but it was still comfortable. The staff was quick and accommodating. The food was delicious. Jake had the Longhorn Burger with Broccoli. I had the Grilled Maverick Chicken with a House Salad both were delicious.
Pros:
- Location is in the heart of the shopping and tourist district of Helen, GA
- Food was delicious and for a reasonable price
- Atmosphere was good with live music
- Hospitality was excellent and pleasant with prompt service from the staff
Cons
- Limited indoor seating. If it is a cooler day when you visit and the restaurant is busy you may be eating outside.
- NOTE: Staff indicated that they were in the process of expanding and hope to have more indoor eating space in the future (not sure of the exact plans or timeline).
Overall: Yes, would definitely try again on a future visit to Helen, GA. They would probably benefit from more indoor seating especially during the cooler months, but I can imagine it would be a really neat venue for eating on the porch & patio throughout the Spring and Summer seasons. The food was great and the service was excellent so if you are looking for somewhere to eat while visiting the area we recommend you check them out.
Travel & Vacation: Homewood Suites & Paddington Movie (Atlanta, GA)
Swimming at the pool
On a recent trip to Atlanta, Georgia we stayed at the Homewood Suites. The girls were begging to go swimming so on the first day we were there we wrapped up early and headed back to the hotel so they could swim. It was in the high 70’s that day, however, they had just filled the pool a couple days before we arrived so the water was freezing cold. Both kids got into the pool, but Brina was done after a few minutes. Karlie stayed in a little longer, although it wasn’t much fun swimming by herself. The entire time we were at the hotel we didn’t see one other person in the pool….I wonder why?!
Since we scrapped our pool time activity we decided to look for some other activities that we could do together that night. We headed back to the room to re-group and figure out what we wanted to do that evening. While the girls got dressed Jake and I made dinner in the hotel room. It was nice having one with a fridge, sink, dishwasher, microwave, and oven so we could eat at the hotel!
Jake found a movie theater nearby where you can get movie tickets for $3 each and they were showing some good kids movies so we decided to check it out. It was only a few miles away inside a open shopping mall and market. We chose to watch the movie Paddington with the girls at the Venture Theater.
It was a cute movie. I seriously cannot remember the last time our family went to the movie theater so this was a special treat for the kids. Usually it is so expensive just to go to the movies so we usually wait until it comes out on video. It was a nice activity for the four of us and only cost $12! The kids enjoyed the movie. Jake and I had a couple good laughs too. Thankful for a fun evening with the family. Sometimes even the best of plans don’t go as expected so it’s always a good idea to have a Plan B.
Ready for the movie to start
Karlie is focused
Our kids typically don’t sleep in very late so one morning after breakfast we spent some time playing games until the place we were going to that day opened. During the evenings after dinner if we had time and everyone wasn’t too tired we would play some card games too. It’s always a good idea to bring card games because you never know when you’ll have a few minutes of down time to relax and have fun.
Karlie relaxing on the couch at the hotel.
Brina setting up the game
It didn’t take them long to crash after a fun filled day in Atlanta!
The “Travel and Vacation” series is an insight into our trips together as a family and ways we relax. Life is short and we were thrilled to have the opportunity to build memories with family and explore of of the most amazing places during our time away. Explore with a good attitude, look for fun, and it will be an awesome trip jammed packed with positive memories. It is refreshing having some time away from the regular routine. Make it a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet new people and learn. You just might see or try something new that takes your breath away!
Travel & Vacation: Exploring the Fernbank Museum of Natural History (Atlanta, GA)
We’re having fun at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History!
We had a blast working our way through the various sections at the Fernbank Museum of Natural History. They had one section that was very interactive, a lot of science, experiments, brain teasers, heritage, and more. We ended our visit at what I call the “fun zone”. It was like a giant indoor jungle gym with lots of things to do, see, and learn about. They did are really great job with this museum. Our kids really enjoyed it. We made it through the entire museum, we were there when they opened and left as they were closing. It was a full day of fun and learning.
Brina making a huge bubble
Jake made an hour glass shape bubble, neat!
Whoa Dad! That’s so cool! They loved this bubble activity!
Karlie giving it a whirl!
Brina stretching it out a long ways.
Opps that one popped before she got too far
Wow, Karlie!
Awesome bubble Brina!
Brina flipped the bubble ring over her head and she was standing inside the giant bubble
Karlie had to try being inside a bubble. Pretty neat.
Karlie having fun with the bubbles
Brina and Daddy trying out the next activity
Jake helping Brina do this one!
This one was pretty cool because I could stand on the other side and watch her do the whole activity. Karlie trying to figure it out.
Karlie doing the activity while Brina watches.
Brina doing the “Mirrorly A Window” activity
Karlie sitting across the room chatting with Brina – super cool!
Brina talking with Karlie from across the room. Even though it was noisy with others doing various activities and they were across the room from each other they could hear perfectly fine speaking in their normal voices because the acoustics were set up to carry the sound perfectly.
Weather station. Brina watching the tornado
Brina and Karlie checking things out
Brina wanted me to go up with her into the huge tree house so she could show me some of the neat stuff they had. It was really nice play area for the kids.
Brina jumping onto the swinging bridge just as I was about to cross….crazy girl! She makes me laugh. At least her dramatic jump give me a little bit of a warning.
Brina found this book in the tree house library, she thought it was so hilarious she had to show it to me.
As I was talking with Karlie and looking around for a few minutes I went to find Brina. This is where I found her back at the library reading another book. It makes my heart happy when I see my kids reading voluntarily. Love catching Brina enjoying a good book on her own.
Karlie and Brina exploring the ocean section of the play area.
Baby turtle coming over to say “Hi”
Karlie on the look out
Brina and Karlie had a great time at the museum. The time went by quickly, but we squeezed a lot of fun into the day together.
Karlie thought it was so cool she could sit in a dug-out canoe like the Native Americans used to do so many years ago.
The “Travel and Vacation” series is an insight into our trips together as a family and ways we relax. Life is short and we were thrilled to have the opportunity to build memories with family and explore of of the most amazing places during our time away. Explore with a good attitude, look for fun, and it will be an awesome trip jammed packed with positive memories. It is refreshing having some time away from the regular routine. Make it a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet new people and learn. You just might see or try something new that takes your breath away!
