In May, we shared ways to contribute to personal wellness through activity and rest while visiting Forsyth. We want to add to that conversation. Rest and action are essential to maintaining physical and emotional wellness while traveling, yet another piece often gets overlooked.
Sourcing local ingredients and products can instantly boost mood and emotional well-being. Indulge in fresh, seasonal produce bursting with essential nutrients or handcrafted products like salt scrubs and beeswax lotions made with love by local artisans. You can spend a day at a local family farm, petting farm animals, tasting the flavors of middle Georgia and getting a feel for farm life.
Georgia Grown Goodness is Hard to Beat!
In an effort to support Georgia-based farmers, manufacturers and retailers, the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s “Georgia Grown” division has formed an integrated community dedicated to growing the influence of agribusinesses. When you visit Forsyth, you will find their logo all around town, as more and more local artisans and producers join the movement to grow local businesses, sustainability, community and education.
Here are just a few spots full of locally grown goodness for you to enjoy:
1823 Artisan Guild – delicious honeys, beeswax products, handcrafted bath products and more
A Girl & A Goat – indulgent bath products and skincare
Art Buff Studio – local honey from Bee Buff hives
Forsyth Antiques & More – healing skin products, handmade candies and sweets, Georgia-themed candles and more
Navy & Gray Designs – fruit-based, locally sourced cocktail mixers
Old Mill Market Co – local honey, freshly baked goods and more
Branded Starr Western Boutique – locally raised beef from their ranch
Ace Hardware – an entire section dedicated to GA Grown products
Farm Adventures for Everyone
Slow down and immerse yourself in the local agriculture scene at one of our family-owned and operated farms, open to the public and full of adventure.
Hamlin Hills Farm, located off of I-75, exit 185 in Forsyth, has something fun to do around every corner. Their petting zoo is full of cuties, ranging from goats and horses to pigs, chickens, and a lovable emu. They also have a collection of antique farm equipment like their “crashing” crop duster and 17-passenger helicopter available for a unique photo op! Speaking of Georgia Grown, don’t miss out on live music every Sunday afternoon!
There are so many enticing bites at Hamlin Hills, as well. They are renowned for their southern BBQ, so grab a plate of your favorite saucy meat and sides to enjoy a farm picnic before shopping for local preserves and wines, hand-poured candles, and more in the farm market. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are always abundant so that you can take some freshness home with you! No matter the time of year, there are seasonal activities to delight your entire family. You can’t get more local than a hayride atop a bale of Georgia hay or meandering a maze of corn grown in the rich Georgia soil.
Be sure to check out Twin Oaks Farm while you are here. Located off of I-75, exit 193, this family fun farm is positively bursting with adventure. Spend the day interacting with adorable farm animals, practicing grounding in the shade of an oak tree or getting energy out on the large playground or bounce house. The Twin Oaks market boasts fresh seasonal produce, homemade ice cream, jams and more. Year-round seasonal activities like summer water days and fall hayrides are available depending on when you visit.
There truly is something very healing about nourishing your body and soul with local eats and experiences. Prioritizing all aspects of wellness while traveling leads to greater satisfaction and allows your brain to truly soak up new memories and sensations. In Forsyth, we believe in health for every traveler, whether in town for work or play; we hope you find the right balance of rest, action and immersion to make your time with us unforgettable.
