A Glimpse to the Past: Visiting Dunaway Gardens

Just outside of Atlanta, is the City of Homes, officially known as Newnan, GA. It is known for historic homes, business locations and Southern hospitality. You can wander its tree-lined streets looking at antebellum homes or explore the shops and stores at the assorted shopping centers. There are nationally recognized restaurants and down home favorites, performing art events and rousing athletic competitions. But, for a peaceful afternoon unlike any other, you will want to spend some time at Dunaway Gardens.

Dunaway Gardens was started by stage actress, Hetty Jane Dunaway on land that belonged to her husband, Wayne P. Sewell’s family. Originally, the Dunaway Gardens was used by producers, directors and performers. It was visited by guest like Roy and Walt Disney, and was where Minnie Pearl’s career began. The Garden’s popularity lasted for several decades (the 20s, 30s and 40s) before closing its doors due to dwindling popularity.

Fortunately, many in Newnan were not content to see Dunaway Gardens closed “forever”. So in the summer of 2000, current owner Jennifer Bigham and other concerned citizens began the arduous process of removing kudzu, vines and decay to restore the 125 acre Dunaway Gardens to their former beauty. Finally, after several years of work, Dunaway Gardens opened its doors once again in 2005.

Today, you can spend an afternoon walking its winding paths through towering trees, flower gardens, roses, azaleas, lilies and magnolias, listening to the gently gurgling pools and viewing its hand-laid rock walls and stair cases. In addition, you will find the area, affectionately called, “Little Stone Mountain” as it consist of one of the largest natural rock and flower gardens in the South. You can also see the Great Pool, the Sunken Gardens, the Wedding Tree, the Hanging Gardens, the amphitheatre that was used in its heyday for early performances and the Arrowhead Pools. The Gardens are open year round and is available for tours, weddings, and photo shoots (by appointment). Casual personal photography is welcomed.

Dunaway Gardens is just the place for unwinding after a busy week at the office. You can enjoy Southern hospitality at its best as you get rejuvenated by the beauty of nature.