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Unique Adventures in Henry County, Georgia (Only 20 Miles South of Atlanta Off I-75)

Henry Country has a lot to offer, whether you’re driving on I-75 for a road trip or visiting the Atlanta Metro.

The county is 20 miles south of Atlanta and has seven exits off I-75 making it a convenient stop for exploration and an overnight stay.

I’m sharing more about the unique adventures and attractions you’ll want to add to your list the next time you’re in the area.

flight in a Huey Vietnam era Bell UH-1 Iroquois helicopter

Thanks again to Visit Henry County, GA for hosting my visit. All opinions are my own and this article contains affiliate links.

Fly in a Vietnam-era “Huey” Helicopter with the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation

506 Speedway Blvd, Hampton, GA 

You can experience a one-of-a-kind helicopter ride in an authentic, Vietnam-era UH-1 “Huey” helicopter!

This adventure can appeal to both thrill seekers and history lovers. Your helicopter ride with the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation helps support the preservation of these legendary aircraft.

This non-profit tells the U.S. Army Aviation Story by hosting and participating in aircraft and museum tours, school programs, air shows, and other public events throughout the US.

inside UH-1 Huey helicopter

All of Hueys were in the Vietnam War, some were used in the Gulf War, and the Army flew the UH-1 “Huey” until the early 2000s.

Individual riders may be joined on their flight by other passengers if they attend a “Ride Saturday” that’s open to the public. You can also book a private ride if you prefer to only have your party of choice during your ride.

The helicopter ride lasts around 10 minutes, give or take. I felt that our time in the air for our flight seemed like the perfect amount of time.

The maximum speed is 127 MPH and the range is 299 miles.

inside UH-1 Huey helicopter

The UH-1 Huey can hold up to 10 passengers and each ride has a crew consisting of a Pilot, Co-pilot, and Crew Chief.

tarp for seating UH-1 Huey helicopter

You’ll be advised on pre-flight safety and then have the opportunity to select the location of your preferred seat position on the helicopter by standing its correlated marker on the tarp.

flight in a Huey Vietnam era Bell UH-1 Iroquois helicopter

I opted for one of the four “jump seats” that face outward for the ride while the helicopter door remains open.

shadow of Huey helicopter

I didn’t feel scared during the flight and had a smile on my face the whole time. It was incredible as the pilot maneuvered the helicopter to different degrees during our flight.

I did need to hold onto my sunglasses and move them to my hand a few times because of the wind.

flight in a Huey Vietnam era Bell UH-1 Iroquois helicopter

The views from the Huey helicopter are truly incredible!

The flight experience also made me realize that I might be more comfortable with possibly skydiving in the future.

flight in a Huey Vietnam era Bell UH-1 Iroquois helicopter

My relaxing ride was under very different circumstances from the brave veterans who rode in this type of helicopter during the war.

Ride Requirements:

  • Particpant can physically ingress/egress aircraft, under their own ability, without assistance.
  • Have no health restrictions relative to flight.
  • Be a minimum of 16 years of age (Cobra) and a minimum of 5 years of age and accompanied by a parent or guardian (Huey).
  • Present a parent/guardian-signed waiver if under 18 years of age.
AH-1 Cobra

AH-1 Cobra

You can book a flight in the AH-1 Cobra for a more rare/extreme ride.

The Cobra can hold 1 pilot and 1 passenger during the approximate 10-minute ride reaching speeds up to 172 MPH and a range of 315 miles.

The ride is in an enclosed seat so be mindful of that detail if you have any issues with close quarters. In the picture above I’m seated in the pilot’s seat for a photo op. The passenger actually rides in front of the pilot during the flight.

Andrew Mikel  and Tilden “Mike” Mikel on Huey helicopter

Give The Gift of Flight

These flights are a popular “experience gift” idea for family or friends to share with a special veteran in their life or loved one who enjoys aviation.

You can purchase a gift certificate for a future flight.

Andrew Mikel  and Tilden “Mike” Mikel by Huey helicopter

While waiting for my helicopter flight I met Tilden “Mike” Mikel and Andrew Mikel.

Tilden “Mike” Mikel  inside AH-1 Cobra

The Cobra flight and the helicopter flight were a gift from Andrew to share with his dad.

His son Andrew also shared a Fort Worth Star-Telegraph article and the incredible backstory on his dad’s military career, which made these flights that day even more meaningful.

“Mike started his career in 1969 as a Vietnam-era, US Army Infantry officer, then an Airborne Ranger and an attack helicopter pilot. His assignments included both command and staff positions in infantry and aviation units. He joined Bell Helicopter in 1982 and contributed to all aspects of the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior and V-22 Osprey Programs.

He was also a contributor to all upgrade activities, but particularly combat survivability aspects, associated with the H-1 family of US Army & Marine Corps helicopters.

He was the Survivability /Vulnerability IPT Lead for both the V-22 & H-1 upgrade programs and held leadership roles in both the CV-22 FSD & V-22 EMD programs. Mike served on the executive board of the NDIA Combat Survivability Division, from 2001 through 2013; on several board subcommittees, annually on the symposium committee, serving twice as symposium chairman

Through his superior accomplishments, dedicated service, energetic leadership, and exceptional
and lasting contributions to aircraft combat survivability, the DoD, and the Nation, Dr. Tilden N.
Mikel is awarded the Combat Survivability Award for Lifetime Achievement.”

horses at Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary

Visit Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary

712 L G Griffin Rd, Locust Grove, GA

*Check their website for days/hours of operation before you go.

Animal lovers of all ages will definitely want to check out Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary.

rescued baboon at Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary
Image courtesy of Visit Henry County, Georgia

Noah’s Ark is a Non-Profit Educational Sanctuary for domestic farm animals and exotic animals who have been abused, abandoned neglected, or surrendered. 

map of Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary

The animal sanctuary resides on 250 beautiful scenic acres providing habitats for animals that mimic their natural environment.

farm animals at Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary

From the moment you’re on the property, you can see that Noah’s Ark is a special haven for the 900+ animals in their care.

Noah’s Ark is one of the preferred destinations for confiscated and rescued animals through partnerships with:

  • Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
  • United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
  • United States Department of the Interior (USDI)
  • Georgia Department of Agriculture
  • United States Department of Fish and Wildlife

The animals at Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary come from the Department of Natural Resources, zoos, educational institutions, and the general public.

Tiger at Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary
Image courtesy of Visit Henry County, Georgia

Habitat Admission is only $5 per person and kids ages 2 years old and younger are free.

There’s a playground area onsite if kids need to burn off some extra energy and picnic areas and restroom facilities are available.

Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary

Tours Offered at Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary

There are two types of tours offered at Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary.

WOW Tour / Walk on the Wild Side

The WOW Tour / “Walk on the Wild Side” is an exclusive 1.5-hour, behind-the-scenes professionally guided tour that takes visitors into the habitats before they’re open to the public.

This education tour is by reservation only and provides a lot of backstory for the animals along the way. There is a maximum of 6 people on this tour and you’ll walk approximately 2 miles.

No personal contact with the animals is allowed during your visit for the safety of the animals and the guests.

Highlights on our guided tour included watching the tigers being fed, listening to the birds, and learning more about “BLT.”

Educational Tour/ Field Trip

Public Schools, Private Schools, and Home School groups are eligible for educational tours/field trips at Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary.

Fun Fact: 150,000+ people visit Noah’s Ark and participate in educational programs annually.

rescued bear at Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary
Image courtesy of Visit Henry County, Georgia

The Special Bond of “BLT”

“BLT” (bear, lion, and tiger) were three unlikely animals who lived together in harmony at Noah’s Ark.

The bear, lion, and tiger were rescued by police officers in a drug raid in the basement of an Atlanta home when they were only a few months old in 2001.

“BLT” consisted of Baloo, an American black bear, Leo the African lion (Panthera Leo), and Shere Khan the Bengal tiger who lived together at Noah’s Ark Sanctuary.

The lion passed away in 2016 and the tiger passed in 2018, but Baloo the bear is still doing well.

Sulcata Tortoises at Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary

How to Partner With Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary

The community is vital for helping the non-profit that relies solely on their donations and volunteers.

Monthly costs are approximately $167,000 to treat, feed, and care for the animals and admission goes toward helping continue their care.

Zombieland filming location

Take a Self-Guided Tour of TV and Film Locations Around Henry County, GA

Henry County, Georgia has been a filming location for several popular movies and television shows.

Hawkins High School from Stranger Things

The former Patrick Henry High School was the filming location for most middle and high school scenes of the popular Netflix series “Stranger Things.”

FYI- You can’t access the school but a quick picture can be taken from Lee Street.

Hawkins High School from Stranger Things

You can take a self-guided tour of the film and show locations using this map.

The Walking Dead filming location
  • The Walking Dead
  • Furious 7
  • The Hunger Games – Catching Fire
  • We Are Marshall
  • Made in Heaven
  • Stranger Things
Atlanta Motor Speedway Tours

Take a Track Tour at Atlanta Motor Speedway

1500 Tara Place, Hampton, Ga

The Atlanta Motor Speedway is open for track tours throughout the year, except during the two NASCAR Cup Series races.

You don’t have to be a big race fan to find the track tour interesting.

The speedway tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the Atlanta Motor Speedway and a unique opportunity to ride on the track.

An advanced appointment is required for a track tour regardless of the size of your group.

race track Atlanta Motor Speedway

Track Tour Times are Monday – Friday at 10 AM, 11AM, 1PM, 2 PM, and 3 PM, based on track availability.

Atlanta Motor Speedway tour

Guests ride in a 15-passenger van with narration from a guide.

Atlanta Motor Speedway tour

Highlights include going inside a suite, riding on the track, and the opportunity to walk up a bank turn on the race track.

track tour Atlanta Motor Speedway

My favorite part was riding a few laps on the 1.54-mile quad oval track and climbing up to the top of one of the bank turns.

The bank turn is 28 degrees and almost 2 stories high!

woman on track tour Atlanta Motor Speedway

I have an even greater appreciation for the drivers after experiencing the track from the perspective at the top of the bank turn.

I walked up the bank turn to the top as quickly as possible, to continue my momentum.

Walking back down the bank turn was a little more intimidating because the track surface doesn’t have traction to grip your shoes.

view from bank turn Atlanta Motor Speedway

The perspective from the bank turn of the race track is definitely worth the climb!

finish line Atlanta Motor Speedway

Take a Picture at the Finish Line

The finish line at Atlanta Motor Speedway extends outside of the race track. This is a great place to create a unique photo op.

NASCAR race at Atlanta Motor Speedway

Attend a NASCAR Race at Atlanta Motor Speedway

You don’t have to be a huge NASCAR fan to have a good time during a race at the Atlanta Motor Speedway.

There are two NASCAR races at Atlanta Motor Speedway annually drawing 70,000+ fans at each race. The Atlanta Motor Speedway hosts a variety of racing and special events throughout the year.

Pack your noise-canceling headphones or earplugs because the race cars are LOUD during the race and be prepared for plenty of action as drivers fight for position on the track.

Binoculars can also come in handy if you like to observe the action on the opposite side of the track.

If you don’t have a favorite driver, pick one before the race starts and you’ll be more invested in the outcome.

Fan Zone NASCAR race day at Atlanta Motor Speedway

The Fan Zone in the parking lot outside the speedway is open for guests attending the race and guests without a ticket.

Fan Zone NASCAR race day at Atlanta Motor Speedway

The Fan Zone is free to attend and offers fun for all ages with entertainment, kids activities, vendor booths, and more.

NASCAR race at Atlanta Motor Speedway

Perks of the Pre-Race Track Pass

The Pre-Race Track Pass allows fans to:

  • Sign the start/finish line
  • See victory lane
  • Stage-front access for driver introductions before the green flag waves

*This does not include access to the pits and you must have a race ticket or infield wristband.

NASCAR race day at Atlanta Motor Speedway

Fun Fact: The Infield of the Atlanta Motor Speedway is 125 acres equally the size of three Falcon stadiums.

finish line NASCAR race day at Atlanta Motor Speedway

Sign the Finish Line

Pack a Sharpie marker and you can write your name on the finish line as a part of history on the race track.

Tree Climbing at Panola Mountain State Park

Tree Climbing Excursions at Panola Mountain State Park

2620 Georgia 155 SW, Stockbridge, GA

You can experience the thrill of tree climbing from your youth…with the safety of a harness at Panola Mountain State Park.

Tree Climbing at Panola Mountain State Park

The rope-assisted technical tree climbing is an intro to CARE TTC (Canopy Adventure Research Educational Technical Tree Climbing.)

Tree Climbing at Panola Mountain State Park

All the equipment is provided for the session for the climb including a helmet and a harness. Participants can select the line they prefer to start their climb on.

Tree Climbing at Panola Mountain State Park

This tree-climbing technique involves raising yourself up by standing up in the foot loops while you raise the knot above your head with your hands and pull up.

Tree Climbing at Panola Mountain State Park

Your instructor will coach you during your tree climb while you get the hang of it and even show you how to flip upside down.

It can feel challenging/ frustrating until you get the rhythm down, but the experience is worth it and will build your confidence afterward.

Tree Climbing at Panola Mountain State Park

Types of Climbs at Panola Mountain State Park

  • Introduction Climbs – intro to CARE TTC. These climbs are typically held the third weekend of each month with classes at 1PM and 3PM. They only accept pre-registered participants, and we recommend that children be at least 8 years old for this adventure. Our primary grove location is at Panola Mountain State Park in Rockdale County, Georgia.
  • Night Climbs – This introductory climb at night has stargazing opportunities and nocturnal critter sightings.
  • Special Needs Climbs– Treetop canopy assistance to special needs individuals is provided if prior arrangements have been made and approved in advance.
  • Group Event Climbs – Climbs can be arranged for private groups for birthdays, church groups, field trips, scouting activities, etc.
Panola Mountain State Park

Explore More of Panola Mountain State Park

2620 Georgia 155 SW, Stockbridge, GA

map of Panola Mountain State Park

The state park consists of 1,635 Acres and two lakes with 35 combined acres.

Panola Mountain State Park

Panola Mountain is a 100-acre granite outcropping similar to Stone Mountain, north of Stockbridge, but the difference is that, unlike Stone Mountain, Panola was never quarried.

Panola Mountain State Park

You can observe the mountain from the viewing platform.

 Panola Mountain State Park

Ranger-led guided hikes are the only way to access the granite mountain and must be reserved in advance.

 Panola Mountain State Park

Additional activities at the park include hiking, archery, birding, fishing, paved trails, playground, picnic areas, Nature Center, and bike rentals.

Panola Mountain State Park

A fair warning that some of the grades on the bike trail are pretty steep.

 bike rentals at Panola Mountain State Park

These are regular bike rentals, not e-bikes, which may be a challenge on the hills if you’re riding bikes with smaller children.

The Green Front Cafe

Dine at the Green Front Cafe – Incredible History and Food

112 2nd Street, Stockbridge, Georgia (10 miles from Panola Mountain State Park)

The Green Front Cafe is nestled in a neighborhood in Stockbridge, GA. It’s the type of place that you may pass by unknowing if you didn’t know to look for it.

The Green Front Cafe Sign

The historic sign outside the restaurant details the heart and soul of the restaurant that has been carried on with new owners to this day.

The restaurant was opened in the 1940s by Carrie Mae Hambrick and her husband, Hime Hambrick, Sr.. Restaurant patrons enjoyed American classics, soul food, and her famous cornbread.

The Green Front Cafe

Green Front Cafe was also believed to be the first restaurant in Stockbridge. During a time of segregation, this restaurant remained unsegregated, welcoming black and white customers to dine together.

Carrie Mae ran the restaurant for 50 years before it closed in the early 2000s.

She has been honored annually on “Carrie Mae Hambrick Day” since 2010, on the second or third Saturday in May.

There are two rules for the free community celebration:

  1. Everyone is welcome to join the celebration.
  2. All food must be shared with anyone who asks.  No money is exchanged for food.
miniature model of Green Front Cafe

The new evolution of the Green Front Cafe is described as an “old restaurant with a new soul.”

Diane and Malana Miller purchased the property after it was vacant for years and the restaurant opened in May of 2023 after years of remodeling. A miniature model of the original restaurant is displayed at the restaurant to honor its history.

You’ll enjoy her joy-filled southern hospitality as much as their delicious food.

menu items at The Green Front Cafe

The menu now consists of a variety of soul food classics along with a taste of Jamaica, including fried chicken and Jamaican Jerk Chicken.

menu items at The Green Front Cafe

We shared an assortment of their menu items, family-style so that we could try more dishes.

menu items at The Green Front Cafe

I also had to order a Ting because it brought back good memories from my travels in Jamaica.

menu items at The Green Front Cafe

We tried their Southern-style mac & cheese, collards, fried chicken, Jamaican jerk chicken, and rice and beans.

menu items at The Green Front Cafe

Another noteworthy menu item is the steak “J Milly Philly ” which has a mix of provolone and mozzarella cheese, grilled onions, green peppers, and mushrooms.

Plan your visit to this special restaurant, open for breakfast or lunch.

disc golf at J.P. Moseley Park

Play One of the Highest-Rated Disc Golf Courses in Georgia –J.P. Moseley Park

1041 Millers Mill Road, Stockbridge, GA

J.P. Moseley Park is a popular spot for disc golf for all skill levels. In fact, it’s one of the highest-rated disc golf courses in Georgia.

disc golf J.P. Moseley Park

The 37-hole Disc Golf Course was established in 2005 and has evolved in multiple phases.

disc golf map J.P. Moseley Park
  • The Original 18-hole course is wheelchair accessible, has a course par of 61, and a course length of 7516′.
  • East 9 Loop is a beginner-friendly option with a course par of 29 and a course length of 2551′.
  • West 9 Loop will appeal to players with advanced/pro skills with a course par of 31 and a 4900′ course length.

You can find inexpensive Disc Golf Starter sets online if you’re newer to the sport. Ideally, you’d have a Driver, a Mid-Range disc, and a Putter.

disc golf J.P. Moseley Park

Additional amenities at the park include:

  • 1.4 Mile Paved Walking/Jogging Track
  • 4 Lighted Softball Fields
  • Regional Playground
  • 1 Pavilion
  • 4 Lighted Football Fields
  • J. P. Moseley Recreation Center
  • Fitness Court
  • Concession Stand
Floyd Chapel Baptist Church

Visit Historic Floyd Chapel Baptist Church

104 1st St, Stockbridge, GA

Since the early 1800s, the church has been a safe place for black attendees to worship.

The church moved to its current location in 1878 from its original location 1.5 miles north. In 1949, the current church structure was erected.

historic sign Floyd Chapel Baptist Church

This was the place of worship for Martin Luther King Jr. and his family during his childhood and the church remains active, to this day.

His father Rev. Luther King preached his first sermon and was ordained at this church. He later became the pastor at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta.

sign Floyd Chapel Baptist Church

Floyd Chapel Baptist Church is on Georgia’s Footsteps of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Trail, which consists of 28 attractions in eight cities.

squirrel picnic table Bushy Tail Art Trail

Be on the Lookout for the Bushy Tail Art Trail

Throughout Henry County, tiny squirrel dining spots double as public works of art. Each squirrel picnic table has unique artwork and personality created by local artists.

squirrel picnic table Bushy Tail Art Trail

Something about the ridiculousness of envisioning squirrels enjoying a meal seated at a picnic table automatically makes you smile. It’s even better if you witness a squirrel near the picnic table.

We gave a “Nut Bar” squirrel feeder as a gift and I love getting updates and pictures of the squirrels enjoying the nut bar and hearing about their shenanigans.

squirrel picnic table Bushy Tail Art Trail

Use this map to locate all the squirrel picnic tables on the Bushy Tail Art Trail.

Tag your Bushy Tail Art Trail pictures with #BetterExplored for a chance to be featured on Visit Henry County, GA’s social pages!

front porch  Stockbridge Lakes Bed and Breakfast

Unique Overnights in Henry County, GA

I have a few recommendations if you’re looking for a unique overnight in Henry County.

Henry County’s First Bed & Breakfast – Stockbridge Lakes Bed & Breakfast

112 Old Conyers Road, Stockbridge, GA

Stockbridge Lakes Bed and Breakfast

Stockbridge Lakes Bed & Breakfast is a great option if you enjoy personal connection and southern hospitality where you stay.

living room at Stockbridge Lakes Bed and Breakfast

From the moment you step on the front porch, Innkeepers/owners Anita and Marvin Johnson will help make you feel at home.

lake at  Stockbridge Lakes Bed and Breakfast

The B&B is located on four acres with a lake, offering three rooms with private bathrooms and a one-bedroom apartment for guests, to choose from.

Ask about the fish feeding times when you arrive if you enjoy observing wildlife.

in the south sign Stockbridge Lakes Bed and Breakfast

You’ll find many areas to relax throughout the property including the front porch, living area, and seating overlooking the lake.

breakfast at Stockbridge Lakes Bed and Breakfast

Overnight guests can choose between a locally sourced, homecooked, southern breakfast by a Chef in the morning or a breakfast basket for in-room or outdoor dining.

Stockbridge Lakes Bed and Breakfast

We opted for their homecooked southern breakfast and their fruit parfaits were my favorite!

bedroom at Stockbridge Lakes Bed and Breakfast

I enjoyed a great night’s sleep as I melted into my bed in the Southern Charm room.

I had to ask for the secret the following morning and immediately purchased a quilted pillowtop mattress cover and a memory foam topper for my bed after my stay.

Stockbridge Lakes Bed and Breakfast

The 24-hour hospitality area has complimentary afternoon snacks and beverages available for guests at their leisure.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, there are packages you can add on for your stay.

Stockbridge Lakes Bed and Breakfast

This Bed & Breakfast is a popular venue for small weddings, special events, luncheons/retreats, and photoshoots.

Book Your Stay at Stockbridge Lakes Bed & Breakfast Here
condos at Atlanta Motor Speedway

Sleep at the Atlanta Motor Speedway

You can stay at a vacation rental at the Atlanta Motor Speedway.

 condo at Atlanta Motor Speedway

Fun Fact: There are only two NASCAR race tracks in the US with condos onsite.

condo at Atlanta Motor Speedway

This condo overlooks Turn 4 of the Atlanta Motor Speedway.

view from condo at Atlanta Motor Speedway

The window panels can be lowered for privacy when you don’t want to gaze at the track.

view from condo at Atlanta Motor Speedway

I enjoyed drinking my morning coffee while watching the sunrise from the condo.

sunrise at Atlanta Motor Speedway

The vacation rental accommodates four guests and has 2 bedrooms with 2 beds and 2.5 baths.

bedroom condo at Atlanta Motor Speedway

This is a great experience gift idea for race fans or anyone who seeks out unique overnights.

campground at Atlanta Motor Speedway

Camp at the Atlanta Motor Speedway

Atlanta Motor Speedway offers year-round camping ranging from Premium Full Hook-Up sites to Tent camping. (There are some blackout dates due to special event camping)

The AMS Campgrounds have available water, power, and sewer hookups.

The Closest Airport to Henry County, GA

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is the closest Airport to Henry County, Georgia.

Electric Bike tour Stone Mountain Atl Cruzers

Looking for Additional Adventures in the Area?

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