The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Greensboro’s Christmas magic
How to spend 3 days enjoying its small-town feel, charm.
There’s nothing quite like a small town, all decked out for Christmas, to get you in the holiday spirit. And little Greensboro, just an hour from Atlanta on the shores of Lake Oconee, certainly does Christmas right.
With a charming town square strung with lights, friendly shops brimming with cheer and cozy restaurants serving seasonal favorites, you might just wonder if you’ve strolled onto the set of a Hallmark holiday movie.
But it’s all real — and it’s the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit this year. To help you make the most of it, we’ve put together a three-day itinerary that includes a little of everything that Greensboro and Lake Oconee have to offer during the most wonderful time of the year.
Day 1
Check in to The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee. Greensboro’s Christmas capital, The Ritz-Carlton brings laid-back luxury to the lake. From the moment you spy pastry chef Michael Gaddy’s one-of-a-kind gingerbread display in the lobby, you’ll know you’ve visited someplace special.
Once you’ve settled in, head to dinner at one of The Ritz’s excellent restaurants. For casual dining, Gaby’s by the Lake features burgers, tacos, pizza and their famous lobster grilled cheese. The Linger Longer Steakhouse, meanwhile, serves up classic American fare in an elegant, white-tablecloth setting.
Before lying down for a long winter’s sleep, younger children will thrill when an unexpected knock on your door reveals one of Santa’s elves bearing a personalized holiday package that includes a book, holiday crafts and some sweet treats.
Day 2
There’s plenty to do at The Ritz during the day, from story time with Mrs. Claus to gingerbread house workshops. But the main attraction is the Winter Forest, an immersive environment where you’ll discover a 5,000-squarefoot ice skating rink, the swanky Ice Lounge and the Sand Bar, a retro trailer serving up cider and hot cocoa.
The Linger Longer Express, a train traversing the resort grounds, will be all decked out
in its holiday finest and making regular trips from the front drive. Along the way, join the carolers in singing your favorite Christmas tunes.
Next up, make your way to charming downtown Greensboro. Grab a bite on your way at Café 44 before exploring the
town. Be sure to see the massive Christmas tree on the courthouse square. Finish the evening with a stop at Oconee Brewing Company for special seasonal brews and live music.
Day 3
Depending on the day, you
can start your morning with Breakfast with Santa at The Ritz, or head into town and pick up something at Ripe Thing Market, including a cup of Jittery Joe’s coffee.
Now it’s time to do a little holiday shopping. Downtown Greensboro is filled with unique local boutiques and galleries, including Genuine Georgia, where you’ll discover amazing gifts made by regional artisans. JH McCommons Co. and The Pink Stitch are popular spots, too.
Before heading back to the lake, enjoy some excellent barbecue at Greensboro institution Holcomb’s Bar-B-Que. Their recipe is beloved, and the prices are great. Their only request: Don’t tell too many people how good it is — otherwise it won’t stay a local secret for long!
In the evening, drop the kids off at The Ritz’s Elves in Training program. They’ll enjoy games and snacks, while giving parents a chance to enjoy a nightcap at The Barrel Room or, for a really romantic time, finish the night alongside the lake with your own private fire globe and luxurious menu of drinks and snacks.