Originally home to private Ferrell Gardens in the 1800s, the Callaway family purchased the property in 1912 and started building their Italianate estate shortly afterward around the existing gardens.
The white stucco exterior and red tile roof stand out amongst the otherwise green surroundings. The family found success in five-and-dime stores, agricultural equipment and textiles and their descendants lived at the home until 1998.
What to See at Hills and Dales Estate
At the family’s request, Hills and Dales Estate was opened to the public in 2004 as a museum. A visitor’s center was created to give background information on the family before touring the property.
After a 2010 renovation, you can now visit all three floors of the home, but no photos are allowed inside. The interior has been left almost exactly how it was when the family lived here, down to the magazines stacked on the tables and vintage telephones.
Once you’ve toured the home, explore the sprawling gardens, which include the original sections created by the Ferrells, the site of the former pool and garage, a greenhouse and even a labyrinth. If you don’t want to see the house or have been already, you can also pay admission for access to the gardens only.
Tips for Visiting Hills and Dales Estate
Hills and Dales Estate is located at 1916 Hills and Dales Drive, LaGrange, Georgia 30240. They’re open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. Admission is $15 for the house and garden for adults and seniors and $7 for students and children.
Garden admission is $8 and $4, respectively. Parking is included with entry. Children under 6 are not permitted inside the home and no photography is allowed inside.
Where to Eat Near Hills and Dales Estate
There’s no restaurant at Hills and Dales Estate, but you can bring a picnic with you. Alternatively, you can dine in downtown LaGrange at one of the many eateries, which is a short drive away.
Charlie Joseph’s Downtown is known for its hotdogs and has been around since the 1920s. Taste Of Lemon Restaurant is a favorite of ladies who lunch, serving chicken and dumplings, hamburger steak, and macaroni and cheese.
Where to Stay Near Hills and Dales Estate
There aren’t many hotels in LaGrange, but the Courtyard by Marriott LaGrange is well located to both Hills and Dales Estate and downtown’s restaurants and shops. Hampton Inn Lagrange near Callaway Gardens is another option, located east of downtown. Both hotels have perks like daily breakfast and free WiFi.
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My trip to Hills and Dales Estate was organized by Visit LaGrange and Laurie Rowe Communications.
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