If your college student chooses to attend the oldest private college in Georgia, LaGrange College, chances are you’ll be visiting our beautiful city many times over the course of their education. While there are many things to do in LaGrange, a few are absolute musts. Whether you’re in town for a sporting event or just to say hello, here are some things to add to your agenda!
Explore the Campus
This one may sound like a given but surprisingly many parents don’t get to explore much of the campus. LaGrange College, “the Hill,” is rich in history and has survived wars, changes in leadership and an evolution of its student body. Historic buildings like Smith Hall are now filled with classrooms and offices which means during your child’s time here, he/she may study in a room where a Confederate soldier was treated for battle wounds during the Civil War!
In addition to its historic and architectural charm, the campus features gorgeous landscaping and beautiful sitting areas. Sit on the front porch of Smith Hall, the oldest building on campus, or take a stroll through the academic quad or plaza. For a longer adventure, lace up your walking shoes and hop on The Thread, a paved walking trail that wraps through LaGrange and around the campus.
Depending on when you visit, there are plenty of things to do, see, and experience on campus. The following are a few of our recommendations!
Attend a Play at Price Theater
LaGrange College boasts a talented theater department known for putting on fantastic performances. With approximately six shows per year, there are plenty of opportunities to attend one. Students are admitted for free and even get a cultural enrichment credit for attending. Parents and non-students pay a small fee at the door. Make sure to reserve tickets in advance, these shows always sell out.
Attend a Basketball Game in Mariotti Gym
Nothing compares to the experience you’ll have at a LaGrange College basketball game. The nostalgic feel of Marriotti gym is one you and your student will remember for years to come. During games, the student section is alive with cheers of encouragement… and a few heated comments here and there. Student-athletes from other sports teams can always be found lining the front row to support their peers. When you leave the gym, you will certainly feel loved by the Panther family.
Visit During Homecoming
Homecoming is a special time for all those who graced the Hill. The entire town welcomes graduates from decades before who are returning to campus for fellowship with classmates. At the annual homecoming tailgate, get a taste of the college’s sororities, fraternities and other organizations then head to the stadium to watch the football game. From the red and black decorations all over town to the roar of the crowd as the Panthers score a touchdown, homecoming is something you won’t want to miss.
Dine at Local Hotspots
There are no shortage of delicious meals to be had in LaGrange. From some of our most famed barbeque joints like Country’s or Roger’s to fine dining at C’sons or Tutto Pepe, there’s cuisine your student is sure to love. After dinner, grab a drink at Wild Leap Brew Co., Nutwood Winery or Beacon Brewing Co. (less than a mile from campus!)
If your party can’t go anywhere without getting something sweet, check out The Copper Carrot Bakery, Rock Salt Milk Bar or Scoops! All three have mouthwatering treats for the discerning dessert lover.
We’ve laid out a few of our favorites for any time of day, so you can feed your student while getting a great taste of local flavors for yourself!
Breakfast at Gus’s Grill
On your way into town, stop by Gus’s Grill for breakfast. This locally owned diner features bottomless coffee and everyone’s favorite breakfast dishes like skillets, omelets, biscuits and more. While you’re there, take a look at the memorabilia scattered around the walls soak up this special moment with your child.
Lunch at Taste of Lemon
No matter if you’re coming from another state or just a few miles away, a delicious southern meal from Taste of Lemon is in order! This iconic restaurant is located in the heart of LaGrange in what was formerly the Second Methodist Church. The building was constructed in 1892 and has been moved several times over the years. Tables are set up in what was the church sanctuary.
Open for lunch Monday through Friday, the restaurant serves items in a meat-and-three style and features a different menu each day. Items frequently on the menu include poppy seed chicken, hamburger steak and salmon croquettes.
Family Dinner at Mare Sol
A family dinner at Mare Sol is a treat for students, who will be salivating at the incredible flavors being served. This locally owned restaurant features modern décor and a large Mediterranean American menu with items like shrimp and grits, quail, flatbreads, sandwiches and more. We can almost guarantee your “starving” college student will order the buffalo chicken quesadilla!
Discover LaGrange
Tour Hills & Dales Estate
Located near campus sits 35 acres of rolling hills adorned with beautiful gardens and an early twentieth century home. Before it was opened to visitors, Hills & Dales Estate was occupied by the Callaway family, a prominent textile family from this area. Many LaGrange College buildings are named after members of this family who over the years have donated to the school. Touring this home and garden is a treat but it will also help you understand the impact that this benevolent family has had on the college and the community.
Catch a Concert
With two storied music venues (Sweetland Amphitheatre and Pure Life House of Music) and spots like Wild Leap, Beacon, and Nutwood Winery all featuring frequent live performances, there is a high likelihood that there’s live music to be heard during your stay in LaGrange.
Enjoy a star-studded evening at the South’s Sweetest Stage, Sweetland Amphitheatre, which has hosted big names such as Gladys Knight and Willie Nelson. Or opt for a more intimate performance at Pure Life House of Music, an eclectic listening room in the heart of LaGrange’s historic Hillside neighborhood.
There’s no doubt LaGrange will leave a mark on your family. From the stunning historical campus to the hospitality and charm of the city, you’ll never forget this sweet southern town. And with so many things to see and do, it won’t be difficult to find a reason to return… even after graduation!
