Winter may be the season for cozy movie nights and hot chocolate by the fire, but in Calhoun-Gordon County, you’ll also find plenty of things to do around town. From captivating art exhibits to indoor playgrounds and local dining, here are 10 of the best winter activities for families in Calhoun-Gordon County, Georgia.
Winter Entertainment & Attractions in Calhoun, GA
1. Catch a Movie or Concert at Calhoun’s GEM Theatre
A Calhoun landmark since 1927, the GEM Theatre was restored in the early 2000s. Now, you can take your seat in the theatre where locals first experienced Gone With the Wind, gathered for World War II news updates, and made memories for generations.
During the holiday season, the GEM screens Christmas favorites like Home Alone, The Grinch, and Miracle on 34th Street. After the holidays, the fun continues with family-friendly movies, tribute bands, and rising stars. Historic charm and quality entertainment make the GEM a must-visit venue for your Gordon County visit.
2. Explore Wonder and Whimsy at the ROCK Garden
Tucked behind the Calhoun Seventh-day Adventist Church, the ROCK Garden is one of Gordon County’s hidden gems, a whimsical miniature village crafted from rocks, pebbles, shells, glass, ceramic tile, and other materials. Started by a member of the church’s congregation in 2007, the ROCK Garden holds more than 50 hand-sculpted buildings, including tiny houses, castles, churches, and even a miniature Notre Dame cathedral with real stained-glass windows. Bible verses dot the pathways, adding to the peaceful, inspirational setting.
After exploring the village, follow the one-mile trail that crosses two creeks and climbs a hill for scenic views, perfect for winter photo ops.
3. Find Inspiration at the Harris Arts Center
On a chilly day, the Harris Arts Center offers a welcoming cultural escape. Home to the Roland Hayes Museum, the Ratner Theater, and multiple art galleries, the center features rotating exhibits, hands-on classes, and occasional performances. Browse the Art Market Gift Shop for handcrafted jewelry, pottery, baskets, paintings, photographs, blown glass, dolls, and more, ideal for one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs to remember your Gordon County adventure.
4. Cozy Up with a Good Book at the Calhoun-Gordon County Public Library
If you’re looking for a warm place to relax, head to the Calhoun-Gordon County Public Library. Here, you can join a community event, explore local history, or settle in with a good book. Check out a craft workshop, play board games, or take your kids to story time. With free Wi-Fi and public computers, the library is also a convenient place to catch up on work or plan your next adventure.
5. Let the Kids Burn Off Energy at Jumpin’ Jacks Zone
On cold, rainy days, Jumpin’ Jacks Zone offers hours of indoor fun for families visiting Calhoun. Kids can explore slides, ball pits, tunnels, and more in a safe, supervised setting. The on-site café serves pizza, pretzels, smoothies, shaved ice, and coffee. While the kids play, parents can work or relax with free Wi-Fi and table seating.
6. Rise to the Challenge at Pickleball 706
Stay active this winter at Pickleball 706, which features eight climate-controlled indoor courts. Players of all ages and skill levels can reserve a court, drop in for open play, or join a clinic or tournament. After a high-energy match, relax in the lounge or browse the pro shop for pickleball gear.
Winter Dining in Calhoun, GA
7. Enjoy Homestyle Eats at Big John’s Treat Shoppe
With homestyle plates and retro charm, Big John’s Treat Shoppe is a cozy place for a winter meal. Warm up with biscuits and gravy, BBQ pork, or fried ham and cheese. And be sure to check out the daily special.
8. Play Trivia or Enjoy Live Music at Trackside Pizza & Pub
With its spacious dining room, lively bar, and fun kids game room, Trackside Pizza & Pub is a local favorite. On a cold winter day, nothing beats a hot slice straight from the oven. Enjoy unlimited topping pizzas, classic wings, and cheesy garlic knots. Stop by for Tuesday trivia, open mic Wednesdays, or live music on the weekends. Whether you’re chatting over drinks, sampling unique pizza combos, or vibing to live music, Trackside always delivers a good time.
More Winter Activities in Gordon County
9. Join a League at Calhoun Bowling Center
Calhoun Bowling Center features 20 lanes and entertainment for the whole family, bumper bowling for little ones (kids bowl FREE), pool tables, a game room, and a grill serving everything from salads to cheesesteaks. Families can bowl for fun, and competitive players can join a league. Perfect for a winter day, the Calhoun Bowling Center provides indoor fun for all ages and skill levels.
10. Find Winter Fun at the Calhoun Recreation Department
A brisk winter walk is a refreshing way to enjoy the outdoors. The Calhoun Recreation Department maintains family-friendly green spaces and paved trails for walking, running, and biking. You’ll also find tennis courts, sports fields, and the largest playground in Northwest Georgia.
However you choose to spend the season, Calhoun-Gordon County offers plenty of winter fun for the whole family.
Plan Your Winter Visit to Calhoun-Gordon County
However you choose to spend the season, Calhoun-Gordon County offers plenty of winter fun for the whole family. Many of these venues host special winter events throughout the season.
Looking for more fun experiences? Explore more things to do in Calhoun, places to eat, or check our upcoming events for upcoming activities perfect for your day trip or weekend getaway.
