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Community Corner

Spring Break at Home

Spring break adventures are closer than you think.

Can’t afford that beach vacation this spring break. Don’t fret there are plenty of great things to do with the kids right here. Have a fun filled “staycation” without emptying the savings account.

Lake Lanier is a resort destination literally in our own backyard. For a beach fix take advantage of the parks situated all around the lake. Warm sandy beaches are inviting to relax, soak up some sun and catch up on reading even if it is still too chilly to swim.

Shady Grove Campground is open for the season and campsites start at $18 per night. Borrow the neighbor’s tent and take the kids on an overnight adventure. Making memories doesn’t have to cost a lot. For a complete list of campgrounds visit the US Army Corp of Engineers Web site.

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Adrenaline junkies might enjoy the zip-line canopy tour or a jet ski rental to make this spring break memorable. Halfoffdepot.com is currently offering bargain boat and jet ski rentals on Lanier. In addition, the three-hour zip-line canopy tour, normally $100, is available at halfoffdepot.com for $46.

Spring break and roller coasters go hand-in-hand. Six Flags is open daily during spring break. Enjoy the rides before the weather gets too hot. Closer to home, features half priced laser tag and arcade games all day Tuesday. has special spring break hours for public skating: Monday through Thursday 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. and 3 pm. - 5 p.m., Friday 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m., 3 p.m. - 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

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It is time to make good on that promise to take the kids to the aquarium. The Georgia Aquarium attracts visitors from all over the world and it is just a hop, skip and a jump from Cumming. Take a behind the scenes tour, valued at $78, for just $39 (that includes admission ticket) when you purchase through halfoffdepot.com.

Looking for a more natural escape? Sawnee Mountain Preserve offers hiking, interpretive exhibits, a tree canopy walk, tree house, playground, picnic pavilions and more. The Big Creek Greenway is ideal for biking, skating and just taking a leisurely nature walk.

There are more than 20 waterfalls in Georgia and most of them are right here in the northern part of the state. Click on this link to plan a day trip and map out a few falls to visit. On your way stop into Dahlonega and sample some delicious treats at the The Fudge Factory and peruse quaint shops on the square. Little ones will enjoy panning for gold at Consolidated Gold Mines.

A wonderful spring break is at our doorstep and in our own backyard.

For more ideas check out Bob Pepalis' article.

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