History, mystery and comfort food: Your city guide to McDonough

The seat of Henry County, the suburb of McDonough southeast of Atlanta has been an enclave for families for over two centuries. Its rich history goes back to 1823, when naval officer Thomas MacDonough founded the town on Creek Indian land. It was also a waypoint between Macon, Decatur, New Orleans, and more.

Starting as a largely craftsman and agricultural town planned around a town square, some of the early buildings and homes remain today, including the county courthouse and the Globe Hotel. That historic downtown can be seen in multiple film productions and enjoyed each spring during the Geranium Festival. Today, McDonough is a great place to live and enjoy all the activities that Henry County has to offer.

What can I do for fun in McDonough?

Freshen up your fun at Southern Belle Farm, 1658 Turner Church Road. This 330-acre family farm is the perfect place to visit in any season. In the spring and summer, explore the farm and enjoy seasonal fruits, romp around a pumpkin patch or a corn maze in fall, and enjoy their holiday market in Christmastime. There’s always something to do, and you’ll end up with weekend memories and a basket of truly organic produce.

Escape from reality in the Museum Escape Game, 369 Macon Street (Hwy 42 N). Most escape rooms can be found in office parks and malls, but this unique experience takes place in an actual museum. Challenge yourself and your friends or coworkers to navigate puzzles throughout the Camera Museum and escape in time. This escape room is guaranteed to be family friendly and brain bendy. (The Camera Museum itself is also worth a visit!)

Train among trains at Heritage Park, 101 Lake Dow Road, McDonough. This city park has it all. Attraction lovers will enjoy the Veteran’s Wall of Honor and Historical Museum, a train depot, and multiple pavilions to bring friends to. Those who want to be more active can stroll along its scenic walking trails (with an art walk) or enjoy the baseball fields.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in McDonough?

Queen Bee Coffee

Nestled in the core of McDonough, this quaint coffee shop in a historic house is the perfect spot to get a morning boost or work remotely on their covered patio. Sip on a hot mint tea, their signature iced coffee with caramel and vanilla mousse, or a quirky seasonal latte made for you by their friendly baristas. Non-coffee and tea drinks are always available, too.

Location: 58 Griffin Street; Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: queenbeecoffee.com

BoJaynes Specialty Foods

Stay healthy at this all-natural gourmet deli that specializes in salads and sandwiches. Everything is prepared fresh on site, from their tribeca sandwiches loaded with turkey and Greek salad to the rotating hot bar of vegetarian goodies. Even the indecisive can enjoy their salad samplers, with a variety of crunchy combinations. Whatever you get, you will leave feeling better than those boring lunchtime fast food runs. Grab your own spices and sundries from their market after your meal and bring a little bit of flavor back home.

Location: 371 Keys Ferry Street; Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Website: bojaynesspecialtyfoods.com

Macon Street Tacos

Enjoy good drinks and great food at this downtown taqueria. Choose from a wide range of taco fillings in a corn or flour tortilla and pair it with a margarita or beer from the bar. Their creative offerings include a shrimp po boy taco, the “big guy” with a double soft/crunchy shell, as well as classics like al pastor and salsa verde pork. Live music on Saturdays will liven up your dinner. Check their social media pages for updates.

Location: 16 Macon Street; Hours: Tuesday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday, 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, noon to 9 p.m.; Website: facebook.com/MaconStreetTacos/

Pasta Max

Take your dinner to the max at this comforting Italian diner that has something for everyone. Freshly prepared pasta takes center stage, with all entrees served with a choice of soup or salad. Whether you want a hefty plate of lasagna or the classier black pepper pappardelle with chicken and leeks, Pasta Max has you covered. In addition to pasta dishes, sandwiches are available for lunch service and pizzas are on tap for dinner.

Location: 50 Griffin Street; Hours: Lunch: Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Dinner: Tuesday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday, 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Website: pastamaxcafe.net