by Mark Polaski
Ray Charles had it right! Georgia evokes dreamy emotion and true Southern hospitality. Check out these unique venues for your next event. Beginning in Gainsville in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Brenau University offers palatial, plantation style architecture mixed with state-of-the-art conferencing technology.
Down Interstate 129, you will find Athens. This “Classic City of the South” shows off its stunning Victorian style setting but retains a very hip, chic modernism. Here is the UGA Hotel and Conference Center offering breathtaking accommodations; perfect for events up to 600 individuals.
If you have a large event and you are looking for a fairgrounds type of venue, this is it. Conyers is a small city with big bragging rights and is home to DeForest Kelly, Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy of the original TV series Star Trek. Georgia International Horse Park is nestled into this community and is the perfect place to take your event outdoors.
As you travel toward the east you’ll come to Statesboro and Georgia Southern University. This traditional southern campus is ideal for summer venues and can accommodate up to 2000 participants. The University is Statesboro’s largest employer. Statesboro is home to Wal-Mart’s largest distribution center in the world covering nearly 2,200,000 square feet!
Along the eastern shore of Georgia is the great city of Savannah. USA Weekend Magazine touted Savannah as one of the “top 10 most beautiful places in America.” The city boasts industries from shipping to high technology development. The Armstrong Center is ready to welcome your event with a sophisticated environment and plentiful free parking.
Conveniently located between Atlanta and Orlando, the heart of South Georgia is the place to experience southern hospitality, beautiful landscapes and pleasant climate throughout the year. 
Valdosta is one of Georgia’s most beautiful cities and home toValdosta State University. The academic setting of the University and the surrounding atmosphere of the city makes Valdosta State University an ideal place to host summer camps, conferences, receptions, special events and more!