The Fairyland Club
What stands today as the Lookout Mountain Fairyland Club originally opened its doors as the Fairyland Inn in 1925. The enchanting resort was the vision of prominent, local couple Garnet and Frieda Carter, developers of Rock City Gardens and the surrounding 450-acre residential community known today as Fairyland.
Nestled among giant boulders with a commanding perch on the eastern brow of scenic Lookout Mountain, Georgia, the Fairyland Inn boasted indoor and outdoor dining, as well as 30 guestrooms. In 1926, a giant ballroom and swimming pool were added to the inn, along with a row of cottages called Mother Goose Village, which still exist today. Designed by noted local architect William Harding Sears, the stately Tudor manor and cottages were designed to complement the lush, natural surroundings and historic rock formations. Due to their historical significance, both the clubhouse and cottages are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Fairyland Inn was legendary for its grand galas and lavish parties, with big bands flown in from New York City and California to entertain guests and local residents. The large “Disco” ball in the balcony overlooking the ballroom is original to the inn and is still operational today. The property was also the birthplace of the world’s first miniature golf course, named “Tom Thumb” golf, featuring a full 18-hole golf course in miniature scale on the front lawn. People would travel from near and far to enjoy the cooler summer temperatures and sweeping, panoramic views of the Fairyland Inn.
When the Great Depression hit, travel and tourism across America suffered, and the inn eventually closed in 1934. It was then converted into a private club that continues to operate today as the Fairyland Club. While the clubhouse and its amenities have evolved through the years, the historic charm and character have been carefully preserved, making it a favorite venue for wedding receptions, banquets, office parties and other special occasions. Many of the original architectural details can still be found around the clubhouse, including a masonry figure of Peter Pan presiding over a massive stone fireplace and even some wrought iron light fixtures bearing the “FI” emblem for Fairyland Inn.
Today’s Fairyland Club offers exceptional dining, swimming, tennis and fitness amenities, plus a busy calendar of social events year-round and a variety of membership categories, based on age and place of residence.
“This place has such a unique and rich heritage,” said Fairyland Club’s Membership Director Charlotte Lindeman. “It’s truly an historic treasure and beloved Lookout landmark for generations to come.”