By Kathleen Calcutt

How do you improve on a new business in Americus serving craft beer and fantastic food? Combine them with a massive 4000 square foot, enclosed, outdoor entertainment venue, equipped with stage, outdoor gaming area and plenty of space for kids to be as entertained as their parents.

IceHouse is the brainchild of local long-time friends Wes and Deanna Beamon and Todd and Melissa Shufflebarger. The two families purchased the iconic, red brick building in 2024 with the intention of saving the endangered structure and creating a space where families like theirs could spend time together in a safe, fun and family-friendly environment. The Beer Garden, located atop the viaduct at 533 W. Forsyth St., Americus, is housed in the historic Atlantic Ice and Coal Company warehouse. Built in 1912 by Earnest Woodruff (of Coca-Cola fame), the original business endeavored to supply local residents and the railroad with ice and coal, absolute essentials of the time.

Every aspect of the renovation project at the IceHouse has been carefully planned and executed to provide modern amenities while preserving the history and feel of the original building and showcasing it’s connection to historic Americus. The bar top, for example, is made of bowling alley wood from one of Americus’ early bowling alleys. Tables are handmade using local, salvaged antique heart pine. Original beams and mechanical structures of the building remain exposed to preserve the ambiance and experience of the structure. The windows in the Garden have been left intact so that patrons can enjoy the view of historic downtown Americus. Cornhole and other outdoor games will entertain young and old alike. The large scale of the building and the rustic Garden, combined with lots of unique and charming spaces for photo ops, will make it the perfect venue for hosting special occasions and memorable gatherings. Walking distance from the Windsor Hotel and across the street from Café Campesino, IceHouse Beer Garden hopes to become a favorite venue for beer/wine enthusiasts, foodies and those seeking a distinctive social dining experience. “Every day will be a fantastic day in the garden!” says co-owner Wes Beamon.

The IceHouse Beer Garden is expected to open by the end of the year or in early 2026. You can follow the progress of the renovation on Facebook.