Atlanta is a big city. And that means there’s something exciting hiding around almost every corner. From activities to parks and places to eat and grab a drink, you never know where your new favorite spot is waiting.
Take it from these local experts. Atlanta is full of hidden gems throughout the city. Today’s the day to find your next go-to spot.
1. The Edible Garden
As a hidden gem within a local favorite, you’ll find the Edible Garden inside the Atlanta Botanical Garden located beside Piedmont Park. Situated all the way at the back of the Edible Garden, behind rows of growing veggies and herbs, you can watch a free Garden Chef demo, with the price of admission, each weekend from May to October.
“Saturday’s and Sundays at noon, 1:00, and 2:00 p.m., we make garden-fresh inspired recipes for all to sample,” shares Megan McCarthy, the Chef behind Healthy Eating 101. “I am one of the Edible Garden chefs that does the demos and have been keeping this beautiful secret since 2010! Our fig trees and others keep on growing!”
2. East Palisades at Whitewater Creek
Source: facebook.com/pages/East-Palisades-Indian-Trail
There are a lot of parks throughout Atlanta, many of which are dog-friendly. “One of our favorites,” says Laraine Wilkinson, Owner of Two Chicks and a Pack, “is East Palisades at Whitewater Creek, which is kind of an undisclosed dog park at the bend of the Chattahoochee River off Mt. Paran Road. It is an area where friendly and trained, off-leash dogs can go to and play with other dogs and humans. But, for those not off-leash trained, going on a weekday is best.”
Hidden within the Atlanta suburb of Sandy Springs, East Palisades is one of the city’s most scenic spots with a small bamboo forest you can hike through.
Also within Sandy Spring’s borders, you’ll find the Cochran Shoals Trail within the larger system along the Chattahoochee River. This particular trail is a local favorite since it’s half covered in shade for a more comfortable walk.
3. The food in Reynoldstown
Source: facebook.com/staplehouseATL
Fully tapped into Atlanta’s thriving food and drink scene, Biggerstaff Brewing Company owner, Sarah Davies has a couple of suggestions for can’t-miss hidden gems in Atlanta’s Reynoldstown neighborhood.
“For a casual experience, my go-to is El Tesoro. The food is delicious, the vibe is chill, and the drinks are great. For an elevated experience, my go-to is Staplehouse. The food is divine and the patio is magical.”
For some vegan fare, Anmarie Smith of DV Photo Video suggests another Reynoldstown staple, Chi Chi Vegan. She considers it a great lunch spot and suggests the vegan tacos.
One of many historic districts on the east side of Atlanta, Reynoldstown is full of character and community. Its location provides easy access across the city and is a safe and walkable neighborhood.
4. Trail of the Muscogee
Source: C Brown Photo
Tucked away in Stone Mountain State Park, the Trail of the Muscogee is ideal for a quick getaway according to local photographer Cindy Brown of C Brown Photo. “It’s a one-and-a-half-mile loop trail that winds through a wooded area (where we’ve seen deer) and beside a lake.”
This Stone Mountain Park hidden gem is also referred to as, “the lake trail” because of its pristine beauty. With an easy path through native stone and hardwoods, this particular trail is great for hikers of any level.
Stone Mountain as a whole is a local favorite. “I love walking up Stone Mountain,” says Erica Thomas, Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Eating with Erica. “It’s a great workout and provides even better views. It’s truly the best of both worlds, burning calories while taking in the beautiful views of Georgia. I love to visit first thing in the morning.”
5. The Works
Source: facebook.com/theworksatl
“One of my favorite go-to spots is The Works in the Westside neighborhood of Atlanta,” says Leslie Andrews of Leslie Andrews Photography. This mixed-use spot combines local culture, food, drink and retail shops. “I love it because it’s right by my house and it has so many options of places to eat and drink. You can grab your food and sit outside on the patio in the sun or you can head over to the park area to catch some live music.”
Andrews knows first-hand the advantages that come with finding a home on the Westside. This vibrant area is one of the many examples around Atlanta of the culture and beauty that result when history and heritage meet.
6. Arabia Mountain
A little outside the perimeter, Arabia Mountain in Lithonia has great lakes and amazing wildflowers that bloom throughout the year.
To get started on at least one of the area’s trails, you’ll pass the AWARE Center, which rescues and rehabilitates wild animals. You can hike and help save local wildlife all at once.
7. The East Side
Source: facebook.com/RevolutionDoughnuts
Popping up again with some additional East Side recommendations, Anmarie Smith of DV Photo Video also suggests you swing into Revolution Doughnuts for great vegan donuts and tasty coffee. You can find Revolution Doughnuts in Decatur and Inman Park.
You can also head to The Eastern, an up-and-coming venue in Reynoldstown, for a fun night out. “There is not a bad seat in the house and it has beautiful acoustics. LOVE this spot.”
For Michael Diane, Atlanta Wholesale Manager at PERC Coffee, a favorite East Side location, that’s perfect for a date night, is Gaja in East Atlanta Village. “It has really good Korean Food, but its cocktail menu is one of my favorites in Atlanta, by far.”
Other Atlanta gems to enjoy
Source: facebook.com/poorhendrix
The few places already listed by our experts only skim the surface of what Atlanta has to offer. Providing a few more suggestions, Diane first takes you to Summerhill.
“For a cute afternoon snack I love stopping by Big Softie to get some amazing soft serve and it’s next door to Little Tart Bakeshop,” he shares.
For an actual meal, and a few beverages, Diane scoots over to East Lake and visit Poor Hendrix. This is a fun gathering spot to meet up with friends.
When you’ve had enough of the city and its immediate neighborhoods, don’t forget to extend your reach into the suburbs. Hidden gems abound throughout.
A-Town is calling
Feeling tempted to venture out into Atlanta and explore an area you might not go to regularly? Even if it is a familiar spot, like the Botanical Gardens or Stone Mountain, you may be surprised at what you can find if you take a closer look. It’s what makes Atlanta such a magical place to live, even if you’re new here, and such a fun city to explore.
