When it comes to exploring a city you’ve never been to—or maybe revisiting it with fresh eyes if you haven’t lived there in seven years—there is a lot to take in. From knowing the best spot to get comfort food (i.e. biscuits on biscuits on biscuits) to knowing which galleries to visit, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, especially when there are so many options.
When venturing to a new city, just remember that it’s okay to do “touristy” things. I will never stop taking visitors to the “Bean” in Chicago and have no intentions to stop. So if you are dying to go to the World of Coke and Centennial Park, don’t be ashamed. They exist for a reason, and who doesn’t love a refreshing sample of limited edition coke and good old refreshing green space?
Just know that if it is your first time visiting Atlanta and you order iced tea, it will be sweet. You’ll have to specify if you want it unsweetened.
Where To Shop
As our amazing Atlanta based Style Gurus will prove, there is nothing boring about the swagger in this city. Atlanta is a city full of creative individuals, which is only proven more through the style of its inhabitants. So if you’re looking to leave with some new gear, I suggest going to the thrift stores. You’re bound to find something at the Buffalo Exchange in Atlanta that you might not find in your hometown. Other noteworthy thrift stores to hit up include: Rag-O-Rama, The Lucky Exchange or any of the nearby Goodwill stores.
Local Eats
1. Breakfast for lunch (or for breakfast): Home grown. You can’t lose with a biscuit and cheese grits. Order a sweet tea if you’re feeling extra Southern and need a good sugar high.
2. Victory Sandwich Bar: Good for mini sandwiches and ping pong. Plus, you’ll find The SOS Tiki Bar in the back at the Decatur Location of this sandwich and drink joint.
3. Revolution Doughnuts: I would be ashamed if I didn’t offer a spot to get your local doughnut fix. Just to be safe, try them all.
4. Nick’s Food To Go: This unassuming place serves Greek food (and burgers) that will leave you full for two days. I recommend the lamb gyro.
5. Krog Street Market: If you happen to want delicious Tacos, go to Superica. If it’s been a long (or short) day and all you want is a beer, go to Hop City. Or if you’re craving something sweet, go to The Little Tart Bakeshop. Basically, there’s plenty to eat and drink here, so you won’t go hungry.
Where to get your caffeine fix
As you’ll know, in any major city, there will not be a shortage of cute coffee shops. Octane is one great option, so when you inevitably need a caffeine fix, stop by for a latte. If coffee isn’t your thing, go for a High Tea at Dr. Bombay’s Underwater Tea Party in Candler Park. Or you can just get a cup of tea. Plus, you can get vegetarian dishes and know that the tea you buy benefits impoverished young women in India.
Places To Visit
1. Historic Oakland Cemetery: I know it might sound morbid, but Oakland Cemetery is a beautiful green space and home to the graves of some notable Atlanta figures. It’s also the perfect spot to take some RAD photos and just explore if it’s a nice day.
2. Ponce City Market: Full of shopping, food and right off the Beltline, you could comfortably spend an afternoon here eating and shopping.
3. The Beltine: If you need to take a long walk, hop on the Beltline with your bike, your own two feet or a friend’s puppy. If you ever need a break from the Atlanta heat, you can pull of and step into a cool store, like Paris on Ponce, or grab a popsicle from King of Pops.
4. See the art: Do some research on local galleries before your visit and see what exhibits are up. Atlanta is also home to the High Museum of Art, which is certainly worth seeing.
5. Chattahoochee River Trails: Take a nice break from the city and hike one of the many trails on the Chattahoochee River.
Where To Stay
To get an authentic Atlanta visit, why not stay in an actual resident’s home? If you rent a room, an apartment or even a whole house through Airbnb, you’ll have the chance to stay in one of Atlanta’s many neighborhoods, like Inman Park, Midtown, Grant Park, Virginia Highlands, etc. Or if you have friends with enough space, take full advantage.
