Atlanta’s Small Town Charm is Right Around the Corner
Atlanta is a city beaming with innovation, tech and excitement around every corner. With a rich history and deep culture, Atlanta has something special embedded in each town. One of the unique qualities Atlanta has is small town charm throughout the city. From Virginia Highland and Brookhaven to Alpharetta and Roswell, Atlanta has subcultures that span the entire metropolitan area. Here’s a spotlight on 5 of our favorites.
Decatur
With local community events, festivals and plenty of character, downtown Decatur is one of the hippest suburbs in the Atlanta metro area. Home to great eats, delicious craft brews and funky mom-and-pop shops, Decatur Square is the ideal place to spend a weekend afternoon or take a stroll after a casual dinner. Check out Leon’s for killer cocktails, The Iberian Pig for tapas, or Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream for a refreshing treat.
Roswell
If you’re looking for old-town charm with a unique twist, Roswell is for you. Known for its historic art district, antique shops and restaurant scene, downtown Roswell provides a unique cultural experience. On the first Friday of each month, the art district comes to life for First Friday Art Walks. For a family-friendly feel, check out Alive After Five in Roswell on the third Thursday of each month for food trucks, live bands, kid-friendly activities and a little shopping.
Alpharetta
With a brand new development project in the works, downtown Alpharetta has much to offer its visitors. Local eateries, such as Smokejack BBQ and South Main Kitchen, are not to be missed. Stroll downtown and check out the local antique markets or the Alpharetta Farmers Market, which is held every Saturday on Old Canton Street. Be sure not to miss the monthly Alpharetta Art in the Park showcasing work from local artists and craftsmen.
Marietta
Rich in history and abundant in charm, Marietta Square has a little something for everyone. From the monthly First Friday Art Walk to the abundance of independent retailers and eateries, there is plenty to see and do. Take a tour on the Historic Marietta Trolley, go for a lantern-lit Ghosts of Marietta tour, try some bubble tea at Tiny Bubbles, or catch a show at the Atlanta Lyric Theatre or the Earl Smith Strand Theatre.
Vinings
Nestled just inside the perimeter and next to the Chattahoochee River, Vinings boasts historic architecture with a bit of mountain-town charm. Vinings Jubilee, located in the heart of Vinings, is a must-see with its surplus of shopping and eateries. Drop by Old Vinings Inn to have a drink in the attic bar and enjoy live music. For brunch or dinner with a view, Canoe sits on the banks of the Chattahoochee for a bit of a mountain town feel. You may just forget that you’re so close to the city.
These small niches and many others help make up Atlanta’s diverse city scene. With a booming economy, growing tech, film and startup industries, a brand new stadium and small town charm around every corner, Atlanta is not a city to be missed!
Written By: Mark Spain