If you’re planning a trip to Georgia, don’t just stop at Atlanta—venture north and northwest for some bonus finds. You’ll uncover a treasure trove of small-town charm, rich history, and fun experiences perfect for road-trippers, families, and weekend wanderers. From bustling Marietta and Bremen to cozy Carrollton, here’s your ultimate guide to exploring Atlanta and the cities beyond it.
Atlanta: Big City Adventures with Southern Hospitality
Georgia’s capital city is bursting with world-class attractions and incredible food. Whether you’re exploring with kids or just love cultural experiences, Atlanta won’t disappoint.
My Top Things to Do in Atlanta:
Atlanta Botanical Gardens
The Atlanta Botanical Garden is a magical spot year-round, but especially during the holiday light displays. This is one of the highest-ranked garden attractions in the country and does not disappoint. The 30-acre floral wonderland is in Midtown Atlanta. Customize your visit with a feature on their website; they are very savvy.
Check out the canopy walk, rare orchids, and, my favorites, the edible and skyline gardens. While you’re there, grab a bite at the Longleaf restaurant. Allow two to three hours for this Atlanta biggie.
Pro Tip: Parking is limited, so consider taking an Uber there and back for super-packed events like Christmas.
Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest in the world. The 1000+ different animals/fish in this world-class facility will mesmerize your whole family. From dolphin and sea lion shows to penguins, hundreds of tanks filled with exotic fish and sea creatures, and touch tanks, you will be in the midst of amazing fun and educational opportunities at the Georgia Aquarium.
Don’t miss the exceptional gift shop.
Save money on Atlanta’s most popular attractions by bundling with a CityPASS ticket. Save up to 49% on a Georgia Aquarium Anytime Ticket and choose four others from the approved offerings. Visit at your own pace, in any order, over 9 days.
World of Coca-Cola
Learn the history of the world’s most iconic drink. The museum takes about 90-120 minutes to complete and has a wide array of memorabilia, hands-on exhibits, movies, and photo ops. You may get a selfie with the Coca-Cola polar bear if you’re lucky.
Don’t miss the opportunity to taste Coke products from around the world. You will also want to sit for a spell and enjoy the movie that explains the Coke history and worldwide fame.
Hint: it includes the I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing and Mean Joe Greene commercials.
Centennial Olympic Park
This gem is a relaxing spot to walk, soak up the scenery, or enjoy a picnic lunch while exploring Atlanta. Centennial Park is a legacy of the 1996 Olympics, so you’ll want to capture a photo with the Olympic rings.
You can find many concerts and special events here, as well as the interactive fountains.
Where to Eat in Atlanta:
Buford Highway – A must for international food lovers. Here, you’ll find almost 1,000 immigrant-owned businesses, of which 100+ are restaurants, representing over 20 nations. A few of my faves are Lee’s Bakery, Matthews Cafeteria, Sweet Hut Bakery, and Food Terminal.
Metro Diner & Bar – A great local pick with creative American fare and some of the best breakfasts in town. I prefer the Benedicts and breakfast bowls, but the sweet French toast is quite impressive.
Willie’s Mexicana Grill – Yummy Mexican bowls or burritos to build as you please, and a great salsa bar.
By George Restaurant and Bar – Upscale dining with a modern flair. This is a restaurant to be seen at and enjoy the decadent fare.
Max’s Coal Oven Pizzeria – Perfect for pizza lovers. I always add a salad, too, but the specialty pies are the menu’s star. I recommend the Bianca, with ricotta, parm, fresh mozzarella, confit garlic, chili flakes, and fresh basil. Perfecto!
Where to Stay:
Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown – Pet-friendly, affordable, and centrally located.
Want more Georgia road trip ideas? Dawsonville and Dahlonega are both awesome charming small towns.
Marietta, GA: History, Food, and Southern Charm
Nestled along the Chattahoochee River and at the foothills of Kennesaw Mountain, Marietta is a delightful city rich in history and small-town charm.
Things to Do:
Gone with the Wind Museum
For classic film and Civil War history fans, this museum, at Historic Brumby Hall and Gardens, is dedicated to Margaret Mitchell‘s novel and the 1939 film adaptation. It is busting at the seams with memorabilia, original and replica costumes, and artifacts from the story.
They are closed on Sundays and Mondays. Parking is onsite in the Hilton parking lot.
A few of my favorite things were the costume sketches by Walter Plunkett and the Margaret Mitchell-owned personal volumes of the novel.
Marietta Square Market
This impressive food hall (community food hub) has something for every taste and food preference. Restaurants offer vegan and Korean cuisine as well as gourmet egg rolls, Ramen, and Philly cheesesteaks.
The Local Exchange & Marietta Proper—Great for local shopping and gift finds. You’ll find a bit of unusual and things you didn’t know you needed but can’t live without—or at least that was my experience.
Murals & Public Art – Perfect for snapping photos while you explore.
Where to Eat:
Marietta Pizza Company – A casual local favorite for lunch. We couldn’t say no after smelling it from way down the street. It’s a good thing because the Caesar salads and pizza were both excellent.
D’Cuban Café – Tasty Latin food that’s fast and flavorful. They even made a perfect cortadito. Need help deciding on what to try? You can’t go wrong with a Media Noche sandwich, empanadas, or a Ropa Vieja bowl.
Pie Bar – A must for sweet tooths; grab a slice of sweet or savory pie to go! I recommend the brown sugar chess pie and the spinach, feta, & red pepper quiche.
Marietta Seasonal Highlight:
Marietta Pilgrimage Christmas Home Tour—This festive way to experience Marietta’s historic homes during the holidays is seriously one well-oiled machine. I was so intrigued at how the public transportation and parking situation worked out for a success story.
Don’t Miss the retro Kentucky Fried Chicken signage in town—it’s a fun photo op!
Bremen, GA: Family Fun & Vineyard Vibes
We made Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ West Georgia our RV basecamp, and it’s a fantastic choice for families or traveling couples. During our visit, they were in the process of adding 100 or so campsites, but the park was already huge and well maintained.
If you don’t have an RV, there are several cabins to choose from, and golf cart rentals are available onsite.
Locals, check out the day-use rates to enjoy the pool and amenities. Kudos to the art program at this Jellystone property—it was on the move and had lots of fun offerings for the whole family.
Campground activities include a jump pad, mini golf, basketball, outdoor cinema, wagon rides with Yogi Bear, gem mining, pools, foam parties, and daily events. Other features include a dog run, propane station, firewood, and a well-stocked ranger station.
Why You’ll Love Bremen:
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park – Spacious campsites, family-friendly amenities, and fun events.
Trillium Vineyard – Enjoy a glass of local wine in a peaceful setting.
Southern Quilt Trail – Snap photos of quilt-inspired artwork adorning buildings across town.
If you enjoy wineries and vineyards, consider checking out Blue Ridge, Georgia, in the North GA Mountains.
Carrollton, GA: College Town Meets Cozy Downtown
Carrollton blends educational vibes with small-town hospitality. It’s home to the University of West Georgia and West Georgia Technical College—but there’s plenty to explore beyond the campus.
Must-See Spots:
Southeastern Quilt & Textile Museum is a hidden gem for craft lovers. Admission is $5, and it’s well worth it.
Adamson Square is downtown Carrollton’s heart, perfect for strolling and shopping. It is decorated so pretty during the holidays. Confessions: This was my favorite town from my Georgia travels.
Where to Shop & Eat:
Horton’s Books & Gifts – Georgia’s oldest bookstore, over 100 years old! You’ll find a treasure trove of fun, trendy, rare, and unique books in this great shop and a chance to pet the resident felines.
Main Street Boutique – Cute finds and local fashion.
Brown Dog Eatery – A solid lunch pick with creative Southern dishes. My husband and I raved about our meals at Brown Dog for weeks. The Dirty Bird Dog, grilled onions, pimento cheese, and bacon jam, was 10/10!
Salon on Bradley – Don’t be fooled into thinking this is just a beauty salon. Inside is a fabulous selection of really nice gift items, collectibles, and great seasonal merch.
Buzzards Coffee is great for your caffeine fix. This classic coffee shop has a professional staff, delicious matcha lattes, and a welcoming vibe. It is one of the best coffee shops I explored in the South.
Butter’dudder – Don’t leave Carrollton without a scoop of this delicious premium ice cream. Honey Lavender and Vietnamese Coffee Oreo for the win!
Final Thoughts
Exploring Atlanta and its northwest neighbors like Marietta, Bremen, and Carrollton offers the perfect blend of city excitement and small-town relaxation. Whether you’re hunting history, looking for tasty food that won’t break the bank, or want a weekend getaway packed with charm, this route is a Southern gem worth discovering.
See more of Georgia: