Georgia Philharmonic Orchestra Presents:
When: Saturday, 7:30pm
Where: Hyatt Regency Centennial Ballroom
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You can’t tell from its exterior, but Jo’s Smokehouse is not your average barbecue joint and food truck.
The new Atlanta restaurant opened August 2, 2024, and is owned by Jonnetta Patton, the mother of musical powerhouse Usher.
Ms. Patton recently held a grand opening for the eatery, which is located in Doraville.
Yes, Usher, as well as his brother Grammy-nominated producer James “JLack” Lackey, we’re on hand to support their mother’s entrepreneurial venture.
“J’s SMOKEHOUSE grand opening,” Ms. Patton shared on Instagram. “Head Chef Greg Dennis BBQ Ribs and Brisket were a Hugh hit and Usher dropped in during the live celebration!!! I was very happy and appreciative for all the support from everyone in attendance. We are now open so drop in for lunch or dinner between 11am to 8pm Monday – Saturday at 3996 Pleasantdale Rd.”
Usher was all smiles for fans and customers alike. “So happy to be out here supporting my mom and her new business,” he said to the camera.
Ms. Patton is a businesswoman through and through. Before this, she ran J’s Kitchen Culinary Incubator, which provides commercial kitchen space and equipment to up-and-coming chefs and caterers.
Earlier this summer Patton was honored by Sysco Foods with the Influencer Award for her contributions to the culinary industry.
What’s On the Menu At J’s Smokehouse?
J’s Smokehouse has several traditional menu items like smoked turkey wings, grilled BBB chicken, grilled BBB ribs, fried catfish, grilled sausage and sides like braised collards, kale and more.
“What makes the menu different are our options, are vegan options,” Patton said. “We have pulled pork sandwich and we have a vegan hot dog in the smokehouse. And they are amazing.”
Helming the kitchen, Ms. Patton tapped renown plant-based guru, Chef Greg Dennis.
“We have delicious ribs falling off the bone. Thirteen hours low and slow smoked brisket. Grandma’s delicious southern fried collard greens,” Dennis told local TV station WSB-TV. “I do a seven cheese macaroni blend, I also have a vegan menu.”
Where Is J’s Smokehouse Located?
J’s Smokehouse is located at 3996 Pleasantdale Rd ste 104 B, Atlanta, GA 30340. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Atlanta is no stranger to celebrity-owned restaurants, and Patton said the chef is what makes the difference.
Do you like barbecue? How about Mesquite or smoked brisket on hickory? Check out our Atlanta BBQ Guide.
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With the weather increasingly cooling in Georgia, autumn will soon bring about an awesome change. Leaf watchers already know that the best fall foliage currently can be viewed in North Georgia, along the Blue Ridge Mountains and other areas.
Georgia Fall Foliage: Leaf Map
The Peach State’s peak weeks for fall colors will be toward the end of October according to the latest foliage prediction maps. Why not make it a Georgia weekend and and check out the beautiful fall colors?
Let’s take an in-depth look at how the leaves will change this fall season into the winter. Below, we list the top Georgia state parks to see the fall foliage.Autumn in the Peach State always brings out some of the most strikingly beautiful scenery in the Southeast. The weather trends a bit cool, but the brilliant colors of the leaves makes for some refreshing sights and great fall activities like apple-picking.
You may be wondering where to see the most gorgeous colors of fall foliage locally.
Scroll down to see a prediction map that can help you on your travels to see the wonderful leaves turn different shades.
Where Is Fall Foliage In Georgia?
The earliest changes in the color of leaves began in September in the North Georgia Mountains. By late November, Atlanta will be in the full throes of fall as the temperature plummets and the leaves fall.
The reason why the mountains peak first is due to the higher elevations. Come early November, parts of Atlanta will start to brown as well.
Here is the Georgia fall foliage map, courtesy of SmokyMountains.com.
Photo credit: Smokymountains.com Georgia’s scenery is going to turn into a spectrum of color as the fall foliage peaks. Look out for burnt orange, sienna leaves and all kinds of red and violent hues.
Georgia Fall Foliage Map
No Change 
Minimal 
Patchy 
Partial 
Near Peak 
Peak 
Past Peak 
Here are the fall foliage phases that Georgia leaves will experience:
[ngg src=”galleries” ids=”2″ display=”basic_imagebrowser”]And here are more colors of the Georgia fall…
10 Best Sites To See The Georgia Fall Foliage
Are you looking for some beautiful places to see leaves in the state’s forest canopy change colors? We begin with one of the most beautiful state parks in Georgia and the home of the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi River:
View this post on Instagram2. Anna Ruby Falls (twin waterfalls)
View this post on Instagram3. Black Rock Mountain
View this post on Instagram4. Vogel State Park
View this post on Instagram5. Brasstown Bald
View this post on Instagram6. Cloudland Canyon
View this post on Instagram7. Fort Mountain State Park
View this post on Instagram8. Tallulah Gorge State Park
View this post on Instagram9. Sweetwater Creek
View this post on Instagram10. Stone Mountain Park
View this post on InstagramGeorgia contains tens of thousands of acres of natural beauty with a wide variety of fun family activities and things to do in the Atlanta.
Where Can You Take Fall Pictures in Georgia?
There are plenty of great locations to take pictures once the leaves fall in Georgia. Here are some top places:
- Atlanta Beltline
- Centennial Olympic Park
- Piedmont Park
- Krog Street Tunnel
- Hurt Park
Here are some great places to take pictures around Atlanta.
No matter if you’re a visitor to the state or a family looking to bring the kids out for a day of fund and children’s attractions, you can find tons of outdoor recreational activities including kayaking, SUP, championship golf, hiking, biking, and more around Atlanta.
Up next: 10+ things to do in Georgia that are fun & outdoorsy
https://atlantafi.com/adventurous-and-outdoorsy-things-to-do-in-atlanta/
Up next: Fun things to do in Atlanta with kids
If you see some fall colors where you live, drop a comment so we can list the Georgia city.
Georgia’s natural scenery is getting more beautiful for leaf watchers as the autumn transitions the state’s canopy into radiant reds, eye-popping yellows and orangish brown-colored leafage.
Got an event or know of something opening in and around Atlanta? Holla: Tjohnson@AtlantaFi.com. See what’s poppin’ in the ATL! Subscribe to our news alerts here, follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
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Dragon Con, the largest fan-backed popular culture convention, is back in Atlanta, Georgia, this weekend. There’s a full slate of fun-filled events in store so if you’re into comics, movies, manga, anime, cosplay and more, you won’t want to miss this.
When Is Dragon Con 2024?
Dragon Con 2024 takes place from Friday, August 29 to Monday, September 2 this year. There is a full schedule of events you won’t want to miss, just keep reading!
There will also be workshops, panels, discussions and parties starting from the first day of activities until Labor Day.
Where Will Dragon Con Take Place In Atlanta?
The main Dragon Con festivities will mainly take place at the following host hotels: the Hyatt Regency Atlanta along with the legendary Atlanta Marriott Marquis, the Hilton Atlanta, Sheraton Atlanta Hotel, and the Westin Peachtree Plaza Hotel. The Hyatt, Marriott, and Hilton are connected by tube-ways to make trekking between the two that much more easier.
Bonus: Dragon Con TV will be available in all five host hotels.
Dragon Con Atlanta: Schedule of Events
Dragon Con’s Pin-Ups by the Pool Party
When: Friday, 8:30pm
Where: Courtland Grand Hotel, Grand BallroomDragon Con Night at the Aquarium
When: Saturday, 7pm – 11pmThe Palmetto Knights Tournaments
When: Saturday
Where: Courtland Grand Hotel, Grand BallroomDragon Con Burlesque: A Glamour Geek Revue
When: Sunday, midnightWhere: Courtland Grand Hotel, Grand Ballroom
The Late Night Puppet Slam
When: Monday, 12am (Midnight)
Where: Westin Peachtree BallroomReading Sessions
Where: Various LocationsOffering readings by authors from their own works (and usually some discussion with the audience afterward).
Dragon Con scheduled autographs (signings
Where: Westin Overlook
Field Guide: How To DragonCon
To make the most out of your DragonCon experience in Atlanta, consider the following tips:
1. Plan Ahead
- Research Panels and Events: Check the schedule ahead of time and prioritize the panels, workshops, and events you don’t want to miss. DragonCon’s app is handy for keeping track of everything.
- Pre-register: If possible, pre-register to avoid long lines on the day of the event.
2. Costume and Cosplay
- Participate in Cosplay: DragonCon is known for its cosplay, so if you enjoy dressing up, plan your costumes in advance. Be sure to bring repair kits for any quick fixes.
- Comfortable Costumes: If you’re cosplaying, ensure your costume is comfortable enough to wear for long periods. Consider bringing a change of clothes if necessary.
3. Networking
- Meet People: DragonCon is a great place to network with like-minded people, whether you’re into sci-fi, fantasy, comics, or gaming. Engage in conversations and attend social events to meet new friends.
- Business Cards: If you’re a content creator or involved in any fandom-related business, bring business cards to hand out.
4. Explore the Vendor Hall
- Budget for Shopping: The vendor hall is massive and filled with unique items. Set a budget so you can shop without overspending.
- Exclusive Merchandise: Look for exclusive items that you can only find at DragonCon.
5. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
- Bring Snacks and Water: Convention days are long, and food lines can be long too. Keep snacks and water with you to stay energized.
- Plan Meals: Consider the nearby restaurants for meals and try to eat during off-peak hours to avoid long waits.
6. Stay Nearby
- Book Accommodation Close to the Venue: If you haven’t already, try to stay at a hotel near the main venues to make it easier to return for rest or drop off purchases.
7. Attend the Night Events
- Check Out the Parties: DragonCon is famous for its parties and nightlife. Whether you’re into dancing, karaoke, or themed parties, there’s something for everyone.
- Costume Contests: Attend or participate in costume contests to see some of the best cosplay at the convention.
8. Capture Memories
- Take Photos: Whether it’s of cosplayers, panels, or the overall experience, capture memories, but be sure to ask permission before taking photos of others.
- Share on Social Media: Use the event’s hashtags to share your experience and connect with other attendees online.
Explore Atlanta At Your Own Pace
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. Downtown Atlanta or Midtown often has something cool going on!
While it’s warm, take advantage of the outdoors. Don’t miss these awesome festivals.
The fun is just starting. Are you a beer drinker? You also may want to visit a craft brewery in the city.
Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend:
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com:
Downtown Atlanta is a pretty large area, and so getting from one point to another can be a challenge.
The good news is that when you consider the historic landmarks, cool restaurants and other venues, it’s well worth exploring. But how do you get around?
We’re going to show you how you can get around downtown Atlanta (actually this works for Midtown, too).
How To Get Around Downtown Atlanta
If you’re driving into downtown Atlanta, you’re going to have to pay for parking. Here’s where you can park and how much it costs and for how long.
Getting around downtown Atlanta is fairly easy, thanks to various transportation options:
MARTA
MARTA offers both bus and rail services. The rail system has several stations downtown, including Peachtree Center, Five Points (a central hub), and Civic Center. The trains can take you to key areas, including the airport, Midtown, and Buckhead.
You may also wish to take MARTA. Rail prices are $2.50 for a one-way trip. Here are fare prices for trains and buses.
Streetcar
The Atlanta Streetcar runs a 2.7-mile loop through downtown, connecting major attractions like Centennial Olympic Park, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, and Georgia State University.
Walking
Downtown Atlanta is pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and plenty of crosswalks. Popular attractions like the Georgia Aquarium, World of Coca-Cola, and State Farm Arena are within walking distance of each other.
Scooters and Bikes
E-scooters and bikes from companies like Lime and Bird are available for short trips. They’re a quick option for navigating crowded areas.
There are some rules you need to know before you ride. Lime and Bird are the two most prevalent scooters you’ll along downtown and Midtown streets.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in downtown Atlanta and offer a convenient way to get around.
Uber & Lyft: If you want to take advantage of a ridesharing service, you can do that too. Here are the peak times for ridesharing in Atlanta:
Weekdays
Morning Commute Hours, 6am-9am
- Evening Commute Hours, 4pm-8pm
Weeknights
- Before and after sporting events and concerts.
- Late night, 11pm-3am
Atlanta Shuttle Services
Some hotels and attractions offer free or paid shuttle services that circulate within downtown or nearby neighborhoods.
You can also get around by using the Atlanta Streetcar. Call 404-848-5000 for help with the latest schedule updates or you can click here to login the Mobility Reservation System.
Driving/Parking
If you’re driving, there are multiple parking decks and lots, though traffic can be heavy during peak hours. Apps like ParkMobile can help you find parking spots.
Tuk Tuks
Tuk Tuks are small electric vehicles that provide a unique and eco-friendly way to explore downtown. They usually operate on a tip basis.
Explore Atlanta at your own pace
First, to find all the good things happening in the city this week, all you have to do is take a look at downtown Atlanta. That’s where some of the best restaurants are as well as where the visitors, namely tourists, are. Centennial Park is often has something cool going on! Check out these events in Atlanta today and this week and this weekend
Here are more articles from AtlantaFi.com you might like:
Hometown legendary rapper Antwan “Big Boi” Patton will take the stage at the College Football Hall of Fame for the 10th anniversary Celebration and Kickoff Game Football Fest.
The event is set for Saturday, August 23, 2024 and features a free concert from Big Boi, one half of the famous musical duo Outkast.
Football Fest: What To Know Before You Go
Football Fest runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the Big Boi concert kicking off at 4:30 p.m. Join us for a day of entertainment. Enjoy live DJs, the Home Depot GameDay Bus, local team mascots, cheerleaders, inflatables, prize giveaways, and more.
The event is free as part of “Coca-Cola Free Admission Day” and provides the perfect opportunity to see Big Boi perform, along with the unveiling of new exhibits, clinics with Atlanta Falcons players and cheerleaders, the famed Home Depot GameDay Bus, inflatables, prize giveaways, and much more, all free-of-charge.
Where is The College Football Hall of Fame?
The College Football Hall of Fame is located in downtown Atlanta at 250 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313. Here’s a map to help you find it.
Final Word
If you’re in the vicinity of downtown Atlanta, make sure you grab a bite at one of the top downtown restaurants. You’ll also find plenty to do there every Atlanta weekend.
More from AtlantaFi.com:
It’s football season, which means that Saturdays and Sundays are busy times. If that’s the case then Atlanta, Georgia, is a diaspora, with sports bars scattered throughout the landscape. Football season is here and that means it’s time to watch it. But where?
This article is going to show you some of the best Atlanta sports bars to catch the games of the University of Georgia Bulldogs, Ohio State, the Colorado Buffaloes and more.
Here Are The Best Atlanta Bars To Watch Football Games
Great beer, wings and other things: Here are the best Atlanta sports bars to watch college football games.
1. Red Phone Booth
17 Andrew Young International Blvd NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 | (404) 228-7528
Red Phone Booth is a newish Atlanta bar that offers the latest amenities, above par food options and a Prohibition-like vibe to it for mystique and intrigue.
2. Hudson Grille Sandy Springs
6317 Roswell Rd NE, Sandy Springs, GA 30328 | (404) 554-8282
If you’re an Ohio State fan, you’ll love this Hudson Grille, which is packed out every Saturday with Buckeye fans watching the big game. In another part of the restaurant, you’ll find the Colorado Buffaloes on the big screen as well!
3. Hawkers Asian Street Fare
661 Auburn Ave NE Suite 180, Atlanta, GA 30312, (470) 809-1586
Speaking about the Beltine line: Hawkers has become a go-to place for sports events in Midtown. Add to the equation the Asian street food, and you’ve got a winner.
4. Fado Irish Pub
933 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, (404) 260-7910
Fado Irish Pub is place to be to watch the game and down a Guinness pint at the same time. The Midtown location as well as one at The Shops at Buckhead.
5. Big Sky Buckhead
3201 Cains Hill Pl NW, Atlanta, GA 30305 | (404) 228-8856
Big Sky Buckhead is a restaurant with cuisine that bends toward the Latin and Asian side. The huge patio makes for a great place to people watch. The TV screens around the place are great to watch some sports.
6. STATS Brewpub
300 Marietta St NW, Atlanta, GA 30313, (404) 885-1472
The go-to sports bar in downtown Atlanta, STATS is a short walk from the Omni, CNN Center and College Football Hall of Fame. Inside the brewpub, customers can try their hand at tabletop beer taps and exquisite food with screens all around to watch the NFL playoffs.
One Google reviewer says: “This place was incredible! Service was excellent, food was amazing! There were so many delicious looking things on the menu that my waitress had to help me out with a recommendation. I’m glad I listened to her, the BBQ Brisket Burger was out of this world. The fries were really good too. And then she talked me into getting the key lime pie, it was every bit as good as everything else was. I will definitely go back whenever I’m in Atlanta again.”
7. Hooters in downtown Atlanta
209 Peachtree St. NE Atlanta, Ga 30303
Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, Hooters is especially designed for big sports games. Because of its high-profile location, this downtown Atlanta Hooters regularly gets Atlanta fans as well as that of the opposing teams.
8. El Super Pan at The Battery
455 Legends Place, Atlanta, GA 30339
El Super Pan at The Battery is the perfect place to enjoy some Cuban-inspired dishes while watching your #1 sports team.
Here’s why one Google reviewer says it’s the best sports bar in Atlanta: “The flavor in each dish, AMAZING! The agua tropical is refreshing and they always have a different variety based upon the season. Try them all! The decor is vibrant and the music uplifts your spirit. The staff here are awesome and Chef Hector is very engaging. He usually makes great recommendations in case you find yourself unsure of what to order. This restaurant is def my fav!”
9. Dugan’s Restaurant
Dugan’s has been a reliable go-to spot in Midtown Atlanta about as long as its nearby neighbor, the Clermont Lounge. Lively entertainment, a constant dancefloor and all the chicken wings and beer you could want make this place a great sports bar.
Here’s why this is one of the best sports bars in Atlanta: “Great dive bar complete with sassy bartender, interesting cast of characters at the bar and great wings. The wings have subtle differences from traditional wing sauces like Anchor Bar sauce. The drinks are poured strong. Their wings are better than their tenders. (They have a tendency to overcook). It’s a great respite for lunch compared to the chaos of Ponce City Market.”
10. Ponce Sports Lounge
3924 E Ponce De Leon Ave Clarkston, GA 30021
Ponce Sports Lounge has hookah, live music and pool tables, but the chef-prepared food is the best in all of Clarkston. Although it is not a restaurant, you can order food up until 3 a.m. on the weekends.
Here’s what one Google reviewer says: “Was our first time at this venue and it was a GREAT experience. the server was pleasant and knowledgeable about the menu. The Chef bought out our entrees and was very personable
Food/drinks/ambience.”
11. The U Bar
3515 Camp Creek Pkwy #50-70, East Point, GA 30344, (404) 349-2301
The premiere sports bar at Camp Creek, the U Bar features cool music, wings specials in a club environment that is packed on the weekends.
One Google reviewer says: “Pretty lit. Moreso a place to socialize, eat and watch games. Music was good . You can dance but Its not a club. Hoped this helped. Oh and 10 for women 20 for me. I heard they have good wings.”
Popular party spot with sports, DJs & dancing, with drink specials & a full menu for dining.
12. The Tavern
3560 Camp Creek Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30344, (404) 349-9285
The Tavern, known as Camp Creek’s OTHER sports bar, has events almost every weekday night, including karaoke, drink specials and more.
One Google reviewer says: “The lemon pepper and hot mixed wings are AMAZING. I also enjoy their karaoke nights which are live and many patrons participate so it makes me feel okay because I can’t sing to save my life. I’d definitely recommend checking them out on Wednesday night and enjoy the atmosphere.”
Hudson Grille has three locations in Atlanta, one downtown, one in Midtown and the other one in Brookhaven. Huge TV screens at every turn and good food make this one of the best Atlanta sports bars to enjoy the game.
One Google reviewer says: “Food is always great along with service and overall atmosphere. I personally come here frequently during football season because it is home to Raven Nation South, located in the upstairs area of the bar. I love the sports atmosphere that Hudson Grill provides.”
Thanks to an awesome Midtown location (there’s another one at The Battery next to SunTrust Park) and above-average beverage program, Yard House at Atlantic Station has a devoted following among sports fans. The stylish sports bar’s patio is a great people-watching spot and the burgers, steaks and tacos on the menu make this place a must-visit to watch the NFL playoffs.
One Google reviewer explains why this is one of the best sports bars in Atlanta: “Happening place with excellent food! You just can’t go wrong with Yard House. We visit Atlanta every year at Christmas time, and Yard House has become a family tradition. The menu is extensive and everything we’ve tried has been delicious! They have an excellent Happy Hour … that includes a HUGE selection of 1/2 price appetizers. I think we have literally ordered everything on the happy hour menu! You can’t beat the price!”
Topgolf caters not to the golf fan so much, but the sports fan. With flat-screen TVs at every station, you can swing clubs or sit back and enjoy your game when you want it. Inside at the bar, you can see multiple screens from several vantage points while you eat and drink.
Here’s why one Google reviewer says this is one of the best sports bars in Atlanta:: “This is a really fun place for all age groups. If golf is not your thing, they also offer table tennis or ping pong upstairs and pool tables downstairs. The putting area is spacious. Of course it is outdoors, but they offer large heat lamps directly over the seating area. There are two levels to the seating area. The first is a high bar with chairs. The second is a u-shaped outdoor sofa with a center table. All food and drink orders can be placed from your bay. For each game, each player gets 20 chances to “put the ball in the hole”. You can take all 20 swings in a row or rotate players as you’d like. If you aren’t interested in playing any of the game options, you can also dine in or have a round at the bar. Enjoy!”
16. Taco Mac
933 Peachtree St NE, Atlanta, GA 30309, (678) 904-7211
With eight locations in Atlanta, including in Midtown on Peachtree and in Dunwoody, Taco Mac is a sports fan’s favorite place to watch the NBA playoffs or any sports event. Featuring the most expansive beer menu of any Atlanta sports bar, Taco Mac is the perfect place to enjoy a craft beer, malt, ale or IPA with your buffalo wings.
One Google reviewer says: “Fast and delicious food. Live music on Friday night. Very personable servers. Really great fajitas. They are very open to accommodate changes to menu. One of my favorite places to eat.”
Final Word
Atlanta is a sports town and there’s no doubt about it. The fans just happen to be from a whole lot of different teams! But that’s what makes its bars so popular!
Keep up with the latest game info on our Sports Page
The Piedmont Park Arts Festival is happening this weekend in Midtown Atlanta. It’s one of the city’s top festivals for a reason.
They’ll be arts and crafts, food and more on site. The festival is free and brought to us by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces.
Piedmont Park Arts Festival 2024: What You Need To Know
Bring the whole family out for a good time! There will be more than 250 artisans and craftsmen showing off a a wide variety of arts and crafts. As always, you can also expect plenty of local food and beverage concessions including “gourmet” food trucks.
There will also be live acoustic musical performances as well as a kids area for the little ones.
When Is The Piedmont Park Arts Festival 2024?
This year’s Piedmont Park Arts Festival is set for the following dates:
- Sat., August 17, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Sun., August 18, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Where Will The Piedmont Park Arts Festival Be Held?
The festival will be held in Midtown’s crown jewel greenspace, Piedmont Park.
Location:
Piedmont Park
1071 Piedmont Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30309
Piedmont Park
1071 Piedmont Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30309
Final Word
Don’t let another weekend pass you by! Take advantage of Atlanta’s great outdoors. Here are some fun things to do outside.
Music superstar Usher says he’s had to postpone the Atlanta dates of his Past, Present and Future tour due to injury.
“Earlier this week, I suffered an injury to my neck while rehearsing to provide my fans with the greatest USHER show of all time,” the singer said in a statement.
“My hope was that with physical therapy and medical treatment, I would be able to overcome the injury and be ready for opening night,” Usher posted on social media. “Unfortunately the injury has not healed yet and my doctors have instructed me not to perform any shows this week. The good news is that the doctors are saying that with appropriate rest and treatment, I should be ready to commence the tour in Washington DC on August 20th.”
The Atlanta dates have already been reached for:
See the complete dates of Usher’s tour.
Usher is one of the biggest music stars in the world right now. Who would think that a 20-year music vet would have his biggest year in 2024? That’s Usher, baby. Peace up, A-Town down.
There are so many Atlanta events popping off every week it’s hard to keep up with it all. That’s why I suggest you subscribe to AtlantaFi.com to get all the freshest gatherings, Atlanta happenings, parties and more delivered to your inbox.
Things to do in Atlanta on a weekly basis can range from going golfing mid-week to checking out the latest restaurant openings. At AtlantaFi.com, we curate the city for you!
Read more AtlantaFi.com stories:
There are few things better than sipping some vino in a comfortable setting on the weekend. In Georgia, you can do just that.
Wine tastings have a long history in Georgia. If any part of the state can be considered wine country, it would be Dahlonega, which has a decades-long history of vineyards.
What Georgia Wine Tastings Are Good For Avoiding Crowds?
Social distancing is something that Georgia’s wine-tasting industry is taking seriously. There are some companies holding virtual wine tastings as well as patio and outdoors-only events.
Like fine wine, you may want to sample a variety of wine tastings in the metro area or in North Georgia to see which suits your taste. Ready to get started?
What Are The Best Wine Tastings In Georgia?
Ready to get started? These wine tasting companies and wineries get great reviews online.
3 Parks Wine Shop
451 Bill Kennedy Way SE c, Atlanta, GA 30316 | (678) 349-7070
Here’s what one reviewer says about 3 Parks Wine Shop, which now holds virtual wine tastings. “I can’t say enough great things about this wine shop. We have some friends who love it, so I emailed them to see if we could put together a gift basket for them using some of their purchase history and profile. Kaitlyn was amazing. The gift basket was perfect and the process was so easy from start to finish. Such wonderful customer service. We can’t wait to return!”
ATL Vineyard Express
Here’s what one reviewer says about ATL Vineyard Express: “ATL Vineyard Express……..Is it possible to give more than 5 stars? This was a surprise for me by my significant other “he received plenty brownie points for this oneJ”. Oh what a wonderful surprise and experience it was……..So let’s just say that I was very stunned to learn that there were so many wineries in the state of Georgia.”
Cana Wine Tours
Here’s what one reviewer says about Cana Wine Tours: “We had an absolutely AMAZING day touring the wineries with Cana Wine Tours! Our driver, Phillip, was professional and courteous and we enjoyed our conversations with him. The wineries were beautiful and each one had its own unique appeal. We loved tasting all of the different wines and really enjoyed our lunch while overlooking beautiful mountains and vineyards! Lisa was wonderful to work with while booking the tour and she always promptly responded to questions and provided timely communications regarding our tour. I can’t wait to book another tour with Cana to visit more of Georgia’s wineries!”
Book with Cana Wine Tours here.
CeNita Vineyards, Winery & Tasting Room
591 Dock Dorsey Rd, Cleveland, GA 30528 | (706) 865-7478
Here’s what one reviewer says about CeNita Vineyards. “Great quaint winery tucked into the hills of North Georgia. Good variety of wines and beautiful backdrops. Buddy the dog greets you upon arrival and tastings can even be ordered through a window from the patio so need to go inside if that’s a concern. The wedding venue over the hill is gorgeous with plenty of space for a party. Surprised that management was a little impatient at first, but things got smoother as the day went on. Definitely will be back.”
Dahlonega Tasting Room
16 N Park St, Dahlonega, GA 30533 | (706) 864-8275
Here’s what one reviewer says about Dahlonega Tasting Room. “Best wine in all of Dahlonega! Peyton was great! She made the experience enjoyable for me and my husband. We don’t drink wine often but she was able to make recommendations that we both loved. We will definitely be going back next time we are in town.”
Little Vine Vineyards & Winery
665 N Hulett Rd, Villa Rica, GA 30180 | (770) 629-9760
Here’s what one reviewer says about Little Vine Vineyards & Winery. “Small winery with a nice selection of wines. The owners are personable and take the time to speak with customers. Outdoor seating is the order of the day and COVID rules are to be expected, especially for larger groups. I’ve been here a couple of times and find that it’s a nice little find not too far from home so it’s an easy trip. On Saturday, they have live music and a food truck. The place started to fill up and exceed capacity when we departed on our last Saturday visit. My wife and I enjoy the blueberry wine and we bought a couple bottles to take home. We’ll be back for sure.”
Wine Tours of Georgia
Contact: (404) 913-0922
Here’s what one reviewer says about Wine Tours of Georgia. “Our group had an amazing time! It was easy working with Michael and Jon. They planned everything for us and our day was perfect! Joe, our driver, was great too. He kept us on schedule! Thank you, WTG!”
VinoTeca
299 North Highland Avenue Northeast, Atlanta, GA 30307 | (470) 377-5100
Here’s what one reviewer says about VinoTeca: “Cozy vibe. Fantastic and ever-changing selection of wines. Strong emphasis on Spain (and thus: value), but a broad selection across an array of regions and price points. Inventive themed events on the weekend. Woman-owned and operated by some fantastic, creative, and knowledgeable people—they ask the right questions to ensure you’re walking out with the right wine for the occasion.”
Wine Shoe
339 Nelson St SW, Atlanta, GA 30313 | (404) 220-9042
Wine Shop is an education-focused wine shop with global wines in a dog-friendly, rustic, cellar-inspired space.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Wine Shoe: “Beautiful wine shop with great selection of boutique wines and a very knowledgable owner and staff! They have so many special occasion wines, but plenty to take home for every day drinking too. They were sampling some bottles of grapes I’d never tried before, and parking was so easy!”
Pop The Corn Wine Tours
1100 Peachtree St NE #200, Atlanta, GA 30309 | (404) 433-2956
Here’s what one reviewer says about Pop The Corn Wine Tours: “Cannot recommend this company and experience enough! I was very lucky that my incredible friends planned a WONDERFUL Bachelorette party and this was it! Chuck and LaTanya have created a business and experience that is top notch!”
Perrine’s Wine Shop
1168 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 | (404) 254-5077
Here’s what one reviewer says about Perrine’s Wine Shop: “Hands down the best wine shop in Atlanta! Every wine has been hand selected and curated for their shoppe. Everyone is always helpful and extremely knowledgeable. Also, be sure to check out their cheese selection—you cannot bet it!”
Wine Workshop And Brew Center
2891 E Ponce de Leon Ave, Decatur, GA 30030 | (404) 228-5211
Here’s what one reviewer says about Wine Workshop And Brew Center. “Great experience. I’m not a wine guy but I just moved into the area and needed some grains for brewing beer and decided to give this place a try. I was greeted immediately and Steve started weighing and milling the grains. I browsed around and found a few other things I needed. Seems like they have most everything you could want, and the service was excellent — will definitely be back many times.”
Wahoo Wine & Provisions
1036 W College Ave, Decatur, GA 30030 | (404) 687-9463
Here’s what one reviewer says about Wahoo Wine & Provisions. “A really nice selection across the board. Especially good for bourbon and wine, beer too. Prices were reasonable and the place was very clean. They even had some pretty scarce spirits.”
Wolf Mountain Vineyards
180 Wolf Mountain Trail, Dahlonega, GA 30533 | (706) 867-9862
Here’s what one reviewer says about Wolf Mountain Vineyards. “Super cute environment. Tasting room is first come first serve. I would recommend coming on a non-weekend for seating options if you choose to do a wine tasting only. Also, brunch on the weekend is an option. The tasting room attendees are either informed on the wine or they know nothing and they just hand you a piece of paper to describe the wine. Tastings range from 20-30 bucks–Nothing outrages. Wine is okay.. This place is a cute getaway but if you love complex wine I wouldn’t set your hopes high. Weekends are not for solo wine tasters.”
What Wine Tastings In Georgia Are Taking COVID-19 Precautions?
Because of the coronavirus pandemic, you may have some reservations about gathering in closed spaces and drinking wine.
Many wineries and wine tastings have adapted to COVID by implementing safety protocols, including social distancing, capacity limitations and no sharing of glasses or utensils.
Final Words
Vino is a very expensive habit, unless you’re enjoying it at a wine tasting, which will probably be cost very little. That’s because the best wine tastings are an experience. Looking for a great wine tasting venue in Georgia? Keep reading.
There is great variety in Georgia when it comes to wine tastings. Some places are loud and are more akin to a grocery store. Meanwhile, other wineries are more private, curated events governed by appointment.
Whatever you prefer, make sure you follow all the safety recommendations that the respective wineries have put in place. Bottoms up!
If you want to check out some other romantic restaurants in Atlanta, these are hard to beat. But Atlanta also has trendy restaurants, pop-ups and time-tested landmarks that continue to draw big crowds.
Also check out these black-owned wineries in Georgia.
Metro Atlanta’s food and drink scene continues to grow with no stops on the horizon. Ready to try something new?
Centennial Yards will be the site of a three-story entertainment complex which will double as a live sports and concert venue, AtlantaFi.com has learned.
The 70,000-square-foot development will be built by Cosm, a leading immersive technology, media, and entertainment company that opened a similar space in Los Angeles this past June. The firm aims to deliver live sports and experiential entertainment in “Shared Reality,” which takes advantage of augmented, virtual and mixed reality.
“The project we’re building is a sports-adjacent, entertainment district,” Centennial Yards Company president Brian McGowan said. “When we learned about the [Cosm] concept — this cool experiential entertainment, shared reality type of sports bar — we were like, ‘Oh my God, this is perfect for us.’”
As part of the Sports and Entertainment District at Centennial Yards. Cosm is the linchpin of Centennial Yards’ next phase of development, which will bring approximately 470,000 square feet of entertainment, retail and restaurant space, including a flagship hotel, to a 7.5-acre site adjacent to the Atlanta Hawks’ State Farm Arena and Mercedes-Benz Stadium — home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United—as well as the Five Points MARTA station connecting the site with the rest of the city.
“Cosm’s experience is unparalleled, using its Shared Reality technology to provide guests with front-row access to global events from Downtown Atlanta at Centennial Yards,” McGowan said in a press release. “With existing, world-class sports venues and the addition of Cosm, we believe Centennial Yards will become the center of gravity for entertainment in Atlanta, connecting people of all ages with an incredible combination of sporting events, music, bars, restaurants and retail.”
“Atlanta is a passionate sports town with a proud history of hosting the world’s biggest events, including the Olympics, Super Bowls, CFP National Championships, NCAA March Madness, FIFA World Cup, and more,” said Jeb Terry, CEO and President at Cosm. “In fact, one of my favorite memories is winning the 2001 Peach Bowl in the Georgia Dome. Now, over 20 years later, the Cosm at Centennial Yards is the perfect complement to the State Farm Arena, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and Atlanta Convention Center to help make Centennial Yards the Sports and Entertainment capital of the South, and we are thrilled to work with CIM Group to make Atlanta our third location and bring Shared Reality to the East Coast.”
Cosm’s third venue at Centennial Yards will encompass 70,000 square feet and feature the company’s proprietary technology throughout, including an 87-foot diameter 12K+ LED dome. Working with award-winning architecture firm Gensler, the venue will expand on the foundational design of Cosm’s first and second venues in Los Angeles and Dallas, respectively, and ensure its values and iconic features are embodied while still incorporating unique characteristics that reflect Centennial Yards and the Atlanta community at large.
The company’s slate of live sports offerings continues to expand through official partnerships with ESPN, the NBA, NBC Sports, TNT Sports, FOX Sports, the UFC and more, which will allow guests to experience live Shared Reality productions of the biggest sports events in the world.
In addition to live sports, Cosm’s programming will also highlight Cirque du Soleil’s timeless production “O” and immersive art experiences from members of the Cosm Studios Creator Program, including award-winning new media artist Nancy Baker Cahill; filmmaker, director, and co-founder of Planetary Collective Guy Reid; renowned DJ and artist Chris Holmes; and acclaimed composer and new media artist Ricardo Romaneiro.
“At Centennial Yards, we have the opportunity to reshape a major area of Atlanta as a walkable and appealing destination for residents and visitors, and key to that effort is bringing unique and engaging businesses such as Cosm that attract people to the district,” said Shaul Kuba, Co-Founder and Principal, CIM Group.
Who Owns Centennial Yards?
The Centennial Yards Company serves as the master developer of Centennial Yards and consists of a partnership between an affiliate of CIM Group, which is co-founded by Richard Ressler, and a group led by Hawks owner Tony Ressler, his brother.
‘The Gulch’ No More
Development at Centennial Yards is already well underway, with the construction of a 19-story boutique hotel and 19-story residential tower, and additional retail and residential groundbreakings commencing later this year. Centennial Yards is a transformative project for Atlanta and one of the largest private developments in the United States, reshaping an important but underutilized portion of the city’s Downtown formerly known as “The Gulch” into a dynamic and active 24/7 community. With a master site plan designed by a global team, the 50-acre Centennial Yards development will also feature the creation of new city blocks, public open space and up to 12 million square feet of new modern retail, hotel and residential buildings, and world-class sports and entertainment venues.
Final Word
Downtown Atlanta is transforming, but so is much of the city. The best restaurants on the Beltline all have excellent customer service and food. What separates them from many of the other spots is that they’re on the urban playground called the Beltline.
The ATL has other cool eateries as well. If you’re gluten-free, there’s plenty of options. Same goes for keto-friendly restaurants or Asian fare in Atlanta.
