Do you know about Atlanta’s hidden gems? These are not the spots, locations and venues that everyone shares on Instagram or tell you about. I’m talking abut off-the-beaten path destinations.
And boy does Atlanta have some hidden gems. From speakeasys to out-of-the way taverns to bars, the city has quite a few gems “in the cut,” as they say.
Here Are The Best Hidden Gems To Visit In Atlanta
If you’re looking for something to do in Atlanta, the best route to go is down the roads less traveled, meander where few gather. Let’s start off with…
1. Van Gogh Exhibit
If you’re the artsy type, you’ll love this immersive Van Gogh experience being offered in Atlanta. Get tickets.
2. Bamboo Forest at East Palisades
The Bamboo Forest at East Palisades is a part of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Spanning nearly 4 miles in a loop, the bamboo forest is one of the best trails in the Atlanta area. It typically takes about 1 hour and 38 minutes to finish.
Check out the bamboo forest in East Palisades.
3. Tutankhamun Experience
Experience the tomb of Tutankhamun, a wonder of one of the oldest civilizations on Earth, in all its splendor. Get tickets.
4. Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in Atlanta. Get your tickets now to discover the spookiest Halloween inspired music at The Chapel on Sycamore under the gentle glow of candlelight. Get tickets.
5. Soulful Mystery Dinner and More
Got plans? The Soulful Mystery Experience includes food and entry into an exciting and interactive theater experience. Enjoy a mimosa brunch with option to make it bottomless, live music to set the mood and more. Get tickets.
6. Cascade Springs Nature Preserve
2852 Cascade Rd SW, Atlanta, GA 30311 (404) 546-6744
Relatively few people know about Atlanta’s Cascade Springs Nature Preserve. The spot has a waterfall, trails and a moss-covered trees with lush green leaves.
There is also historical relics from the Civil War battle of Utoy Creek and much more.
7. Atlanta Prison Farm
1420 Key Rd SE, Atlanta, GA 30316
The defunct Atlanta Prison Farm was at one time a 300-acre development that saw its hey day during the Jim Crow era of the South. The prison, which closed in 1995, now is an abandoned fossil of what it once was and the city is content to leave it that way.
If you want to see a glimpse of penile Atlanta’s yesteryear, the prison farm is it.
8. Atlanta Beltline Southside Trail
The Atlanta Beltline Southside Trail recently opened on an interim basis. The gravel pathway bridges the Eastside Trail with the Westside. While the trail is a bit wild, it’s a wonderful look at the unvarnished beauty of Atlanta.
9. Atlanta Skyview Ferris Wheel
In downtown Atlanta, there’s a ferris wheel that lights up the sky at night. Skyview has been up and running for a few years now and it’s a wonderful spot to go with a friend or significant other.
10. Starlite Drive-in Movie Theater
The Starlite drive-in movie theater on Moreland Avenue continues to be a best-kept secret to the many visitors and transplants that have made Atlanta home.
Of course, Atlanta’s best-kept secrets and obscure attractions can’t all be solitary places — we’ve gotta eat. So let’s talk about some “why don’t more people know about these”-type restaurants.
11. Barbecue Kitchen
1437 Virginia Ave, Atlanta, GA 30337 (404) 766-9906
This deliciously Southern institution is a favorite for Delta employees like pilots, executives and other airport workers.
Barbecue Kitchen also gives you free seconds on sides.
Here’s what one Google reviewer says about Barbecue Kitchen: “First let me wipe my mouth!!!! I’m Visiting Atlanta for the first time for my birthday. Once my sister and I arrived we were looking for food… So we road down Virginia avenue. As soon as I saw the sign and it said “Salmon Patties and family owned” I knew this was the place. Terry was our server. She was Awesome!!!! The food is Amazing!!! I’m Pescatarian so I had the catfish. It was fried to perfection!!! My sister had the fried chicken. She was licking her fingers. We will definitely come back before we leave.”
1437 Virginia Ave, Atlanta, GA 30337 (404) 766-9906
12. Trap Music Museum
The Trap Music Museum near downtown Atlanta is not necessarily off the beaten path (it’s packed every weekend) but relatively few native Atlanta residents know about it.
Built by hometown rapper and entrepreneur TI, the Trap Music Museum is a great way to appreciate Atlanta’s place in hip-hop history.
How Much Does The Trap Music Museum Cost?
The Trap Music Museum costs $10 per person for entry. If you want to have an extra-good time, splurge $30 for the Escape Room.
13. The Foundry at Puritan Mill
916 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 (404) 962-8702
Here’s what one reviewer says about The Foundry at Puritan Mill in Atlanta: “This location is like a hidden gem in the mist. Open floor plan, soothing lighting and inviting. It was a good spot for the wedding. We really enjoyed the space. I wish I’d taken more pix of the space but I was caught up with everyone enjoying the place.”
14. Swan House
Not everyone has the appetite to visit the newest restaurants and food trucks in the city every weekend. Sometime you just want to go to a place less traveled, but just as exciting. Atlanta has these “hidden gems” in every corner.
Here’s what one reviewer says about the Swan House mansion at Atlanta History Center: “This is an incredibly Hidden Gem in the center of Atlanta. There are 30 Acres of Gardens and grounds to walk and the structure is absolutely astronomical and fresa. There is such a mix of different elements of other European countries. The building reflects a deep tone of Italy and French and also Spanish influences.”
Final Word
We all like to bar hop and check out the latest parties and festivals from time to time, but there’s nothing like slowing down with a significant other or group of friends to check out the city’s hidden gems.
Atlanta is for tourists, but it’s also for locals. If you want to explore Georgia’s largest city, do it on your terms and check out the fun, cool and new things happening in Atlanta this weekend and even on the weekday. You can start downtown, and get it crackin’ in Buckhead. Check out the newest Atlanta restaurants, beautiful parks and unexplored spots you’ve only heard about. AtlantaFi your experience!