What to Do in Spring in Atlanta
After a long winter spent wrapped up inside, people are more excited than usual for the arrival of spring. Unlike more northern cities in the US, here in Atlanta, we are lucky to experience balmy spring days with temperatures reaching the late 70s towards the end of May. Despite restrictions being still in place in the city, they are looking to ease up around mid-June and we still consider spring the best time to visit Atlanta. So, while we are still having to comply with stricter protocols, here is our guide on what to do in spring in Atlanta.
Stroll Around Oakland Cemetery
This historic space is peppered with magnolia and oak trees making it a must-visit spot in springtime. The cemetery is not just a resting place, it’s also home to beautiful gardens where you can expect to see an array of different flowers and blooming trees. Head down there early to capture frame-worthy shots of irises covered in morning dew or headstones adorned with roses. Learn the history behind the beautiful gardens where families would be assigned a lot to care for and planted flowers of their choice, often for sentimental value. When visiting, you don’t have to make your own way around, tours will begin to take place over the spring period, starting from May 1st. If topics such as the sights, symbols, and stories of the cemetery interest you, opt for one of their guided tours.
Go Hiking
Spring is the ideal time to strap on your boots and head out for a hike. The warm afternoons that lack the scorching heat of summer are ideal for walking in nature. There are plenty of hiking trails near Atlanta but we have some favorites:
- Stone Mountain Park – this is a great option for families, the trails range from 1 to 5 miles, so depending on how motivated your group is, you can take your pick! If you like the park and want to know more, we offer a private tour around the area which takes you to the summit of the mountain.
- Sweetwater Creek State Park – these 2,500 acres of conserved wilderness are just 15 miles from downtown Atlanta. There are 9 miles of trails and you may spot the abandoned mill that was used as a filming location in the hunger games!
- Yonah Mountain – if you’re willing to venture further afield, Yonah Mountain lies 1.5 hours from Atlanta. There is a short but challenging trail to the summit of the mountain where you’ll be treated to spectacular views. If you want to make a weekend of it there are great camping facilities too.
Eat Al Fresco
As the weather begins to improve, there’s nothing quite like a lunch or dinner outside to welcome in spring. There’s plenty of outdoor eating in Atlanta and this spring, the Atlanta Botanical Garden (a spring hotspot in its own right) is holding their Fresh Plate Series. Guests buy tickets for a dinner cooked by a professional chef according to a theme and they enjoy the meal sitting in the Edible Garden Outdoor Kitchen. If you’re looking for something more informal, why not enjoy a pizza and a beer on the terrace of Ammazza, the neighborhood pizzeria which comes with a full vegan menu too!
Paint With Friends
If you are feeling concerned about heading back out into the world and want to take socializing step by step, try out The Paint Factory’s Paint & Sip sessions. Whether you opt for a virtual class that you can participate in from the comfort of your own home or getting a group together for a private class — you´re in for a fun activity. Get in front of your easel and paint away with the help of an instructor.
There’s plenty more to do and see in Atlanta in springtime, think outdoor markets, wineries, cycling along the Atlanta Beltline — you definitely won’t be short of things to do. If we´ve caught your eye with our suggestions and you need transportation while visiting Atlanta in spring, check out our transportation services.