Looking for a vibrant blend of city energy and Southern charm? Head to Alpharetta! Located just north of Atlanta, Alpharetta combines upscale shopping, music venues, scenic parks, and a thriving food scene. Whether you're in town for a concert, a relaxing weekend, or a bit of both, Alpharetta offers something for everyone.
Alpharetta, GA Highlights:
- For Music Lovers: Catch a show at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre – Enjoy national headliners at this scenic outdoor concert venue.
- For Shoppers: Explore Avalon – Stroll through a walkable luxury shopping and dining destination with events year-round.
- For Couples: Sip and relax on the Alpharetta Brewery Trail – Sample local craft beers from multiple breweries in a laid-back atmosphere.
- For Families: Play at Wills Park – A large recreational space with playgrounds, trails, equestrian facilities, and a pool.
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Walk or bike the Big Creek Greenway – A scenic 9-mile trail perfect for jogging, biking, or a peaceful nature walk.
Best Time to Visit Alpharetta, GA
The best time to visit Alpharetta is during the spring and fall (April–June and September–November). You’ll enjoy mild weather, colorful foliage or blooms, and seasonal festivals. Summer offers more outdoor concerts, though it can be hot and humid.
How to Get to Alpharetta, GA
- If you are traveling by car: Alpharetta is located off GA-400, about 30 minutes north of downtown Atlanta.
- By Air: Fly into Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), then drive or take a rideshare approximately 45–60 minutes north.
- By Bus/Shuttle: MARTA services nearby areas, though rideshare or car rental is more convenient for getting around Alpharetta.
Where to Stay in Alpharetta, GA
- Recommended for Families: The Hotel at Avalon – Upscale and connected to shopping and dining, with a pool and family-friendly amenities.
- For Couples: Even Hotel Alpharetta – Modern wellness-focused hotel near shops, with in-room fitness zones and cozy ambiance.
- For a Budget-Friendly Stay: La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham – Comfortable and affordable option near dining and downtown.
Best Things to Do in Alpharetta, GA
1. Shop, Dine, and Stroll Through Fashion Favorites at North Point Mall
The North Point Mall in the Atlanta suburb of Alpharetta, Georgia is a popular shopping mall in the community. Originally opened in October of 1993, North Point is a major destination for shoppers in the Atlanta metropolitan area as one of the country’s largest shopping malls. The mall is anchored by Von Maur, Macy’s, JCPenney, and Dillard’s, but is also home to a diverse selection of more than 240 retail stores and specialty shops, along with the AMC Theatre. The North Point Mall is rounded out with several restaurants as well, including The Cheesecake Factory and Moe’s Southwest Grill.
North Point Mall, 1000 North Point Cir, Alpharetta, GA 30022, Phone: 770-740-9273
2. Grow, Learn, and Connect With Nature at the Alpharetta Community Garden
Located within Wills Park, the Alpharetta Community Garden is an educational and organic garden where volunteer gardeners in Alpharetta can come together to teach, learn, and share their experiences in gardening with one another, visitors, and the surrounding community.
The mission of this arboretum is to connect people with nature for their enjoyment and education, and to engage with the local community through stewardships, ecological education, and horticultural demonstration. Established in 2009 in partnership with the City as the city’s first community garden, the Alpharetta Community Garden lets plotholders use the garden to grow their own food.
Alpharetta Community Garden, 11915 Wills Rd, Alpharetta, GA 30009
3. If Live Music and Outdoor Vibes Move You, Catch a Show at Ameris Bank Amphitheatre
The Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, located just outside of Alpharetta, is a popular concert venue that brings in many big name acts to the Atlanta area throughout the year.
Opened in 1989, the amphitheatre is able to seat almost 19,000 people, including both the lawn and seats, and was designed to provide a state-of-the-art music experience for both artists and fans. The Ameris Bank Amphitheatre was specifically built for popular music and has hosted numerous major artists, such as Phish, Linkin Park, Aerosmith, Elton John, Eric Clapton, Jimmy Buffet, Dave Matthews Band, and Tim McGraw among many others.
Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, 2002 Lakewood Way, Atlanta, GA 30315
Where to Eat:
4. Savor Family Recipes and Authentic Flavors at Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant
The Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant is a local eatery with a heart of “farm-to-table” cuisine, bringing ingredients straight from a local farm to the kitchen to the plates of customers. The food served here is made with ingredients sourced just a few steps from the restaurant from the Fundora Family farm.
This results in hearty Italian classics prepared with some of the freshest ingredients possible. The menu features U.S. choice chicken and beef, lamb from New Zealand, and fresh seafood from the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. Signature sweets include ricotta cheesecake, sicilian cannolis, and tiramisu.
Casa Nuova Italian Restaurant, 5670 Atlanta Hwy Alpharetta, GA 30004, Phone: 770-475-9100
5. Dine Farm-to-Table Fresh With Southern Charm at Milton’s Cuisine & Cocktails
Milton's Cuisine & Cocktails is situated within the Historic District’s five points area and offers a distinctly unique dining experience. Boasting a quaint and comfortable setting, this restaurant right outside of Alpharetta is designed to entice the senses with an artful edge and welcoming atmosphere.
Milton’s features an intertwining outdoor patio and deck, fireplaces for cooler weather, and an energetic bar. As for the food, the restaurant serves contemporary “New Southern Cuisine,” utilizing local, fresh ingredients to make comfort food inspired by the region with bold flavors. A large portion of the ingredients used here come from the on-site garden.
Milton's Cuisine & Cocktails, 800 Mayfield Rd, Milton, GA 30009, Phone: 770-817-0161
6. Indulge in Bold Cajun Flavors and Fresh Seafood at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
The Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen is a friendly seafood chain restaurant with many locations across the country, including one in Alpharetta, Georgia.
The vibrant and fresh dishes served here focus on the sea’s bounty, with a menu featuring an emphasis on Cajun-inspired seafood, such as spicy crawfish etouffee, shrimp and grits, and seafood gumbo. Seafood includes crab, scallops, lobster, fish, and shrimp, however, there are still options for guests who prefer food from the land.
Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, 10795 Davis Dr, Alpharetta, GA 30009, Phone: 770-992-5566
If you are interested in local events:
- For Music Fans: Wire & Wood Alpharetta Music Festival (October) – Enjoy original live music downtown across multiple stages.
- For Holiday Cheer: Season of Celebration (November–December) – Christmas lights, Santa visits, and festivities downtown.
- For Foodies: Alpharetta Food Truck Alley (Spring–Fall Thursdays) – Dine al fresco with rotating trucks, drinks, and live entertainment.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Alpharetta, GA:
- For Art and Culture: Roswell, GA (20 min) – Explore the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, historic homes, and riverwalks.
- For Hiking and History: Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (25 min) – Paddle, hike, or enjoy nature along the scenic river corridor.
- For Boutique Shopping: Historic Downtown Duluth (30 min) – Enjoy quirky shops, eateries, and live outdoor concerts in a cozy square.
- For a Relaxing Retreat: Lake Lanier (30 min) – Swim, boat, or picnic by the lake just north of Alpharetta.
- For Indoor Fun: Andretti Indoor Karting & Games (Roswell) (15–20 min) – High-speed fun with karting, VR games, and bowling for all ages.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
-
What makes Alpharetta a charming city?
- The city of Alpharetta is full of friendly people and Southern charm.
-
Where is Alpharetta located?
- Located just a little more than twenty miles from downtown Atlanta, Alpharetta boasts a small-town feel but with all the conveniences of a city.
-
What shopping and dining options are available in Alpharetta?
- There are five different shopping districts within the city, as well as over two hundred restaurants.
-
Is Alpharetta a good destination for music lovers?
- The city is also a thriving destination for music, with Cellairis Amphitheatre at Lakewood hosting a variety of concerts.
Map:
How did I do?
Is the article too broad, too narrow, or just right ? Do you like the presentation of photos and text? Let me know in the comments! If you want to see more in this location, I can put it on my editorial calendar. I'm listening!
Plan Your Trip