Discover the best of Alpharetta: History, dining and more
Access Atlanta Staff
Nestled in the heart of North Fulton County, just 22 miles north of the city of Atlanta, lies the charming city of Alpharetta. Founded in the 1850s, Alpharetta was once a small rural farming community but has since grown into a bustling city that is home to over 67,000 people.
Our city guide to things to do in Alpharetta is sponsored by Awesome Alpharetta.
Explore Alpharetta, just 30 minutes from Atlanta, where city vibes meet small-town charm. With over 250 shops, the city caters to all shopping desires, from trendy boutiques to major retailers. Dining enthusiasts can explore more than 200 restaurants, indulging in farm-to-table delicacies and international cuisines that satisfy every palate. Live music fills the air year-round at indoor and outdoor venues, offering a dynamic cultural experience. Alpharetta’s attractions range from the bustling Downtown and Avalon to the serene Big Creek Greenway and Alpha Loop, providing ample opportunities for both entertainment and relaxation. The North Point area features a variety of kid-friendly attractions, including the popular Slime Factory, where children can enjoy hands-on, creative fun. Whether strolling through art galleries, enjoying a concert under the stars at the Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, or simply unwinding in one of its many parks, Alpharetta promises a diverse and fulfilling experience for visitors of all interests.
Find the perfect Alpharetta hotel. Whether you’re in town for a quick business trip or plan to explore the Alpharetta area while vacationing, Alpharetta offers 31 accommodation options located throughout the city. All hotels are centrally located and convenient to shopping, dining, and fun activities.
Despite its growth, Alpharetta has managed to maintain its small-town charm and has become a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the perfect blend of modern amenities and historic charm.
As the one-time county seat of Milton County - which was merged into Fulton County in 1931, Alpharetta’s old town center has a number of historic sites, which are easily explored on a self-guided tour about the city’s past.
For those interested in history, the Alpharetta and Old Milton County History Museum is a must-visit destination. The museum is located in the heart of downtown Alpharetta and features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the city’s unique history.
But Alpharetta isn’t just about history. The city is also known for its thriving culinary scene, which has garnered attention from foodies across the country. One of the most popular spots in town is the Avalon, a mixed-use development that features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Avalon is home to some of the best restaurants in the city, including Colletta, an Italian restaurant that serves up delicious pasta dishes, and Oak Steakhouse, a classic steakhouse with a modern twist. For more options – from casual to fine dining – check out Avalon’s dining directory.
In addition to the Avalon, downtown Alpharetta is also home to a variety of restaurants and cafes. One of the most popular spots is the Butcher & Brew, a gastropub that serves up craft beer and delicious pub fare. Another popular spot is South Main Kitchen, which offers up farm-to-table cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.
For those looking for a bit of retail therapy, Alpharetta has plenty of options. In addition to the shops at the Avalon, the city is also home to the North Point Mall, which features over 100 stores and restaurants. The mall is the perfect place to spend a day shopping, and visitors can take a break from browsing to catch a movie at the mall’s movie theater.
But Alpharetta isn’t just about shopping and dining. The city is also home to a variety of outdoor spaces that offer plenty of opportunities for recreation and relaxation. One of the most popular spots is the Big Creek Greenway, a 12-foot-wide concrete path that winds through the city and is perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.
Ameris Bank Amphitheatre is one of Alpharetta’s top music venues, known for its outdoor setting and stunning acoustics. The amphitheater hosts a wide variety of concerts and events, ranging from pop and rock to country and hip-hop. With a seating capacity of over 12,000, Ameris Bank Amphitheatre offers both covered and lawn seating options, making it the perfect venue for both intimate shows and large-scale productions. In addition to its top-notch sound system and high-quality performances, the venue also boasts a variety of food and beverage options, ensuring that concert-goers have everything they need for a memorable evening.
But perhaps the most unique outdoor destination in Alpharetta is the Alpharetta Arboretum at Wills Park. The arboretum is home to a variety of plant species that are native to the area. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the arboretum, and learn more about the plants and trees that call Alpharetta home.
Alpharetta is a city that offers something for everyone. From its rich history to its thriving culinary scene and abundance of outdoor spaces, it’s easy to see why so many people have flocked to this suburb.
Our picks
Colletta
Colletta is an Italian restaurant that serves up mouthwatering pasta dishes in the heart of Alpharetta. Their menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients and classic Italian flavors that are sure to satisfy any palate.
Location: 900 3rd Street; Hours: 5-10 p.m. on weekdays, noon-11 p.m. on Saturdays and 5-9 p.m. on Sundays; Website: collettarestaurant.com.
Oak Steakhouse
Oak Steakhouse is a classic steakhouse with a modern twist, located in the heart of Avalon in Alpharetta. Their menu features high-quality cuts of meat, fresh seafood, and seasonal sides that are expertly prepared and presented.
Location: 950 3rd Street; Hours: 5-10 p.m. on weekdays; 5-11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5-9 p.m. Sunday; Website: oaksteakhouserestaurant.com.
Barleygarden Kitchen and Craft Bar
Barleygarden Kitchen and Craft Bar offers a vibrant atmosphere with a wide selection of food and drinks. Located in the Avalon development, it features a rooftop bar providing scenic views and a lively social space.
Location: 900 Avalon Blvd; Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sundays through Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays; Website: barleygardenkitchen.com.
Roaring Social
Roaring Social is a unique speakeasy-style entertainment venue that blends the allure of the 1920s with modern sophistication. Nestled beneath the chic Hamilton Hotel, it offers an immersive experience with live music, craft cocktails, and a stylish ambiance.
Location: 35 Milton Ave; Hours: 5 p.m. to midnight on Tuesdays through Thursdays, 5 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, closed on Sundays and Mondays; Website: roaring-social.com.
Note: This article was written by an Access Atlanta editor with the assistance of OpenAI’s ChatGPT, as a part of an experiment to test the use of AI to assist writers, not replace them. While ChatGPT began the article and provided much of the background, an editor went through and adjusted the recommended locations and activities, and corrected factual errors that the AI included. Please share any feedback on the article with us at events@accessatlanta.com.
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