Trails, arts and great eats: Your city guide to Woodstock

Woodstock is one of the metro Atlanta area’s most happening spots, and there’s a lot of history behind it. Pioneers took up residence in the area in the 1830s, and a village began to flourish after a railroad depot went in in the 1870s; Woodstock became a city in 1897. The depot anchored the town as its center and allowed local merchants and farmers to easily send and receive shipments; it operated until the 1950s. Meanwhile, commerce took root, and residential areas became firmly established. Today, restaurants, shops and events abound in this vital city just over 30 minutes north of Atlanta. You’ll find outdoor possibilities and shopping and eating galore when you plan a fun day - or many - in Woodstock.

What can I do for fun in Woodstock?

Greenprints Trail System: Love mountain biking? Hit the trails with Woodstock’s Greenprints Trail System. The Greenprints Project master plan adopted by the city in 2008 calls for 60 miles of trails and open space throughout the city. Try the 1.94-mile Towne Lake Pass trail from Town Lake to Woofstock Dog Park. Or try Trestle Rock Trail along the Little River in Olde Rope Mill Park.

Woodstock Arts: You’ll find activities to suit your creative side at this arts venue at 8534 Main Street. See art exhibits and participate in paint-and-sip events, hear talks from working artists and catch theater performances among much more. Classes and camps round out the offerings for your family members of all ages.

Shopping: Shopping throughout the city ranges from The Outlet Shoppes at Atlanta to boutique gift, clothing and wine shops throughout downtown. Whether you’re looking for that perfect special occasion outfit or something great to bestow on a friend for a birthday, you’re all set to find it at one of these quality establishments when you spend the day shopping in Woodstock.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Woodstock?

Rally Point Grille

Two veterans began this family-owned operation in 2015. There are a couple of other locations now, but the first one popped up in Woodstock on Highway 92. You’ll find an inviting atmosphere replete with beer, cocktails and an American-inspired menu. Pair a traditional ceasar salad with hearty chili, or go for the tactical tots with chili, queso and pico de gallo. Feeling like a cheat day? The Back Home Meatload sandwich — meatload glazed with barbecue sauce and smothered with cheddar and topped off with two onion rings — is the perfect indulgence. Don’t miss brunch Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and regular Warrior Wednesdays featuring $1 draft beer!

Location: 10009 Highway 92, Woodstock; Hours: Tuesday-Thursday - 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday-Saturday - 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday - 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: woodstock.rallypointgrille.com

The Sahara Grill

Take a brief trip to the Middle East without leaving Woodstock! The fresh fare at this family friendly restaurant established two decades ago will top your list of local choices. Start out with warm pita bread and hummus or baba ghanoush. Hit the salad bar and then enjoy an entree — the kabob plates with chicken, lamb, shrimp or beef with yellow rice — that will fill you up for lunch or dinner. Rice pudding, chocolate cake or baklava are the perfect finish to your Mediterranean experience.

Location: 12910 Highway 92 Suite 105, Woodstock; Hours: Monday-Thursday - 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., Friday-Saturday - 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Website: thesaharagrill.com

Dinah’s Family Italian Restaurant

Serving the public since 1995, Dinah’s is the place for a family-owned experience that offers Greek, American and Italian cuisine and an atmosphere steeped in friendship. Bring out the whole family for an evening that begins with toasted bruschetta or calamari and graduates to a gyro on pita or a 1/2-pound bacon cheeseburger. Or go with the rolled Stromboli with a side of marinara. If pizza is your thing, there are white, red and gourmet options, and you can’t go wrong with a manicotti, parmigiana or lasagna. This extensive menu also affords beer and wine and a plethora of desserts from eclairs to sundaes to classic cannolis.

Location: 10029 Hwy 92, Suite 112, Woodstock; Hours: Tuesday-Thursday - 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday-Saturday - 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday - 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Website: dinasfamilyrestaurant.my.canva.site

D’Floridian

It’s a little taste of Cuba right in Woodstock. Handcrafted cocktails and tropical dishes await in a dining room designed with a modern feel. Or take your fare out on the patio. Tapas like baja fish and papa rellena are a great way to get started. Move on to a pan con bistec or croquette sandwich, or try spicy oxtail, vaca frita and mango salmon. A full drink menu accompanies the food offerings; choose from draft or bottled beer, red and white wine, margaritas and infused cocktails, and extensive list of spirits. Finish off your meal with something sweet like the flan or guava cheesecake.

Location: 6242 Old Hwy 5 Suite A3, Woodstock; Hours: Sunday-Thursday - 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday-Saturday - 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Website: dfloridian.com

Donovan’s Irish Cobbler

This delightful Irish experience came about with the idea to introduce the open-faced horseshoe sandwich (origin - Springfield, Illinois) to Woodstock but to do it with an Irish twist. Irish nachos (corned beef over potato crisps) and mini boxties (potato cakes with sour cream) will help you get started. Move on to a cheese steak or classic reuben or corned beef and cabbage or shepherd’s pie. Accompany your choice with a cocktail, beer or wine. For dessert, try the cobbler or bread pudding a la mode.

Location: 1025 Rose Creek Drive, Woodstock; Hours: Monday-Friday - 3 p.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday - 10:30 a.m. to 2 a.m., Sunday - 10:30 a.m. to midnight; Website: donovansirishcobbler.com