My friend Stephanie from A little Moore and I visited Atlanta’s Dekalb County for a fun girlfriend getaway.
The Atlanta Metro is such a large area and it can feel overwhelming.
We had the opportunity to check out some of the adventures that could be overlooked.
Outdoor Adventures at Stone Mountain Park
You could easily fill a whole weekend with things to do at Stone Mountain Park with a range of activities available that can fit every budget.
Stone Mountain Park takes you out of the city into 3200 acres of beauty.
You can camp or stay at a hotel on-site and there are even yurts you can rent if you want something more unique.
Get a view from the Top of Stone Mountain
Stone Mountain offers so much to do for guests.
I recommend starting your visit with a trip on the Skyride to the top of the summit at an elevation of 1,686 feet.
The ride is very smooth and goes fast if you are not a fan of heights.
The views from the top of the mountain are fantastic and feel reminiscent of what I would picture the surface of the moon to look like.
On a clear day, you can see downtown Atlanta.
If you really want to burn some calories you can hike to the top but I was told that it’s not recommended for younger kids because it’s a steep hike so be prepared if you decide to take on the challenge.
Enjoy a Snow Day at Snow Mountain
You don’t need cold weather to enjoy a snow day at Stone Mountain.
At Snow Mountain, you can take the double tube, ride single, or experience the group tube as you slide down the 400 ft. tubing hill.
We tried all of them..for research purposes of course. It’s hard to pick a favorite.
For an even more unique experience check out the Galatic Snow Tubing at night that combines tubing with music, laser beams and LED lights.
The group double starts at a really steep incline which is really unique but there is also something to be said about beating your friend as you race down the lane as a single rider.
The moving sidewalks will take you back up the tubing hill with ease and so that you can fit in more fun.
If you want to play in the snow check out the Snow Zone where you can build snow forts or test your snowball throwing skills against the targets in real snow.
Take an Electric Bike Tour at Stone Mountain Park
Biking is a fantastic way to explore parts of Stone Mountain I never knew existed from previous visits. Bonus: it’s an electric bike and electric bikes are a game changer!
You have to option to pedal as often as you want AND you also have the option to turn on the power and reach speeds in your 20’s.
It’s pretty wonderful to tackle a hill and never break a sweat.
Our guide Steven from Atlanta Adventure Tours shared more about the history of the area along with interesting stories at the sites that we stopped at.
This was definitely was one of my favorite experiences during our visit!
Eat your way through Buford Highway
Get out of your culinary comfort zone and try international cuisine from around the world on Buford Highway.
There are over 64 languages spoken in DeKalb County and Clarkston, Georgia has the largest concentration of refugees in one area.
Seriously, take some time and explore the markets, and try some unique menu items that will stretch your taste buds.
You will gain a greater appreciation for the culinary culture and ethnic diversity this community offers within a short proximity.
Sweet Treats
If you are craving a sweet treat, check out these local favorites. The Frosty Caboose serves local Greenwood brand ice cream and it’s a caboose turned ice cream shop which is just fun.
For a doughnut that is out of the world, visit Sublime Doughnuts for creative made with fresh ingredients.
I opted for the fresh strawberry and cream that tasted like strawberry shortcake. Another fun stop on Bufford Highway is Roll It Up Atlanta.
You can opt for rolled ice cream or ice cream made in front of you using nitrogen with creative combinations of ice cream and toppings that you choose.
Listen to Music at Legendary Venue at Eddie’s Attic
What do the Civil Wars, Justin Beiber, John Mayer, and Sugarland all have in common?
They’ve all played at Eddie’s Attic.
This intimate venue is a legendary listening room for up and coming artists and musicians who want to offer an acoustic show.
You can grab a drink at the bar and then sit back and relax while you listen to inspiring songwriters.
Shopping Spots around Dekalb County
Find items for every style ranging from antiques, boutiques, and bargain shopping throughout DeKalb County.
Shopping areas can be found in Chamblee, Town Brookhaven, Dresden, Buford Highway, and the DeKalb Farmers Market.
Little Five Points
If you are looking for a quirky gift with an edge, the Little Five Points is the neighborhood for you.
You will find lots of vintage shops, unique eateries and bars, and a shop with a shoe room that will make a Sneakerhead lose their mind!
Check out a Museum
DeKalb County has a lot to offer when it comes to culture and history.
Located on the campus of Emory University, the Micheal C. Carlos Museum exceeded my expectations with the vast amount of incredible historical art and artifacts from around the world.
View Egyptian, Near Eastern, Classical, ancient American, African collections and Asian art that will inspire you to travel more.
David J. Sencer CDC Museum
Try on a hazmat suit and learn more about the history of the CDC (Center for Disease Control) and its work around the world to help prevent the spread of diseases.
Fernbank Museum of Natural History
One of the attractions featured on Atlanta’s City Pass, Fernbank Museum of Natural History offers guests hands-on exhibits and dinosaur stuff.
My favorite part of the museum was actually checking out the nature trails.
It was raining during our visit but it was great to see the creativity used in making natural art.
Sunday Brunch
Bottomless mimosas and southern dishes with a twist. Kaleidoscope Bistro and Pub is a MUST for brunch during a visit!
I’m normally not a huge fan of pimento cheese but I’m still dreaming of their house pimento served on a crostini.
I would suggest ordering a few because this is not one you want to share.
Another great twist on a classic is the Smoked Pork and Pimento Spring Rolls…which is a great excuse to enjoy more of their pimento cheese.
If you are in the mood for breakfast foods I would recommend the Southern Breakfast Sandwich (fried chicken, scrambled egg, Tillamook, cheddar grits) with a request for a side of gravy.
Dinner and a Movie
Order a meal before the show and relax in an oversized theater seat at Cinebistro.
Waitstaff will take your orders up to 5 minutes prior to the movie.
If you prefer to eat your food in the light, I suggest getting there 30 minutes before the start time.
If you are looking for a recommendation, go for the salmon.
Where We Stayed in Dekalb County
During our visit, we stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton Atlanta Perimeter located in Brookhaven.
I definitely looked forward to those warm nutty chocolate chip cookies every day.
They are sooo good!
If you need to grab breakfast there is a restaurant with an omelet station along with warm and cold buffet offerings.
There is also a bar if you need to unwind after a long day.
Fly in Style
We flew from Cincinnati to Atlanta with Ultimate Air Shuttle.
I have to say that the whole process will wreck you for flying in a good way.
You arrive 30 minutes before your flight, show your ID for check-in and then relax on your 30 passenger jet.
Afternoon flights even serve complimentary cheese plates and wine!
We had a wonderful girlfriend getaway! It was so fun to experience such a variety in a short amount of time.
Disclosure: Thanks again to Discover Dekalb for hosting our visit. All opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.
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I loved the electric bike and the tour in the woods, I also liked the sweets and the idea of Bufford Highway.
Thanks for sharing your adventure with us.